CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The following is a list of all Laramie County Library System events for the month of July, including events for the facilities in Burns and Pine Bluffs. All libraries are scheduled to be closed Thursday, July 4 for Independence Day.
Cheyenne Library Branch Events
Exhibits and Special Events
Summer Reading Challenge Bookmark Contest Exhibit
May 5–Sept. 4
Library Hours
Enjoy the creativity of hundreds of third- and fourth-grade students from Laramie County in the annual bookmark contest! Pick up a bookmark of the winning designs at any library location. (All Ages; Second Floor)
Ramble//Rove
June 12–Aug. 18
Library Hours
Making art is an adventure, full of twists and turns. For this year’s annual LCLS Book Arts Show, University of Wyoming professor and coffee entrepreneur Kayla Clark welcomes artist-adventurers ranging from book artists to letterpress printers to writers to graphic designers. These artists from Wyoming and beyond showcase books in traditional and experimental formats, as well as typographically driven works that highlight the artist’s journey. Kayla Clark and LCLS are particularly excited to welcome “The Rule of St. Benedict,” a 36-foot-long printed scroll by Mary Bruno that is making a special journey from Minnesota. (All Ages; All Floors)
WyoGives Drop-In
Wednesday, July 10
Noon to 2 p.m.
Drop in and show support for your library as people gather together for WyoGives, a day dedicated to raising money and awareness for Wyoming’s nonprofits. Stop by to share why you love your library, enjoy tasty refreshments and learn more about how the Laramie County Library Foundation supports library programs and services. (All Ages; Willow Room)
Ramble//Rove Artist in Residency
July 9–11
As part of the LCLS Book Arts Show Ramble//Rove, the library is hosting an artist’s residency in the Commons area of the first floor. Letterpress artist and exhibition curator Kayla Clark will bring her historic press, and patrons are encouraged to come by and watch art get made right before their eyes! You might even have a chance to participate and make some art yourself. (All Ages; The Commons – First Floor)
Youth & Family Events
Chess Club
Mondays: July 1, 8, 15, 29
4–5 p.m.
Our summer youth Chess Club is back! Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, all are welcome to learn moves and strategies, and to just have fun! Children and teens in grades 2–12 are welcome to participate. (Grades 2–12; Early Literacy Center)
Adventure Club
Wednesdays, July 3, 10, 17
4–5 p.m.
Summer is the perfect time to make new friends! Come to the library for an afternoon making fun summertime crafts, meeting new people and planning many great adventures together.
Adventures by Date:
- July 3: Cardboard-a-Palooza
- July 10: Sew a Stuffy
- July 26: Tie Dye!
(Grades K–6; Cottonwood Room)
Saturday STEAM
Saturday, July 6
2:30–3:30 p.m.
Children in grades 3–6 can join us each month as we explore a variety of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) topic with crafts, games, experiments and more. This month, make your own kite out of a paper plate to fly in the “Wyoming Wind” throughout the summer. Let’s go fly a kite! (Grades 3–6/Ages 8–12; Early Literacy Center)
Chillville
Tuesday, July 9 – 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Monday, July 31 – 1–8 p.m.
We know that large events at the library can be overwhelming! We would like to invite children with sensory needs and their families to take advantage of Chillville. This special area will have items such as fidget devices, bubbles, a sound machine and more. Stop by the Ask Here desk on the second floor to ask to use the space, and keep an eye out for Chillville at our large events all year long! In July, this space will be available during the Magic Between the Pages and Harry Potter’s Birthday events. (Children, Teens & Families; Second-Floor Study Room)
Magic Between the Pages – An Adventure in Reading
Tuesday, July 9
11 a.m. to noon
Veteran performer Kyle Groves will take the audience on an adventure in reading, exploring topics such as “The History of The Traveling Medicine Show” and “Where in the World Can We Go? A look at Geography” — and of course, no adventure would be complete without stepping right into a fairy tale. You might even get to learn how to do a magic trick! Guests will learn to use their imagination as they explore all the adventures that lie within the walls of the library and learn some important lessons along the way: The importance of reading daily, visiting your library often and of course taking care of the treasures we know as books! Through the use of a ton of audience participation, lively music, clean comedy and state-of-the-art magic, you are sure to have a magical adventure this summer. Groves will have a small magic shop available after the program with items available for purchase to start your own adventure in the world of magic. (Children & Families; Cottonwood Room)
Tween Tasters
Tuesday, July 9
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, I scream, you scream, we all scream FOR ICE CREAM! Enjoy this classic food experiment of making your own ice cream in a zip-lock bag! (Grades 3–6/Ages 8–12; Early Literacy Center)
Choose Your Own Adventure Club
Thursdays: July 11, 18
3:30–4:30 p.m.
