From coding to crafts and movies to master gardening, the library has something for everyone this June
Library Closures
Huntsville Public Library will be closed on Thursday, June 19 in observance of Juneteenth. We will reopen on Friday, June 20, at 10:00 am.
Summer Reading Program
Join us this summer for our 2025 Summer Reading Program “Color Our World” from May 31 to August 2. Designed to help children and adults maintain their reading skills during the summer by encouraging a fun summer of reading. Readers ages 0-17 will record the number of minutes read to earn level prizes, and adults will record the number of books read. Audiobooks do not qualify for this year’s program. The program includes Early Readers (ages 0-7), Juniors (ages 8-12), Teens (ages 13-17), and Adults (18+). Download the free ‘read2’ app to track your reading. Register online at https://huntsvilletx.readsquared.com/
Bookmark Contest
All ages are invited to submit an original bookmark design for our 2nd Annual Summer Reading Bookmark Contest! Entries will be accepted from June 2 – July 3 at the circulation desk. The theme is “Huntsville Public Library, our books, and the fun and adventures of reading!” One bookmark entry per person. Any 2D art medium may be used. Age categories include 0-7, 8-12, 13-17, and 18+. More details can be found on the official Bookmark entry form, which can be picked up at the Library or printed from our website.
Story Times at the Library
Mondays, 10:45 am – Book Babies: Ages 2 and under!
Mondays, 5:00 pm – Evening Family Story Time
Wednesdays and Fridays 10:45 am – Story Time: Ages 6 and under!
2nd and 4th Saturdays, 10:45 am – Family Story Time
SPECIAL GUESTS
- Saturday, June 14, 10:45 am: Touch-A-Truck with Texas A&M Forest Service
- Friday, June 20, 10:45 am: Five Loaves Deli
Monday Movie Matinees
Movie lovers of all ages are invited to relax indoors with a family friendly movie at the Library! The showings will be in the Staggs Community Room at 2:00 pm- feel free to bring a stuffed animal friend with you! Popcorn and drinks provided!
- Monday, June 2: Dogman (PG, 1hr 34 min)
- Monday, June 9: Harold and the Purple Crayon (PG, 1 hr 29 min)
- Monday, June 23: Lilo and Stitch (PG, 1 hr 25 min)
- Monday, June 30: Sonic 3 (PG, 1 hr 49 min)
Jr. Master Gardener Program
This 8-week summer program is for kids ages 8-12 to come and complete the “Wildlife Gardener“ unit and earn Jr. Master Gardener titles and awards! The program will run every Tuesday from June 10 – July 29, 10:30 am -12:30 pm. Please arrive at 10:15 am for check in so that class can begin on time. Online registration is required via the library‘s website, and it is recommended to attend all 8 classes to get the full certification. Classes are taught by Walker County Master Gardeners, and all supplies are provided!
- Orientation: June 3rd at 10:30 am to learn about what the program is all about!
- Awards Ceremony: Tuesday, July 29 at 5:00 pm
- Register here: https://forms.gle/pfza3DUG8sNbgZJo8
For more information, please contact Outreach and Program Coordinator Amanda Sturdivant at 936-291-5481.
Kids Coding Classes
Come and participate in a fun introduction to computer science! This opportunity gives kids time to learn the basics of coding and instill confidence while learning new technology. This class is for ages 7-10. June’s classes will be on the 3rd and 17th, from 12:00 – 1:00 pm. Activities require no prior experience and online registration is required. For more information, please contact IT Specialist Jalpa Shah at 936-291-5485.
Register for June 3: https://forms.gle/quLufrgZZCYYhZXZ6
Register for June 17: https://forms.gle/2P1Sdk9xQrhoBaAY9
Crochet Lessons
In this beginner level class, learn to make the basic stitches used in almost all crochet projects. This is the perfect class for anyone looking to gather the vocabulary, methods of measurement, and kick start their first crochet creation! Classes will cover all the information needed to build a foundation of crochet skills! We will meet every Tuesday in June from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. All supplies are provided, but feel free to bring your own yarn. No experience necessary- all levels welcome! Ages 8+. Online registration is required for limited seating.
