Steele Memorial Library’s October children’s events

Steele Memorial Library hosts fun and educational events throughout the year, these are the upcoming programs for the month of October.

Steele Memorial Library, located in Mount Olive, hosts a range of children’s programs throughout the school year and summer. These events are designed to inspire creativity, foster early literacy, and bring families together in a welcoming community setting. From building LEGOs to musical movements and excavating “fossils,” these are the programs happening in October at the library.

First up, for middle schoolers with an interest in building, the “Lego Architects” program will be held on Thursday, October 10th, 17th, and 24th at 5 p.m. The program allows kids in 6th through 8th grade to get crafty with LEGOs. “We have a bunch of challenge cards and have the kids pick one randomly each week,” Dr. Lauren Saeger, the Children’s Librarian and Branch Manager at the Steele Memorial Library, explained. “Then they have 45 minutes to create a project based on that card. It’s incredible to see the creativity that comes out of it.”

Previously, the library ran the program for elementary school kids, and the students made everything from ice cream stands and animal habitats to mega-robots and parks complete with fountains and playgrounds. The projects are even displayed in the library for a week after, so the builders can show off their handiwork.

The Music and Movement program for babies from birth to 5 is aimed at helping develop early literacy skills through music. Dr. Saeger says, “I used to be a music educator, so every time I get to do an event with music, I’m very excited.” Held Tuesday mornings throughout the month of October—next up is the 8th, 15th, 22nd, and 29th, at 10 a.m. — the program focuses on integrating movement with music to support learning. “Music helps with early literacy,” Dr. Saeger noted. “The wide movements we do help children recognize their dominant hand, which can support their ability to start writing.”

During each session, children get to sing and play instruments, including shaker eggs, jingle bells, and gathering drums. The combination of music, movement, and rhyming allows children to have fun while also promoting cognitive and motor development.

Storytime is a well-loved library staple, and Steele Memorial’s, held every Wednesday and Thursday at 10 a.m., is no exception. Each week, the books picked surround a different letter of the alphabet. “This week, it was the letters D and E, so we read dragon books for D and books by Eric Carle for E,” Dr. Saeger said.

After storytime, children participate in singing songs, rhyming games, and felt board activities. “We end every session with bubbles, which is always a hit. It’s nice because while the kids have playtime, the adults can chat. There’s always such a sense of community,” Dr. Saeger shared.

Once a month on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. throughout the school year, the library offers a themed event for elementary-aged students. This month’s theme is Fun with Fossils, offering a hands-on exploration of prehistoric life. Kids will make dinosaur footprints, watch a video on paleontology, and excavate their very own dino egg, which contains a small toy dinosaur to take home. Previous themes have included old-school games where kids got to play classics like Jacks and Lincoln Logs.

While many of Steele Memorial’s programs focus on children, the library is also home to initiatives designed for older adults. Creative Aging offers 8-week sessions for individuals 55 and older, in disciplines ranging from flower arranging and memoir writing to acrylic painting and quilting. Participants work on their projects for seven weeks and showcase their creations during the eighth week.

The Intergenerational Bridges initiative combines aspects of programs aimed at both younger and older folks, fostering connections across generations. Inspired by the Kinder Music Project, the program includes musical activities, rhymes, and the use of instruments like shakers. “It’s really special to see the bonds that form between participants,” Dr. Saeger explained. “It’s not just for grandparents and their grandchildren—anyone can join, and it’s a great way to bridge the gap between older and younger generations, especially for folks without lots of family in the area.”

From LEGO-building competitions to musical explorations and paleontological digs, Steele Memorial Library’s October events promise fun and educational experiences for children of all ages with a focus on creativity, literacy, and community. Families looking to participate can reach out to the library for more information or simply drop by.