Infant Storytime @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ You’re never too young for storytime! Our littlest book lovers stroll in to Infant Storytime to hear fun songs, stories, and fingerplays, followed by open free play with other wee ones. Designed for children from 0 to 12 months old.    ...More

\ \ \ \ \ You’re never too young for storytime! Our littlest book lovers stroll in to Infant Storytime to hear fun songs, stories, and fingerplays, followed by open free play with other wee ones. Designed for children from 0 to 12 months old.   

HYBRID: Writing Workshop @ Laura’s and Zoom

\ \ \ \ \ This week, the Writing Workshop is being offered simultaneously online and in-person from 5:00 to 6:30pm. Click here to join the program online, or come to Laura’s Li......More

\ \ \ \ \ This week, the Writing Workshop is being offered simultaneously online and in-person from 5:00 to 6:30pm. Click here to join the program online, or come to Laura’s Library to join us in-person. If you’re having difficulties, please refer to Zoom’s support information. Westbank Library is unable to provide tech assistance during the program. Please contact [email protected] if you would like to schedule tech help or if you would like additional information regarding this library program. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, you are welcome to join the Westbank Writing Workshop. Meet with other writers, and try your hand at some writing prompts. Please read these ground rules ahead of the conversation: Please keep your camera on for the discussion and provide your name. Mute if there is background noise. Respect the privacy of others by not reporting what you hear in this conversation with any specificity or attribution. Be respectful and listen when others are speaking. Allow everyone’s voice to be heard that wants to be heard.

All Ages Storytime @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Join us for All Ages Storytime at Laura’s Library. This program develops early literacy skills through story sharing and songs. All ages welcome! If the weather is comfortable, we may move outside. You’re invited to stay after Storytime to play with friends......More

\ \ \ \ \ Join us for All Ages Storytime at Laura’s Library. This program develops early literacy skills through story sharing and songs. All ages welcome! If the weather is comfortable, we may move outside. You’re invited to stay after Storytime to play with friends. Check our website for possible changes or cancellations.

Tuesday Mahjong @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ After lunch on Tuesday afternoons, join other adults at the library to visit and play games! We have lots of games available, but the game of choice right now is Mah Jong. For players of all skill levels (even beginners!). This program made po......More

\ \ \ \ \ After lunch on Tuesday afternoons, join other adults at the library to visit and play games! We have lots of games available, but the game of choice right now is Mah Jong. For players of all skill levels (even beginners!). This program made possible with a grant from Texas State Library and Archives Commission in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Building Exploration @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ We’ll have building materials for you to stack, create, and construct with. What will you build? Turn on your imagination and meet friends at this fun program! 

Tech Help @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ Get help with technology from tech-savvy teen volunteers! Bring your devices (phones, tablets, laptops) or questions about social media, apps, and more to Westbank on Saturday afternoon. You will get one-on-one help with all your technology questions.

Remarkably Bright Creatures Book Discussion @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ Discuss and share your thoughts about the library’s summer read, Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt.

Preschool Play @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Each Wednesday at Laura’s, we’ll have self-directed playtime activities set up that are geared toward preschool-age kids. Children and their caregivers are welcome to come explore, create, and play with art and building supplies, sorting activities, puzzles, ......More

\ \ \ \ \ Each Wednesday at Laura’s, we’ll have self-directed playtime activities set up that are geared toward preschool-age kids. Children and their caregivers are welcome to come explore, create, and play with art and building supplies, sorting activities, puzzles, and more. Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

Armstrong Community Music School @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ Join Westbank Libraries for a demo of an early childhood music class with Armstrong Community Music School (ACMS). Enjoy music, playful movement activities, and instrumental jam sessions designed for children ages 0-5 and their caregivers.

All Ages Storytime @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ Join us for All Ages Storytime at Westbank Library. This program develops early literacy skills through story sharing and songs. All ages welcome!

Musician: Tío Tóto @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Tío Tóto turns the audience into the band, inviting kids to sing, dance, and make music together. With bilingual English and Spanish songs and interactive fun, the show promotes early literacy, creativity, and joyful connection.

Prime of Life Yoga™ @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Prime of Life Yoga™ focuses on the contemporary teachings of yoga for Westerners, especially benefiting men and women 40 years and beyond. Safe, conservative and user friendly, this is an intelligent approach focusing on moving with the breath in dynamic and ......More

\ \ \ \ \ Prime of Life Yoga™ focuses on the contemporary teachings of yoga for Westerners, especially benefiting men and women 40 years and beyond. Safe, conservative and user friendly, this is an intelligent approach focusing on moving with the breath in dynamic and static movements, which helps to make the body-mind connection as well as warming up the joints and muscles. Modifications are demonstrated to suit the individual. This creates a noncompetitive atmosphere which is more comfortable for everyone. Lisa Galizia is a Registered Yoga Teacher® with the Yoga Alliance and a Certified Health and Wellness Coach. Galizia teaches group and custom private yoga and wellcoaching. For more information, please visit beecaveyoga.com.

