(LIST) Here are all events hosted by Laramie County Library System for the month of April

CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The following is a list of all Laramie County Library System events for the month of April, including events for the facilities in Burns and Pine Bluffs.

Cheyenne Library Branch Events

Exhibits and Special Events

Art Connects: LCSD 1 K–8 Art Show
March 16–April 29; Library Hours
Art connects. It connects us to new ideas. It connects us to unfamiliar experiences. It connects us to the wider world. Most importantly, art connects us to each other. Come see the creative ways that the K–8 students of Laramie County School District 1 explore the different connections that art can make. (All Ages; All Floors)

Youth & Family Events

Storytime at the Wyoming State Museum’s Family Day (RSVP Required)
Saturday, April 6; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
We’re taking story time to the museum! Head over to the Wyoming State Museum for their Family Day to participate in one of our early literacy story times and other fun activities. Visit the Wyoming State Museum’s website here to register for the event. This month’s Family Day theme is “The Great Outdoors.”Our literacy story times will be at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. (Children & Families; Wyoming State Museum, 2301 Central Ave.)

Saturday STEAM
Saturday, April 6; 3:30–4:30 p.m.
Children in grades 3–6 can join us each month as we explore a variety of STEAM topics (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) with crafts, games, experiments and more. (Grades 3–6/Ages 8–12; Early Literacy Center)

Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover
April 8–19; Library Hours
It’s National Library Week! Your challenge: Stop by the second floor and check out a mystery book! From April 8 to April 19 we will have different genres of youth and teen books wrapped up to hide their covers and titles. Check one out, unwrap it and discover your surprising new read. Don’t worry, we’ll include clues on the front that will help you pick the right one. Feeling extra courageous? Try a book from a genre that you don’t normally pick! (Children & Teens Grades 7–12; Second Floor)

K–2 STEAM: Weather
Tuesday, April 16; 4–5 p.m.
Children in grades K–2 can join us each month as we explore a variety of STEAM topics (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) with crafts, games, experiments and more. This month, we’re exploring the natural phenomenon that is weather! Come make a tornado in a bottle, shaving cream rain clouds and more! (Grades K–2; Early Literacy Center)

Cuentos y amigos (Spanish Storytime)
Wednesday, April 17 / Miércoles, 17 abril; 6–7 p.m.
Join us for a special Spanish/English story time in collaboration with CHISPA. Come enjoy special stories, songs, snacks and a craft in Spanish and English! Our theme this month is “Children’s Day.”
Presentaremos una hora de cuentos en español. ¡Disfrute de cuentos especiales, canciones, meriendas y manualidades — en español y en inglés! Nuestro tema este mes será Día de los Niños.
(Children & Families/niños y familias; Early Literacy Center)

Sit, Stay, READ! Read to a Therapy Dog
Thursday, April 18; 4–5 p.m.
Everyone loves to hear a story, even our four-pawed friends! Come to the library and practice reading aloud to one of our community’s therapy dogs. We know you’ll have a furry good time! This event is presented in partnership with The Alliance of Therapy Dogs. (Grades K–6; Early Literacy Center)

Young Writers Workshop (RSVP Required)
Saturday, April 20; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Join us for the return of our fifth annual Young Writers Workshop featuring Tara Dairman, author of “The Girl from Earth’s End” and the All Four Stars series. Learn about the craft of writing, discover tips and tricks for writing and get started on your latest writing idea! Enjoy breakout sessions, lunch, book signing and more! RSVP for the workshop here to reserve your spot and choose your own adventure! (Grades 3–12; Cottonwood Room)

Tween Tasters
Tuesday, April 23; 6–7 p.m.
Children in grades 3–6 can join us each month for a fun food-related activity such as food-themed parties, taste-testing challenges, edible science experiments and more. This month, you “do-nut” want to miss an amazing DONUT party complete with games, crafts, and of course… DONUTS! (Grades 3–6/Ages 8–12; Early Literacy Center)

Coloring Club
Saturday, April 27; Library Hours
Do you love to color? Come and join us for a spring-themed Coloring Club! Spend your day coloring with friends or enjoy a relaxing time coloring by yourself. Regardless of who you’re with, this self-paced coloring event is sure to be a fun time! (Children & Families; Second Floor)

Día de los Niños–Children’s Day
Tuesday, April 30; 4–5 p.m.
El Día de los Niños/El Día de los libros (Children’s Day/Book Day) is a celebration of children, families and reading! This day celebrates children and reading through culture, heritage and language! Help us celebrate with stories, snacks, crafts and games in English and Spanish!
El día de los niños/El día de los libros (Children’s Day/Book Day) es una celebración de los niños, las familias y la lectura! ¡Este día celebra a los niños y la lectura a través de la cultura, la herencia y el idioma! ¡Celebre con nosotros con cuentos, meriendas, manualidades y juegos en inglés y español.
(Children & Families/niños y familias; Early Literacy Center & Sage Room)

