Next month’s roster of activities at Riverdale Public Library offers topics for all ages. The following activities are free to the public:
Adult Programs
Book Discussion: “By the Fire We Carry” by Rebecca Nagle
10:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 2
Reporter and member of the Cherokee Nation, Rebecca Nagle, recounts the generations-long fight for tribal land and sovereignty in eastern Oklahoma.
Curiosity Connection: Secrets of the Sunshine State
10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8
This month, we’ll explore some of the most interesting lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path locations across Florida, featuring both the historical and the downright unusual. Curiosity Connection offers adults in our community the opportunity to explore a new subject each month in arts, culture, science and technology by combining interactive presentations and hands-on experiences with open and engaging discussions.
Knit and Stitch
1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 15
A casual, self-guided group of knitters and crocheters that join together to share projects, ideas and techniques. Participants are encouraged to bring their own projects and tools. Basic materials and supplies are available for newcomers.
A ‘Deep Dive’ into Weeki Wachee Springs
10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 18
From local swimming spot to roadside attraction to state park, the only constant at Weeki Wachee Springs over its 75-year history is the mermaid performances. Join Rebecca Schwandt, historian and archivist, for a “deep dive” into the springs’ past. Entertaining audiences since 1947, this unique roadside attraction has a natural spring with water at a stable temperature of 72-74 degrees.
The Koreshans of Estero and the Link to the Waco Tragedy
10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25
In the 1890s, a group of religious utopians settled Estero, Florida. Called the Koreshans, they were led by Cyrus Teed, a doctor of eclectic medicine. A century later, Teed’s religious teachings were plagiarized by none other than David Koresh of the Branch Davidians of Waco. This lecture traces the legacy of the Koreshans and what they teach us about cults and ourselves. Presented by Lyn Millner, author of “The Allure of Immortality: An American Cult, a Florida Swamp and a Renegade Prophet.”
Children’s Programs
Dinosaur Party
10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 10
Join us for an hour of dinosaur festivities. Come celebrate the love of all things dinosaur with themed crafts, music, activities and games. Dinosaur costumes are encouraged.
Family Storytime
10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 17, 24, 31
For children through age 5 years and caregivers. Families with young children enjoy a variety of stories, songs, rhymes and movement.
Homeschool Hangout: Game on
1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 30
Join in the fun and challenge your friends to a variety of board games and video games. Light snacks provided.
Teen Programs
Anime Hour
2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7
Enjoy an hour of anime entertainment, creative expression and lively discussions. This program is specially curated for anime enthusiasts to indulge in their passion for Japanese animation while hanging out among like-minded peers. Snacks provided and cosplay encouraged. For teens ages 12-18 years.
The Riverdale Public Library is located at 2421 Buckingham Road in Fort Myers. For more information about a program or to register, please call the library at (239) 533-4370. Check the Lee County Library System’s Web site at www.leelibrary.net to find out about programs at other locations. Call the host library, or Telephone Reference at (239) 479-INFO (4636), for more information about a specific program.
