October brings story times, book clubs, genealogy events, STEM workshops and a free not-so-scary fall festival
Huntsville Public Library
OCTOBER 2026 PRESS RELEASE
Library Closures
Huntsville Public Library will be closed on Saturday, October 3, to participate in Fair on the Square! Come see us downtown! We will reopen on Monday, October 5, at 10:00 a.m.
The Library will also be closed Friday, October 9 for Staff Development Day. We will reopen on Saturday, October 10, at 10:00 a.m.
FALL FUN FEST!
Friday, October 30th, from 4:00- 6:30 pm, join us for a family friendly, not-so-scary-festival to celebrate fall! We will have a costume contest, game and craft stations, snacks, and more! This come-and-go event is FREE and open to the public!
Costume Contest
Show off your costume during the Fall Fun Fest and participate in our costume contest! Ages 0-17 are welcome to participate.
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
*Pop-Up Story Time @ Chick-Fil-A, Huntsville: Wednesday, October 21st at 9:30 am, “Toddler Time”
Little House Book Club
Step back in time and experience the simple joys and adventures of pioneer life with our Little House Book Club, featuring Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder!
Designed for homeschool families with children ages 8 and up, this weekly book club combines reading, discussion, creativity, and hands-on learning. During the meeting we will take turns reading aloud, have discussions, then receive a related activity to complete at home between meetings. Activities may include crafts, sewing, dioramas, cooking, and other hands-on projects that bring the world of Laura Ingalls Wilder to life. We will read approximately one chapter per week. Books will be provided; no registration is needed.
Little House Book Club will meet every Tuesday at 1:30 pm starting September 8 through December 8 in the Nash Board Room.
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 once a week:
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. S.T.E.M. is now for ages 8 to 14 years old! This event does not require registration.
Chess Club
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. You're invited to learn and master the art of chess. Chess sets are provided, but feel free to bring your own! No registration is necessary.
Builders Club
Calling all Master Builders! Join us to challenge your building skills and explore your creativity! Our Builders Club will meet on Thursdays, October 8th and 22nd from 3:30 - 4:30 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 Lego kits / free build, Magnetic Tiles, and more.
Teen Thursdays
Every Thursday, teens ages 13–17 are invited to hang out at the Library for a program just for them! Each week brings something new — fun themed activities with snacks and a chance to meet new friends. All supplies are provided, and no registration is needed to join the fun!
Art Fun for Everyone (Ages 6-12)
Join us for an hour of creativity each Friday from 1:30 - 2:30 pm! These art classes are for ages 6 to 12. No registration is needed, and all supplies are provided. Project topics coming soon! Please note the Library will be closed on Friday, October 9th.
“exCITEd” S.T.E.M. with SHSU
SHSU’s monthly “exCITEd” S.T.E.M. workshop is a place for discovery! Join us on the second Tuesday of every month from 5:00 - 6:30 pm; no registration is required. October’s event is on the 13th.
Topic: AI for Business and Life: AI for Everyday Tasks
Artificial intelligence isn’t just for tech experts — it’s becoming part of daily life. Join us for a friendly, accessible introduction to how AI can help with everyday tasks at home, school, and work. Explore real examples of AI tools that organize schedules, assist with writing, analyze information, and boost productivity. Then try hands-on activities that show how AI recognizes patterns and makes decisions. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or excited about AI, this session will give you practical insights you can use right away.
Sponsored by the SHSU Center for Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship. The workshop will allow plenty of time for you to ask questions and share your ideas. Recommended for ages 8 - adult. Don't miss this chance to connect with modern technology! Fall event dates: 10/13, 11/10, 12/8.
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, age, 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 across the country! Artists aged 8-80+ are invited to participate; no registration required! We will meet on the 3rd Thursday of every month from 10:30 am -12:30 pm in the Staggs Community Room. This month’s event will be on Thursday, October 15.
Texas History Lecture Series – Through the Looking Glass
Join us for a thought-provoking adult program that explores Texas history from a global perspective. Each week, we’ll dive into how world events, diverse cultures, and various religions have shaped the people, stories, and identity of Texas.
Topics will vary from session to session—ranging from international influences on early settlement to the cultural exchanges that continue to impact modern Texas—but every discussion connects back to the rich, complex history of our state. Come discover Texas through a wider lens. All are welcome to join the conversation!
This lecture series is presented by HPL and Dr. Caroline Crimm. This ‘Texas History- Through the Looking Glass’ program will be held every Tuesday evening at 4:00 pm, in the Nash Board Room.
Beginner ESL Class - Conversational Skills
The Huntsville Public Library is excited to announce English as a Second Language (ESL) course, designed to help adult learners build confidence in everyday communication. This free program focuses on practical conversational techniques, helping participants strengthen speaking, listening, and real-world language skills in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Classes will include guided discussions, interactive activities, and opportunities to practice with peers. All levels of English learners are welcome, and all materials are provided.
