Jun 2021
Friends of the Duluth Public Library Book Sale
A selection of fiction, nonfiction and childrens' books. All proceeds from the sale go to support the Duluth Public Library to help them purchase resources and offer free events to the community.
Find out more »Jul 2021
City Sounds: Windjammers
The Windjammers perform big-band and swing music from the 1930s, '40s and '50s. This performance is part of the City Sounds big-band concert series held on Thursday evenings at on the Duluth Public Library’s plaza. Chairs will be set up, but attendees are welcome to bring their own lawn chair. The show will be held rain or shine. Dancing is encouraged. Upcoming Performances: July 22 - Duluth Symphonic Winds Community Band July 29 - Blue Water Big Band Aug. 5…
Find out more »City Sounds: Duluth Symphonic Winds Community Band
This performance is part of the City Sounds big-band concert series held on Thursday evenings at on the Duluth Public Library’s plaza. Chairs will be set up, but attendees are welcome to bring their own lawn chair. The show will be held rain or shine. Dancing is encouraged. Upcoming Performances July 29 - Blue Water Big Band Aug. 5 - Big Time Jazz Orchestra Aug. 12 - North Shore Big Band
Find out more »City Sounds: Blue Water Big Band
The Blue Water Big Band performs traditional big band music (e.g. Glenn Miller and Duke Ellington) as well as an eclectic mix of 1950s crossover rock, Latin, waltzes and ballads. This performance is part of the City Sounds big-band concert series held on Thursday evenings at on the Duluth Public Library’s plaza. Chairs will be set up, but attendees are welcome to bring their own lawn chair. The show will be held rain or shine. Dancing is encouraged.
Find out more »Rent Help at the Library
American Indian Community Housing Organization offers help with rent at the Duluth Public Library. Documents to bring: Renter's landlord’s contact information (name, address, email, phone number) Copy of the lease agreement Past-due rent statement Income documentation A form of ID Utility bill For questions, call the COVID-19 Resource Hotline at 218-215-2760.
Find out more »Aug 2021
City Sounds: Big Time Jazz Orchestra
The Big Time Jazz Orchestra is made up of some of Duluth's finest big-band jazz musicians. This performance is part of the City Sounds big-band concert series held on Thursday evenings at on the Duluth Public Library’s plaza. Chairs will be set up, but attendees are welcome to bring their own lawn chair. The show will be held rain or shine. Dancing is encouraged.
Find out more »City Sounds: North Shore Big Band
The North Shore Big Band is a 16-piece swing band based in Duluth. This performance is part of the City Sounds big-band concert series held on Thursday evenings at on the Duluth Public Library’s plaza. Chairs will be set up, but attendees are welcome to bring their own lawn chair. The show will be held rain or shine. Dancing is encouraged.
Find out more »Sep 2021
Duluth Superior Pride 2021 Art Reception
The 34th annual Duluth Superior Pride celebration begins Sept. 2 with a reception highlighting local artists who have had their work on display there all month. The "Meet the Artists" reception for the art exhibition precedes the annual Mayor's Reception across the street at the Duluth Depot.
Find out more »Dec 2021
Star Wars Escape Room
The Duluth Public Library's Star Wars Escape Room is open to all age groups and is set up based on the ages of those participating. No prior knowledge of Star Wars is required to play, but true fans will appreciate the many Star Wars references. The escape room can be booked during one-hour increments on various days between Dec. 29 and Jan. 22. It can be found in the library's Green Room. Register at duluthlibrary.evanced.info and note the ages of…
Find out more »Apr 2022
Diversity Book Club
The Duluth Public Library's Diversity Book Club offers a chance to read diverse books in a group and step into the shoes of diverse characters.
Find out more »Morning Book Club
The Duluth Public Library's Morning Book Club is for people whose evenings are full and who would enjoy a break to talk about books. New members are welcome.
Find out more »Jun 2022
An event every week that begins at 10:15 am on Wednesday, repeating until Jun 29, 2022
Outdoor Storytime
An event every week that begins at 10:15 am on Wednesday, repeating until Jun 29, 2022
Geared toward kids 0-5. Books, songs and fingerplays. The focus will be on having fun and learning essential early-literacy skills. Storytimes are subject to location change or cancellation, depending on current public health guidelines and weather. Call (218)730-4200 (option 4) for the most current event information.