Monthly Early Literacy Classes and Early Literacy Center Events

ELC Information:
Letters of the Month: O/P
Number of the Month: 14
Color of the Month: Gold
StoryWalk Title of the Month: “Wonder Walkers” by Micha Archer

Early Literacy Class Themes

Week of April 2: Feathered Friends
Week of April 9: Bears
Week of April 16: Seasons
Week of April 23: A Visit to the Doctor
Week of April 30: Around the World

Tales Together
Tuesdays: April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Wednesdays: April 3, 17, 24
Thursdays: April 4, 11, 18, 25
10:15–10:45 a.m.
Join us for an interactive early literacy class for preschool children and their caregivers. Practice new skills incorporating books, songs, rhymes, movement and more! (Ages 18 Months–5 Years; Early Literacy Center)

Ready Readers
Wednesdays: April 3, 17, 24
Thursdays: April 4, 11, 25
10:15–10:45 a.m.
Do you have a preschooler who will be going to kindergarten? Come join us! We will be reading books, singing songs, working on fine motor skills and more to help get your child ready to jump into school! This event is designed for preschoolers going into kindergarten in fall 2024. (Ages 4–5; Sage Room)

Book Babies
Fridays: April 5, 12, 19, 26; 10:15–11 a.m.
Join us for a short early literacy class designed just for babies and their caregivers! Enjoy books, songs, lap bounces and rhymes! Afterward, babies can play with our educational toys while caregivers visit. (Ages Birth–24 Months; Early Literacy Center)

Yoga Together
Wednesday, April 10 in the Cottonwood Room and Saturday, April 20 in the Early Literacy Center; 10:15–10:45 a.m.
Come and experience stories, stretching and fun with a special early literacy class. This month’s theme is “Splish Splash Ducky.” (Ages 18 Months–5 Years)

Play Together
Thursday, April 18 and Monday, April 22; 10:15–11 a.m.
Come enjoy a few stories on “Parachutes,” then play together with our giant parachute! We will have fun prompts on getting the most out of active play, as well as ideas for how to play at home. (Ages 18 Months–5 Years; Early Literacy Center)

Teen Events

Teen Writing Club
Thursdays: April 4, 11, 18, 25; 4–5 p.m.
LCLS is excited to partner with The Young Writer’s Creative — an established, teen-led group of writers — to bring you Teen Writing Club! Teens in grades 7–12 are invited to come together and explore the creativity that happens when we collaborate and make space to be heard. We will have fun writing prompts, challenges and time for sharing with an emphasis on affirmation and fun! Leave your critiques at the door and come create with us. (Teens Grades 7–12; Windflower Room)

Gamers Unite!
Friday, April 12; 3–5 p.m.
Come and play some fun games with friends! We could be brawling with “Super Smash Bros.” or racing to the finish with “Mario Kart.” You never know what will happen, but you can count on a good time! (Teens Grades 7–12; Sage Room)

SaturD&D!
Saturdays: April 13, 27; 3–5 p.m.
What is Dungeons & Dragons? Interactive storytelling at its finest — and you’re the hero! This month, join us for “The Vicious Visions of the Vampire Vemple.” Drop by with your character sheets or pick from our premade ones. Our game is dynamic, so no commitment or experience necessary. New and experienced heroes are welcome to join! (Teens Grades 7–12; Sage Room)

Journal Stitching (RSVP Required)
Tuesday, April 16; 4–6 p.m.
Local teen artist Dakota Lyles will be at the library to teach journal stitching! Come and make a personalized journal by hand that can be used for anything you’d like! You can bring your own photos or use magazines provided for this activity. Supplies are limited, so reserve your spot online here. (Teens Grades 7–12; Sage Room

Young Writers Workshop (RSVP Required)
Saturday, April 20; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Join us for the return of our fifth annual Young Writers Workshop featuring Tara Dairman, author of “The Girl from Earth’s End” and the “All Four Stars” series. Learn about the craft of writing, discover tips and tricks for writing and get started on your latest writing idea! Enjoy breakout sessions, lunch, book signing and more! RSVP for the workshop here to reserve your spot and choose your own adventure! (Grades 3–12; Cottonwood Room)