Join us at the Library every Tuesday and Thursday from 4:30 - 5:30 pm in the Genealogy Room and take the next step in your language-learning journey. Space is limited, and registration is encouraged, call or register online. This session runs from September 1- October 22.
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/6dyyyBHM7VgprEcGA
Clase para principiantes Curso de ESL - Habilidades Conversacionales
La Biblioteca Pública de Huntsville se complace en anunciar un nuevo curso de Inglés (ESL) de 8 semanas, diseñado para ayudar a los adultos a desarrollar confianza. Este programa gratuito se enfoca en técnicas prácticas de conversación, ayudando a los participantes a mejorar sus habilidades de habla y uso del idioma en situaciones reales, todo en un ambiente de apoyo.
Las clases incluirán discusiones guiadas, actividades interactivas y oportunidades para practicar con otros estudiantes. Se da la bienvenida a todos los niveles de aprendizaje del inglés, y todos los materiales se proporcionan. Únase a nosotros en la biblioteca y dé el siguiente paso en su camino para aprender el idioma. El cupo es limitado y se recomienda registrarse.
Únase a nosotros en la Biblioteca todos los martes y jueves de 4:30 a 5:30 p.m. en la Sala de Genealogía, y dé el siguiente paso en su camino de aprendizaje del idioma. El cupo es limitado y se recomienda registrarse; puede llamar o inscribirse en línea. Esta sesión se desarrolla del 1 de septiembre al 22 octubre.
El enlace de Registro: https://forms.gle/6dyyyBHM7VgprEcGA
Multilevel Spanish Class
The ever-popular, free Spanish classes are BACK at the Huntsville Public Library! Instructor Eldaa Avalos will be teaching a multilevel class on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 pm in the Board Room, and materials are provided. Classes begin on Tuesday, September 8th. Register now to reserve your spot – only 15 students maximum. Call Adult Services Coordinator Mary Kokot at (936) 291-5471 for additional information.
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/PchJq4LVwMDPWKJXA
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 am to 12:00 pm. Supplies are not provided. For more information, please contact Adult Services Coordinator Mary Kokot at 936-291-5471.
Bridge Club
Looking to play cards and make new friends? Come to the Huntsville Public Library's Adult Bridge Club! Join us every Wednesday afternoon from 2:00 - 4:00 pm in the Staggs Community Room. Seasoned pros and beginners alike are invited to play this classic card game.
Microsoft Word Computer Classes
Want to create and edit professional resumes, newsletters, and documents? The Huntsville Public Library is offering Free Microsoft Word Classes every Thursday in October from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm. This series of four classes will feature activities on typing and how to make corrections, formatting text, working with pictures and graphics, and using tables and outlines with bullets. Adults ages 18 and older can register online for classes.
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/PiCJrtv7snQDrZA1A
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, and cocoa! October’s theme is ‘Trick-or-Treat!’ We will meet Thursday, October 1, from 1:00 – 3:00 pm in the Staggs Community Room. This is a come and go event with all supplies provided. No registration is necessary.
*NEW* Create & Connect: Adult Paper Crafting Club
Bring your creativity and join us for a new relaxing monthly gathering for paper-crafting enthusiasts ages 16+. Whether you enjoy scrapbooking, junk journals, greeting cards, artist trading cards, or other paper crafts, bring your project and create alongside fellow crafters while sharing ideas and inspiration. The Paper Crafting Club will meet on the 1st Monday of the month from 4:30-6:30 pm. October’s event will be on Monday, October 5th.
The Library will provide basic supplies including paper cutters, scissors, rulers, tape, glue sticks, cardstock, patterned paper, and a variety of ephemera. Participants should bring their own scrapbook, photographs, journal, and main project materials; feel free to bring your own paper cutter, favorite pair of scissors, tape runners, etc. This is an open crafting session with no formal instruction—just two hours to create, connect, and enjoy crafting together! This event is come-and-go, with no registration required.
Traditional Medicare? Medicare Replacement Plans? What Are My Options?
Information regarding available insurance plans for those eligible for Medicare can quickly become overwhelming. Huntsville Public Library will host an informational session on Tuesday, October 6, from 11:30 - 1:00 pm in the Nash Board Room. Join independent broker Melissa Atkinson to learn more about your options and the details of the various programs. For more information, please contact Adult Services Coordinator Mary Kokot at 936-291-5471.
