Storytimes near ORANGE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

203 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro, NC, 27510, US

Join us at Southern Branch library for storytime! Starting at 10:30am, Southern Branch librarians will lead a 25-30 minute program with stories, songs, and movement for toddlers-preschoolers and their caregivers and siblings. These events are free and require no registration. Children must be supervised by their adult caretakers at all times. Location: Library is on the first floor of the Drakeford Library Complex building--information desk inside can direct you. Town of Carrboro's Toddler Playtime partnership will resume in the fall of 2026.

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Learn computer basics and earn a computer! Thanks to grant funding from NCDIT, we’ll be able to give away a laptop computer to each patron who attend all four sessions. Classes will include basic computer and internet lessons. Some of what we will discuss: - Computer basics - Digital Identity - Digital Well-being (including internet safety and scam awareness) - Using Email - Digital Relationships - Digital Safety - Using the internet to access important real life information (banking, medical records, etc) - Social Media Computers are provided for the class! You do not need to bring your own. If you need transportation to participate in this program, call Orange County Public Transportation at (919) 245-2008 at least 48 hours before to book a Demand Response ride. There is no fee associated with this service. You must attend all four sessions to receive a computer. If you are going to have a conflict with one of these sessions, please contact Andrew, the instructor (contact info is in the sidebar). This class can accommodate 10 students. The instructor will alert people on the waitlist when the class is offered again in the future. Please do not sign up for this class if you have already taken it. The sessions are Thursdays at 1pm: July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Step into the world of dragons! In this exciting program for grades 3–5, kids will explore dragon myths and legends from different cultures, learn fun facts about famous dragons in stories, and imagine what their own dragon would look like. Participants will create a glowing dragon eye craft using colorful materials and textures to design a magical dragon eye they can take home. The program encourages creativity, imagination, and artistic expression while introducing children to mythology and fantasy storytelling. This program is designed for children in grades 3 to 5. Registration is not required.

US

Not a Book Club | The next best thing to reading a good book is talking about it with your fellow readers. Join us online on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 6:30pm for an informal book discussion. We’re "Not a Book Club," so there’s no assigned reading and no pressure. Just grab a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, and let’s talk books! Registration is required for the link to join the discussion. For more information about this and other book clubs, visit the library's book club page. #NaBC

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Friendly Fiber Fridays Meet-Up - Added Time! | First and fourth Fridays of the month from 9am to 10:30am and Second Fridays from 1-3pm at Main Library located at 137 West Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, North Carolina 27278. Do you knit, crochet, or do other fiber work? Bring your project and join us at Main Library in Hillsborough for a Friendly Fiber Fridays. This is a fun meet up for fibercrafty folks with space for you to spread out, work, and chat with other crafters. The library has yarn available for anyone to take if they like, and patterns are available in the fibercraft section of adult nonfiction (in the 746s). Feel free to bring your coffee and snacks along.

203 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro, NC, 27510, US

“Unearth a Story” with NC Zoo at Southern Branch Library! As part of our Summer Reading program we are hosting an interactive presentation led by the NC Zoo. Learn new animal facts and even see a surprise live animal or two! Program is 45 minutes with 15 minutes for questions at the end. Kids and families are all welcome! No registration required, first come-first served for seating. Children under 10 years old must be with an adult caretaker at all time. *It is at the Zoo's discretion which live animals will be attending and we will not know in advance*

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Step into a prehistoric adventure with Dino Academy! Join the quirky and curious Dr. Sarah Tops for an action-packed theatrical performance that brings dinosaurs to life. Featuring colorful, life-like dinosaur puppets that stomp, roar, and charm their way across the stage, this show blends science, storytelling, and imagination in the style of your favorite nature programs. Along the way, you’ll discover fascinating dino facts that are sure to impress even the biggest dinosaur fans. It’s an unforgettable journey through time—no time machine required! This event is open to curious minds of all ages! Parents must accompany their children for this program. There is no registration for this event. Doors will open at 10:15am. --------------------------------------------------------------- The Summer Reading Program is generously funded by the Friends of the Library, whose support helps make our programs possible.

203 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro, NC, 27510, US

Ayr Mount is well-maintained early nineteenth-century historic house and surrounding landscape just outside of downtown Hillsborough. While picturesque, the current scene one encounters while visiting Ayr Mount presents only a small portion of the site’s long history – one that stretches back centuries to the settlements of the Ancestors of North Carolina’s Tribal Nations. This summer, UNC graduate and undergraduate students are learning how to reveal more of the deep history of the property through archival research and archaeological fieldwork. In this talk, they will present the preliminary findings of their work, which includes ground penetrating radar and archaeological excavation. Register to attend. Can't make it on the 11th, but still interested? This talk will be offered again at the Main Library on July 18th!

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

In this hands-on workshop, patrons will turn discarded and overlooked materials into new reuse art projects. Facilitators from the Scrap Exchange will provide reuse supplies (Pool noodles, egg cartons, plastic caps, buttons, pipe cleaners, beads, and more) along with crafting tools such as scissors, tape and staplers and hot glue guns.