Calling all adventurers! Join us as we read and choose our own adventure together! No need to read the book ahead of time. We will also make crafts, chat about what books we are reading and do other fun things! This event is for children in grades K–2. (Grades K–2; Sage Room)
Cuentos y Amigos (Spanish Storytime)
Wednesday, July 17
Miércoles, 17 julio
6–7 p.m.
Join us for a special Spanish/English storytime in collaboration with CHISPA. Come enjoy special stories, songs, snacks and a craft in Spanish and English!
Presentaremos una hora de cuentos en español. ¡Disfrute de cuentos especiales, canciones, meriendas y manualidades — en español y en inglés!
(Children & Families/niños y familias; Early Literacy Center)
Sit, Stay, READ! Read to a Therapy Dog
Thursday, July 18
4–5 p.m.
Everyone loves to hear a story, even our four-pawed friends! Come in 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)
Family Crafting
Friday, July 19
4–5:30 p.m.
Feeling crafty? Come join us and make a fun craft that you can keep for yourself or gift to others! (Children & Families; Early Literacy Center)
Coloring Club
Saturday, July 27; Sunday, July 28
Library Hours
Do you love to color? Come and join us for an adventure-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)
Harry Potter’s Birthday
Wednesday, July 31
2–7 p.m.
We are pleased to inform you that you have been invited to a day at Hogwarts to celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday! Join us for our eighth-annual Harry Potter’s Birthday celebration by going back to Hogwarts. Dress up in your best school robes and participate in Hogwarts classes, play in Quidditch matches and solve the puzzles guarding the sorcerer’s stone. You’ll have a blast whether you’re a first year or long-time fan! (All Ages; All Floors)
- 2:30 p.m. – Six Quidditch matches – ongoing
- 3 p.m. – History of Magic Class (trivia!)
- 4 p.m. – Costume Contest
- 6 p.m. – History of Magic Class (trivia!)
- 7 p.m. – Harry Potter Trivia for Adults
Monthly Early Literacy Classes and Early Literacy Center Events
ELC Information:
- Letters of the Month: U/V
- Number of the Month: 17
- Color of the Month: Silver
- StoryWalk® Title of the Month: “Fatima’s Great Outdoors” by Ambreen Tariq
Early Literacy Class Themes
- Week of July 1: Night Time
- Week of July 8: Let’s Go to the Beach
- Week of July 15: Forest Friends
- Week of July 22: No storytime this week
- Week of July 29: Gardening
Tales Together
Tuesdays: July 2, 16, 30
Wednesdays: July 3, 17
Thursdays: July 11, 18
Saturdays: July 6, 13
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: July 3, 17
10:15–11 a.m.
Do you have a preschooler that 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 meant for preschoolers who will be going into kindergarten in fall 2024. (Ages 4–5; Sage Room)
Book Babies (RSVP required for Thursdays)
Thursdays: July 11, 18 in the Sage Room
Fridays: July 5, 12, 19 in the Early Literacy Center
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! Afterwards, babies can play with our educational toys while caregivers visit. Spaces on Thursdays are limited, so please reserve your seat here. (Ages Birth–24 Months)
Yoga Together
Wednesday, July 10 in the Cottonwood Room
Saturday, July 20 in the Early Literacy Center
10:15–10:45 a.m.
Come and join Jasmine Wilcox from GROW Movement and Mindfulness for a special literacy class filled with songs, stories, stretching and play. This month’s theme is Under the Sea! (Ages 18 Months–5 Years)
Teen Events
Creative Teens Unite!
Tuesdays: July 2, 16, 23, 30
4–6 p.m.
Join this teen-led group that enables you to tell your story through a creative medium of your choice. Drawing, storytelling, clay, poems, any way to get your story out is welcome! If you’ve always felt that you needed a place to be creative, this is the event for you! This is a creativity-friendly and judgment-free zone; all are welcome to create with us!
(Teens Grades 7–12; Teen Lounge)
Teen International Movie Night: China
Friday, July 5
3–5 p.m.
Drop in for “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” (2000) and our adventure into China! Try some Chinese snacks and crafts, and settle in to watch “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” with us. This movie is rated PG-13 and does contain violence. Parental discretion may be advised. (Teens Grades 7–12; Cottonwood Room)
Teen Writing Club
Thursdays: July 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, July 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)
Michael Albert: Modern Pop Art Experience
Saturday, July 13
2–4 p.m.
