Manitowoc Public Library September 2026 Adult Events
Manitowoc, WI, August 17, 2026—Manitowoc Public Library’s September 2026 Adult Events are scheduled on the following dates and times.
DWD Employment Assistance & Career Counseling Tuesdays in September, 9 AM-4 PM
The Department of Workforce Development staff is providing onsite services in MPL’s Franklin Street Room for both Employment Assistance and Career Counseling. Here are some of the specifics:
- Drop-In Employment Assistance: Department of Workforce Development staff will provide onsite services, including resume writing, assistance with online applications, assistance registering in Job Center of Wisconsin, and more! No appointment is needed.
- Career Counseling: Dealing with a Job Loss or considering a Career Change? Career and Employment Counseling may help! Our licensed career counselor can assist with providing support and encouragement, assist with the exploration of career and self-assessments, assisting with reviewing labor market information, removing and overcoming obstacles, and creating an individualized employment plan to help you turn your career vision into a reality. Our Career Counselor can also provide you with the tools, feedback and resources you need to be successful in your job search. For in-person career counseling, contact Ellen Hope at 920-930-6553 or ellen.hope@dwd.wisconsin.gov to make an appointment.
To see all the hours and date specifics, head to https://www.manitowoclibrary.org/events/month/2026/09?keywords=DWD.
Genealogy Help with the Genealogical Society Tuesdays in September, 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.
Think Pink! An All-Ages Barbie Party Tuesday, September 1, 6-7 PM
Barbie fans span all ages—from grandmas playing with the originals to little girls still loving them today. Join Miss Sharon, author of The Best of Barbie, on Tuesday, September 1, from 6-7 PM in the Balkansky Community Room for an all-ages party celebrating Mattel's most famous doll. Adults—bring your vintage dolls to learn what they're worth, while kids can bring their dolls for show-and-tell. Pink treats, pink trivia, and more!3D Printer Badging Session Wednesday, September 2, 5-6 PM
Join us in the Idea Box for a demonstration of the Prusa Core One 3D Printer. MPL Staff Member, Tony, will show you how to use the 3D Printer and upon completion of the training you'll be "Badged" so you can use the 3D Printer at your leisure. Space is limited and registration is required. Registration opens Monday, August 24, at 9 AM. Head to www.manitowoclibrary.org/event/3d-printer-badging-session-31051 at that time to secure your spot. You must be 14-years old or older to participate in this program. Individuals who are 14-17 years old must have a parent or guardian present to complete a waiver to use the equipment.Drop-In Chess Club @ MPL Wednesday, September 2, 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 in Manitowoc Public Library’s Second Floor Balkansky Community Room from 6-7:30 PM on Wednesday, September 2! 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. Please remember that children under the age of 8 (even prodigies!) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
Life After Loss Friday, September 4, 3-4:30 PM
Life After Loss is an informal grief support group for those wanting to partner with others as they work through the grief process. This support group is led by Steve Cornelius, a Bereavement Coordinator from Hospice Compassus. Starting on Friday, September 4, from 3-4:30 PM, this group will meet in Manitowoc Public Library’s Second Floor Board Room the first Friday of every month for the last four months of 2026.
Free Life Skills Workshop. Tuesday, September 8, 6-7:30 PM
Join Rogers Behavioral Health for a transformative series of free, monthly life skills workshops. Open to everyone in the community, you'll gain valuable life skills in a supportive, non-clinical environment.Tax Tips for Seniors with Doug Zoerb, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Thursday, September 10, 10-11:30 AM
On Thursday, September 10, Doug Zoerb—the Manitowoc County coordinator for the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program—will be presenting a Tax Tips for Seniors program in Manitowoc Public Library's Balkansky Community Room from 10-11:30 AM. During last tax season, Doug and his team (a small group of volunteers that prepare tax returns free-of-charge at both the Manitowoc and Two Rivers Senior Centers) consistently noticed several common—and avoidable—mistakes that cost seniors on their taxes. Additionally, there are several new deductions that will directly help seniors next year, but they need to act now. Doug's presentation will focus on this pertinent information, followed by a brief Q&A session. Please note that while Doug will be able to take on general questions, he can't answer questions on individual tax situations as there are too many factors involved for an informational program such as this.
Cricut Badging Session Thursday, September 10, 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. Registration opens on Monday, August 3, at 9 AM. Head to www.manitowoclibrary.org/event/cricut-badging-session-31628 then to secure your spot! You must be 18 or older to participate in this program.Open Sew and Badging with Betty Monday, September 14, 2-3 PM
Resident sewing enthusiast Betty will be in the Idea Box bimonthly to answer questions or badge individuals on the sewing machines. Bring your own project to work on or get badged on the library sewing machines. Space is limited. Can't make it at the scheduled time? Contact Betty in the Youth Department at 920-686-3030 to set up a badging session. Open to ages 13+.