203 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro, NC, 27510, US

Are you up for a building challenge? Kids and their families, drop-in from 12-5 to become a LEGO paleontologist and build your own dinosaur inspired builds to be displayed in the library! Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Hotwheels Handspinners is an active group of fiber artists whose craft begins (mostly) at the spinning wheel, where we make yarn to knit, weave, crochet, felt, macrame, and more! We meet monthly at the Orange County Public Library's Main Branch in Hillsborough, and welcome spinners of all levels of expertise who have fiber to spin and something to spin it with. While the meeting room offers ample space for spinning wheels, we ask that you register in advance to help us properly prepare for each meeting. Be on the lookout for occasional “Learn To Spin” gatherings for both adults and children, as well as an annual fiber swap. For inspiration, feel free to browse the library's collection of books on handspinning. Registration in advance for this event is strongly recommended

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

203 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro, NC, 27510, US

Hang out in the Teen Center to Scrap and Yap with Southern Branch library! Join us for an hour of collage and "junk" journaling. All materials will be provided, including a new journal for all participants if needed. There will be prompts to spark creativity, or you can do your own thing. You're welcome to bring some of your own scraps or journal if you like, just be sure to bring yourself and maybe even a friend. Register to secure your spot and get email reminders.

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Children from walkers to age 5 and their caregivers are invited to participate in a 25-minute interactive program that incorporates age-appropriate books, rhymes, music, and movement. A 30-minute Stay-and-Play follows Storytime. Registration is not required.

203 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro, NC, 27510, US

Join us in the kid's area of the Southern Branch Library For a 15-20 minute early literacy program for babies with stories, rhymes, bounces, and songs! For newborns up to walkers with their caregivers and siblings. Location is inside the Southern Branch Library on the first floor of the Drakeford Library Complex in Carrboro, NC.

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Calling all curious kids! The Curiosity Crew is a program where Kindergarten–2nd graders can build, create, and discover through fun projects in art, science, and beyond. This week we will make our own sensory bottles and squishy fidgets for you to take home! Children may participate in this program independently or with their caregivers. Caregivers must remain inside the library for the duration of the program.

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

The Tuesday Evening Book Club is a Community Member-Led book club which meets the on 2nd Tuesdays of the month at 6:30pm at Main Library in Hillsborough. The club discusses a wide variety of popular and interesting books in a light atmosphere. This event is free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged but not required. For reading selections and more information, visit the library's book club page.

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

It's time to do some work in Main Library's Learning Garden on the side of the building! Library staff will be taking the opportunity to clean up, make changes, and plan for the seasons ahead. Stop by to chat. Find out what's happening and learn how to volunteer. This program is a Green Literacy learning event that encourages people of all ages to enjoy nature, learn about the environment, and build earth-friendly habits. Click to see more Green Lit events at your library. GreenLiteracy

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Stitch Together Our Story: Teen Quilt Project Leave your mark on the teen room—literally! In this creative, collaborative program, each teen will design their own fabric square using art supplies, doodles, quotes, or anything that represents you. Once everyone’s pieces are complete, we’ll stitch them together into a one-of-a-kind quilt to be displayed in the teen space. Whether you’re artsy, crafty, or just want to try something new, this is your chance to be part of a lasting piece of teen-created art. Come hang out, get creative, and help us build something amazing—one square at a time! Registration for this program is encouraged but not required --------------------------------------------------------------- Rising 6th graders can join teen programming after September 1, 2026.

115 W Margaret Ln, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Join the Orange County Public Library for Get Carded: Trivia Nights, a fun and engaging evening of trivia held at The Rookery in downtown Hillsborough. Show off your knowledge, compete for bragging rights, and connect with fellow trivia lovers—all while enjoying a lively atmosphere and local brews. When: Wednesdays at 7:00 PM Where: The Rookery, 115 W Margaret Ln, Hillsborough, NC 27278 (right beside the Main Library in Hillsborough!) Audience: Adults only No registration required. Come early to grab a seat and a drink!

203 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro, NC, 27510, US

Join us at Southern Branch library for storytime! Starting at 10:30am, Southern Branch librarians will lead a 25-30 minute program with stories, songs, and movement for toddlers-preschoolers and their caregivers and siblings. These events are free and require no registration. Children must be supervised by their adult caretakers at all times. Location: Library is on the first floor of the Drakeford Library Complex building--information desk inside can direct you. Town of Carrboro's Toddler Playtime partnership will resume in the fall of 2026.

