Storytime – Fall 2026
September 15 – November 21
View the Fall Storytime Schedule!
500 by Five

Help your child read 500 books by age five! Reading with your child helps them get read for school, increase their vocabulary, improve logical thinking, and more. See more information about 500 by Five and get started!
Earn an Honorary MLS!

We’re offering an opportunity for aspiring librarians to learn more about what we do and earn an honorary MLS (Mini Library Science) certificate! See more information about the Honorary MLS program and schedule an appointment!
Upcoming Events
If you need special accommodations for any Library event or program, please submit our Accommodations Request form as soon as possible. Learn about the holiday Dia De Los Muertos or Day of the Dead, a Mexican holiday celebrating family and heritage with activities and crafts. Dia De Los Muertos is a holiday about family and culture, celebrating and remembering those who have passed on. We will do some crafts and activities to recreate some traditional ways in which Dia De Los Muertos is celebrated. If you would like to bring pictures of family or loved ones to include we will be making collage 'ofrendas' or alters to honor passed loved ones. Have you ever wanted something 3D printed at the library, but weren't sure how? Now is your chance to learn! This introductory course will cover the basics of how a 3D printer works and how to use PrusaSlicer software. Learn how to find ready-to-print files online and submit them to the library for printing. No prior experience is needed. This is an in-person class held in the Computer Lab followed by a tour of the Makerspace. Attendees under 14 years old need to be accompanied by an adult for the entirety of the class and the adult should register for the class in addition to the child. Curious about Día de los Muertos? Come learn and make crafts so that you too can build your own ofrenda to remember your loved ones. ¿Curioso sobre el Día de los Muertos? Ven a aprender y hacer manualidades para que tú también puedas construir tu propia ofrenda para recordar a tus seres queridos. All are welcome to come learn about Día de los Muertos! Craft items for your own ofrendas and you'll be ready to set up your own ofrenda table to help you remember your loved ones. ¡Todos son bienvenidos a aprender sobre el Día de los Muertos! Elabora artículos para tus propias ofrendas y estarás listo para armar tu propia mesa de ofrendas para recordar a tus seres queridos. Learn to make fresh apple cider! Learn about the life cycle of apples from seeds to trees and fruit, see how a cider press works, then get hands-on and help make a batch of fresh apple cider! Please register each child who will attend (accompanying adults do not need to register). This program is rain-or-shine, and takes place at the pavilion at Cecil Park (19241 St Georges Church Rd, Valley Lee, MD 20692). This program will repeat at Leonardtown Library at 2pm: https://stmalib.libnet.info/event/17652850 Come dressed in your most patriotic outfit and learn how voting can make a difference in your community! This is a special storytime intended for participants with lower elementary abilities to learn why voting is such a big deal. We will talk about what voting is, read a story about voting, and cast our ballot to choose the design for our very own button! Register to reserve your spot--please use the Add More People button when registering to register every child who will be participating at the event. This event is intended to educate young citizens on what is happening during elections and why it matters. St. Mary's County Library does not support, endorse, or advocate the viewpoints or beliefs of any candidate, political party, non-partisan political organization, non-profit group or any other such individual or entity. Learn to make fresh apple cider! Learn about the life cycle of apples from seeds to trees and fruit, see how a cider press works, then get hands-on and help make a batch of fresh apple cider! Please register each child who will attend (accompanying adults do not need to register). This program is rain-or-shine; in case of bad weather we'll move indoors. Also check for seats at the 10am session at Cecil Park in Valley Lee: https://stmalib.libnet.info/event/17654139 This hands-on activity encourages creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork while transforming ordinary cardboard into a beetle. Using recycled cardboard, a ChompShop Saw, art supplies, and a little imagination, participants will build their own beetle sculpture. Register to reserve your spot. Walk-ins welcome as space allows. Library services on the Mobile Library include Wi-Fi access, library card services, crafts to go, and materials for checkout! While the Mobile Library collection is unavailable for holds, staff are able to assist with requests for books and materials from other Library locations. The Mobile Library can accept returns from any location, and materials checked out from the vehicle may be returned to any location. Intersection of Cochise Ct. and Hiawatha Cir. in Golden Beach Library services on the Mobile Library include Wi-Fi access, library card services, crafts to go, and materials for checkout! While the Mobile Library collection is unavailable for holds, staff are able to assist with requests for books and materials from other Library locations. The Mobile Library can accept returns from any location, and materials checked out from the vehicle may be returned to any location. 