Piney Woods Page Turners Book Club
Be part of the Piney Woods Page Turners Book Club at Huntsville Public Library, meeting on the 2nd Thursday of each month. Book Clubs are an excellent way to enjoy books, challenge one’s mind, and socialize with other book lovers! All interested people are welcome to join us in the Board Room from 11:00 am - 12:30 pm on Thursday, October 8, with the selection of Society of Unknowable Objects by Gareth Brown. Current and future book choices can be found on the Library’s website.
Cricut Class for Beginners
Come learn the fundamentals of the Cricut Design Space website- like how to upload images, choose fonts, and prep designs for heat transfer projects. Then use Cricut Venture and Maker machines to cut vinyl. Learn to weed and heat press a design on to a canvas bag. Limited seats, registration required. This beginner class will be offered twice this month on Thursdays, October 8, and 22 from 10:30 – 12:00 pm.
October 8 Registration Link: https://forms.gle/jSfAKG3rtSupMANF9
October 22 Registration Link: https://forms.gle/svUWnQwojK8DNVz56
The Piney Woods Writers Group
Are you a writer looking for an encouraging writer’s community? Join the Piney Woods Writers Group on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at the Huntsville Public Library. We will meet from 5:00 - 6:30 pm on October 12th and 26th. For more information visit the group’s Facebook page “Piney Woods Writers Group.”
Genealogical Smorgasbord- Hybrid Event
The Huntsville Public Library, in cooperation with the Walker County Genealogical Society, will host the state-wide 2026 Genealogy Network of Texas event in celebration of Family History Month. This genealogical smorgasbord will take place from 10:30 am to 4:40 pm on Friday, October 16 at the Huntsville Public Library in the Staggs Community Room. The event is FREE, and registration is encouraged but not required. Register online or call Adult Services Coordinator Mary Kokot at 936-291-5471.
Presentation topics include:
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/cEXnkD84XrziY3s37
Adult BINGO
Join us at the Library for a fun-filled game of Adult Bingo! Enjoy a morning of friendly competition, laughter, and great prizes. Bring a friend, grab a bingo card, and see if you can be the first to shout, “BINGO!” All adults are welcome on Tuesday, October 20 at 10:30 am. No registration is required, and all supplies are provided
Foraging with Landscaping Plants
Discover the hidden feast growing right outside your door with Mark “Merriwether” Vorderbruggen, Ph.D., scientist, author, and nationally recognized foraging expert. Be sure to be present at the Huntsville Public Library at 5:30 pm on Tuesday, October 20 when Merriwether introduces eight attractive landscaping plants that can also provide surprising foods and drinks. Learn which familiar leaves, flowers, fruits, and other plant parts are edible, how to use them, and what makes each plant worth adding to your yard. Along the way, he blends practical gardening advice, fascinating plant science, and creative ways to turn your landscape into something both beautiful and useful. You’ll leave looking at ordinary yards—and perhaps your own—with an entirely new sense of possibility. For more information, please contact Adult Services Coordinator Mary Kokot at 936-291-5471.
Stories to Tell My Grandchildren- Writing Circle
The Walker County Genealogy Society hosts a writing group on the third Wednesday of each month at the Huntsville Public Library. The purpose of the group is to document family stories before they are forgotten. The group will meet from 2:00 - 4:00 pm on Wednesday, October 21, in the Johnnie Jo Sowell Dickenson Genealogy Room and will use the time to write, discuss, and/or help each other. The group is free and open to everyone, not just genealogists.
Everyone has a story and knowing family stories helps emotional well-being for all ages. Be a part of the group and provide your grandchildren with family stories from the past that they may take into the future. For more information, contact Adult Services Coordinator Mary Kokot at 936-291-5471.
Adult Trivia Night- “MAGIC, MONSTERS & MAYHEM”
Do you know a bunch of random facts about random topics? Well, trivia night is for you! This Jeopardy-style game night is for adults ages 18+ to enjoy putting their brains to the test with the trivia topic of “MAGIC, MONSTERS & MAYHEM!” Fun will be had by all on Friday, October 23 at 5:30 pm. Prizes are available for the smarty-pants winners; no registration required!
Categories include:
Save the Date- Master Gardeners
On Tuesday, October 27 at 10:30 am, Master Gardeners will present on the topic of “Turf Grass: Texas Lawn Care.”
Movie Matinee
Enjoy an afternoon movie matinee for ages 16+ featuring “Practical Magic,” the 1998 film adapted from Alice Hoffman’s novel! The matinee will be held on Thursday, October 29, at 1:00 pm in the Staggs Community Room. Popcorn and drinks provided! This romantic drama starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, is a tale of two sisters who discover the gift of Practical Magic in a small, contemporary New England town. This film is rated PG-13 and is 1 hour and 48 minutes long.
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 at which you can bring your personal devices to the Library for a one-on-one session. Remember, your appointment is not confirmed until staff contacts you. If you need assistance or have any questions, call the library at 936-291-5472.