Programs

The Oelwein Public Library offers programs to further the library's mission to serve the needs of the community.

 

                                                          

Pop Up Programs
Pop-up Programs are programs covering a range of topics and ages on different times and days. September Pop Up Program: Storytime: Use Your Senses

Summer Reading Program is offered every year in June.
Find more information here.

 

Book Talk
Join Book Talk. Contact Deann at dfox@oelwein.lib.ia.us or by calling the library at 319-283-1515 with questions. This group meets on the last Monday of each month at 10:00 am. For more information visit the Book Club page.

 

Special Programs: 

 

 

Virtual Reality Holocaust Trunks will be available at the library from October 3rd-20th, 2025. This immersive educational experience uses advanced technology to share Holocaust survival stories. Based on the exhibition “The Journey Back: A VR Experience*”, it aims to enhance Holocaust memory through innovative storytelling. Thanks to the generous support of The Kimberly Duchossois Family Global Immersive Technology Initiative, The Diana C. Hunter Trust, The Spagat Family Virtual Reality Trunk Program, the Illinois Holocaust Museum offers these traveling trunks with wireless VR headsets featuring five VR films and an educator resource guide, including three new survivor films.
The Journey Back, A VR Experience was created by Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center in collaboration with East City Films and made possible through the generous support of Diane C. Hunter.

View a short clip about the Holocaust VR Traveling Trunks here.

More information can be found on the Illinois Holocaust Museum and the exhibit 
The Journey Back: A VR Experience here.

 

 

Join educator Brad Wilkening for a compelling presentation titled "Lessons of the Holocaust." He will delve into the enduring effects of the Holocaust through historical narratives and survivor testimonies,emphasizing its significance in today's world. Wilkening's talk underscores the necessity of learning from history to cultivate a more compassionate and understanding society. A native of Iowa, he has a rich background in teaching and coaching. After training at the Illinois Holocaust Museum, he created a high school course on the Holocaust and further enhanced his knowledge through programs at Columbia University and the Jewish Foundation for the Righteous. Since 2014, he has served on the Iowa Commission on Holocaust Education, sharing his valuable insights with schools and libraries throughout the state.
This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Oelwein Genealogical Society.

 

 

Woodcarving Class with Steve Russell
November 22nd from 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Kick off your holiday decorating by crafting your own ornaments.
Saturday, November 22nd  9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Carve your own Christmas ornament.
This class is limited to 6 people and they must be at least 16 years old. Cost is $30, all supplies provided.
Pre-register and pre-payment required to hold your spot. A second class will be provided if we have more persons interested. When the morning class is filled,
a 1:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. class will be available.