20331 Point Lookout Rd., Great Mills, MD 20634 Come to the library to get professional headshots done – of your baby! Wear your best clothes for a fun photoshoot and while you wait, hang out in our play area. When you’re done, you’ll have professional looking photos of your little one at no cost to you! Please register each group/family, and note how many children will be getting their photos taken within your group/family. Calling all tiny engineers! You're invited to design a train track, stack some magnets, and explore the joys of building. Join us in the thrill of the build with this hour of hands on, interactive play! Celebrate Bonfire Night at the library! Bonfire Night is an annual commemoration observed on November 5 in Great Britain. Learn about the treacherous Gunpowder Plot of 1605 and use our GlowForge to craft your own lantern. This program was designed with elementary aged children and tweens in mind. Please register each child that will be participating. Library services on the Mobile Library include Wi-Fi access, library card services, crafts to go, and materials for checkout! While the Mobile Library collection is unavailable for holds, staff are able to assist with requests for books and materials from other Library locations. The Mobile Library can accept returns from any location, and materials checked out from the vehicle may be returned to any location. Intersection of Tallwood Rd. and Leyland St., Wildewood It's a beautiful day in our children's book neighborhood. Stop by, pick a book off the shelf, and be read to by our librarian of the day. An informal chance to read and spend time with the youth librarians of the Lexington Park Library. Look for our red accordion stool to know it's time. All picture book lovers welcome. Books will be read in the order they are offered to our librarian. Make something new with something old. Drop in to try a variety of arts and craft mediums provided by the library. Use found objects to enhance your art and make it truly unique.
All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Register to receive a reminder email Find a large variety of gently used books in all categories with an even greater selection than in previous years. Don’t miss this opportunity to start your holiday shopping!
Member check-in begins at 9 a.m. Members-only shopping from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Open to the general public from 12 noon to 5 p.m Plenty of free parking. Cash, credit cards, and checks accepted. Memberships available at the door or in advance at https://folstmalib.wildapricot.org/join-us If you had a membership for the big spring sale, you're good for this one too! Celebrate fall with games and fun at the library! Prepare to get messy with some carnival games and an unbe-leaf-ably good time! Turn sound into color! An all ages event to explore how different styles of music can inspire unique works of art.
As the music changes, so do the colors, shapes, and textures—will a song make you paint bold zigzags, soft swirls, or something totally new? There’s no right or wrong, just express how music makes you feel. Perfect for young artists of all skill levels, this program encourages creativity, self-expression, and a whole lot of fun. Listen, move, and make your masterpiece! Come dressed for a mess! Therapy animals from Pets on Wheels are visiting the library! Friends of all ages are invited to practice reading with a furry friend, or just enjoy some pets and snuggles. Library services on the Mobile Library include Wi-Fi access, library card services, crafts to go, and materials for checkout! While the Mobile Library collection is unavailable for holds, staff are able to assist with requests for books and materials from other Library locations. The Mobile Library can accept returns from any location, and materials checked out from the vehicle may be returned to any location. Maritime Building The Library is closed in observance of Veterans Day. Library services on the Mobile Library include Wi-Fi access, library card services, crafts to go, and materials for checkout! While the Mobile Library collection is unavailable for holds, staff are able to assist with requests for books and materials from other Library locations. The Mobile Library can accept returns from any location, and materials checked out from the vehicle may be returned to any location. 21905 Chancellors Run Rd., Great Mills, MD 20634 Use our watercolor paint and supplies to practice your skills or explore a new medium! Meet new friends, create and build new things, or just chill out and snack as we enjoy the month's activities. Second Thursdays are Arts themed while Fourth Thursdays are STEM based. Create your own unique and beautiful art with non-traditional art supplies! This event is intended for ages 12 and up. There will be three stations available: making collages with natural and found materials, junk journaling, and rock painting! A wide selection of materials will be provided, but you are encouraged to bring any materials you find or have. Bring your junk journal if you have one, or make one here if you don't! Dress for a bit of a mess. No previous art experience required – simply come ready and willing to get creative. Bring your littles along to this Big & Little yoga class taught by Kathy Therrien! Children ages 3 to 10 are invited to join their caregivers at this morning yoga session. Mats will be available, but please feel free to bring your own yoga mat or a beach towel to use. Registration is required for