ImagineIF announces new fall programming for kids and teens

ImagineIF Libraries’ Youth Services staff is unveiling new fall programming for kids and teens. The library continues to offer Early Literacy classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers, and new STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) activities and clubs created for school-aged children and teens at all locations. The new programs have been designed to pair with School District 5’s scheduling, including early-outs on Wednesdays, and to offer educational activities and inviting spaces for kids and teens after school.

For school-aged children, ImagineIF has created Kids Wednesday Workshop in the children’s section at the Kalispell location every Wednesday from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. For more information go to: imagineiflibraries.org/education/kids. Kids in grades K-5 are invited to participate in the following activities:

• Lego Club: Oct. 5 and 19 — Build LEGO structures and new friendships. Try a LEGO challenge or build whatever you want.

• STEAM Space: Oct. 12 — Explore STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) inspired activities. Create art, tackle an engineering challenge or learn a new craft.

• Game Day: Oct. 26 — Play games like Spot It! and Connect Four. Play as many as you like with fellow game enthusiasts.

ImagineIF also announces new teen programming for sixth through 12th graders starting in October through Dec. 16. For a complete list, visit imagineiflibraries.org/education/teens.

Scene — Explore the creative scene with in-house teen crafting kit, available at all ImagineIF locations during library open hours. Kit activities rotate monthly.

Fandom — Watch anime and create unique merchandise at these monthly teen get-togethers.

Columbia Falls Teen Zone: First Friday of the month, 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Kalispell Teen Zone: Fourth Wednesday of the month, 3:30 to 5 p.m.

LVL-Up — Gaming, cooking, and technology. Bring your own Switch and games or use the library’s. Cook something new, and explore a variety of mediums while upping your skills.

Columbia Falls Teen Zone: Third Friday of the month, 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Kalispell Teen Zone: Second Wednesday of the month, 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Switch Days — Battle on the Nintendo Switch every Wednesday until 6 p.m., alternating between Super Smash Ultimate and Mario Kart 8.

Columbia Falls Teen Zone: Fridays (starting in November)

Kalispell Teen Zone: Wednesdays

In addition to new teen programs, teen spaces at the library are undergoing new upgrades. The new and improved Teen Zone at the Kalispell location features a welcoming atmosphere for teens including a glowing “Teen Zone” neon green sign, bright and open spaces, a variety of fun gadgets and toys such as LEGOS, two computer kiosks, a gaming area with a Nintendo Switch, a craft space with large tables, and lots of books. The Teen Zone at the Columbia Falls location is undergoing a similar remodel and will feature many of the same aesthetics as the Kalispell Teen Zone later this fall.

For dates, times and locations of new fall programs for kids and teens, as well as Early Literacy classes, go to: imagineiflibraries.org/events.