Find out more »Sep 2022
Duluth Superior Pride 2022 Art Reception
The 35th annual Duluth Superior Pride celebration begins Sept. 1 with a reception highlighting local artists who have had their work on display the previous month on the second floor of the Duluth Public Library. The "Meet the Artists" reception for the art exhibition precedes the annual Mayor's Reception across the street at the Duluth Depot.
Find out more »Learning & Libations at the Library 2022
The eleventh annual Learning & Libations event draws supporters after hours to a library transformed by candlelight, black tablecloths, and a live jazz band -- all in support of the Duluth Public Library. The evening features a live fundraising auction, appetizers catered by Bellisio’s, an assortment of wine and beer, and time to meet and mingle in the stacks while exploring the library. This year will feature a fresh twist with the elimination of learning breakout sessions and the addition…
Find out more »Apr 2023
Using Psychology to Get Into Your Character’s Head
Everyone has a story. Taking elements of developmental psychology, writer and retired psychologist Doug Lewandowski will link models of human development and storytelling, giving writers a chance to shine a new light on life events. Participants will spend time writing character descriptions based on personality traits suggested by material in the workshop.
Find out more »Thomas Peacock: The Importance of a Cultural Voice
Award-winning author Thomas Peacock will discuss The Importance of a Cultural Voice, in his writing and in the larger culture at Lake Superior Writers' April Book Group for Writers. An Anishinaabe elder, Peacock will discuss how he shares cultural and historic Ojibwe stories and give his thoughts on how -- and if -- non-Native writers should approach Native characters. This will be a hybrid event, available both by Zoom and in person. The event is free, but organizers ask that…
Find out more »May 2023
Nostalgic Newsstand Vintage Magazine Sale
Items from the Duluth Public Library’s multi-decade collection of popular magazines go on sale. The magazines available for purchase go back as far as the late 1800's, and some are as recent as the early 2000's. Featuring publications like The New Yorker, Sports Illustrated, Seventeen and many more.
Find out more »The Second Long March: Memoir from a Witness to China’s Transformation
Minnesota author Patti Isaacs will be reading from her book "The Second Long March," which chronicles life lived on the cusp of that country's economic change in 1981 and the stunning contrasts experienced by her Chinese friends and their city once that transformation was well underway in 2005. Through personal stories, it presents Chinese culture and traditions as they have been altered—or not—by radical change. Isaacs will be reading from her book and taking audience questions at 6:00 p.m. Thursday,…
Find out more »Duluth’s Greatest Myths
The annual meeting of the Friends of Duluth Public Library takes place on Tuesday, May 16, at 4 p.m. in the Green Room of the Duluth Public Library. The FODPL advocates for the library’s importance in the community by helping finance library books, kids' library programs, the Winter Reading Program, and research databases. In the keynote presentation, Zenith City Press publisher Tony Dierckins delivers a talk on “Duluth’s Greatest Myths: Famous Fabulous Fibs and Fantastic Fictions of the Zenith City.”…
Find out more »Lake Superior Writers Annual Member Event
The Lake Superior Writers annual membership event features a conversation with Minnesota authors Leif Enger and John Enger, who will discuss writing and what the father and son have learned from one another during their careers. Members of the organization will also celebrate the winners of the annual writing contest and update members on LSW's activities. The event is open to all members. Scholarships are available. Find links to join LSW and to register for the event at lakesuperiorwriters.org.
Find out more »Jun 2023
Storytime with Chione
Featuring a musical story based on Twin Cities author Ka Vang’s "Shoua and the Northern Lights Dragon." Vang’s short chapter book tells the story of Shoua, a Hmong-American girl who discovers her voice as she saves an injured dragon while camping in the northern woods of Minnesota. Hear this story set to evocative music composed by Minnesotan Jocelyn Hagen. Chione will also share the stories of the instruments and the ensemble they create.