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Learn computer basics and earn a computer! Thanks to grant funding from NCDIT, we’ll be able to give away a laptop computer to each patron who attend all four sessions. Classes will include basic computer and internet lessons. Some of what we will discuss: - Computer basics - Digital Identity - Digital Well-being (including internet safety and scam awareness) - Using Email - Digital Relationships - Digital Safety - Using the internet to access important real life information (banking, medical records, etc) - Social Media Computers are provided for the class! You do not need to bring your own. If you need transportation to participate in this program, call Orange County Public Transportation at (919) 245-2008 at least 48 hours before to book a Demand Response ride. There is no fee associated with this service. You must attend all four sessions to receive a computer. If you are going to have a conflict with one of these sessions, please contact Andrew, the instructor (contact info is in the sidebar). This class can accommodate 10 students. The instructor will alert people on the waitlist when the class is offered again in the future. Please do not sign up for this class if you have already taken it. The sessions are Thursdays at 1pm: July 9 July 16 July 23 July 30

203 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro, NC, 27510, US

Do you have family stories you want to pass down? Or are you curious about your relative’s lives, but never knew how to record your questions? In this workshop, anyone from older kids and teens to adults can learn how to do an oral history interview to record their family stories. Recording won’t be done during the program, but try to bring the relative you want to interview/be interviewed by, so you can both learn! Registration required.

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Can a flat sheet of paper become a 3D cube? Join us to explore the magic of paper engineering! Kids will fold, cut, and build their own cube creations while learning about shapes, geometry, and design. Participants can decorate their finished cubes and test how strong their structures can be. Program is designed for children in grades 3–5. Registration is not required.

203 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro, NC, 27510, US

Lovers of journaling, stationery, and creative organization, come work together and socialize every two weeks on Friday evenings! Note that the library will be closed on June 19th and July 3rd for holidays, so there will not be meetings on those dates. More about Carolina Cozy Journaling Club: This is a cozy community for all journal enthusiasts living in North Carolina. Whether you’re into daily journaling, collage spreads, or love talking pens and planners, you’ve found your people. Bring your notebooks, stickers, or just yourself; everyone’s welcome! Who can join: Anyone living in NC with a love for journaling, planning, or creativity. Join us, get inspired, and connect with other journalers who understand the joy of the journal. 🌿

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Teen Lock-In: The Library After Dark! Get ready for the ultimate after-hours adventure at the Library! We’re taking over the whole building once the doors close to the public, and it's going to be a night of non-stop fun. Hang out with your fellow teens as we play games, tackle challenges, enjoy delicious pizza, and make memories that’ll last long after the night ends. Registration & Parent Permission Slip required for each attendee. Registration opens July 1st. REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Thursday, July 16. Please call to inquire about space after this date. This is a parent-free event! Teens need to fill out a permission slip (attached) and submit it in advance or bring it signed when they check in for the program. Teens without a signed slip won’t be able to join the fun. Be sure to arrive before 6:00 pm when the library closes, and don’t forget—pick-up is from 10:00 to 10:15 pm. Don’t miss out—come make the night unforgettable! These programs are designed for patrons who have already completed at least 6th grade. Rising 6th graders may join teen programming after September 1, 2026. --------------------------------------------------------------- The Summer Reading Program is generously funded by the Friends of the Library, whose support helps make our programs possible.

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Dance the morning away to our favorite songs and enjoy instructor-led movement activities to really get the wiggles out! For ages 2 - 5, with a caregiver. Siblings are welcome. No registration required.

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Ayr Mount is a well-maintained early nineteenth-century historic house and surrounding landscape just outside of downtown Hillsborough. While picturesque, the current scene one encounters while visiting Ayr Mount presents only a small portion of the site’s long history – one that stretches back centuries to the settlements of the Ancestors of North Carolina’s Tribal Nations. This summer, UNC graduate and undergraduate students are working to reveal more of the property's pre-colonial history through archival research and archaeological fieldwork. In this talk, they will present the preliminary findings of their work, which includes ground penetrating radar and archaeological excavation. Registration is strongly recommended for this event.

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US

Do you have a young reader at home who might want practice reading aloud, but is reluctant to do it with other people? Tales & Tails gives young readers the opportunity to read to a trained therapy dog at the library, building confidence and improving reading skills in a calm, non-judgmental environment. To maintain a safe and comfortable space for both the reader and the therapy dog, each registered reader will be assigned a 15-minute time slot within the event window. During that time, they'll be able to read one-on-one with one of our therapy dog. More about our therapy dogs: Magnolia: I was named after a tree near the spot where my mom and dad found me and my two sisters when we were little puppies. I'm still pretty small, but I have long legs and can run fast! I passed my Therapy Dog test a few months ago when I turned one, which is very young, so I'm still learning. I love riding in the car, all kinds of doggie cookies, toys, and especially kids! I hope a lot of children will come to the library to read to me, and maybe I will learn some new words! Izzy: I am a 6 year old female Bernese Mountain Dog. My mom and dad adopted me at just 7 weeks old! My breed started over 100 years ago in the cold, snowy mountains of Bern, Switzerland, as a constant, loving companion to farming families, as well as driving cattle and pulling wagons from the farm to the dairy. Now my job is to comfort people and make them happy. I am big and strong, but also calm, gentle, cuddly, friendly, and sweet. I love large and small humans, and belly rubs! I am excited to meet children who want to read to me at the library!

137 W. Margaret Lane, Hillsborough, NC, 27278, US