Manitowoc Public Library May 2025 Adult Events
Manitowoc, WI, April 17, 2025—Manitowoc Public Library’s May 2025 Adult Events are scheduled on the following dates and times.
Comic Book Day 2025 Bookmark Art Contest Through Thursday, May 1
Manitowoc Public Library is looking for artists to create one of a kind bookmark designs for a Comic Book Day 2025 Bookmark Art Contest! Stop by the Manitowoc Library and pick up a blank bookmark to decorate. Use markers, paint, colored pencils, glitter, anything you want to turn your bookmark into a one of a kind masterpiece. Return your bookmark to MPL by 5 PM Thursday, May 1, to enter the contest. Your design will be featured in a display at the Library on Saturday, May 3, during Comic Book Day. Everyone who comes to the Library that day can vote for their favorites!
The contest is open to All Ages with a prize going to the top vote recipient in these age groups:
- Ages 7 and under
- Ages 8 to 12
- Ages 13 to 17
- Ages 18+
Comic Book Day 2025 Saturday, May 3, 9 AM-1 PM
You're invited to Comic Book Day! A celebration of everything from the world of Comic Books and Comic Strips. This year’s festivities include special recognition of the 75th Anniversary of Charles Schulz’s beloved Comic Strip Peanuts! Come dressed as your favorite Comic Book or Peanuts character, participate in fun activities, and receive a free comic book!
Activities:
- Free Comic Book Giveaway (while supplies last)
- Scavenger Hunt
- Costume Contest
- Raffle Prizes
- Peanuts Coloring Sheets and Superhero Mask making in Youth Department
- Classic Comic Book Display
- Peanuts and Newspaper Comic Strip Display
- Bookmark Art Contest Display (vote for your favorite!)
- Virtual workshop from 12-1 PM with Justin Thompson, cartoonist and senior artist at the Charles M. Schulz Studio, and author and illustrator of the web comic, MythTickle
Virtual Workshop with Cartoonist, Justin Thompson Saturday, May 3, 12-1 PM
Justin Thompson has long-since established himself as a commercial artist. Not only is he a cartoonist and senior artist at the Charles M. Schulz Studio, Justin has also made a name for himself as an independent author and illustrator of the web comic, MythTickle. Join Justin for this virtual workshop in Manitowoc Public Library’s Second Floor Board Room from 12-1 PM on Saturday, May 3. Justin will discuss his professional life in both the mainstream and independent cartoon worlds, after which he will conduct a brief cartooning tutorial in drawing emotions onto faces. Please Note: This is an exclusively in-library event. In other words, this program will not be livestreamed on any of our social media. So, if you're interested in attending, our best advice is to show up early as seating is extremely limited (approximately 30 seats). It's going to be a fantastic workshop! Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity! Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
DWD Employment Assistance Tuesdays throughout May, 9 AM-4 PM
The Department of Workforce Development staff is providing onsite employment assistance in MPL’s Franklin Street Room. This includes resume writing, assistance with online applications, assistance registering in Job Center of Wisconsin, and more! No appointment needed.
Genealogy Help with the Genealogical Society Tuesdays in May, 3-5 PM
Members of the Manitowoc County Genealogical Society can be found in MPL’s Manitowoc Collection every Tuesday from 3-5 PM to help people with their genealogy research.