The “Modern Pop Art Experience” includes an artist appearance, short artist talk and presentation. Participants will create their own collages during this hands-on workshop using the same materials Mr. Albert uses to create his work, and the program will finish with a free poster giveaway and signing! Mr. Albert also brings about 21 different prints for each participant to choose a special gift for coming to the event! (Teens Grades 7–12; Cottonwood Room)
Earring Making (RSVP required)
Monday, July 15
1:30–3:30 p.m.
Join teen jewelry-maker Grace Lyles for an earring crafting event! We will learn how to use wire, jewelry-making tools and more to craft your own set of earrings! Supplies are extremely limited, so make sure to sign up! (Teens Grades 7–12; Sage Room)
Teen International Movie Night: Spain
Friday, July 19
3–5 p.m.
Bienvenidos a… “Pan’s Labyrinth” (2006) and our adventure into Spain! Try some Spanish foods, craft and watch Pan’s Labyrinth with us. This movie is rated R and does contain severe violence. Parental discretion may be advised. A signed permission slip is required! (Teens Grades 7–12; Cottonwood Room)
Tabletop Gaming
Saturday, July 20
3–5 p.m.
Whether you are a seasoned board game enthusiast or just looking to try something new, there is something for everyone. You can bring your own board games or select from our collection. We will have some classics and some new games to choose from, so come ready to play! (Teens Grades 7–12; Sage Room)
VolunTeens (RSVP Required)
Monday, July 22
5:30–7 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. This is a special edition of the VolunTeens! Our fantastic Volunteer Coordinator, Ashley, will be giving the library volunteer orientation starting at 6 p.m. for teens! Come for our normal meeting and then parents are invited to join us for the volunteer orientation. We hope to see you there! ***Parents of teens MUST attend the orientation for teens under 18 years old.*** (Teens Grades 7–12; Sage Room)
The Purple Society
Monday, July 29
3–4 p.m.
Come and join fellow members of the LGBTQ+ and Allies community. We will meet to chat about LGBTQ+ related issues, work on fun crafts and enjoy some snacks in a safe environment. This group seeks to offer understanding, support and acceptance. All are welcome! (Teens Grades 7–12; Sage Room)
Adult Events
Joey Leone in Concert
Monday, July 1
6–7:30 p.m.
Joey Leone and his band will bring their unique sound to Cheyenne for an outdoor performance. Their blend of classic rock, soul, country and especially blues music results in a concert that will appeal to everyone. Joey is also an educator, storyteller and music historian with a love of libraries. In case of inclement weather, this event will move to the Cottonwood Room. (Adults; Performance Park)
Chair Yoga: Healthy Body, Healthy Mind
Wednesdays: July 10, 17
1:30–2:30 p.m.
Cheyenne, let’s keep moving! Please join us for gentle Chair Yoga with Toni Brannen from Blossom Yoga Studio. Sessions will be on the second and third Wednesdays this 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)
Movies for Mindful Aging: “Lightyear”
Friday, July 12
1:30–4:30 p.m.
Please join us for a viewing of “Lightyear” (rated PG, 2022) starring Chris Evans, Keke Palmer and Peter Sohn. “Lightyear” is the definitive 1995 origin story of Buzz Lightyear from the Disney classic “Toy Story”. Space Ranger Lightyear is marooned on a hostile planet 4.2 million light-years from Earth. Obsessed with returning to Earth, life quickly passes by before Buzz is joined by a ragtag crew and learns many valuable lessons. Refreshments and popcorn are provided. Optional chair yoga at the start of the event and discussion to follow the movie. (Adults; Cottonwood Room)
How Did We Get Here? American Immigration History and Genealogy
Saturday, July 13
10:15–11:30 a.m.
We will review the fascinating history of migration to the Americas and to the United States in particular from the founding of the American Colonies until the present, and learn how to research your own immigrant ancestors. We will look at both Internet and print resources that will help you find your ancestors. (Adults; Sunflower Room)
Wyoming Mountain Men
Friday, July 19
1–3 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 from 1810 to 1840. We will meet at Performance Park on the south side of the library. In case of inclement weather, we will move inside to the Sunflower Room. (All Ages; Performance Park)
Computer Help (RSVP required)
Library Hours
Visit the library for help navigating your digital devices! From learning to use a mouse to getting acquainted with social media, we’ve got you covered. Please call the library at 307-634-3561 or visit the third-floor Ask Here desk to register. Appointment times will vary. More information is available here. (Adults; Computer Classroom)
Book Discussion Group
Tuesday, July 23
6–7:30 p.m.
Join us this July in reading Annabel Monaghan’s breezy romance, “Same Time Next Summer.” Sam’s perfect life threatens to unravel as she plans her summer beach wedding and unexpectedly runs into her old high school love interest. 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)
Burns Branch Library Events
Make it Mondays
Mondays: July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
1–5 p.m.