Teen Book Club
Tuesday, April 23; 4–5 p.m.
A twist on book clubs: Read ANY teen/young adult book and come in to discuss it! You will have a chance to expand your reading list and explain why you loved the book you chose. Learn about new genres, authors and topics that you never thought about before! (Teens Grades 7–12; Sage Room)

Life Hack Testers (RSVP Required)
Friday, April 26; 3–5 p.m.
Some life hacks online save you time and money while others… don’t. Sharpies to fix holes in your socks? Homemade invisible ink? Cutting cake with floss? Come and test out some viral life hacks and see if they are a money saver or a time waster. Maybe you could even come up with a useful hack of your own! Supplies are limited, so please RSVP here. (Teens Grades 7–12; Early Literacy Center)

VolunTeens (RSVP Required)
Tuesday, April 30; 3–4 p.m.
Want to have a say in teen events and services at the library? We want your input! Come and join us for our ongoing VolunTeens Board. We will discuss what we like about the library and brainstorm new ideas for additional events and services. Spaces are limited, so please reserve your seat here. (Teens Grades 7–12; Sage Room)

Adult Events

Genealogy One-on-One Consultations
April 1–30; Library Hours
Do you need help getting started with your genealogy research? Are you looking for assistance moving past your genealogy brick walls? Sit down for a one-on-one consultation with an experienced genealogist to help research your family history by using the library’s print and computer resources. Contact the library’s Special Collections librarian, Elaine Hayes, at ehayes@lclsonline.org or 307-773-7232, or visit the third-floor Ask Here desk to sign up for free, personalized assistance in researching your ancestors. (Adults; Third Floor)

Creative Aging: Enhancing Life & Drawing Skills (RSVP Required)
Tuesdays: April 2–May 21; 2:30–4:30 p.m.
Local artist Terry Kreuzer will host an eight-week workshop to explore creativity, wisdom and daily living in the context of aging. Participants will use two books (“How to Think Like Leonardo” and “Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain”) as they create their own artwork. The final session on May 21 will be followed by a reception to showcase the students’ work. Registration is limited to 10 people who should commit to attending all eight sessions. To register, please email AdultServices@lclsonline.org or call 307-634-3561. Supported in part by a grant from the Wyoming Arts Council, with support from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Wyoming Legislature. (Adults; Willow Room)

Money Matters: A Caregiver’s Guide to Finances
Wednesday, April 3; 1–2 p.m.
Caregivers, how much do you know about managing money? This free program will help you learn about the costs of caregiving and the benefits of early planning. It will teach you how to avoid financial abuse and fraud, start a conversation about finances, assess financial and legal needs and find support. Reservations are not necessary, but information on this and other community programs is available here. (Adults; Willow Room)

Common Landscaping Mistakes
Thursday, April 4; 7–8:30 p.m.
Long-time local landscaper Tyler Moore will share some of the most common landscaping mistakes made in our area and tips on how to avoid or fix them. Topics will include lawns, irrigation, gardens, trees and shrubs. There will be time for questions and answers at the end of the session. (Adults; Sunflower Room)

Chair Yoga: Healthy Body, Healthy Mind
Wednesdays: April 10, 24; 1:30–2:30 p.m.
Cheyenne, let’s keep moving! Please join us for gentle Chair Yoga with Toni Brannan from Blossom Yoga Studio every second and fourth Wednesday of the month. We will practice yoga while seated or standing for 45 minutes. Afterward, participants are invited to share an inspiring literature-related item: a gratitude, a poignant poem, a favorite quote, book, movie or podcast. All equipment provided. No prior yoga experience needed. (Adults; Cottonwood Room)

Life Rings Workshop (RSVP Required)
Thursdays: April 11, 18; 5–8 p.m.
Explore narrative-rich artwork by making your own textile Life Ring. Create your unique piece and tell your story in this two-part workshop led by local artist Georgia Rowswell. Participants must sign up online and attend both dates. Those under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult. A light dinner will be provided. (Adults; Cottonwood Room)

Classic Conversations
Friday, April 12; Noon–1 p.m.
Join Maestro William Intriligator and featured guest musicians Aundi Marie Moore and Derek Jenkins for an informal and entertaining discussion including musical insights about the concert on April 13. Patrons may attend the event in the Cottonwood Room or view the recording on the Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra’s Facebook page. (Adults; Cottonwood Room)