this event. Stories and activities designed to get kids ready for life and self-care activities such as dressing, potty training, brushing teeth, eating lunch at school and more! A combination storytime and life skills event. October 9 we will be working on skills to get ready to eat lunch at school or daycare, building the fine motor skills to open food packaging. Registration opens 2 weeks before the event. Please register each child attending. It's a beautiful day in our children's book neighborhood. Stop by, pick a book off the shelf, and be read to by our librarian of the day. An informal chance to read and spend time with the youth librarians of the Lexington Park Library. Look for our red accordion stool to know it's time. All picture book lovers welcome. Books will be read in the order they are offered to our librarian. Explore the garden and go on guided nature walks with a Master Gardener! Family garden walks will be led by Master Gardener volunteer Deb Pence and other volunteer community garden enthusiasts in the Leonardtown Library’s “Front Yard Garden.” Activities and guided walks are developed for 3–6-year-olds, but the whole family is welcome to join in the explorations. Children must be accompanied by an adult and parents should note there will most likely be exposure to nuts, seeds and other plant parts as well as a variety of pollinators, so please be advised for potential allergens. A Fun exploration of seeds and fruits found in the garden for flowers, shrubs and trees. We have flower seeds & pods, shrub fruits and tree nuts to look at, feel and learn to associate with our garden plants. Registration is requested but drop-ins will be welcome. Walks will be approximately 30-40 minutes and loosely scheduled for 10:00 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Make a fall Suncatcher by gluing colorful tissue paper onto or pouring colored resin into frames made by our Glowforge laser cutter Need study help or a quiet place to do your homework? Learn from a librarian how to find and use library resources to support your learning during this dedicated time for practice and inquiry. This event is intended for elementary through high school-aged students and on a first-come, first-served basis; this is not meant for tutoring services but study guidance and support. Register for How To Run Your Own Games- Dungeon Mastering 101 Learn how to run your own game from home with tips and tools to make any night an adventure. Dungeons and Dragons will be the example used, but tips and tricks are usable across any game systems. Tabletop Role Playing Games promote creativity, problem solving skills, quick math, and more essential skills. Designed for neurodiverse children and families who may find our other storytimes overwhelming. Enjoy books, songs, and activities in a gentle environment to build early literacy skills while developing confidence and connection. This storytime is adapted for sensory sensitivities with lower lights and volume, predictable routines, visual supports, and flexible participation. Kids get a FREE headshot photo taken at our Library! Here's your chance to get a free, polished digital photo of your kids or family to use your way: keepsakes, announcements, holiday cards, and social media. Grab an appointment time while they last! Registration for this event is full. Register for Story & Craft: The Very Hungry Caterpillar Create your own caterpillar craft and bring it to life as we read "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle Please use the Add More People button when registering to register every child who will be participating. Library services on the Mobile Library include Wi-Fi access, library card services, crafts to go, and materials for checkout! While the Mobile Library collection is unavailable for holds, staff are able to assist with requests for books and materials from other Library locations. The Mobile Library can accept returns from any location, and materials checked out from the vehicle may be returned to any location. Intersection of Schirra St. and Sheppard Blvd. by the Lovell Cove Playground, NAS Patuxent River Register for Make a Character Keychain Devoted to a particular character? Have an original character design you want the world to see? Create a keychain to showcase your love! Add charms that represent them to further establish your rightful place as number 1 fan! Please feel free to bring reference images. Register for 3D Doodle Creatures Learn how to use a 3D doodle pen to create your own little character, animal, or monster.
A 3D pen extrudes heated plastic from the pen's nozzle that cools almost instantly into a solid, stable structure, allowing for the free-hand creation of three-dimensional objects. Templates will also be provided. For participants under age 14, caregivers must remain in the room in accordance with library policies. Caregivers are also welcome to participate! This event is intended for ages 12-18. Library services on the Mobile Library include Wi-Fi access, library card services, crafts to go, and materials for checkout! While the Mobile Library collection is unavailable for holds, staff are able to assist with requests for books and materials from other Library locations. The Mobile Library can accept returns from any location, and materials checked out from the vehicle may be returned to any location. 13820 Point Lookout Rd, Ridge, MD 20680 It's a beautiful day in our children's book neighborhood. Stop by, pick a book off the shelf, and be read to by our librarian of the day. An informal chance to read and spend time with the youth librarians of the Lexington Park Library. Look for our red accordion stool to know it's time. All picture book lovers welcome. Books will be read in the order they are offered to our librarian. Join the A Kid's Intro to Crochet! Waitlist Do you want to learn crochet but don’t know where to start? Come to the Makerspace and we'll show you how!