All Ages Storytime @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Join us for All Ages Storytime at Laura’s Library. This program develops early literacy skills through story sharing and songs. All ages welcome! If the weather is comfortable, we may move outside. You’re invited to stay after Storytime to play with friends......More

\ \ \ \ \ Join us for All Ages Storytime at Laura’s Library. This program develops early literacy skills through story sharing and songs. All ages welcome! If the weather is comfortable, we may move outside. You’re invited to stay after Storytime to play with friends. Check our website for possible changes or cancellations.

Knitters @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ Our Knitters  meet for camaraderie and crafting every week. Flash your best needles, break out the good yarn, and come teach, be taught, or simply enjoy the glorious art of knitting! Crocheters, new knitters, and embroiderers welcome. Join the group every T......More

\ \ \ \ \ Our Knitters  meet for camaraderie and crafting every week. Flash your best needles, break out the good yarn, and come teach, be taught, or simply enjoy the glorious art of knitting! Crocheters, new knitters, and embroiderers welcome. Join the group every Thursday at noon in the Macklin Room at Westbank Library.  

“A Jungle Walk” with Elizabeth Kahura @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Through music and poetry, storyteller Elizabeth Kahura will share stories about animals on the African savanna.

Free Play @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Meet up with your friends at the world’s best play date. Your kids can play with each other, make new friends, use their imaginations, and just be kids. Fun for all ages!

Austin Reptiles Show @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ We’ll have Austin Reptile Shows at Laura’s, sharing their passion for all things slithery. Come learn about reptiles. You might even be able to hold one!

Fossil Show @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Austin Reptile Shows presents an interactive fossil program where children can explore prehistoric life up close. Featuring real fossils and hands-on learning, kids will discover how dinosaurs and ancient sea creatures once lived, what they ate, and how scien......More

\ \ \ \ \ Austin Reptile Shows presents an interactive fossil program where children can explore prehistoric life up close. Featuring real fossils and hands-on learning, kids will discover how dinosaurs and ancient sea creatures once lived, what they ate, and how scientists study them today. A fun, educational experience that brings paleontology to life.

Tech Help @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ Get help with technology from tech-savvy teen volunteers! Bring your devices (phones, tablets, laptops) or questions about social media, apps, and more to Westbank on Saturday afternoon. You will get one-on-one help with all your technology questions.

中文游乐园-Chinese Learning Playground @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ “中文游乐园-Chinese Learning Playground” is a Mandarin Chinese study group for school-age children. This program is led by volunteer native-Chinese-speaking parents, and teaches Chinese through an immersive setting to two tiers of learners — Advanced and Junior. ......More

\ \ \ \ \ “中文游乐园-Chinese Learning Playground” is a Mandarin Chinese study group for school-age children. This program is led by volunteer native-Chinese-speaking parents, and teaches Chinese through an immersive setting to two tiers of learners — Advanced and Junior. The Advanced group meets from 2:30 to 3:30pm, and is suitable for students already fluent in basic reading in Chinese. This school year, we are following the 6th-grade textbook 《中文》from Heritage Chinese. The Junior group meets from 3:30pm to 4:30pm, and typically hosts kids in elementary grades. This school year, we have started the 3rd-grade textbook 《中文》from Heritage Chinese. The lessons sometimes incorporate games, crafts, and puzzles to keep the learning fun and engaging. 中文游乐园-Chinese learning playground is currently organized by three volunteer parents: Xiaoqing Zhu, a research scientist working on video coding and streaming, who loves to recite Chinese poetry along with her daughter. Nan Jiang, a Ph.D. from UT Austin and the Data Science Practice Lead at her firm, has always been passionate about helping people, especially her kids, to understand and appreciate the rich Chinese culture and history, including its difficult-to-learn but fascinating language. Qiong Zeng, a data scientist on health fitness, mobile games and automobiles, has two daughters and enjoys teaching kids Chinese and about Chinese culture. Our weekly sessions are taught in rotation by a small group of like-minded parent volunteers.

Infant Storytime @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ You’re never too young for storytime! Our littlest book lovers stroll in to Infant Storytime to hear fun songs, stories, and fingerplays, followed by open free play with other wee ones. Designed for children from 0 to 12 months old.    ...More

\ \ \ \ \ You’re never too young for storytime! Our littlest book lovers stroll in to Infant Storytime to hear fun songs, stories, and fingerplays, followed by open free play with other wee ones. Designed for children from 0 to 12 months old.   

