Top Five Free Things to Do at Your Plano Public Library this January

Screenwriting workshops, photo editing classes, 3D printing, Spanish storytime… for free?

From preschool to professional, Plano Public Library has something for everyone. Not interested in reading? No biggie – we’re #morethanbooks! See what’s happening this month at the five public libraries near you:

Annual bookmark contest // courtesy Plano Public Library
Annual bookmark contest // courtesy Plano Public Library

1. Annual Bookmark Contest

(ages 5-100)

It’s that time of year – the annual Bookmark Contest! Download an application online or stop by any of our five libraries to pick one up, and let your creativity flow. Entries are due by February 15, and are judged in various age categories. Winners will receive a gift card and have their winning bookmark printed and distributed in the libraries and beyond, thanks to funding from Friends of the Plano Public Library. See planolibrary.org for details.

ACT practice

2. Ace the ACT

(grades 9-12, registration required)

Registration is open to sign up for our latest ACT College Entrance Exam practice test and tutorial. Students will be able to take an actual ACT test and find out immediately how they can improve. This practice is on January 12 from 10:30 – 3:30 at Parr Library, so students should bring a snack. The ACT practice test is presented by More Than a Teacher.

STEAM
STEAM

3. STEAMing ahead

(ages 0-100 with parent or caregiver)

STEAM, or science, technology, engineering, arts and math, is a cornerstone of PPL events and it’s for the whole family. At STEAM Stop on January 12 at Schimelpfenig Library and January 19 at Parr Library, both at 3 p.m., you can complete experiments, play with circuits, build things, make art and sharpen math skills with games.

Readers and Waggers
Readers and Waggers

4. Readers and Waggers

(ages 5-11, limited space)

Kids in grades K-5 can bring their favorite book from home – or pick one of ours – and read to one of the friendly dogs from Heart of Texas Therapy. Reading aloud can help kids boost their literacy skills, and these pups are waiting for you! Our first session is Sunday, January 6 at 2 p.m. at Schimelpfenig Library. Space is limited to the number of dogs available, so show up at 1:30 to grab a spot. This event is monthly at other locations; see our Engage brochure for details.

Baby development
Baby development

5. Baby development through music

(ages 18+)

If you are expecting or caring for a newborn, check out PPL’s latest parenting series: Read to the Bump, a monthly event at Schimelpfenig Library. Learn simple practices to support baby development and early literacy and hear from specialists about preparing your child for success. On Saturday, January 26 at 11 a.m. you will hear from Plano Symphony Orchestra on how music promotes learning, communication and health.


If you live in Plano, getting a card is easy – and free! Fill out an application online, come by any of our five libraries with a photo ID and proof of address, and in minutes you’ll have immediate access to hundreds of thousands of learning and recreational reading and watching materials, daily programming, and online resources for your personal or professional life.

Plano Public Library Locations and Programs >
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