We’ll teach you how to start your crochet project with a slip knot, how to make a starting chain, single crochet stitches, and how to finish off a project. We will be making bookmarks! Please register each person participating. Anyone under the age of 14 must be accompanied at all times by a parent or guarding, following the Makerspace policies. Join the Lotería (Bingo) for Everyone! Waitlist It’s a family event! All ages can have fun learning Spanish while playing Loteria, a fun Bingo game. Fun prizes for the winners! ¡Es un evento familiar! Todas las edades pueden divertirse aprendiendo inglés mientras juegan a Lotería, un divertido juego de Bingo. ¡Premios divertidos para los ganadores! Join us for a morning of Loteria (Mexican Bingo) for all ages! The bingo boards have colorful pictures with Spanish words labeling the picture. Pictures will be called in Spanish and translated to English, giving you an opportunity to learn new Spanish or English words! Únase a nosotros para una mañana de Lotería para todas las edades! Los tableros de bingo tienen imágenes que se llamarán en español y se traducirán al inglés, ¡dándote la oportunidad de aprender nuevas palabras en español o inglés! Registration is Recommended. Walk-ins welcome as space allows. Se recomienda registrarse. Se admiten personas sin cita previa según lo permita el espacio. Drop in to use our button maker with a provided selection of images, or bring/draw your own! Participants can make up to 10 buttons each. A button cutter will also be available to cut out any images brought in. The desired image must be 1.5 inches. This event is intended for upper elementary children, tweens, and teens. Make your own origami creations out of paper! Learn how to fold cats, cranes, frogs, hearts, and more. Origami paper and instructions will be available. Registration is not required for this event. This event was designed for an upper elementary, tween, teen, and adult audience. Register for SOMD Improv Live! At The Library Join us for a family-friendly night filled with laughs thanks to our friends at SOMD Improv Comedy Club! Become part of the show as they use YOUR prompts and ideas to make an unforgettable show. Learn more about SOMD Improv Comedy Club at https://www.facebook.com/somdimprovcomedy/ What are you thankful for? Celebrate gratitude with coloring and crafts inspired by Thanksgiving, including making "Thank You" cards for the residents of our local Veterans Home. ALSO: Any time from Nov. 3 - Nov. 25 you can drop off a "Thank You" card to our local Veterans in our mailbox in the Leonardtown Library children's area. They will be delivered to our friends at the Charlotte Hall Veterans Home following the program. Designed for neurodiverse children and families who may find traditional storytimes overwhelming. Enjoy books, songs, and activities in a gentle environment to build early literacy skills while developing confidence and connection. This storytime is adapted for sensory sensitivities with lower lights and volume, predictable routines, visual supports, and flexible participation. The Library will close at 5 p.m. for Thanksgiving. The Library is closed in observance of Thanksgiving. The Library is closed in observance of Native American Heritage Day. A hands-on rock painting workshop where participants can explore painting techniques and vibrant colors with smooth river or garden stones. Painted rocks are great for brightening up any outdoor space, used as desk decor or paperweights, or given as a remarkably one-of-a-kind gift! No art experience is required; all supplies will be provided. Register for a reminder email, all walk-ins are welcome! Still riding that post-holiday food coma? Join us for a cozy crafting session where the only thing you'll need to leave your couch for is some hot cocoa and creative inspiration. Drop by anytime during the event to work on simple, no-pressure projects perfect for all ages—think paper snowflakes, button making, or festive fuse bead projects with all supplies provided. Come solo, bring the whole crew, or swing by for just a few minutes; it's all about unwinding together in a warm, welcoming space with a toasty beverage and crafty vibes. Hot cocoa and tea provided. Feel free to bring your own mug or use one of ours! An all-ages chess social hang-out! Drop in and out to play as needed, no experience required. Staff will be available to assist those who haven't played before. Do you like reading? Do you like talking about what books you're reading with people who love reading as much as you do? Do you like crafts and book related activities? Join us for our kids book club! Participants can bring in and discuss whatever they're reading, whether it's novels, graphic novels, nonfiction books, audiobooks, etc., participate in a craft, and enjoy refreshments with peers.
Dia De Los Muertos Celebration: Day of the Dead Celebration
Intro to 3D Printing
Día de los Muertos: How-to and crafts to decorate your ofrenda
Amazing Apples: Cider-Making Demo
What's the Deal with Voting? Special Storytime
Amazing Apples: Cider-Making Demo
ChompSaw Beetle Build

