Hedberg Public Library: Library Programs, Events, & Exhibits in November 2025

Janesville Buzz

Posted On: October 22, 2025

Hedberg Public Library

(608) 758-6600

316 S Main St , Janesville

https://www.hedbergpubliclibrary.org/

Sharpen your writing skills in community with other writers at the library during National Novel Writing Month. Saturdays November 1, 8, and 15 will feature craft-focused workshops led by other writers. Space is limited and registration is suggested.

November 13 is National Philanthropy Day, marking the impact of the philanthropic community and the perfect time to learn more about a free library resource for nonprofit grantseekers—Foundation Directory. HPL Public Services Librarian Kasey Weiland is offering personalized demos of this powerful research tool. Visit the library website to learn more and register for an in-person meeting.

The Friends of Hedberg Public Library will a host fundraiser at GR’s Sandwich Shoppe (2100 E. Milwaukee St.) on Wednesday, November 19 from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. A portion of all sales during that time will be donated to help support library programs and services. Additionally, the Friends of HPL Used Book Sale will be held from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Friday, November 21 and Saturday, November 22 in the HPL Program Room. Saturday will feature a $6 bag sale. All proceeds benefit library programs and services.

Hedberg Public Library, 316 S. Main St., is open Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. HPL Express, located inside Uptown Janesville at 2500 Milton Ave., is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Both library locations will open at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, November 11 to accommodate employee training. Both will be closed on Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28 in observance of Thanksgiving.

EXHIBITS:

ART: Pencil Drawing & Acrylic Paint by Lily Jacob, Graphite & Charcoal Drawings by Rio Andras Ramirez

CASE: Native American Sacred Places Photography by Kim Hoholek

STORYTIMES:

BABIES IN THE LIBRARY for kids & families 

Wednesdays at 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

November 5-19

PROGRAM ROOM

Start growing your reader with rhymes, songs, and simple books. Develop early literacy skills at this interactive storytime for our youngest patrons. No registration necessary. 

WIGGLE & RHYME for kids & families 

Thursdays at 9:30 & 10:30 a.m.

November 6-20

PROGRAM ROOM

Join us for an interactive storytime featuring books, songs, action rhymes, puppets and more that incorporates the five practices of early literacy: READ, WRITE, TALK, SING & PLAY. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers with their caregivers. All ages welcome. No registration necessary. 

SENSE-ATIONAL STORYTIME for kids & families

Fridays at 9:45 a.m.

November 7-14

PROGRAM ROOM

Join us for a 15-minute playtime, followed by 30 minutes of interactive stories, songs, and activities. This sensory-friendly storytime is specially designed for library friends with sensory processing challenges or other developmental challenges, but all are welcome. A visual schedule, fidgets, and more will be provided. No registration necessary.

COMMUNITY OFFICE HOURS: 

SOCIETY’S ASSETS

Mondays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

November 3-24

STUDY ROOM 4

Society's Assets is a local nonprofit that provides independent living services supporting individuals of any age with any disability who live in Racine, Kenosha, Walworth, Rock, and Jefferson counties. No registration necessary.

PROJECT 16:49

Tuesdays from 2-5 p.m.

November 4 & 18

STUDY ROOM 5

Project 16:49 is a local non-profit serving Rock County’s unaccompanied homeless youth, ages 14-21. Project 16:49 ensures every young person has access to the services and support they need to remain in school, graduate, and become self-sufficient adults. Services include emergency food and shelter, Foodshare enrollment, safe housing, hygiene and school supplies, clothing, assistance in obtaining birth certificates and social security cards, physical and mental health care, and more. No registration necessary.

COMMUNITY ACTION INC.

Wednesdays from 3-5 p.m.

November 5 & 19

STUDY ROOM 4

Community Action, Inc. (CAI) is a not-for-profit organization offering programs to fight poverty in Rock and Walworth counties in Wisconsin. No registration necessary.

BOOK CLUBS:

WELLNESS BOOK CLUB for teens & adults

Thursday, November 6, 6:30 p.m.

FIREPLACE ROOM

Explore topics from science and spirituality to health and habits, and everything in between. November's book is Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover. No registration necessary.