Movies for Mindful Aging: The Zookeeper’s Wife
Friday, April 12; 1:30–4:30 p.m.
Please join us for a viewing of “The Zookeeper’s Wife” (PG-13, 2017) featuring Jessica Chastain, Johan Heldenbergh and Daniel Brühl. Based on the book by Diane Ackerman and the real-life events of zookeepers Antonia and Dr. Jan Zabinski. Experience the nurturing spirit and steadfastness of the Zabinski family as the Warsaw Zoo becomes a safe haven for Jewish refugees during World War II. Refreshments and popcorn provided. Optional chair yoga at the start of the event and discussion to follow the movie. (Adults; Sunflower Room)

Library for All
Friday, April 19; 12:30–2:30 p.m.
Join us in welcoming Cheyenne’s own Shane Fox of The American Mountain Men as he shares historical information and artifacts about the mountain men of Wyoming spanning the years 1810–1840. Please bring your staff and lunch with you. (Adults; Cottonwood Room)

Genealogy Basics
Saturday, April 20; 10:30 a.m. to Noon
Learn how to get started finding your family in the U.S. Federal Census and vital records using both internet genealogy databases, such as Ancestry Library Edition, and print resources available in our LCLS Special Collections. (Adults; Sunflower Room)

Midlife Mastery: Cancel the Mean Girl
Monday, April 22; 6–7 p.m.
Ladies! Do you feel as if you are constantly faced with figuring out your body’s changing needs? Are the changes in your life shaking your confidence? Join Mary Bushkuhl for a frank discussion on how to manage anxiety, loss of focus and concentration, mood changes and irritability that can disrupt your life. It’s time to cancel your inner mean girl! (Adults; Cottonwood Room)

History of Botanical Art
Thursday, April 25; 6–7 p.m.
From Egyptian carvings to contemporary paintings, flowers and plants have been a favorite subject of artists for millennia. Come hear Janet Vetter — avid gardener, flower enthusiast and watercolor artist — share her passion and knowledge of this history of botanic art, and discover a whole new way to appreciate the buds about to bloom in your own garden. This program was developed by the American Society of Botanical Artists. (Adults; Sunflower Room)

Book Discussion Group
Tuesday, April 30; 6–7:30 p.m.
For April we’ll be reading Anthony Doerr’s collection of shorts, “Memory Wall.” Comprised of two novellas and five short stories, “Memory Wall” explores what memory is and how it affects us as humans. A limited number of books are available; please visit the third-floor Ask Here desk to check out a copy while supplies last! (Adults; Sunflower Room)

L2B Events

Taxpayer Advocate Service: Problem-Solving Day
Thursday, April 4; 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Taxpayer Advocate Service will be available throughout the day to educate taxpayers on filing accurate tax returns, to provide refund timing information and to inform taxpayers about self-help tools as well as resources for checking refund statuses. TAS can also assist individuals and small businesses with tax issues they have not been able to resolve with the IRS. Take advantage of this free service and drop in anytime during the event for personalized, step-by-step guidance. (Adults; Willow Room)

Small Business Pitch Night
Wednesday, April 17; 6–7 p.m.
Hear from Laramie County’s new small businesses! Participating owners will give a five-minute pitch on who they are, what they are passionate about and how their business provides value in our community. This is a great opportunity to meet your new “neighbors” and enjoy networking (and, of course, snacks). Want to provide a pitch? Contact Kenny Overby at Wyoming SBDC to reserve your spot. (Adults; Cottonwood Room)

Burns Branch Library Events

Poetry Wheel
April 1–30; Library Hours
In honor of National Poetry Month, we would like to encourage you to write some poetry of your own! Come spin the wheel for a fun writing prompt. Bring your poems back to share and get a prize for participating. (All ages; Burns Branch Library)

Make it Mondays
Mondays: April 1, 8, 15, 22, 19; 1–5 p.m.
Get crafty at the Burns Library every Monday afternoon!
Crafts by week:

April 1: Melted Ice Cream for April Fools’ Day
April 8: Rocket Corner Bookmark
April 15: Love Hands for National ASL Day
April 22: Balloon Stamp Earth for Earth Day
April 29: Galaxy Name Plates for International Astronomy Day

(All Ages; Burns Branch Library)

Family Board Game Night
Thursday, April 4; 3–6:30 p.m.
Bring the whole family down to the library for a fun-filled evening of games! We will have game stations featuring Sorry, Chutes & Ladders, Uno, Life and more! (Children & Families; Burns Branch Library)

Friday Matinee
Fridays: April 5, 12, 19, 26; 1–3 p.m.
Come to the Burns Branch Library each Friday to watch a family-friendly film. Feel free to bring your favorite snacks; we’ll provide the popcorn!
Movies by week:

April 5: “Wish” (PG)
April 12: “Shrek” (PG)
April 19: “Bedtime Stories” (PG)
April 26: “Crater” (PG)