Register here: https://forms.gle/Wj4qH414WinazeGT8
S.T.E.M.
S.T.E.M. (Science Technology Engineering and Math) classes at the Huntsville Public Library are here and we are ready to learn! We are offering this program at two different times:
- Tuesdays, June 3 and 17, at 3:30 pm
- Saturdays, June 14 and 28, at 12:30 pm
Our sessions will include reading, brainstorming, planning, and designing S.T.E.M. projects to enhance students’ engagement in these subjects. Students will work in small groups to apply their knowledge to a 30-minute project, all supplies provided. Recommended ages 8 to 12 years old. This event does not require registration.
Tween Book Club
Every Wednesday from 1:00 – 2:00 pm during the months of June and July, tweens ages 8-12 are invited to join Mrs. Linda to strengthen reading and social skills at Book Club! The first 30 minutes will be group ‘Reader’s Theater’ participation, and the last 30 minutes will be a group reading and discussion of the novel “Because of Winn-Dixie” by Kate DiCamillo. All materials and books are provided, and no registration is required. For more information, please contact Children’s Coordinator Linda Huff at 936-291-5910.
Builders Club
Calling all Master Builders! Join us to challenge your building skills and explore your creativity! The Builders Club will meet every Wednesday starting June 11th, from 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. This program is for children in grades K and up, including preteens and teens! Due to small parts adult supervision for children under 5 is required. Provided building materials include Legos, Magnetic Tiles and more.
- SAVE THE DATE *Special Event: Builders Club Tournament*-Wednesday, July 30, 2:30 pm. Participants will be given different challenge topics and time limits to construct various unique structures! Winners will be selected based on how well they meet the challenge criteria and use of creativity! No registration required.
Chess Club- New Time!
Join all ages & levels of experience for a game of strategy and problem solving. The Chess Club meets every Wednesday evening from 4:00 – 6:00 pm in the Staggs Community Room. Please note the new time for the summer months! You’re invited to learn and master the art of chess. Chess sets are provided, but feel free to bring your own! No registration necessary.
- SAVE THE DATE *Special Event: Chess Tournament* Wednesday, July 30, 4:00 pm. All ages and experience levels welcome. Registration required for participants.
Artist Trading Cards
An Artist Trading Card (ATC) is a small, unique, work of art, measuring only 2.5 by 3.5 inches in size! ATCs are a collaborative art form where artists exchange miniature pieces of art with one another. Any materials, subjects, and skill level are accepted in ATC swaps! Our library will provide all the necessary art materials and pre-cut cards for the patrons attending, but you are allowed to bring your own supplies if desired. The swaps will take place in person AND between pen-pals at other libraries! Artists ages 8-80+ are invited to participate, no registration required!Throughout the summer we will meet on the following Thursdays from 10:30 am -12:30 pm in the Staggs Community Room: June 5 and 26, July 10 and 24, and August 7.
Teen Thursdays
Every Thursday we welcome teens ages 13-17 to come to the library and have a special program just for them. We will meet from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. and enjoy making new friends, having snacks and drinks, and participating in a themed activity each week. All supplies are provided, and registration is not required.
June 5 – Game: Escape Room!
June 12 – Special Guest: SAAFE House
June 19–No Teen Night- Library Closed!
June 26 – Video Games= XBOX & Nintendo Switch 5:00-6:30 pm*
Tweens and teens ages 11-17 are invited to come play video games together!
Art Fun for Everyone
Join us for an hour of creativity each Friday from 1:30 – 2:30 pm! These art classes are for beginners from ages 6 to 16. No registration needed and all supplies provided.
Gator Talk
Join Ranger John from the Texas State Park on Friday, June 6, at 2:00 pm for his annual “Gator Talk” at the Library! He will share the resources of our local Huntsville State Park and teach us about the critters that live there and how we safely coexist with them. You might even get to meet one of the gator babies!
