Library Gears Up for a Busy January with Programs for All Ages

The Samuels Public Library is wasting no time kicking off the new year. With January just around the corner, Michal Ashby, Youth Services Supervisor and Kaitlyn Leckliter, Adult Reference Manager, shared what’s coming next — and it’s a packed calendar. From winter reading clubs to pet therapy dogs, laser engraving to personal archiving, the library is diving into 2026 with energy and excitement.

Winter Reading Returns January 3

The highlight for many families will be the Winter Reading Club, which starts on January 3 and runs through February 28. This year’s theme? The Winter Olympics, with snow-themed activities to match. Kids who participate can earn prizes or free books just for reading — a fun way to keep literacy going strong through the colder months.

“We’ve got some extra cool prizes this year,” said Kaitlyn. “Every book a child reads earns them something — we really want to keep them motivated.”

Snowy Adventures and Hands-On Fun

The library’s creative programming includes a variety of snow-themed events for kids ages 6 to 11:

• Light Up the Night (Jan. 2): Kids will learn about the Northern Lights and create chalk art inspired by the aurora.
• Sled and Slope (Jan. 13): Part of the homeschool hub, this science-based activity challenges kids to design and test their own mini sleds.
• Snowflakes Craft Time: An ongoing winter craft project where kids can learn to make intricate paper snowflakes — new and old-school styles alike.

One newer and wildly popular offering is Chess Club, held on January 10 for ages 10 to 18. “It’s about more than just the game,” said Michal. “Chess teaches strategy, patience, and thinking ahead. It’s exploded in popularity again.”

Programs for Teens and Special Guests

Teens aren’t left out — they’ll have a chance to tie-dye custom bandanas in the Teen Connect program, and a growing list of events designed to bring them into the library’s creative spaces.

Two especially exciting additions are Grand Story Time and Paws to Read:

• Grand Story Time invites grandparents to read to young kids, offering a sweet and meaningful connection for children who may miss their own grandparents.
• Paws to Read (Jan. 17) offers a hybrid of early literacy support and animal-assisted therapy. Kids can read aloud to therapy dogs or simply spend time relaxing with them — no reading pressure required.

“This is about emotional support as much as reading,” said Michal “Sometimes a kid just needs a quiet moment with a friendly dog.”

Adult Programs: Reading, Crafting, and Preserving Memories

Adults can join in on Winter Reading as well, logging their time for prize entries and giveaways. As Kaitlyn explained, the goal is to make reading a community activity across generations.

Kicking things off is a button-making session on January 5 from 6 to 7:30 p.m., where adults and teens can create themed buttons related to reading genres. “It’s a great way to spark conversation and get people excited to read,” said Kaitlyn.

Another thoughtful addition is the Personal Archiving Series beginning January 10 at noon, offering practical, beginner-friendly guidance on how to organize, preserve, and access family photos, letters, videos, and digital keepsakes.

As part of this archiving push, the Genealogy Club is moving to Monday afternoons at 2 p.m. to accommodate more people interested in family research.

The library is also making use of its Glowforge laser engraving machine with two coaster-engraving workshops on January 16 at 12 p.m. and January 29 at 5 p.m.

Bad Romance and String Theory Keep Spirits Light

For those who like their books with a little spice or sarcasm, the popular Bad Romance Book Club continues on January 7 at 6 p.m., with “New Beginnings” as the theme.

And if you’re looking for cozy vibes, the String Theory group meets every Saturday at 2 p.m. for needlework, knitting, crochet, and more. “It’s a friendly group,” said Kaitlyn. “Bring your yarn, your curiosity, or just your chair.”

More Than Just Books

Beyond the programs, the library also reminds residents that they offer tools to digitize VHS tapes, convert 8mm film, and print photos — important resources for preserving personal history as technology changes.

“Get those memories off the old formats,” said Michal. “It’s the stories and memories that humanize us.”

As 2026 kicks off, both librarians agreed the energy and enthusiasm at Samuels Library are only growing. “We’re ready for a fun, full year,” said Kaitlyn.

To view the full list of events, visit the library’s website and check out the events calendar.