Explore December programs, holiday closures, and festive activities for all ages at the Huntsville Public Library
Library Closures
The library will be closed all day Monday, December 16 for a Staff Development Day.
We will also be closed Tuesday December 24 and Wednesday December 25 in observance of Christmas. Normal library hours will resume on Thursday, December 26 at 10:00 am.
Blood Drive with Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center
End the 2024 year by helping to save a life- donate blood! The Huntsville Public Library will be hosting the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center on December 9th from 1:00-5:30pm in the Staggs Community Room for our Blood Drive Event. You may reserve your appointment online at giveblood.org using sponsor code: PLHU or call Amanda Sturdivant (936) 291- 5481. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.
Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center needs 1,000 donations every day of the year to serve patients in our community. While 1 in 7 hospitalized people will need a blood transfusion in a lifetime, only 1 in 20 eligible blood donors actually donate. There is no substitute for blood – your donation saves lives. Each donation can save up to 3 lives, because a whole blood donation can be divided into three components—plasma, platelets, and red blood cells.
Design with CANVA Class
Want to design your own personalized Holiday Greeting Card? 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 tool at Huntsville Public Library from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Thursday, December 12 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 years or older and a library card is required to attend the class.
Adult Coffee & Coloring Group – NEW
You are invited to join this new 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! December’s theme is “Winter.” We will meet Thursday, December 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. This program is for adults 18 years and older.
Untold Stories of Huntsville, Texas – NEW Time
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 event will be on Tuesday, December 10 at 4:30 pm in the Genealogy Room.
One-on-One Technology Help
Do you need help with technology? The Huntsville Public Library is now offering 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.
Story Times at the Library
Mondays, 10:45 am – Mother Goose Lapsit: 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- Saturday Family Story Time
Builders Club
Calling all Master Builders! Join us to challenge your building skills and explore your creativity! Builder’s Club meets every Tuesday afternoon from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m., 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.
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. There will be painting, sculpting, and experimenting with many art styles and techniques. No registration needed and all supplies provided.
S.T.E.M. Fridays
Introducing S.T.E.M. (Science Technology Engineering and Math) classes at the Huntsville Public Library! Every Friday afternoon, the sessions will include reading, brainstorming, planning, and designing various S.T.E.M. topics 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. We will meet weekly on Fridays, at 3:00 pm in the Community Room. This event does not require registration.
Youth Dungeons and Dragons
Dungeons & Dragons is the most popular tabletop role-playing game of all time. Players build characters and engage in an adventure. This group will meet from 4-6 p.m. on Fridays. We have two groups of players, D&D Jr. (ages 11-12), and D&D Teen (ages 13-17). No prior experience is necessary! For more information, please contact Children’s Coordinator Linda Huff at 936-291-5910.
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.
December 5 – Selfless Serving Volunteering: DIY Holiday Cards for the Community
Create holiday cards for those in need in the Huntsville Community!
December 12 – SAAFE House presents: Lessons on Growing Up
December 19 – Ugly Sweater Contest and Cookie Decorating
December 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!
Homeschool Hub
Homeschool Hub is designed to bring homeschooling families together for creative, educational, and fun activities. The month’s meeting is Monday, December 2, from 1:30-3:30 pm. For all ages, each session encourages whole-family participation, blending structured activities with unstructured play. The library provides lending materials, educational materials, and a meeting space for support. Learn about library resources, participate in STEM lessons, and build a sense of community amongst families through the events and activities. All co-ops and independent homeschoolers are invited! For more information, contact Outreach and Program Coordinator Amanda Sturdivant at 936-291-5481.
Tween Book Club
Tweens ages 8-12 are invited to join Mrs. Linda in a “Book Adventure Club.” We will have book talks, share recommendations, and learn about what makes a successful tween book series. This group is for ages 8-12. We will be meeting in the Young Adult section on Tuesday, December 3, at 3:30 pm.
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 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Supplies not provided. For more information, please contact Adult Services Coordinator Mary Kokot at 936-291-5471.