Educator Book Sale September 15-September 17, 3-7 PM All 3 Days
Looking to refresh your classroom library for the new school year? Stop by our Teacher & Homeschool Used Book Sale and discover great books at unbeatable prices! Held alongside our Teacher/Homeschool Open House, this sale features a variety of youth fiction, nonfiction, class sets, and young adult titles perfect for students of all ages.
- When: September 15, 16, and 17, from 3-7 PM
- Where: Balkansky Community Room, located on the Library's Second Floor
- Cost: $1.00 or under per book and Fill-A-Grocery-Bag for $5
Teacher/Homeschool Open House September 15-September 17, 3-7 PM All 3 Days
Start your school year strong—meet our staff and learn about the Library's FREE educational programs, services, and resources:
- Register for an educator library card
- Tour our collections
- Shop our Educator Book Sale
- Enjoy light refreshments, a raffle basket, goodie bags, and more!
Check Out the Library: A Tour of MPL Wednesday, September 16, 5:30-7 PM
Manitowoc Public Library’s role in the community continuously evolves as we expand our collection, enhance our amenities, and provide unique programs. You may not be aware of everything MPL has to offer. Did you know MPL has a Makerspace, a Seed Library, and a Toy Library? To learn about these resources and others, come to Manitowoc Public Library on Thursday, February 5, for "Check Out the Library: A Tour of MPL.” This guided tour will introduce you to many of the wonderful features of Manitowoc Public Library. The tour includes:- An overview of the various collections for Adults, Teens, and Kids
- A preview of upcoming programs and special events
- A walking tour of the building*
If you are interested in learning more about your local library, join us on Wednesday, September 16, at 5:30 PM for “Check Out the Library: A Tour of MPL.”
Free & Easy E-Reading: Learn About Libby Thursday, September 17, 10-11:30 PM
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 for a demonstration of Libby and receive hands-on assistance with the app. 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.
- 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
Adult Book Discussion: The Correspondent, by Virginia Evans
Thursday, September 17, 6-7 PM
Sybil Van Antwerp has, throughout her life, used letters to make sense of the world and her place in it. Most mornings, around half-past-ten, Sybil sits down to write letters—to her brother, to her best friend, to the president of the university who will not allow her to audit a class she desperately wants to take, to Joan Didion and Larry McMurtry to tell them what she thinks of their latest books, and to one person to whom she writes often, yet never sends the letter. But, when letters from someone in her past force her to examine one of the most painful periods of her life, she realizes that the letter she has been writing over the years needs to be read and that she cannot move forward until she finds it in her heart to offer forgiveness. If this type of introspective fare appeals to you, meet Library Staff and fellow book lovers for an engaging conversation in MPL’s Second Floor Board Room from 6-7 PM on Thursday, September 17. Pick up your copy of “The Correspondent” near the First Floor’s Service Desk.
Glowforge Badging Session Friday, September 18, 2-3:30 PM
Join us in the Idea Box makerspace for a demonstration of our Glowforge on September 18. 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, September 9, at 9 AM. Head to www.manitowoclibrary.org/event/glowforge-badging-session-32051 at that time to secure your spot! You must be 18-years old or older to participate in this program.
Teen Hang-Out: D&D Adventures Saturday, September 19, 12-2 PM
It's questing time! Join our party to learn the basics of Dungeons & Dragons, create your character, and set-out on a thrilling adventure. Experienced player, Elizabeth Kirsteatter, will be on-hand to guide the party to victory—or at least keep us out of the dragon's maw. Gaming supplies and snacks provided. Open to Teens and their interested Adults (Adults must be accompanied by a Teen).
