This family program allows parents and children to sit back and be swept away by a new book. A member of the Youth Services staff will read the first few chapters of the book on video then families may finish reading the book at home. The program is geared for students in grades three through five.

The books will be available at Downtown Children's Room or the Helen Warner Branch while supplies last. In addition, both books are available for free downloading or streaming through Willard’s digital app, Libby.

“When Life Gives You Mangos” by Kereen Getten
This is a heartwarming, yet suspenseful story, set on the shores of Jamaica that demonstrates the strength of family, a story of friendships lost and found, and most importantly, remembering who you are.
Friday, June 10: Book available for pickup,
Friday, June 17, 2 p.m.: Video premiere on Willard's Facebook and YouTube channels

“Song for a Whale” by Lynne Kelly
This is a story of a deaf girl's connection to a whale whose song can't be heard by his species, and the journey she takes to help him.
Friday, July 15: Book available for pickup,
Friday, July 22, 2 p.m.: Video premiere on Willard's Facebook and YouTube channels

Celebrate local artist Jaziel Pugh's new mural located in the Downtown library’s Lower Level.

During the pandemic, Jaziel, whose murals can be found all over Battle Creek, dedicated hours to create a huge mural entitled "Two Sides to Every Story."

He explains, “the mural’s core is a juxtaposition between color and aesthetic. The mood that each wall gives is a complete opposite of each other. Thinking of opposites like colorful and dull, light and dark, happy and sad.” The multitude of images include popular figures such as Pokémon, Snoopy, Hello Kitty, and Grover from “Sesame Street.” Jaziel explains, “Two Sides to Every Story” emotionally means that there’s always a brighter side and a darker side to life.

Light refreshments will be served.

Friday, June 10, 5-7 p.m.,
Downtown Lower Level,
Please enter and exit through the Lower Level side entrance

Celebrate local artist Jaziel Pugh's new mural located in the Downtown library’s Lower Level.

During the pandemic, Jaziel, whose murals can be found all over Battle Creek, dedicated hours to create a huge mural entitled "Two Sides to Every Story."

He explains, “the mural’s core is a juxtaposition between color and aesthetic. The mood that each wall gives is a complete opposite of each other. Thinking of opposites like colorful and dull, light and dark, happy and sad.” The multitude of images include popular figures such as Pokémon, Snoopy, Hello Kitty, and Grover from “Sesame Street.” Jaziel explains, “Two Sides to Every Story” emotionally means that there’s always a brighter side and a darker side to life.

Light refreshments will be served.

Friday, June 10, 5-7 p.m.,
Downtown Lower Level,
Please enter and exit through the Lower Level side entrance

What A Do Theatre’s Executive Director Teri Noaeill will help students improve their acting skills. Participants will learn the best strategies to make their reading voices more entertaining, which helps engage and captivate listening audiences.

Monday, June 13, 10 a.m, .
Helen Warner Branch,
Click here to register,

Monday, June 13, 6:30 p.m.,
Downtown Programming Room,
Click here to register

Children may celebrate that special man in their lives--fathers, father-like figures, or mentors--at this drop-in Father’s Day program. Youngsters may create art and craft projects and enjoy Father’s Day themed activities with their special person. The program is geared for children in preschool and older, their fathers, and families. Participants may drop in anytime between 10 a.m. and noon.

Tuesday, June 14, 10 a.m. to noon,
Willard Programming Room,

Wednesday, June 15, 10 a.m. to noon,
Helen Warner Branch

Children may celebrate that special man in their lives--fathers, father-like figures, or mentors--at this drop-in Father’s Day program. Youngsters may create art and craft projects and enjoy Father’s Day themed activities with their special person. The program is geared for children in preschool and older, their fathers, and families. Participants may drop in anytime between 10 a.m. and noon.

Tuesday, June 14, 10 a.m. to noon,
Willard Programming Room,

Wednesday, June 15, 10 a.m. to noon,
Helen Warner Branch