Get crafty at the Burns Library every Monday afternoon!
Crafts by week:
- July 1: Independence Day Creation
- July 8: Bow-tie butterflies
- July 15: Muddy Gummy Worms snack creation
- July 22: Airplanes
- July 29: Tiger Hands
(All Ages; Burns Branch Library)
Friday Matinee
Fridays: July 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:
- July 5: “Kung Fu Panda 4” (PG)
- July 12: “Thelma the Unicorn” (PG)
- July 19: “Trolls Band Together” (PG)
- July 26: “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” (PG) with prizes and crafts!
(All Ages; Burns Branch Library)
Paint Party: Beach Vibes
Saturday, July 13
1–3:30 p.m.
Come join us for a creative afternoon. The theme of this class is Beach Vibes. All supplies are provided. Coffee and hot tea are available in the café. Please reach out to the Burns Branch Library Staff to sign up as spots are limited. Call the Burns Library at 307-547-2249 or visit us in person to reserve your seat. (Adults; Burns Branch Library)
Chalk the Walk
Thursday, July 18
Library Hours
We invite you to come decorate the sidewalk in front of your library. Chalk will be provided. (All Ages; Burns Branch Library)
Dinner & Bookclub
Tuesday, July 23
5:30–7 p.m.
Join us for a potluck-style dinner and lively discussion of this month’s book, “The Giver of Stars” by Jojo Moyes. This is the story of five extraordinary women and their journey through the mountains of Kentucky and beyond. Please swing by the Burns Library to pick up your copy. We encourage you to bring a dish to share with the club. (Adults; Burns Branch Library)
Pine Bluffs Library Branch Events
Roadtrip Bingo
July 1–31
Library Hours
Oh, the places you’ll go! Come into the library to pick up a roadtrip BINGO sheet for your next adventure. Bring the sheet back and be entered in for a prize drawing. Don’t forget to use a sticker and string on our wall map so we can see all the marvelous places that we have gone! (All Ages; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)
Craftastic Tuesdays
Tuesdays: July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Get crafty at the library! Make and take home a paper roll bottle rocket or a paper fruit fan to keep you cool on hot summer days. (All Ages; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)
Fun for Kids!
Thursdays: July 11, 18, 25
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:
- July 11: Rainforest/Jungle
- July 18: Night Time
- July 25: Let’s Go to the Beach
(Pre-K & Families; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)
Magic Between the Pages – An Adventure in Reading
Tuesday, July 9
2–3 p.m.
Veteran performer Kyle Groves will take the audience on adventure in reading exploring topics such as “The History of The Traveling Medicine Show” and “Where in the World Can We Go? A look at Geography” — and, of course, no adventure would be complete without stepping right into a fairy tale. You might even get to learn how to do a magic trick! Guests will learn to use their imagination as they explore all the adventures that lie within the walls of the library and learn some important lessons along the way: the importance of reading daily, visiting your library often and of course taking care of the treasures we know as books! Through the use of a ton of audience participation, lively music, clean comedy and state-of-the-art magic, you are sure to have a magical adventure this summer. Groves will have a small magic shop available after the program with items available for purchase to start your own adventure in the world of magic. (Children & Families; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)
Lunch Bunch Book Club
Saturday, July 20
Noon to 1 p.m.
Join us for an exciting discussion of “The Monuments Men” by Robert M. Edsel as we enjoy a potluck lunch. Quick summary: At the same time Adolf Hitler was attempting to take over the western world, his armies were methodically seeking and hoarding the finest art treasures in Europe. The Fuehrer had begun cataloging the art he planned to collect as well as the art he would destroy: “degenerate” works he despised. In a race against time, behind enemy lines, often unarmed, a special force of American and British museum directors, curators, art historians and others, called the Monuments Men, risked their lives scouring Europe to prevent the destruction of thousands of years of culture. Focusing on the eleven-month period between D-Day and V-E Day, this fascinating account follows six Monuments Men and their impossible mission to save the world’s great art from the Nazis. For more information, call the Pine Bluffs Branch Library at 307-245-3646 or visit with staff. (Adults; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)
Friday Matinee
Friday, July 26
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Spend a Friday afternoon at the library watching a family-friendly matinee showing of “The Wizard of Oz.” Bring a favorite snack if you choose; popcorn is provided. Stay after the show to create an Oz-themed craft! (All Ages; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)
Harry Potter Birthday Fun
Wednesday, July 31
2–4 p.m.
We are celebrating the one and only Harry Potter! Come to the library to enjoy Hogwarts-inspired treats, games, a prize wheel and a craft. Dress up in your best wizarding world costume if you feel adventurous enough! (Children, Teens & Families; Pine Bluffs Branch Library)