Immunization Satellite Clinic
The Texas Department of State Health Services is partnering with the Huntsville Public Library to serve as an immunization satellite clinic to administer no cost vaccinations. There will be a private booth available on Wednesday, June 11, from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. Eligible groups include children ages 18 and younger who are on Medicaid, uninsured, underinsured*, or are American Indian or Alaska Native, and Adults ages 19 and older who are uninsured.
Board Games and Puzzles
Board Games and Puzzles of all varieties will be available for community come and go playtime from 3:00 – 5:00 pm on Friday, June 13. Some of the games included will be: Uno, Trouble, Chess, Clue, Taco Cat Goat Cheese, Blokus, and multiple levels of jigsaw puzzles! All ages are welcome to attend, no registration required!
Mr. Leo Puppet Show
Mr. Leo creates an unforgettable, playful, and imaginative puppet adventure that is fully engaging and interactive for all ages. During Mr. Leo’s bilingual show, he will have puppets of all sizes, marionettes, music and dancing, singing, and magic tricks! No registration is required, and the whole family is invited to enjoy the show on Monday, June 16, at 2:00 p.m.! Thank you to Huntsville Public Library Friends, Inc. for sponsoring this event!
Spelling Bee
We’re spelling F-U-N and a bunch of other words at the HPL’s inaugural Spelling Bee Contests! Test your spelling skills in a friendly competition and win prizes! We will have a ‘Junior’ contest for age groups (6-8) and (9-12), and a ‘Masters’ contest for age groups (13-17) and (18+). Registration for participating in the Spelling Bee is required. If you’d just like to watch the spelling action, spectators are welcome!
- Practice Days: Come and go, 4:00 – 5:30pm, Monday, June 16 and Monday, July 7
- Spelling Bee Jr. = Friday, July 25, 12:00 pm, age groups: 6-8, 9-12
- Spelling Bee Masters = Monday, July 21, 5:00 pm, age groups: 13-17, and 18+.
Pressed Flower and Herb Workshop
Huntsville Public Library is pleased to host the Texas Thyme Unit’s “Pressed Flower and Herb Workshop” on Wednesday, June 18, from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. in the Staggs Community Room. Come and learn how to press flowers and herbs for a variety of craft projects. Let your imagination soar! Make a pressed plant bookmark or card to take home and sample some herbal treats. Register on the library’s website. Seating is limited, recommended for ages 10+. For more information, contact Outreach and Program Coordinator Amanda Sturdivant at 936-291-5481.
Register online: https://forms.gle/JJw1B9sCKAfC9bFaA
Puzzle Swap
Don’t know what to do with your completed jigsaw puzzles? Want to enjoy a new puzzle design, but save money? Give a puzzle, get a puzzle in exchange, at our Community Puzzle Swap! Huntsville Public Library will be hosting a Puzzle Swap on Saturday, June 21, from 11:00 am -1:00 pm in the Staggs Community Room. This come and go free event is open to the public to come and swap a minimum of 1 of their gently used puzzles for 1 new to you puzzle! All puzzles must be in good condition, have a maximum of 3 missing pieces and labeled, and be in a sealed container with an image of the finished design. Puzzles can be for any age, and any count amount. Bring a friend and share in the joy of puzzling!
Family BINGO
Bring the whole family to enjoy a night of traditional BINGO! All ages are invited to a game night filled with prizes and fun on Tuesday, June 24, at 5:00 pm. No registration is required, and all supplies are provided.
Family Painting Class – Ages 6+
Do you enjoy art but feel intimidated to create your own masterpiece? Join us on Saturday, June 28, from 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. for an intro to the basics of acrylic paint- we will create a step-by-step painting of a “Silly Seahorse”, from start to finish! No experience necessary, and all supplies are provided for this free event. We might get messy so wear your old clothes. Seats are limited and registration is required. To reserve your spot, register on our website or call Outreach and Program Coordinator Amanda Sturdivant at 936-291-5481. Fun for the whole family, ages 6+!