Card Smart: Library Card Basics Wednesday, September 23, 5:30-7 PM
A library card gives you access to so many fantastic materials and resources that it can be difficult keeping everything straight. We are here to help! Join Manitowoc Public Library staff member, Tony, as he shows you how to get the most out of your library card. This session focuses on Technology Usage at Manitowoc Public Library. Learn how to:
- Manage your Library Account
- Search the Library Catalog
- Navigate the Manitowoc Public Library Website
- Access our Digital Databases
- Sign into an MPL Computer
- Print, Copy, Scan and Fax Documents
- Access the Idea Box (MPL's makerspace)
Take a Seat: Chair Yoga with Kate Casey Wednesday, September 23, 6-7 PM
Take a seat and join Yoga Alliance licensed teacher Kate Casey for an evening of relaxation. Participants will be guided through 45 minutes of gentle movements while using a chair for support. Starting with soothing breathwork, participants will move through accessible variations of traditional yoga poses designed to relieve pain and stress and end with a calming, seated meditation. Adults of all ages and mobility levels are welcome to attend. Chairs will be provided on-site, but participants should bring a towel or blanket to use as a cushion. Registration is required and participants must be 18 years or older. Registration opens Wednesday, September 9, at 9 AM. Head to www.manitowoclibrary.org/event/chair-yoga-sept at that time to secure your seat. Kate Casey is a RYT-500 yoga teacher, trained in the ashtanga and vinyasa flow systems. She has been teaching since 2013 with a strong understanding of human anatomy and alignment. Kate’s mission is to provide a safe and relaxing environment for all students, while integrating the physical practice of yoga with the philosophical traditions of deeper self-inquiry.
Tales from the Taproom 8: A StorySlam for Adults (21+) at PetSkull Brewing Company
Thursday, September 24, 6-8 PM
There may be a nip in the air, but it's still more than adequately toasty for the return of "Tales from the Taproom" to PetSkull Brewing Company's Outdoor Beer Garden! Even though we'll be out of doors, all the same, basic rules still apply: no props, no notes, and only five minutes to tell a favorite true story. The theme for this late-September event, sponsored by Seehafer News, from 6-8 PM on Thursday, September 24, is "Stay Tuned!!" Because even though no one likes to admit it, almost all of us have spent more than a little time in front of the television. Talk about a favorite program, an impactful televised event, or something "interesting" that happened while a show was airing in the background—any favorite story of your time basking in the soothing glow of the "Vast Wasteland." And you don’t have to come to “The Taproom” to tell a story—you can come to just listen, enjoy, and experience the wonder of communal storytelling. We can't wait to hear your television tale during the September installment of "Tales from the Taproom!"
Wisconsin True Crime Uncovered with Authors Steve Daniels & Joe Verdegan
Saturday, September 26, 1-2:30 PM
The “Monfils 6” case is one of the most notorious murders in Wisconsin history. It refers to the murder of Thomas Monfils at the James River paper mill in Green Bay, which led to the conviction of six of his coworkers and is arguably the most immediately-recognizable tale in Wisconsin true crime lore. But, there are so many more reprehensible local deeds to explore! Join us on Saturday, September 26, from 1-2:30 PM in Manitowoc Public Library’s Balkansky Community Room for “Wisconsin True Crime Uncovered with Authors Steve Daniels & Joe Verdegan.” Daniels—a 27-year veteran of the Department of Corrections and a criminal profiler—and Verdegan—a bestselling author who worked nearly three decades on the front lines of the often-dangerous Green Bay maximum security correctional institution—will dissect the controversial Wisconsin homicides, from the Monfils case to Harry Hebard (the Badger State’s first documented teenage mass murderer) and others, as well as the “Six Types of Murder.” Following Steve and Joe’s presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to purchase books & approach authors with questions. A must-attend event for all true crime enthusiasts!
MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival: You Be the Judge!
Tuesday, October 29 and Thursday, October 1, 5-7:30 PM Both Nights
We're thrilled to be welcoming MANHATTAN SHORT back to Manitowoc Public Library. Discover your inner film critic by casting your vote for Best Film and Best Actor in the 29th Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival. You'll join film lovers simultaneously in over 500 venues across the globe gathering to see the Ten Finalist in this year's event. With past finalists garnering Oscar nominations and short films continuing to move into the Hollywood mainstream, come see this entertaining program featuring the best short films in the world today! Ballots supplied upon entry.
Pick whichever screening suits your schedule best—or attend both nights if you're a real cinephile! But please note that we will be showing the same program on both nights.
The History of Halloween: Folklore & Customs with Chad Lewis
Wednesday, September 30, 6-7 PM
Chad Lewis uncovers the origins of Halloween traditions—where shadows lurk and whispers of the past echo—on Wednesday, September 30, from 6-7 PM in Manitowoc Public Library’s Balkansky Community Room. From trick-or-treating, scarecrows, and jack- o'-lanterns, to the folklore of bats, witches, and everything that lurks in the darkness. For over two decades, Chad Lewis has traveled the backroads of the world in search of the strange and unusual. Chad has been featured on the Discovery Channel's A Haunting, William Shatner's Weird or What, and The UnXplained, as well as ABC's Scariest Places on Earth, along with being a frequent contributor on Ripley's Believe it or Not Radio. With a Master’s Degree in Psychology, Chad has authored over twenty books on the strange and unusual. The more bizarre the legend, the more likely it is that you will find Chad there.
