The Detroit Public Library celebrates National Library Week (April 6 – 12, 2025) as we recognize the importance of libraries, library workers and the special place that the library holds in the community.
This year’s theme is “Drawn to the Library.” From key resources such as computer and technology access, literacy support, and assistance to job seekers, to fun and enriching programs from book clubs and author discussions, art and craft classes, and even concerts—there is a lot to draw people to the Detroit Public Library.
Be sure to join us for special National Library Week events!
I Love My Library
Wilder Branch
Week of April 7 – 12
Throughout National Library Week, patrons are invited to fill out a heart with why they love their library and then display them at the circulation desk.
Library Resources Workshop
Elmwood Park Branch
Monday, April 7, 12:30 – 1:30 pm
Discover all the amazing resources your library has to offer in this hands-on workshop where you’ll learn how to access books, e-books, research databases, digital media, and other valuable tools available to you for free.
National Library Week
Chaney Branch
Monday, April 7, 3:00 - 5:00 pm
Drop-in afterschool crafts for kids in kindergarten through 8th grade.
Why Do You Love the Library?
Elmwood Park Branch
Tuesday, April 8, Noon – 7:00 pm
Draw or write a short message about why the library is your favorite place, and we’ll display it on our bulletin board for everyone to see!
BYOBear Storytime
Elmwood Park Branch
Wednesday, April 9, 11:00 am - Noon
Bring your favorite teddy bear (or any stuffed friend) and settle in for a delightful session of bear-themed stories and activities!
Patron Appreciation
Parkman Branch
Wednesday, April 9, Noon – 7 pm
To show appreciation for our patrons, stop by the Parkman Branch for a small snack and a little treat all day while supplies last.
Recreate Your Favorite Book Cover
Elmwood Park Branch
Thursday, April 10, 3:00 – 4:00 pm
Unleash your creativity and bring your favorite book cover(s) to life! Using a variety of art supplies, participants will recreate the covers of beloved books in their own unique style.
National Library Week: Teen Edition
Lincoln Branch
Thursday, April 10, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Make a cloth book cover—this program is intended for teens and young adults.
The Missing Librarian
Elmwood Park Branch
Saturday, April 12, 2:00 – 4:00 pm
The librarian has mysteriously disappeared, leaving behind cryptic clues in books. Solve the puzzles to find out where they are for a chance to win a prize!
National Library Week: Book Character Bingo & Book Swap
Knapp Branch
Saturday, April 12, 3:30 – 4:30 pm
Test your knowledge of famous children's book characters and win exciting prizes in Book Character Bingo. Bring a book to swap with fellow book lovers and discover new favorites. Celebrate the love of reading with the community!
National Library Week at Children’s Library at Main
Koi and the Kola Nuts Puppet Storytime
Sunday, April 6, 3:00 – 4:30 pm
Join us for an afternoon of interactive storytelling and puppet making. Kids will have a chance to retell the story in our puppet theatre with their own puppets.
Kids Grounding Session: Calm and Connect
Monday, April 7, 1:00 – 2:00 pm
This session is designed to help kids feel calm, centered, and connected to themselves and their environment. Through playful and gentle activities, kids will explore breath work, stretching, meditation, and sound baths in a fun, engaging way.
Story time: National Zoo Lovers Day
Tuesday, April 8, 5:00 – 5:30 pm
Each year on April 8th, National Zoo Lovers Day encourages people to explore their local zoos! Come hear stories about zoos and animals, and create a fun animal-inspired craft.
Moana 2 Movie and Luau
Wednesday, April 9, 4:00 – 7:00 pm
Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a fun movie and party. We will have yummy snacks, fun crafts, and cool activities, including a hula dance lesson.
World Languages: Korean Storytime
Wednesday, April 9, 5:30 – 6:30 pm
Join us for exciting stories, fun songs and crafts all while learning new words in Korean with our special guest reader, Jacinta.
Origami Workshop
Thursday, April 10, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
In this origami workshop, learn to fold paper into beautiful shapes and designs!
Storybook Opera: Little Red Riding Hood
Friday, April 11, 10:30 – 11:30 am
This exciting production of Little Red Riding Hood is presented by Detroit Opera! Little Red Riding Hood is composed by Seymour Barab and illustrated by Detroit-based artist Vito Valdez, and will introduce young kids to dance elements, vocal exploration and some songs from the opera.
Storytelling Workshop
Saturday, April 12, 2:00 – 5:30 pm
Ivory Williams and the Detroit Association of Black Storytellers (DABS) will share exciting stories and then teach you how to write your own!
Basket Making
Saturday, April 12, 2:00 – 3:30 pm
Create a hand-woven basket for the spring holidays using round reed to build the basket. Once complete, add elements such as feather, felt and more! For kids 8 and up.