Drop-In Chess Club @ MPL Wednesday, May 7, 6-7:30 PM
Want to improve your memory and concentration or practice logical thinking skills? Make a smart move and join us for Drop-In Chess Club at Manitowoc Public Library’s Second Floor Balkansky Community Room from 6-7:30 PM on Wednesday, May 7! The game of chess offers many brainy benefits—and it's just fun! Those of all abilities and ages (6-years plus, please) are welcome, but staff will not offer formal instruction. Chessboards are provided and library materials are available for further learning. No registration is required, but please remember that children under the age of 8 (even prodigies!) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
Tales from the Taproom: Episode 2 of a StorySlam Event for Adults (21+) at PetSkull Brewing Company Thursday, May 8, 6-8 PM
Get ready for another evening of revelations and fun at a microbrewery known for camaraderie and shenanigans. It doesn't get a whole lot better than that! Besides—Everyone has a story to tell! Why not tell yours? No props, no notes. Just five minutes and a true, personal favorite story. The important thing to remember is that this is an evening of true storytelling—not stand-up comedy, not poetry, not a platform for political manifestos or lectures, or doing a reading from an as-of-yet published post-apocalyptic neo-tribal zombie/cyborg saga. It’s a true story zone. Not to mention the fact that Spring has sprung, and there’s a good reason for people to be preoccupied with both The Birds and The Bees—if you know what I mean! Hence, the theme for this evening at PetSkull Brewing from 6-8 PM on Thursday, May 8, is "Love Is In The Air!" Good dates, bad dates, unforgettable romantic experiences, whatever you feel comfortable telling! And as this is an Adults-Only event, nothing is off limits—if you're willing to tell it, it's a story worthy of the hearing. You don’t have to come to “The Taproom” to tell a story—you can come to just listen and enjoy. However, should you want to step up to the mic to share a story that fits in with the evening’s theme, please note that sign-up begins at 5:30 PM and we’ll fit in as many stories as possible during the allotted time. Five minutes may seem like a lot of time, but it goes by quickly. And we’ll have a timekeeper to keep you on-track. Keep in mind, though—they will cut you off at five minutes, so knowing your story well is a necessity. We can't wait to hear your story at "Tales from the Taproom!"
Open Sew and Badging with Betty Monday, May 12, 2-3 PM
Resident sewing enthusiast, Betty, will be in the Idea Box bimonthly to answer questions and badge individuals on the sewing machines. Bring your own project to work on, or learn to make a simple project while getting badged! Anyone aged 13 and older is welcome. Registration is not required, but space is limited. Can't make the scheduled time? Contact Betty in the Youth Department at 920-686-3030 to set up a badging session.
Space to Write Tuesdays, May 13 & 27, 5:30-7:30 PM
Do you have a novel or short story you want to write? How about a screenplay or a memoir? Poetry? Graphic novels? Then you need—Space to Write! Every second and fourth Tuesday evening from 5:30-7:30 PM, the Franklin Street Room will be open to writers of all descriptions, from professional to novice. Come find your people in a community of fellow adventurers. Sit in the Chair of Inspiration! Take a risk in the Forest of Dares! Browse for new directions in the Prompt Marketplace! Seek wisdom from occasional wandering speakers and guest presenters! Above all, get comfortable with your creativity. This is your Space to Write.
Glowforge Badging Session Tuesday, May 13, 6-7:30 PM
Join us in the Idea Box makerspace for a demonstration of our Glowforge on May 13. The Glowforge uses a laser to engrave designs into different material types like acrylic and wood. Library Staff will show you how to use our Glowforge and upon completion of the training, you'll be "Badged" so you can use the Glowforge at your leisure. Space is limited and registration is required. Registration opens on Monday, May 5, at 9 AM. Head to www.manitowoclibrary.org/event/glowforge-badging-session-20917 to secure your spot!
MPL Insider: Beyond the Books with Tim & Emily Thursday, May 15, 12 PM
For their May installment of “MPL Insider,” Tim & Emily will be welcoming back Youth Services Manager, Sharon Verbeten, Teen Associate, Kristin Keck, and Public Services Librarian, Tony Plekan, to chat about the most highly-anticipated, wide-tanging event on MPL’s calendar—the Summer Reading Program! It’s the kind of chatfest that practically requires the viewer to whip up a batch of Kraft Mac & Cheese with some sliced Wampler Turkey frank rounds and a side of Hostess Pink Snowballs, alongside a pitcher of Surfin’ Berry Punch Kool-Aid to settle-in for some fun, nonlinear chit-chat! Additionally, as an absolutely amazing Bonus Attraction, Tim & Emily will be welcoming Michael Perry—New York Times bestselling author and Wisconsin Public Radio contributor—into the online studio to talk about his upcoming June appearance at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay: Manitowoc Campus Theatre! Seriously—how cool is that?! Come with questions at-the-ready! You're bound to have some!
