Programs

The Ontario Public Library provides a variety of programs for adults and children.

Passive Programs for Families

  • Ontario StoryWalk (Located in Palen Park in Ontario, WI) *Currently Closed* – Stop by Palen Park in Ontario to see the Ontario StoryWalk featuring the story When Spring Comes by Kevin Henkes. Visiting the Ontario StoryWalk is a great way for your family to enjoy a book while being active outdoors. Share your photos on Facebook with the hashtag #ontariostorywalk. The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Funding for the Ontario StoryWalk was provided by the Ontario Public Library. We would like to thank the Ontario Village Board for allowing us to place the StoryWalk in Palen Park. We hope you are able to get outside to enjoy the beautiful scenery and the StoryWalk in Palen Park!

  • 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten (Ages birth to 5) – Did you know that reading to your child is one of the most powerful ways to boost his or her brain power? The simple and enjoyable act of sharing books helps your child learn pre-reading skills such as understanding the sounds letters make, developing a bigger vocabulary, and building background knowledge — all important skills that help prepare your child for learning to read and entering kindergarten. Our program is a fun, exciting, and FREE way to start your child on the path to success! 

Just follow these steps:

  1. Register: Sign up at Ontario Public Library. Pick up program materials at the library or download the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten app (available on iTunes & Google Play).
  2. Track Your Reading: Use the app or write down each book you read with your child on your reading record.
  3. Every Book Counts: Even if your child wants to hear the same book again and again, you can count it each time. You can also count the books your child hears in story time, in daycare or preschool, or with a friend or family members, as long as your child listens to the entire book.
  4. 100-Book Milestone: Each time you read 100 books, bring your reading record to the library to receive a special reward.
  5. 1,000 Books: You did it! Come celebrate at the library, see your child’s name placed on the 1,000 Book Wall of Fame, and receive a special prize.
  6. Keep on Reading: Don’t stop at 1,000! Keep on reading together; there’s more learning ahead!

Weekly Programs for Adults

  • Tech Help (Tuesdays – 10 to 12 pm)  – Do you have questions about your smart phone, tablet, laptop, e-mail, or other technology? We offer Tech Help every Tuesday morning from 10 to 12 pm. No appointment necessary! Make sure to bring your device, usernames, passwords, and questions.
  • Knit Wits (Fridays – 10 to 12 pm) – Do you like to knit? The Ontario Knit Wits meet every Friday from 10 to 12 pm. Bring your latest project to work on and enjoy a lively conversation with fellow knitters. All ages and skill levels are welcome.

Monthly Programs for Adults

  • Ontario Book Group – (2nd Monday of the month – 2:00pm) – If you enjoy reading and talking about books, join our book group that meets on the 2nd Monday of the month. We read a variety of authors and genres. Stop in the library for a copy of this month’s selection. 
  • Friday Movie Night or Monday Movie Matinee –  We show newly released movies for FREE in the library basement. We also provide FREE popcorn and pop.
  • Chess Club (1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month – 3:30-5:30pm) – Come as you are able during these times to play, learn, improve, and enjoy chess with other chess players. All ages are welcome!

Weekly Programs for Children

  • Story Time – (Wednesdays during the school year – 11:00 to 12:00) – Children and caregivers are invited to join us for stories, play time, and crafts. Activities are designed for children ages 3 to 5, but younger and older siblings are welcome to attend as well.

Monthly Programs for Children

  • Family Movie Night – (date tbd – 5:30 pm) – We show newly released movies for FREE in the library basement. We also provide FREE popcorn and pop. Ratings PG and under.
  • Chess Club (1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month – 3:30-5:30pm) – Come as you are able during these times to play, learn, improve, and enjoy chess with other chess players. All ages are welcome!

Past Programs Gallery