Programs
Over the past two decades, the Friends of the Talkeetna Library have raised funds and built local collaborations to expand programs and resources to change lives and build a stronger community in the Upper Susitna Valley.
Fostering a love of reading and lifelong learning across our community for 20+ years, all programs at the Talkeetna Library & Community Resource Center are supported by your generous donations to the Friends of Talkeetna Library.
Youth & Family Programs
Reading Mentors Program
Building Strong Readers
In partnership with Talkeetna Elementary School, community volunteers, and Sunshine Transit, the Friends organize a reading mentor program for young students. Second through fourth graders gain reading practice and confidence. In July 2024, this program was recognized with a Contributions to Literacy in Alaska, CLIA Award.
Who: 2nd - 4th graders and adults
When: September through March, Tuesdays afterschool
Summer Reading Program
Preparing Students for Success
The Friends support the library's annual Summer Reading Program, which provides activities and reading opportunities for children and teens. Kids who read over the summer are more likely to keep up and advance in school in the fall.
Who: Kids All ages
When: End of May through Beginning of August
Lunch on the Lawn
Feeding Hungry Minds
We collaborate with the Upper Susitna Food Pantry to feed our hungry Summer Reading Program folks and serve as a summer distribution site for local families.
Guest Artists & Performers
Incorporating the Arts
We host guest artists and performers to enliven the Summer Reading Program. We collaborate with the Denali Arts Council (DAC) for specific special performances.
Summer Literary Camp
Taking Reading to the Next Level
For children heading into the 3rd and 4th grade, this summer camp focuses on reading, crafts, and fostering a love of books.
Who: Emerging third graders
When: First week of August
Page to Screen Tween Book Club
Exchanging Diverse Perspectives
Kids 9 to 12 read a book each month, watch the movie adaptation, and discuss their views while sharing pizza and snacks.
Who: 9-12 Year olds or 4-6th grade
When: October through April
Teens' Book to Movie Program
Building Critical Thinking Skills
Teens, aged 14-18, read a book, watch the movie adaption, and discuss the variations of the book and movie.
Who: 13-18 or 7th - 12th grade
When: October through March
"Sizzle and Stir" Cooking Class
Creating Confident Young Chefs
Fourth and fifth graders learn basic cooking skills and make meals to share.
Who: Fourth and Fifth graders
When: 1st session is in the Fall, second session begins in January
Storytime
Preparing Early Readers
Stories, snacks, and crafts for children of all ages.
Who: 0-5 year olds
When: Thursdays
Music & Motion
Keeping Littles Moving
Local musicians keep toddlers clapping, singing, and moving around the library.
Who: Pre-Schoolers and Kindergarten
When: on Hiatus for now
Community and Cultural Events
Monthly Book Club
Spilling a Little Tea
The Breakfast Book Club gathers, discusses, and noshes a sweet or two around the fireplace. Whatch our facebook page to see which book we are reading.
Who: Adults
When: September - May, 9:30 AM 2nd Wednesday of the month
Author Visits & Workshops
Hearing a Writer’s Voice
We host Writer Laureates and local authors to share their words and wisdom and inspire us with the written word at community reading and workshops.
Who: All ages
When: Depending on Author availability
Stone Soup
Making Recipes from Local Restaurants & Kitchens
Local guest “chefs” share their favorite family & restaurant recipes. You taste and learn how to prepare the dish at home.
Who: Adults
When: October through March, 3rd Wednesday of the month
Back to School Backpacks
Filling & Distributing Books, Snacks, & School Supplies
In the fall, the Friends collaborate with the Northern Valley Health Coalition, Upper Susitna Food Pantry, Talkeetna VFW, and Church on the Rock to fill elementary and high school backpacks with books, snacks, and school supplies.
The friends are proud contributors to the Back-to-School Supplies program in conjunction with the Northern Valley Health Coalition.
Teacher Class Supplies
Filling Teacher Classrooms
Any leftover supplies are shared with the Talkeetna Elementary teachers for their students.
Book Fair
Adding to the Library Shelves
In the spring, the Friends host a Book Fair with a local bookstore. All proceeds go to adding additional books to the library shelves.
Who: All ages
When: Usually the beginning of February
Library Entry Sales
Book, DVDs, CDs, for Sale in the Library Entry
All sales from the library entry go directly to the Friends to purchase additional library books and materials.
“Strong Women” Exercise Class
Keeping Women over 40 Moving
This weekly exercise group improves strength, balance, and flexibility for women over 40.
Who: Women 40 and above
When: Tuesday and Thursdays
Game Day
Ready, Set, Go
Game Day events for children, teens, and parents
Who: All ages
When: 1st Saturday of the month
Puzzle Competition
Building a Strategizing Team
Are you an edge person or a color person? Your family or team has 3 hours to assemble a 500 or 750 puzzle from start to finish.
Who: All ages
When: February