Previous Special Events

Oh, the weather outside is frightful but the StoneLion Puppets are so delightful! Enjoy a wintery performance of trick marionettes, singing puppets, and cool music.

The 25-minute show allows children of all ages to dance the “Penguin Shuffle,” sing along with “I Want to be Your Teddy Bear,” watch ice skating mice, or just bounce along with Frosty the Snowman.

StoneLion Puppets tours throughout the Midwest and beyond. The group is a Smithsonian Institute touring performer.

Steve Kraske of KCUR’s Up to Date moderates a panel discussion about Kansas City’s financial planning. Featured city officials and experts include City Manager Troy Schulte, Chair of the City Council Finance Committee Jan Marcason, certified public accountant and representative of the Civic Council of Greater Kansas City James Gegg, and University of Kansas Associate Professor of Public Administration Alfred Ho.

Screenwriter Mitch Brian employs original texts and film clips to illustrate how classic (Chandler, Hammett, Thompson) and modern noir literature has found its way to film and television. His presentation is part of While the City Sleeps, this year’s Adult Winter Reading Program.

Brian has written teleplays for all the major networks and screenplays for directors including Chris Columbus and Oliver Stone.

Twenty Films Essential to Cinema Literacy

Think you’re film literate? Not until you’ve experienced the masterpieces of world cinema presented as part of this new series. Former Kansas City Star film critic Robert W. Butler (now a member of the Library’s Public Affairs staff) provides opening and closing remarks.

Twenty Films Essential to Cinema Literacy

Think you’re film literate? Not until you’ve experienced the masterpieces of world cinema presented as part of this new series. Former Kansas City Star film critic Robert W. Butler (now a member of the Library’s Public Affairs staff) provides opening and closing remarks.

Celebrate the new year a little early at Friday Night Family Fun! Enjoy a New Year’s Eve Party for kids, complete with crafts, stories, games, and other activities. We will count down to “midnight” and ring in the New Year. All ages are welcome.

This program features a lesson on etiquette, snacks served on fine china, and a visit from Father Christmas! Fancy holiday dress is requested. All ages are welcome.

Due to limited space, registration is required. RSVP above or call 816.701.3407.

Co-sponsored by The John Wornall House Museum.

You better watch out, you better not cry, better not pout, I’m telling you why: Santa Claus is coming to ... the Library!

Bring your lists for Santa (and any messages for Rudolph before the big day) and join in a holiday sing-a-long, listen to your favorite stories, and make your very own snow globe or decorative votive candle holder to take home.

Parents can take photos of their little ones with Santa.

Appropriate for children up to age 6.

Looking for a fun way to kick off a weekend? Friday Night Family Fun has the cure for the wintertime blues! Come in from the cold and join friends at the Plaza Branch for activities for all ages to celebrate winter fun.

We’ll read some favorite books about snow and work on a winter-themed craft.

For grades Pre-K through third.

Children and parents are invited to be part of monthly interactive story times presented by the Coterie Theatre. Coterie Theatre artists read from favorite children's books while audience members enjoy an opportunity to "jump into the story" and then participate in an improvised story of their own making.