This year VBDL is bringing the world to Southwest Michigan with events inspired by countries around the globe!
Throughout 2023 we are inviting our patrons to travel Around the World with VBDL. To keep track of where you go, we will provide a VBDL passport. Inside the passport, one side will track countries and the other side will track continents. Every VBDL branch will have programming throughout the year covering different countries and in the summer each branch will cover a continent. Every time you travel to a country or continent (i.e. attend a program), you’ll get a stamp in your passport and a small prize! If you travel to at least 3 countries or at least 1 continent, you’ll get entered for a grand prize basket of snacks from around the world!
You can fill up your passport by traveling to countries or continents at any VBDL branch! So pack your bags and let’s go!
See the Around the World with VBDL events below or check on our online calendar for all of VBDL’s events!
Please note: Some events may need registration as space may be limited. Please check the online calendar or call the library to see if registration is needed.
January
Friday, January 6, 3pm – Covert Branch: Mexico
Learn about Dia de los Reyes Magos and enjoy some yummy Rosca!
Saturday, January 14, 10am – Lawrence Branch: India
What is the difference between yoga based in India VS western practices? Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat if you have one!
Thursday, January 19, 5pm – Bangor Branch: Mexico
Join us for a class on how to make homemade tortillas.
Saturday, January 28, 11am – Antwerp Sunshine Branch: Jamaica
Enjoy some sunshine with fun outdoor activities, crafts, and food.
Saturday, January 28, 11am – Lawrence Branch: India
Learn about the tradition and application of henna.
February
Tuesday, February 7, all day – Bloomingdale Branch: New Zealand
Pick up a kit to make fairy bread, a sweet and simple treat!
Tuesday, February 21, 4pm – Antwerp Sunshine Branch: USA (New Orleans)
Let the good times roll with food, crafts, and games to celebrate Mardi Gras!
Wednesday, February 22, 6pm – Bloomingdale Branch: New Zealand
Join us for a jewelry making class inspired by New Zealand.
Saturday, February 25, 11am – Lawrence Branch: India
Stop by the library for some festival treats and crafts to learn about Holi, the Festival of Colors!
March
Gobles Branch: All month long
Keep your eyes peeled for a bookmark design challenge during March!
We challenge you to include some design aspect inspired by one of the countries that Gobles is highlighting throughout the year: Andorra, San Marino, Thailand, and Niue!
Monday, March 13, 6pm – Bloomingdale Branch: Greece
Learn how to make Tiropitakia bread, with samples to and the ingredients for you to make at home.
Tuesday, March 14, 5pm – Covert Branch: Liberia
Come and learn about the history and culture of Liberia during a special visitor’s talk.
Wednesday, March 22, 3:15pm – Webster Memorial Branch: England
Teens are cordially invited to an English-style tea party.
Saturday, March 25, 11am – Lawrence Branch: India
Learn about kites in India and enjoy some yummy treats and crafts.
Wednesday, March 29, 3:30pm – Bloomingdale Branch: Greece
Love Greek mythology? Kids are invited to make their own Cyclops eye and slingshot inspired by the famous ancient Greek stories!
Thursday, March 30, 5pm – Bangor Branch: France
Learn about French cuisine and a little taste of the language.
April
Monday, April 3, 10am – Webster Memorial Branch: Poland
Join us for a science day and dye some eggs!