(All Ages; Burns Branch Library)

Little Colts Story Time
Tuesday, April 9; 5:30–7 p.m.
Story time is a great opportunity for children to socialize with their peers. This program includes an interactive reading session and a simple craft. This month’s theme is “Space.” (Pre-K & Families; Burns Branch Library)

Dinner & Book Club
Tuesday, April 16; 5:30–7 p.m.
Join us for a discussion of this month’s book, “Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty. This novel follows a group of parents and kindergarten students from Pirriwee Public School through six months between an accusation-filled kindergarten orientation and a Trivia Night that ends in nine injuries, 94 hangovers and one death. Please swing by the Burns Library to pick up your copy. We encourage you to bring a dish to share for our potluck dinner. (Adults; Burns Branch Library)

Science Night: Underwater Fireworks
Thursday, April 18; 3–6 p.m.
Have you ever seen underwater fireworks? Here is your chance to make some yourself! We invite you to join us at the Burns Library for an exciting evening of science! (Children & Families; Burns Branch Library)

Book Signing with Jared Michaud
Thursday, April 25; 3–5 p.m.
Come meet local author and Pine Bluffs resident Jared Michaud! Jared will be reading an excerpt from his debut science-fiction novel, “Brightstar: Energematrice6-The Epimyth Begins,” and answering questions in anticipation of the book’s release on April 16. After his talk, books will be available for purchase and signing. (Tweens, Teens & Adults; Burns Branch Library)

Pine Bluffs Library Branch Events

National Poetry Month Poem Contest
April 1–27; Library Hours
Calling all poets! Participate in our third annual poem contest to celebrate National Poetry Month. Enter by submitting a copy of your original poem with your name, age and phone number to pinebluffs@lclsonline.org or by dropping it off at the Pine Bluffs Branch Library by Saturday, April 27. Categories are by grade-level: grades K–2, grades 3–5, grades 6–8, grades 9–12 and adults. All poems will be displayed in the library and judging will take place the first week of May, with winners announced on Tuesday, May 7. We look forward to reading all your poems! (Grades K–12 & Adults; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)

Story Stone Adventures
April 1-30; Library Hours
Story stones are pictures painted onto smooth rocks, used as an aid in storytelling. All through April, the library will place story stones throughout the community. If you find some stones, you can use them to start telling or writing your own story by using the pencil and paper found in the baggie under the story stone. Bring your completed story to the Pine Bluffs Branch Library; we would love to read it! All participants who bring in a completed story stone adventure will get to spin the wheel for a prize. (Children & Families; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)

Craftastic Tuesdays
Tuesdays: April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Get crafty at the library! Make and take home a boho floral butterfly or a pom-pom caterpillar magnet that is perfect for spring! (All Ages; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)

Fun for Kids!
Thursdays: April 4, 11, 18; 10–10:45 a.m.
Join us for an interactive story time session to promote early literacy through books, songs, puppets, crafts and much more!
Themes by week:

April 4: Creepy Crawly Critters
April 11: Getting Dressed
April 18: Feathered Friends
April 25: No Story Time

(Pre-K & Families; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)

Book Signing with Jared Michaud
Friday, April 5; 3–5 p.m.
Come meet local author and resident Jared Michaud! Jared will be reading an excerpt from his debut science-fiction novel, “Brightstar: Energematrice6-The Epimyth Begins,” and answering questions in anticipation of the book’s release on April 16. After his talk, books will be available for purchase and signing. (Tweens, Teens & Adults; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)

Friday Matinee
Fridays: April 12, 19, 26; 1:30–3:30 p.m.
Spend your Friday afternoons at the library watching a family-friendly matinee. Each week will feature a different movie. Bring a favorite snack and enjoy the show!
Movies by week:

April 12: “The Jungle Book” (PG)
April 19: “The Adventures of Tin Tin” (PG)
April 26: “The Corpse Bride” (PG)

(Children & Families; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)

Lunch Bunch Book Club
Saturday, April 13; Noon to 1 p.m.
Join us for an exciting discussion of “The Good Lord Bird” by James McBride as we enjoy a potluck lunch. For more information, please call the Pine Bluffs Branch Library at 307-245-3646 or visit with staff. (Adults; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)

Paint & Sip Party: Sunflower Field
Wednesday, April 17; 5:30–7 p.m.
Join us for a fun evening as we learn to create an acrylic painting of a “sunflower field” using unique tools. For sipping, enjoy a delicious sunflower spritz mocktail. Space is limited to 20 participants, so please sign up before April 12 by visiting the Pine Bluffs Branch or calling 307-245-3646. (Teens & Adults; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)