NON-FICTION KNOWS NO BOUNDS for adults

Wednesday, November 19 at 6 p.m.

FIREPLACE ROOM

Read and discuss Not Quite States of America by Doug Mack. No registration necessary.

MONDAYS ARE MURDER for adults

Monday, November 17 at 1:30 p.m.

WOODRUFF ROOM

Read and discuss Breathless by Amy McCulloch. No registration necessary.

READING ON THE ROCK for adults

Thursday, November 20 at 6:30 p.m.

WOODRUFF ROOM

Read and discuss The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon. No registration necessary.

OTHER RECURRING: 

READING MENAGERIE: GREET THE CREATURES for ages 5-12

November 1 - April 30

CHILDREN’S ROOM

Build your magical menagerie and meet the newest creatures in the mix! Register and pick up your Reading Tracker to start collecting cards. Readers earn ONE CARD for every 30 minutes tracked.

TECHNOLOGY OFFICE HOURS for adults

Thursdays at 11 a.m. & 12 p.m.

November 6 & 20

HPL EXPRESS | UPTOWN JANESVILLE, 2500 MILTON AVE.

Wednesdays at 10 & 11 a.m.

November 12 & 26

STUDY ROOM 1

Sign up for a 45-minute tech help appointment with Tyler, HPL’s Innovation Librarian. Get help with a new device, troubleshoot tech problems, or learn a new skill! Walk-ins are welcome, but registration is recommended. Call 608-758-5833 or email tkellman@hedbergpubliclibrary.org to make an appointment. 

CHESS CLUB

Saturdays from 1-3 p.m.

November 8-29

WOODRUFF ROOM

Play, learn, or watch with chess Life Master and former WI State Champion, Peter Webster. No registration necessary. *No Chess Club on Saturday, November 1.

READ-IN WITH MARY for ages 5-11

Mondays from 3:30-5 p.m.

November 3-24

CHILDREN’S ROOM

Bring or choose your own reading material for some cozy silent reading with Mary the Comfort Dog. Take turns reading aloud if you'd like! No registration necessary.

MONDAY NIGHT MAGIC for teens & adults

Mondays from 5-7 p.m.

November 3 & 17

LAB 316

We invite you to experience the captivating world of Magic: The Gathering, whether you're a skilled player or a curious newcomer. We would be delighted to teach you the fundamentals if you're unfamiliar or join in a game or two if you are an experienced player. Join us for an immersive adventure where every move shapes the outcome. No registration necessary.

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS for adults  

Mondays from 5-7 p.m.

November 10 & 24

WOODRUFF ROOM

Calling all new and experienced adventurers (ages 18+)! The library's new Dungeon Master is ready to lead you through epic quests and thrilling campaigns. Whether you're a seasoned player or curious to try Dungeons & Dragons for the first time, all are welcome to play. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online, at the library, or call 608-758-6600.

FEATURED PROGRAMS

CHESS TOURNAMENT for all ages

Saturday, November 1

From 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

PROGRAM ROOM

Four rounds (each player plays four games). Rounds: 10:00, 11:30, 1:30, and 3:00. Open to everyone residing in Rock County. No entry fee. Young entrants (elementary school age or younger) should be accompanied by an adult. Each participant will play four games. Players will have 30 minutes to complete the game. Players will be matched against others with similar scores in each round. Registration is required. Register by Thursday, October 30^th by emailing Mark Lencho at marklencho@gmail.com. For questions, call or text Mark at 608-718-8171.

WOOD CARVING DEMO for all ages

Saturday, November 1

From 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

ATRIUM

Visit with members of the Rock River Valley Woodcarvers and learn the skills of their craft. No registration is necessary.

WRITING WORKSHOPS for adults

Saturdays at 11 a.m.

WOODRUFF ROOM

Sharpen your skills and meet other writers during our series of workshops. Registration is required for each session. Register online, at the library, or call 608-758-6600.