Adult Book Discussion: Northwoods, by Amy Pease Thursday, May 15, 6-70 PM
In this gripping and emotional first novel, a murder linked to America's opioid crisis exposes the hidden problems of a seemingly perfect Midwestern resort town. If stories about the truth behind an idyllic facade appeal to you, meet fellow book lovers for an engaging conversation in MPL’s Second Floor Board Room from 6-7 PM on Thursday, May 15. Pick up your copy of “Northwoods” near the First Floor’s Service Desk.
Glowforge Badging Session Friday, May 16, 2-3:30 PM
A second Glowforge training session in the same week? Amazing! If you weren’t able to make Tuesday’s session, perhaps this Friday gathering works better for your schedule. Join us in the Idea Box makerspace for a demonstration of our Glowforge on May 16. The Glowforge uses a laser to engrave designs into different material types like acrylic and wood. Library Staff will show you how to use our Glowforge and upon completion of the training, you'll be "Badged" so you can use the Glowforge at your leisure. Space is limited and registration is required. Registration opens on Wednesday, May 7, at 9 AM. Head to www.manitowoclibrary.org/event/copy-glowforge-badging-session-22624 secure your spot!
Learn About Libby: The Online Reading App Wednesday, May 21, 10-11:30 AM
The Libby app gives you access to thousands of free eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines that you can read online. Haven’t tried Libby yet? Join us on Wednesday, May 21, from 10-11:30 AM for a demonstration of Libby and receive hands-on assistance. Our staff will show you how to download Libby, search for titles, and borrow books. You’ll also get some helpful tips for navigating the app. This class is free for all ages and no registration is required.
- Bring your reading device (tablet, smart phone, Kindle, etc.) and your library card
- Have your passwords for your devices ready
- For Apple Devices, you’ll need your Apple ID and password
- For Kindles you’ll need your Amazon login and password.
Join us in MPL’s Second Floor Board Room Room and start enjoying eBooks!
Cats on Mats with Kate Casey Wednesday, May 21, 5:30-6:30 PM
Join Yoga Alliance licensed teacher Kate Casey and residents of Lakeshore Humane Society for an evening of fun and relaxation. Participants will be guided through a gentle yoga class designed to relieve tension in the body and mind while furry friends wander from mat to mat. Cat lovers of all sizes, abilities, and levels of experience are welcome! Please bring your own mat. Must be 18 years or older to register. Registration for this event opens at 9 AM on Tuesday, May 6. Head to www.manitowoclibrary.org/event/cats-mats-kate-casey-20491 to secure your spot!
Cricut Badging Session Tuesday, May 27, 5:30-7 PM
Join us in the Idea Box for a demonstration of the Cricut Maker, a machine that cuts and scores a variety of materials for hobby crafting. Library Staff will show you how to use our Cricut Maker and the Design Space software. Upon completion of the training, you'll be "Badged" and eligible to use it at your leisure. Space is limited and registration is required. You must be 18-years old or older to participate in this program. Registration opens on Tuesday, May 13, at 9 AM. Head to www.manitowoclibrary.org/event/cricut-badging-session-22627 to secure your spot!
At the Market with Andrew Saturday, May 31, 10 AM-12 PM
Have you ever wandered around a farmers market and thought "That looks amazing . . . . but what is it and how would I use it?" Most of us have, to be honest. Andrew Dunbar—former Executive Chef, Ryan's on York, and current Alderperson District 1—returns to lead a walkthrough of the Manitowoc Farmers' Market during "At the Market with Andrew" for all the delicious items that are accessible in our community on Saturday, May 31, starting at 10 AM. After the walkthrough, we will spend some time together in the Balkansky Community Room creating something delectable out of items that we find at the Market. "What are we going to make," you may ask. Well, that will be determined by what wonderful, summery things we find that day! Please Note: Everyone will meet outside the Library near the Main Entrance for the Farmers' Market walk-about. This tour of the Market is open to all that wish to gain a greater knowledge of how to purposefully shop it. However, registration is required for a limited amount of participants to attend the snack-making session that follows in the Balkansky Community Room. Registration opens at 9AM in Monday, May 12. Head to www.manitowoclibrary.org/event/market-andrew-may31 then to secure your spot for this fun, healthful event! Should the Farmers Market be shut down due to inclement weather on May 31, this program will be cancelled, as well.