Beginner’s Spanish Class
The ever-popular, free Spanish classes are continuing at the Huntsville Public Library! Instructor Eldaa Avalos will be teaching beginner’s classes from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. every Monday and Thursday evening. All materials are provided. Register now to reserve your spot – only 15 students maximum for each class. Register online at www.myhuntsvillelibrary.com or call Adult Services Coordinator Mary Kokot at 936-291-5471 for additional information.
Adult Video Game Night
Adult patrons (18+) are invited to the Huntsville Public Library on Tuesday, June 3, from 4:30 – 6:30 pm, for an evening of competitive fun to play Nintendo Switch – Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and XBOX- Overcooked! All You Can Eat! Games and consoles are provided, and registration is not necessary- this is a come and go event. Contact Outreach and Program Coordinator Amanda Sturdivant at 936-291-5481 with any questions.
Fiber Arts
Join the fiber arts group to share your knitting and crocheting projects. All are welcome – beginners and the more experienced! Sessions are held every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Supplies are not provided.For more information, please contact Adult Services Coordinator Mary Kokot at 936-291-5471.
CANVA Basics- Computer Class
Want to design your own personalized cards or posters? Do you need to create social media images for work, school, or for your personal life? CANVA is a free online graphic design tool, which allows you to quickly create eye-catching content. Come learn this user-friendly website at Huntsville Public Library from 11:00 – 12:00 p.m. on Thursdays, June 5, 12, and 26 in the Computer Lab. This FREE course will introduce the basic tools used in design, the strategic use of color and font, how to make the best use of layouts, and advanced tips to expedite your design process. This program is for adults 18+. Registration and a library card are required to attend the class.
Adult Coffee & Coloring Group
You are invited to join our adult program that combines coloring activities and time to socialize! Studies show that coloring may have a calming effect on the mind and promote overall wellness. Colored pencils, markers, gel pens, and coloring pages are provided, as well as Coffee, Tea & Cocoa! June’s theme is “TRAVEL.” We will meet Thursday, June 5, from 1:00 – 3:30 pm in the Community Room. This is a come and go event with all supplies provided. No registration is necessary.
The Piney Woods Writers Group
If you are a writer looking for other writers for encouragement and support, Piney Woods Writers Group will meet from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month- June’s meetings this month are on the 9th and 23rd. For more information, please visit the group’s Facebook page “Piney Woods Writers Group.”
Untold Stories of Huntsville, Texas
Let’s explore the hidden histories of our town of Huntsville, Texas, and Walker County! Join us at the Huntsville Public Library to hear fascinating stories about the amazing people who have built our town over the last 200 years! Bring your stories to share with all of us! This lecture series is presented by HPL and Dr. Caroline Crimm of Historic Tours of Texas. This program will be on Tuesday, June 10 at 4:30 pm in the Board Room.
Piney Woods Page Turners Book Club
Be part of the Piney Woods Page Turners Book Club at Huntsville Public Library. Book Clubs are an excellent way to enjoy books, challenge one’s mind, and socialize with other book lovers! All interested persons are welcome to join us in the Board Room from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, June 12. The book selection for June is “Here One Moment” by Liane Moriarty. Current and future book choices can be found on the library’s website. For more information, please contact Adult Services Coordinator Mary Kokot at 936-291-5471.
Workforce Solutions – Job Seminar Modules
Join us on the third Tuesday of every month from 2:00 – 4:00 pm, to utilize the library computer lab and the FREE resources available from Workforce Solutions! June’s event will be on Tuesday, June 17. A representative from Workforce Solutions will be at the library to assist with job searching, resume building, adult education and training opportunities, utilizing local community resources, financial and childcare aid, and so much more! Come to this event and have the amazing opportunity to plan your future and advance your career. For more information, contact Outreach and Program Coordinator Amanda Sturdivant at 936-291-5481.