November 1: Novel Plotting and Structuring 101

Presented by Sally Collins

Examine the arc of scenes and stories, the importance of getting to know your characters, and various methods and templates to (loosely) plan and plot. Take a peek at how famous authors outlined their novels to remind ourselves not many (if any) can sit and write a brilliant novel from start to finish.

November 8: Independent Publishing Basics for Beginners

Presented by Noelle Powers and Jill Kiesow

Gain a clear understanding of self-publishing, small presses, ISBNs, copyrights, editing strategies, and more in this workshop designed to help you prepare, polish, and publish your work.

November 15: Presenting Your Piece with Panache - The Art of Public Reading

Presented by PJA Fullerton

Learn how to confidently present your work to an audience - from festival panels to agent meetings. Discover practical techniques to engage listeners, read with emotion, and bring your writing to life without needing theatrical flair.

CODING CAMP for ages 9-12

Mondays at 4 p.m.

November 3, 10, & 17

PROGRAM ROOM

Join us for 3 weeks of coding skills development and guided play using a variety of robot toys and games. Kids will learn and/or review some basics of coding, then practice their skills each week with time for sharing and feedback. Registration is required for each child attending and space is limited. Register once for all 3 sessions. Register online, at the library, or call 608-758-6585.

FAMILY BOOK SWAP TASTY BINGO for kids & families

Tuesday, November 4, 6 p.m.

PROGRAM ROOM

Play bingo for the library's favorite prize: books! Participate by bringing in 1-2 lightly used books (the tastier the better!*) per person for our prize table. Bingo winners will pick out a book prize to take home and leftover books will be donated to the Friends of the Library. Intended for families with elementary-aged children and their caregivers. *Don’t have any tasty tales? No problem! Any book will do. Registration recommended but not required. Register online, at the library, or call 608-758-6585.

CHAIR YOGA for teens & adults  

Wednesday, November 5, 6 p.m.

PROGRAM ROOM

Join us for a gentle yoga class perfect for anyone with mobility or balance challenges, or for those who work while seated. Chair provided. Please bring any other props you like to use for yoga. No registration necessary. Participate at your own risk and let the instructor know of any injuries or modifications before the program. Part of our Healthy @ Hedberg Initiative. 

HEDBERG HARMONY: SOUTHERN WISCONSIN DULCIMER CLUB for all ages

Saturday, November 8, 10 a.m.

FIREPLACE ROOM

Enjoy relaxing dulcimer music on the 2nd Saturday of each month. No registration necessary.

PORTABLE PLANETARIUM:

SKY TONIGHT for kids & families

Saturday, November 8, 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.

HPL EXPRESS

Explore the wonders of the universe, where children and their families will witness the transformation from day to night while learning about the constellations and planets visible in their neighborhoods. This program is for children in kindergarten and older, accompanied by their caregivers. Please register each member of your family attending the program. Registration is required and seating is limited. Register online, at the library, or call 608-758-6585.

PERK UP & PUZZLE for adults  

Monday, November 10, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

PROGRAM ROOM

Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and some conversation while we work on a featured puzzle or brain game together - or to take it home to do it yourself. No registration necessary.

ASK A LIBRARIAN: GRANT SEARCHING for adults

Monday, November 10, 2-3 p.m.

Wednesday, November 12, 4-5 p.m.

Thursday, November 13, 10-11 a.m.

Friday, November 14, 2-3 p.m.

STUDY ROOM 7

Celebrate National Philanthropy Week this year by learning about Foundation Directory! Meet one-on-one with Kasey Weiland, Public Services Librarian, to get a personalized demo of the most extensive, up-to-date resource available for finding funders. Save time and let Foundation Directory do the hard work for you! Registration is required and is restricted to three people per appointment (you plus two). Register online, at the library, or call 608-758-6600.

SAVOR THE BOOK COOKBOOK CLUB for adults

Tuesday, November 11, 6 p.m.

PROGRAM ROOM

Celebrate your inner chef! Test recipes, post pics of your success (don’t forget to tag us!), then bring your favorites to share at our meetup.

Fall title: PlantYou: Scrappy Cooking by Carleigh Bodrug

ADOPT-A-PET AT THE LIBRARY for all ages

Wednesday, November 12, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

ATRIUM

Meet adorable adoptable pets from the Humane Society of Southern Wisconsin. No registration necessary.