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 in the Community Room of the Huntsville Public Library. Meetings this month will be on December 9 and 23. For more information, please contact Linda Huff at 936-291-5910 or visit the group’s Facebook page “Piney Woods Writers Group.”
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 are welcome to join us in the Board Room from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday, December 12. The book selection for December is READER’S CHOICE. 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’s computer lab and the FREE resources available from Workforce Solutions! This event will be on Tuesday, December 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 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 Trivia Night – Holiday 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 WINTER HOLIDAYS! Fun will be had by all on Friday, December 13 at 5:30 p.m. Categories: Music, Traditions, Movies, Literature, Classic Characters, Food, Random! Prizes are included for the smarty-pants winners! For more information, contact Outreach and Program Coordinator Amanda Sturdivant at 936-291-5481.
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 on Mondays and Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.in the Board Room, and 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.
Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program
Is the gym workout not for you? Join us every Tuesday morning at 10 a.m. at Huntsville Public Library in the Staggs Community Room. This group exercise program will help reduce pain and stiffness and help to maintain or improve mobility, muscle strength and functional ability. Endurance-building routines, relaxation exercises, and health education topics are also included. Note: participants do not have to have arthritis. A representative from the Area Agency on Aging of the Houston-Galveston Area Council will teach the program. Please consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program. Liability waivers are required to participate and are available from the instructor. The class is free and open to adults ages 18 and older. For more information, please contact Adult Services Coordinator Mary Kokot at 936-291-5471.
Stories to Tell My Grandchildren
The Walker County Genealogy Society is hosting 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 p.m. to 4 p.m. on December 18, 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 Art Class (Ages 16+)
December’s Adult Art Class will be creating a step-by-step acrylic winter landscape painting. All supplies are provided, no experience necessary, and online registration is required. This class is for ages 16+. The class will be on Wednesday, December 18, from 5:00-6:30 pm in the Community Room. For more information, contact Outreach and Program Coordinator Amanda Sturdivant at 936-291-5481.
Pictures and Cookies with Santa
Stop by the library on Saturday, December 14, anytime from 11:00 am – 12:30 pm to take a picture with Santa, and share some cookies and treats! Santa welcomes all boys and girls to come visit the Huntsville Public Library!
Polar Express Day
All Aboard for a fun-filled holiday party celebrating all things Polar Express! Saturday, December 21, we will start with a 10:45 am story time of the beloved book by Chris Van Allsburg, then play the movie at 11:00am. Popcorn, cocoa, prizes, and activities will be shared with all! Pajamas are encouraged and patrons of all ages are invited to our Polar Express Day!
Book Camping
Camping? At the library?! No mosquitoes, no dirt, and no campfires…. But we will have tents, s’mores, flashlights, and stories! Our ‘Library Book Camping’ will be come-and-go all day in the Community Room, Friday, December 27 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. There will be tents, canopies, and DIY forts where you can read your favorite book and spend time with friends! Feel free to bring your favorite stuffed animal and blanket!
Stan Lee Marvel Party
Marvel superheroes and villains alike are invited to celebrate comic legend Stan Lee on what would be his 102nd birthday, Saturday, December 28, from 11:00 am-1:00pm. This all-ages party’s mission includes trivia, games, crafts, and snacks. Costumes and marvel attire are encouraged.
The Learning Zoo
Come meet and learn about The Learning Zoo’s special Reticulated Python, Asian Water Monitor, African Pygmy Hedgehog, and Red Foot Tortoise! See these beautiful animals in person, and learn about their diet, where they live, how their bodies work, and how they survive in the wild! The Learning Zoo has two shows on Monday, December 30, show #1 at 2:00 pm, and #2 at 3:00 pm. Thank you to the Huntsville Public Library Friends, Inc. for sponsoring this event!
New Year’s Eve Family Bingo
Bring the whole family to enjoy traditional BINGO! New Year’s Eve style! All ages are invited to ring in the new year at noon with us. There will be prizes, fun, and party hats! Join us Tuesday, December 31, at 12:00 p.m. No registration is required, and all supplies are provided.