Find out more »Find Your Voice in Art: Chalk Art on the Plaza
Young artists in grades 6-12 are invited to collaborate to help create a vibrant, fun space on the Main Library's outdoor plaza. This summer's theme is "Find Your Voice." Local artist Moira Villiard will be leading this project, which will span three separate days. Participants should plan on attending all three sessions. Registration is required. Day One: Monday, June 5, 4 to 5 p.m. Day Two: Tuesday, June 6, 3:30 to 6 p.m. Day Three: Friday, June 9, 11 a.m.…
Find out more »Author Visit with James D. Paruk, “Loon Lessons: Uncommon Encounters with the Great Northern Diver”
Dr. James D. Paruk will present highlights from his career in biology and his 2021 book, "Loon Lessons: Uncommon Encounters with the Great Northern Diver." The book provides the most current detailed account of what we know about loon biology, behavior, and conservation in an accessible and entertaining style. Dr. Paruk has studied breeding and wintering common loons across North America for 30 years and is one of the world's leading experts on the species. He is a professor of…
Find out more »The Ant and the Grasshopper
In this continuation of Aesop’s fable, two friends compete together to find their voices, but hard-working Ant and playful Grasshopper are having trouble finding their harmony. With a little help from Queen Bee and the audience, Ant and Grasshopper learn how they can work together to create a sound where everyone’s voice is part of the chorus. This 35-minute program will be in the Blue Room and is geared towards kids up to 10 years old and their families.
Find out more »An event every week that begins at 10:30 am on Friday, repeating until Aug 19, 2023
Friday Movies at the Main Library
An event every week that begins at 10:30 am on Friday, repeating until Aug 19, 2023
The main library hosts free movies on Fridays in the Green Room all summer. This event is intended for youth and their caregivers or families. Movies are family-friendly. Movie schedule: Friday, June 23 Sing (2016/PG – 108 minutes) Friday, June 30 Coco (2017/PG - 109 minutes) Friday, July 7 Wonder (2017/PG - 113 minutes) Friday, July 14 Luca (2022/PG - 101 minutes) Friday, July 21 How to Train your Dragon (2010/PG - 98 minutes) Friday, July 28 Minions: Rise of…
Find out more »An event every week that begins at 2:00 pm on Monday, repeating until Aug 28, 2023
Maker Mondays at Main
An event every week that begins at 2:00 pm on Monday, repeating until Aug 28, 2023
Every Monday throughout the summer, Duluth's main library hosts a new maker program to keep kids, tweens and teens inspired and having fun. Some of the programs will be messy -- appropriate clothing is advised.
Find out more »Jul 2023
MNsure Application Assistance
A MNsure-certified navigator is available every Thursday in the Partnership Center of the library to provide free assistance using MNsure to sign up for health insurance. No appointment is necessary. For enrollment, bring information about household income, Social Security numbers for every person applying and any information about health insurance offered through work. Visit insureduluth.org for more information.
Find out more »Kaleidoscope: The Dollipops
The Kaleidoscope series kicks off with this highly-interactive kids’ show. Kids and their families are invited to sing, dance and laugh with sisters Dolli and Pop, who play classic beach tunes and current Hollywood and pop hits.
Find out more »An event every 2 weeks that begins at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, repeating until Aug 23, 2023
Nifty STEM Series at the Duluth Public Library
An event every 2 weeks that begins at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, repeating until Aug 23, 2023
The Duluth Public Library is hosting a series of NASA and space-themed activities for kids aged 9-14. Registration is required. "Parachutes" on Wednesday, July 12 from 3 to 4 p.m. in the Main Library Green Room. "Rockets" Wednesday, July 26, 3 to 4 p.m. in the Main Library Green Room. "Craters or Volcanoes?" on Wednesday, August 09 from 3 to 4 p.m. in the Main Library Green Room. "Lifecycle of a Star" on Wednesday, August 23, from 3 to 4…
Find out more »Kaleidoscope: Brodini
Brodini is a magician who conjures interactive comedy suitable for kids and their families. Kaleidoscope programs are held outdoors on the Main Library Plaza, rain or shine. Each program lasts about 45 minutes. An adult should accompany children under eight. Promotional photos may be taken at the programs. Talk to library staff if you do not wish your child to be photographed. You may bring blankets to sit on, but organizers request that guests please leave chairs and pets at…
Find out more »Plant Magic for Kids, Tweens and Teens
In this class, kids and teens (grades 3-7) will learn about the everyday magic of common plants that are usually called "weeds." Participants will make a healing balm, taste-test and create their own herbal elixir and other nature-crafts. Registration required.