EVENING YOGA for teens & adults

Wednesday, November 12, 6 p.m.

PROGRAM ROOM

Join us for a beginner-friendly gentle Vinyasa Yoga class. Bring your own yoga mat or towel and any props you may prefer (blocks or strap) and water. No registration necessary.

CASUAL CRAFTERS for teens & adults

Thursday, November 13, 5:30-7 p.m.

LAB 316

Create a crafting community! Bring your current project or start a new one, browse our new Little Free Lab 316 craft supplies, and meet other crafters. No registration necessary.

BOOK TALK: KARYN SAEMANN for adults

Thursday, November 13, 6 p.m.

PROGRAM ROOM

Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a book talk from the Wisconsin author of Electa Quinney: Stockbridge Teacher. Hear stories of the research Karyn gathered and learn what she discovered during her journey that did not make it into the book. This book is part of the Badger Biographies Series and has received the Moonbean Children's Book Awards. No registration necessary.

HOMEBUYERS WORKSHOP for adults

Saturday, November 15, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

PROGRAM ROOM

presented by NeighborWorks - Blackhawk Region

sponsored by City of Janesville, Associated Bank, Blackhawk Community Credit Union, Summit Credit Union, Johnson Bank, First Mid Bank and Trust, First National Bank and Old National Bank

Join us for a full-day workshop that will walk you through the steps in the home buying process. Lunch will be provided. Registration is required. To register, please contact by phone 608.362.9051 ext. 20, email homebuying@nwbr.org, or text 608.313.7809.

MEMORY CAFÉ: THANKSGIVING for adults

Monday, November 17, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

PROGRAM ROOM

Celebrate the history of Thanksgiving and the gift of gratitude. A Memory Café is a social gathering for individuals who are experiencing early-stage memory loss or dementia and attend with a family member, friend, or a care partner. It is a safe and welcoming space to connect, find support, and enjoy a sense of community and purpose. Registration is required. Register by calling ADRC’s Dementia Care Specialist Karen Tennyson at 608-741-3615.

HEDBERG HARMONY: ROCK RIVER STRING BAND  for all ages

Monday, November 17, 2 p.m.

FIREPLACE ROOM

Listen to live music by local musicians. No registration necessary.

BREASTFEEDING VILLAGE: EDUCATION & COMMUNITY FOR NEW MOMS  for adults

Tuesday, November 18, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

PROGRAM ROOM

presented by Rock County Nutrition Health Associates (WIC)

Learn the ‘How Tos’ of nursing and pumping! Find comradery with other moms, explore common questions and concerns, and overcome those obstacles as a breastfeeding community. Registration required. Call Nutrition and Health Associates at 608-893-7014 or email annikard@nhawic.org.

GR’S SANDWICH SHOPPE FUNDRAISER

Wednesday, November 19, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

GR’S SANDWICH SHOPPE, 2100 E MILWAUKEE ST

Support the Friends of HPL in a most delicious way! Stop by to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner and a portion of the proceeds will benefit library programs and services.

BOOKS AND BREWS: TRIVIA NIGHT for adults

Wednesday, November 19, 6:30 p.m.

ROCK COUNTY BREWING COMPANY, 10 North Parker Drive

Enjoy three rounds of trivia, puzzles, and games. Play along for prizes or watch for fun. Bring a non-perishable item and get a drink discount and help us restock the Echo Foodbank shelves! No registration necessary.

USED BOOK SALE for all ages

Friday & Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

November 21 & 22

PROGRAM ROOM

Stock up and support your library. $6 bag sale all day Saturday. All proceeds benefit library programs and services. No registration necessary.

TWEEN TEAM: FRIENDSGIVING for ages 9-12  

Monday, November 24, 3:30-5 p.m.

PROGRAM ROOM

Play games & help with fun projects. Dress for mess & activities! Registration is required. Register online, at the library, or call 608-758-6600. Geared for tweens aged 9-12. Younger and older siblings, friends/family are not invited to attend.