Mobile Library Stop at Cochise Ct.

Mobile Library Stop at St. Mary's Caring Soup Kitchen

Baby Headshots
Tracks and Stacks
Registration is not required for this event. This event was designed with preschoolers, toddlers, and lower elementary students in mind. Bonfire Night: Lantern Craft
Mobile Library Stop at Leyland Park-Wildewood

Our Library Neighborhood: Informal Story Hour
Arts and Crafts Day for All - Found Object Art Edition
Aprons will be available for use, but please wear clothing that can get messy.Friends of the St. Mary's County Library Fall Book Sale
Fall Fest Carnival Games
Rhythm & Hues: Art Inspired by Music
Paws to Read

Mobile Library Stop at Piney Point Lighthouse Museum
44720 Lighthouse Rd., Piney Point, MD 20674
Library Closed
Mobile Library Stop at Loffler Senior Center

Tween/Teen Thursdays: Watercolor Painting
Cozy Crafting With Found Objects
Big & Little Yoga Class
Little Life Skills
November 13 we will be focused on utensil use, strengthing confidence to use spoons, knives, and forks. Our Library Neighborhood: Informal Story Hour
Tots in the Front Yard: Sleepy Seeds in the Front Yard
Fall Leaf Suncatchers
Homework Resources in the Library
How To Run Your Own Games- Dungeon Mastering 101: Dungeons & Dragons, and beyond!
Sensory Friendly Storytime @ Leonardtown Library
Headshots Jr.
Story & Craft: The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Mobile Library Stop at Lovell Cove

Make a Character Keychain
3D Doodle Creatures

Mobile Library Stop at Ridge Volunteer Fire Department

Our Library Neighborhood: Informal Story Hour
A Kid's Intro to Crochet!
Lotería (Bingo) for Everyone!: Bilingual Spanish & English
Button Making Open Hours

Origami Workshop
SOMD Improv Live! At The Library
I'm Thankful!
Sensory Friendly Storytime at Lexington Park Library
Library Closing at 5 p.m.
Library Closed
Library Closed
Rock Painting: Art for All Ages

Cocoa Crafternoon
Lexington Park Chess Day
The Book Worm Club: A Kid's Book Club
Please note that library staff may be taking photos of any or all events to use for future library publications. Event participants’ photos may be used without notification or compensation. If you do not feel comfortable having your photo taken, please inform library staff when you arrive to an event.




