Find out more »Kaleidoscope: The Circus Science Spectacular
The Circus Science Spectacular closes out this year’s Kaleidoscope series by playing with real-life scientific concepts. Performers Steve Russell and Kobi Shaw use circus arts to demonstrate Forces and Motion, Simple Machines, Matter, Air Power, Chemical Reactions, and more, to kids and their families. Kaleidoscope programs are held outdoors on the Main Library Plaza, rain or shine. Each program lasts about 45 minutes. An adult should accompany children under eight. There will be a sign language interpreter for this performance.…
Find out more »Aug 2023
Friday Movie at the Main Library: The BFG
The main library hosts free movies on Fridays in the Green Room all summer. The event is intended for youth and their caregivers or families. Movies are family-friendly. This week's feature is the 2016 fantasy adventure film The BFG.
Find out more »Weeding, Planting and Mulching at the Library
The Duluth Community Garden Program is partnering with the Duluth Public Library to replant their neglected outdoor area with native pollinator species, fruiting and medicinal plant varieties that serve the public as educational tools, ecologically benefit wildlife in the area, and add to the aesthetic atmosphere. Attendees can pull out old plants and weeds and finish planting native varieties and mulching. There will be some pots available for attendees to take home plants, but participants can also bring their own.…
Find out more »Duluth Superior Pride Art Exhibition Presents “Folks of Duluth”
The Duluth Superior Pride committee has organized an art exhibition with works displayed from local artist, Max Brunner. The exhibition, titled “Folks of Duluth”, will be up in two locations, the Duluth Public Library-Main Branch and at Zeitgeist Arts Atrium. Joining the Opening Receptions will be the artists, reviewers, editors and creative team of Duluth-Superior Pride Zine. The new DS Pride Zine will be available for purchase.
Find out more »Sep 2023
Learning & Libations at the Library 2023
The 12th annual Learning & Libations event features a live auction, music, appetizers catered by Black Woods, an assortment of wine and beer, the chance to win prizes and time to meet and mingle in the stacks while exploring the library. Attendees are asked to dress to celebrate the past in bell bottoms, Members Only jackets, etc. There will be music by Born Too Late, and a presentation by Mike Scholtz and Hailey Eidenschink from Minnesota Historia. Dive into old…
Find out more »An Introduction to Family History Research
Members of the Twin Ports Genealogy Society and other experts teach about what family-history resources are available at the library and elsewhere. This program will be held in the new Local History Center on the second floor of the main library.
Find out more »Oct 2023
Twin Ports Perceptions
The Twin Ports Perceptions project invites six award-winning Twin Ports authors (three from each side of the bridge) to participate in two moderated panel discussions to talk about how they portray Duluth and Superior in their work, how they grapple with issues of regional identity and the challenges and joys of writing about where they live. The second in the series includes authors Linda LeGarde Grover, Jayson Iwen and Sheila Packa, and is moderated by retired librarian/author/historian Teddie Meronek.
Find out more »Nov 2023
An event every week that begins at 12:00 pm on Thursday, repeating until Dec 28, 2023
MNsure Application Assistance
An event every week that begins at 12:00 pm on Thursday, repeating until Dec 28, 2023
A MNsure-certified navigator is available every Thursday in the Partnership Center of the library to provide free assistance using MNsure to sign up for health insurance. No appointment is necessary. For enrollment, bring information about household income, Social Security numbers for every person applying and any information about health insurance offered through work. Visit insureduluth.org for more information.
Find out more »Building and Saving History with Duluth Preservation Alliance
Duluth has many fascinating old homes and buildings. How are they being preserved or re-used and how can you find out more about their history? Come to learn from Duluth Preservation Alliance and from a few property owners who have been working to save their old building. We will gather in the Local History Center on the second floor of the Main Library.