HYBRID: Writing Workshop @ Laura’s and Zoom

\ \ \ \ \ This week, the Writing Workshop is being offered simultaneously online and in-person from 5:00 to 6:30pm. Click here to join the program online, or come to Laura’s Li......More

\ \ \ \ \ This week, the Writing Workshop is being offered simultaneously online and in-person from 5:00 to 6:30pm. Click here to join the program online, or come to Laura’s Library to join us in-person. If you’re having difficulties, please refer to Zoom’s support information. Westbank Library is unable to provide tech assistance during the program. Please contact [email protected] if you would like to schedule tech help or if you would like additional information regarding this library program. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, you are welcome to join the Westbank Writing Workshop. Meet with other writers, and try your hand at some writing prompts. Please read these ground rules ahead of the conversation: Please keep your camera on for the discussion and provide your name. Mute if there is background noise. Respect the privacy of others by not reporting what you hear in this conversation with any specificity or attribution. Be respectful and listen when others are speaking. Allow everyone’s voice to be heard that wants to be heard.

All Ages Storytime @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Join us for All Ages Storytime at Laura’s Library. This program develops early literacy skills through story sharing and songs. All ages welcome! If the weather is comfortable, we may move outside. You’re invited to stay after Storytime to play with friends......More

\ \ \ \ \ Join us for All Ages Storytime at Laura’s Library. This program develops early literacy skills through story sharing and songs. All ages welcome! If the weather is comfortable, we may move outside. You’re invited to stay after Storytime to play with friends. Check our website for possible changes or cancellations.

Virtual Author Talk with Smithsonian Curator Paula J. Johnson

\ \ \ \ \ The Legacy of Julia Child’s Kitchen with Author and Smithsonian Curator Paula J. Johnson Click here to register for the virtual author talk. Join us for a conversation that’s sure to warm ......More

\ \ \ \ \ The Legacy of Julia Child’s Kitchen with Author and Smithsonian Curator Paula J. Johnson Click here to register for the virtual author talk. Join us for a conversation that’s sure to warm your heart (and make your stomach rumble), as we delve into the legacy of cooking icon Julia Child with Smithsonian curator and public historian Paula J. Johnson, author of Julia Child’s Kitchen: The Design, Tools, Stories, and Legacy of an Iconic Space. The book includes interviews with chefs who knew Julia well, commentary on her favorite culinary tools and kitchen gadgets, and a stunning array of photos. Julia Child’s 20’ x 14’ kitchen was a serious workspace and recipe‑testing lab that exuded a sense of mid‑century homey comfort. It has been on display at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., for most of the past twenty-three years, and museum goers have made it a top destination. The kitchen contains more than one thousand parts and pieces—tools, appliances, utensils, furniture, artwork, knick‑knacks, books, and bits of whimsy—all reflecting Julia’s status as an accomplished chef, gastronome, delightful cooking teacher, television trailblazer, women’s advocate, mentor, and generous, jovial friend. Julia Child’s Kitchen (and this online conversation) is a must‑have for every serious home cook and Julia Child fan. Register now to enter the discussion and learn more about how Julia Child continues to influence food today! About the Author:  Paula J. Johnson is a curator and public historian at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington, DC. She conducts research and collects objects relating to the history and culture of American food and serves as the Director of the Smithsonian’s Food History Project. Johnson was one of the curators who collected Julia Child’s home kitchen in 2001 and led the team that created FOOD: Transforming the American Table, a multi-layered exhibition that explores the major changes in food production, distribution, and consumption in the United States since the 1950s. She has shaped and contributed to many public programs on food history and leads the annual “Food History Weekend.” Johnson is the author of many articles and three books, including Julia Child’s Kitchen: The Design, Tools Stories, and Legacy of an Iconic Space (2024). She received the Smithsonian Distinguished Scholar in the Humanities Award in 2020. Johnson began her museum career at the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons, Maryland, and has worked at the Smithsonian since 1991. She is a member of the Association for the Study of Food and Society and Les Dames d’ Escoffier. She serves on the editorial collective for Gastronomica: The Journal for Food Studies. The views expressed by presenters are their own and their appearance in a program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Westbank Libraries. View previously broadcast author talks here: Westbank Library Virtual Author Talk Archive

Tuesday Mahjong @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ After lunch on Tuesday afternoons, join other adults at the library to visit and play games! We have lots of games available, but the game of choice right now is Mah Jong. For players of all skill levels (even beginners!). This program made po......More

\ \ \ \ \ After lunch on Tuesday afternoons, join other adults at the library to visit and play games! We have lots of games available, but the game of choice right now is Mah Jong. For players of all skill levels (even beginners!). This program made possible with a grant from Texas State Library and Archives Commission in partnership with the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Building Exploration @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ We’ll have building materials for you to stack, create, and construct with. What will you build? Turn on your imagination and meet friends at this fun program! 