Adult Art Class (Ages 16+)
June’s Adult Art Class will be experimenting with different Printmaking techniques! The class will be on Tuesday, June 17, from 5:00-6:30 pm in the Community Room. All supplies are provided, no experience necessary, and online registration is required. This class is for ages 16+ and we might get messy- so dress accordingly! For more information, contact Outreach and Program Coordinator Amanda Sturdivant at 936-291-5481.
Adult Movie Matinee- The Great Gatsby!
Enjoy an afternoon Movie Matinee for ages 18+!!! June’s matinee will be held on Friday, June 20th at 1:00 pm in the Staggs Community Room. Popcorn and drinks provided! Enjoy the showing of the 2013 film “The Great Gatsby” for the novel’s 100th anniversary!!! This historical romantic drama is based on the 1925 novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The film stars an ensemble cast consisting of Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton, Isla Fisher, Jason Clarke, and Elizabeth Debicki. The film follows the life and times of millionaire Jay Gatsby and his neighbor Nick Carraway who recounts his interactions with Gatsby amid the riotous parties of the Jazz Age on Long Island in New York. This film is rated PG-13 and is 2 hours and 22 minutes long.
Adult Trivia Night- “The Arts” Theme!
Do you know a bunch of random facts about random topics? Well, trivia night was made for you! This Jeopardy-style game night is for adults ages 18+ to enjoy putting their brains to the test with the trivia theme of “The Arts!” Categories include Name the Painter, Name the Musician, Name the Sculptor, Famous Architecture, General Art History, Art Techniques, and more! Fun will be had by all on Friday, June 20, at 5:30 p.m. Prizes are included for the smarty-pants winners!
Open Mic Night- Poetry and Spoken Word
Whether you are a seasoned poet, a first-time presenter, or just a lover of literature, please join us for a night of community support of the arts! This free event is open to ages 16+ to recite or listen to the diversity of the voices in our community. Poems, songs, short stories, and pre-published works of literature are all allowed. Performance slots are on a first-come, first-served volunteer basis. The suggested reading length is 3-5 minutes per performer. Join us on the last Wednesday of every month, from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. in the Genealogy Room. This month’s meeting will be Wednesday, June 25.
Steel Drum Concert
Escape to the islands with the unique sound of the Steel Pans! Join us on Friday, June 27, at 5:30 pm to enjoy the talent of Charlie Duhon, Pannist, “the most popular steel drum musician in north Texas”. He will be bringing unique “cruise ship style” entertainment to the Library! Also included in this concert, Charlie will share the history, culture, and unique information about these rare and beautiful sounding instruments. Thank you to Huntsville Public Library Friends, Inc. for sponsoring this event!
Save the Date! Blood Drive
The Huntsville Public Library will be hosting the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center again on July 22 from 1:00 – 5:30 pm in the Staggs Community Room, for another Blood Drive! You may reserve your appointment online at https://giveblood.org/ using sponsor code: PLHU or call Amanda Sturdivant (936) 291- 5481. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.
Save the Date! Genealogy Silent Auction
A silent auction of books of all genres and genealogical materials will be held beginning at noon on Monday, July 28, continuing during the week and ending at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 2. Contact Adult Services Coordinator Mary Kokot at 936-291-5471 for more information.
Save the Date! Genealogy Summer Lock-In
The Huntsville Public Library and the Walker County Genealogical Society will host the annual Summer Genealogy Weekend on August 1 and August 2, 2025. Coffee and light refreshments will be available at 9:30 a.m. on both days. Programs will be presented from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Friday, August 1 and from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 2. A light supper will be provided on Friday, and the library will remain open until 8 p.m. for further research for attendees only. The event is free, but advance registration is requested. Contact Mary Kokot at 936-291-5471.
One-on-One Technology Help
Do you need help with technology? The Huntsville Public Library offers the “Book-a-Tech one-on-one” program, consisting of individual technology instructional sessions. Please register online and our IT staff will contact you to schedule your free 30-minute appointment in which you can bring your personal devices to the library for a one-on-one session. Remember, your appointment is not confirmed until a member of staff contacts you. If you need assistance or -have any questions, call the IT Reference Desk at 936-291-5485.