Find out more »Dec 2023
Celebrate Jolabokaflod at Duluth Public Library
Celebrate winter reading and the gifting season with Jolabokaflod at the Main Library! Jolabokaflod is an Icelandic word (meaning holiday book flood) and tradition that originated during World War II. Paper was one of the few unrationed commodities during the war, making books one of the few gifts available during the winter holidays. The tradition lives on and the Duluth Public Library invites you to join in! Cozy up with a book in our quiet community reading space in the…
Find out more »MNsure Application Assistance
A MNsure-certified navigator is available on Saturday, Dec. 2 and 9, in the Partnership Center of the library to provide free assistance using MNsure to sign up for health insurance. No appointment is necessary. For enrollment, bring information about household income, Social Security numbers for every person applying and any information about health insurance offered through work. Visit insureduluth.org for more information. Dec. 15 is the deadline for coverage starting Jan. 1.
Find out more »The Polar Express: Storytime and Movie
Welcome aboard The Polar Express. Read the book, watch the movie and enjoy some cocoa. Wear your PJ's and receive your very own “First Gift of Christmas.” Registration is required. Geared for elementary-aged kids through teen. The Polar Express (Rated G, 100 minutes, 2004).
Find out more »Kids Construction Series: Builder’s Club
This series is for kids and tweens who love to build and use their imaginations. Building materials include the classics like LEGO® and KĒVA®, but also everyday items. Main Library, Green Room.
Find out more »Noon Year’s Eve at the Library
Kids in second grade and younger are invited to celebrate the New Year at noon instead of midnight. Attendees should drop in anytime between 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for dancing, crafts, snacks and games. Kids can also count down to the noon balloon drop.
Find out more »Jan 2024
Kids Construction Series: LEGO Club
Classic building fun at the main Library for kids and tweens. Thursday, January 4: 4-6 p.m. Green Room Thursday, February 8: 4-6 p.m. Gold Room
Find out more »Gaming in the Teen Space
Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to game in the Teen Space on the Superior Street level of the main Library. There will be a Nintendo Switch and board games available. Snacks will be served while quantities last.
Find out more »Winter Science for Kids
This program is for kids in grades K-5 and features STEAM activities based on the coldest time of the year. Activities include making snow slime, "ice fishing" and learning about protein molecules. Registration is required.
Find out more »Bullet Journaling
Begin the new year by exploring the art of organization and set some goals in style. This program provides the space and materials needed to craft bullet journals, vision boards, habit trackers and more. Small journals, various art supplies, templates, and writing prompts are available to participants. Suitable for adults, registration required.
Find out more »Wiggles for Littles
This is wiggle and movement time for children, ages birth to kindergarten. Story time starts at 10:15 a.m. in the Gold Room, followed by playtime in the Green Room.
Find out more »Story Writing for Kids
This program covers what makes a story, from beginning to end. Participants learn about story basics (plot, characters, setting, etc.) and then write and design their own hardcover book. Suitable for kids, tweens and even teens. Registration is required.
Find out more »Learn About Child Care and Preschool in Duluth
Consult with community experts about child care and preschool options in Duluth, how to apply and how to get help paying for care. There will be presentations from Parent Aware, ISD 709 early childhood, the Northland Foundation and others, and a child care provider Q&A panel. Snacks, prize drawings and free books will also be included. Limited child care will be available for children ages 15 months and older in the Gold Room — infants may stay with their parents.…
Find out more »Lake Superior Zoomobile at the Main Library
The Lake Superior Zoomobile presents "Animals of Minnesota and Wisconsin." Guests can meet local animal neighbors and learn how they adapt to live successfully in this environment. The program takes place on the floor in the Green Room. Chairs are available but the best viewing experience on the ground, surrounding the animal pen. Registration is required, see times below: 1:00-1:30 p.m. Register at https://bit.ly/zm1pm 2:00-2:30 p.m. Register at https://bit.ly/zoo2pm
Find out more »Movie + Craft for Teens: The Super Mario Bros. Movie
The Duluth Public Library presents this screening of The Super Mario Bros. Movie for teens in grads 6-12 with the opportunity to also create a craft project. Snacks will be served. The movie will be screened in the Green Room.
Find out more »Food Earrings
Aimed at adults, the Duluth Public Library hosts an event to craft whimsical food-themed earrings and charms. All supplies are provided to make cinnamon rolls, frosted sugar cookies, and the classic hard-shell taco. Registration is required.