Tech Help @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ Get help with technology from tech-savvy teen volunteers! Bring your devices (phones, tablets, laptops) or questions about social media, apps, and more to Westbank on Saturday afternoon. You will get one-on-one help with all your technology questions.

Preschool Play @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Each Wednesday at Laura’s, we’ll have self-directed playtime activities set up that are geared toward preschool-age kids. Children and their caregivers are welcome to come explore, create, and play with art and building supplies, sorting activities, puzzles, ......More

\ \ \ \ \ Each Wednesday at Laura’s, we’ll have self-directed playtime activities set up that are geared toward preschool-age kids. Children and their caregivers are welcome to come explore, create, and play with art and building supplies, sorting activities, puzzles, and more. Recommended for ages 3 to 5.

All Ages Storytime @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ Join us for All Ages Storytime at Westbank Library. This program develops early literacy skills through story sharing and songs. All ages welcome!

HYBRID: Reading and Speaking in German @ Laura’s and Zoom

\ \ \ \ \ Practice your German reading skills and learn some new vocabulary as we read short stories together and discuss. Our stories will be best suited to those in the upper beginner or intermediate level, but all are welcome to join! This week’s cla......More

\ \ \ \ \ Practice your German reading skills and learn some new vocabulary as we read short stories together and discuss. Our stories will be best suited to those in the upper beginner or intermediate level, but all are welcome to join! This week’s class will be taking place both in person at Laura’s Library and online through Zoom. Click here to join Reading & Speaking German, a live virtual program happening Wednesdays at 11 am. If you’re having difficulties, please refer to Zoom’s support information. Westbank Library is unable to provide tech assistance during the program. Please contact [email protected] if you would like to schedule tech help or if you would like additional information regarding this library program. Please read these ground rules ahead of the conversation: Please keep your camera on for the discussion and provide your name. Mute if there is background noise. Respect the privacy of others by not reporting what you hear in this conversation with any specificity or attribution. Be respectful and listen when others are speaking. Allow everyone’s voice to be heard that wants to be heard.

Prime of Life Yoga™ @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Prime of Life Yoga™ focuses on the contemporary teachings of yoga for Westerners, especially benefiting men and women 40 years and beyond. Safe, conservative and user friendly, this is an intelligent approach focusing on moving with the breath in dynamic and ......More

\ \ \ \ \ Prime of Life Yoga™ focuses on the contemporary teachings of yoga for Westerners, especially benefiting men and women 40 years and beyond. Safe, conservative and user friendly, this is an intelligent approach focusing on moving with the breath in dynamic and static movements, which helps to make the body-mind connection as well as warming up the joints and muscles. Modifications are demonstrated to suit the individual. This creates a noncompetitive atmosphere which is more comfortable for everyone. Lisa Galizia is a Registered Yoga Teacher® with the Yoga Alliance and a Certified Health and Wellness Coach. Galizia teaches group and custom private yoga and wellcoaching. For more information, please visit beecaveyoga.com.

All Ages Storytime @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Join us for All Ages Storytime at Laura’s Library. This program develops early literacy skills through story sharing and songs. All ages welcome! If the weather is comfortable, we may move outside. You’re invited to stay after Storytime to play with friends......More

\ \ \ \ \ Join us for All Ages Storytime at Laura’s Library. This program develops early literacy skills through story sharing and songs. All ages welcome! If the weather is comfortable, we may move outside. You’re invited to stay after Storytime to play with friends. Check our website for possible changes or cancellations.

Knitters @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ Our Knitters  meet for camaraderie and crafting every week. Flash your best needles, break out the good yarn, and come teach, be taught, or simply enjoy the glorious art of knitting! Crocheters, new knitters, and embroiderers welcome. Join the group every T......More

\ \ \ \ \ Our Knitters  meet for camaraderie and crafting every week. Flash your best needles, break out the good yarn, and come teach, be taught, or simply enjoy the glorious art of knitting! Crocheters, new knitters, and embroiderers welcome. Join the group every Thursday at noon in the Macklin Room at Westbank Library.  

Art for Teens: Whipped Clay Photo Frames @ Westbank

\ \ \ \ \ Teens and tweens, come get crafty after school at Westbank! Each month we will have a new project, and all materials will be provided. This program is intended for middle and high school students.

Free Play @ Laura’s

\ \ \ \ \ Meet up with your friends at the world’s best play date. Your kids can play with each other, make new friends, use their imaginations, and just be kids. Fun for all ages!