Independence Branch Library Events (June 28 – July 31)

Independence Branch Library events

The Independence Branch Library is located at 6361 Selig Dr. For more information or to register for programs, stop by the Independence Branch, call 216-447-0160, or visit cuyahogalibrary.org.

Adult programs

Painting the natural world: June 28, July 26, Aug. 16, 10 a.m. Learn how to celebrate tiny wonders in the natural world through watercolor painting. Find out how to use watercolor to showcase the beauty of your subject and how to paint a mushroom and a daisy. This is a three-part series; registration for this class will automatically register you for subsequent classes.

Phantom of the Opera escape room: July 6, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. You are locked in the cellar/meeting room along with a group of other operagoers. You have 45 minutes to find the code and escape before the Opera House is destroyed. Look for clues, solve puzzles and beat the clock. Registration required.      

British royal palaces and gardens: July 24, 7 p.m. Join Julie Koenig of “Royally Amused” to discuss British royal palaces and gardens. British-born Koenig is a keen observer and lifelong student of the British monarchy. She is well versed in the colorful history and traditions of the British royal family. Registration required.

Stephen King and The Shawshank Redemption: July 30, 7 p.m. Mark Dawidziak presents a program based on his 2019 book "The Shawshank Redemption Revealed," which was published on the 25th anniversary of director Frank Darabont's film adaptation of Stephen King's novella. Filmed in Ohio and starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, "The Shawshank Redemption" has risen in popularity since its release in 1994. Dawidziak conducted more than 70 interviews for the book, talking to King, Darabont, Robbins and Freeman, as well as extras, supporting players and behind-the-scenes talent. A book signing will follow the event. Registration required.  

Teen programs

Create a shadow box collage: July 10, 2 p.m. Participants will pull from a variety of photos, drawings, objects and mixed media to create a layered shadow box. Registration required.

Science of ice cream: July 11, 2 p.m. Learn how to make homemade ice cream. Registration required.

VolunTeens: July 29, 2 p.m. Volunteer at the library to benefit the library or the local community. Registration required. 

Children’s programs

Baby and toddler storytime: Wednesdays through July 24 at 10 a.m. Join us for rhymes, songs, fingerplays and books.                                                      

Summer fun for everyone: Tuesdays through July 23, 1:30-4:30 p.m. Grades 1-6 are welcome to drop in for reading, art, science, technology, engineering and math challenges.

Kindergarten countdown-off to school: July 25, 10 a.m. Join us as we help build kindergarten readiness skills in a program aligned to Ohio's Early Childhood Standards. Registration required.

Little Olympians: July 27, 11 a.m. Drop in and enjoy game stations with your little Olympian. Children can show their skills at beanbag tosses, an obstacle course and other family-friendly activities. ∞