Find out more »Family Gaming at the Main Library
Drop in anytime to play games with your family! Board games, a Nintendo Switch™ and Wii U will all be available for play. Games will be appropriate for a wide range of ages and participants are welcome to bring their own games. Kids ages seven and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Find out more »Guided Painting for Adults
Create a lovely painting of a snowy winter night, with step-by-step instructions and all supplies provided. Due to the skills necessary and tools used, this class is for adults only. Registration is required and can be done here.
Find out more »Feb 2024
D-I-Y Oracle Decks with Sarah Brokke and Kyle Leia
Have you ever wondered what it takes to create an Oracle Deck? Join artists Sarah Brokke and Kyle Elden as they talk about their journey in creating and publishing their book and Oracle Deck, Irrevocable Wholeness: Poems and Meditations to Hold It All . Sarah and Kyle will talk about how to incorporate your art into a deck and lead an exercise to help you unlock your creative power. Registration require and can be done here.
Find out more »Jason Statham Takes a Vacation
This role-playing game offers participants the chance to be part of Jason Statham's entourage. The campaign's mission is to ensure that the beloved action hero is having the best vacation. However, behind every good time, a villain may be lurking… This program will be offered at two, separate times on Saturday, February 17. Due to the potential graphic nature of this program, this is only available for participants ages 15 and older. See more details and register at the links…
Find out more »One event on Feb 21, 2024 at 10:00 am
One event on Feb 22, 2024 at 10:00 am
One event on Feb 23, 2024 at 10:00 am
One event on Feb 24, 2024 at 10:00 am
One Escape Room to Rule them All!
One event on Feb 21, 2024 at 10:00 am
One event on Feb 22, 2024 at 10:00 am
One event on Feb 23, 2024 at 10:00 am
One event on Feb 24, 2024 at 10:00 am
The main branch of the Duluth Public Library is hosting another escape room, this time inspired by The Lord of the Rings. Heroes are encouraged to gather their fellowship to solve a series of tricksy puzzles to find the One Ring and to keep it from the clutches of Sauron ... in 30 minutes or less. Wizards, elves, humans, dwarves and hobbits are all welcome. For groups of 2-6 players, ages 8 and up. See the schedule and register at…
Find out more »Mar 2024
Soccer Playtime at the Library with Kickstarters Soccer
Kickstarters Soccer will provide a playful way to introduce soccer skills to young children in a creative and fun environment. Parent participation is required; no drop-offs. Classes will be offered throughout the day and divided by age range. View the whole schedule and register at duluthlibrary.org. Registration is required.
Find out more »Family, Friend, & Neighbor Caregiver Information Night
The Main Library hosts an informational event just for Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) caregivers. Attendees learn about what it means to be an FFN caregiver and discover which state and local resources are available to support them. Each attendee receives a $25 Super One gift card. This program is provided in part by the State of Minnesota with the support of the Northland Foundation.
Find out more »Jay Cooke and the Railroad to Duluth (Canceled)
This event has been canceled. Ken Buehler, Executive Director of the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, speaks on Cooke's historical influence on the local railroad industry. Green Room, main library.
Find out more »Carving Your Clan with Sculptor Jeffrey Tibbetts
Sculptor, Jeffrey Tibbetts, is leading a hands on workshop where participants will carve a physical representation of their choosing from stone, and develop an understanding of the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) world view. This program is intended for those ages 10-14 (accompanied by an adult) and older. Registration is not required, but signing up helps the artist-teacher prepare for the best experience. Sign up and learn more at duluthlibrary.org.
Find out more »Apr 2024
Cake Frames: A Craft for Teens and Adults
This class teaches participants to craft frosted cake picture frames from a mixture of drywall spackle and color. Due to the level of skills required, this program is only open to teens and adults. Registration is required.
Find out more »The Greater Cumberland County Cooking Show
Moorhead, Minnesota filmmaker Janet Brandau wrote, produced and directed this comic look at rural Minnesota living and community ties in a time gone by. The event includes a screening of the film followed by a discussion of food, friendship and community.
Find out more »
