As the calendar turns for the last month of the year, we're getting even more excited for the opening of a newly-renovated space for Valley Library! Renovations to our new space are on schedule, and plans are underway to move just one storefront over in Lakeland Plaza. The new Valley Library space will be larger, with two meeting rooms, movable furniture to accommodate large groups, and a children’s area with tiered seating for programs and storytimes.

Valley Library will be closed December 18-20 so we can move into our new location. When the library reopens on December 21, we'll also have new hours. The new hours will keep Valley Library open later in the evenings and provide a more consistent schedule throughout the week. You can read more about the new hours on our website.

Finally, save the date for an opening celebration and ribbon cutting on Saturday, January 11. We're excited for an opportunity to celebrate our beautiful new space in the new year.

Keep reading to check out some programming highlights this month at Washington County Library!

Find book ideas in the catalog!

This month we added some new features to our catalog that will make it easier to find more books by authors you love, keep track of long-running series, and find new books to read based on the subjects and genres you enjoy. All of these enhanced features can be found under the new "Author, series, read-alikes, and more!" tab at the bottom of each book listing. We've highlighted some of the cool features on our blog, but feel free to just dive in and see what you can find!

History Day Hullabaloo

Join us at R.H. Stafford Library for a free Minnesota History Day Research Open House on Thursday, December 12 from 3 to 7 p.m. Students working on a History Day project can get research help from librarians, discover new primary and secondary sources, view sample projects, learn more about History Day at a mini-lesson, and receive one-on-one help from a History Day staff member or mentor! This is a free event, no RSVP or registration required.

Family fun in December!

This month, we have several opportunities for families to get out of the house and enjoy some quality time together:

"Craft" Brew at 3rd Act Craft Brewery
December 10 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Learn how to make foldable book art while enjoying craft beer, soda, and brick fired pizza! We'll bring all supplies and instructions. This project would make a great gift for a friend or family member.

Magical Yule Ball in Woodbury
December 13 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Get sorted into your (temporary) Hogwarts House, attend classes, play games, enjoy crafts, and dance the night away! Formal wear and magical school wear are encouraged.

Teddy Bear Tea Party in Forest Lake
December 20 from 3:30 to 4 p.m.
Dress your best and bring your favorite teddy bear or stuffed critter friend to the library for a fancy tea party. Enjoy hot cocoa, tasty finger foods, and a great story.

Countdown to Noon Year's Eve!
December 30 and 31, various times and locations
Several branches will be holding special storytime parties on December 30 and 31 for an early countdown to the new year! Find the right celebration for your family in our calendar.

Libraries closed for December holidays

All Washington County Library branches will be closed December 24 and December 25 for the holidays. All branches will also be closing early on December 31 for New Year's Eve, and remain closed on January 1 for New Year's Day. Even though our buildings are closed, you can still access your library account on our website, WashCoLib.org, and check out ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines through our library apps.