On the agenda: Verona meeting — flock camera (Jan 7)

AGENDA
Library Board of Trustees-Verona Public Library
500 Silent Street Verona, WI 53593
608-845-7180
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
Library Conference Room

Call to order
• Approval of the Regular Meeting Minutes of 12/3/25
• Review and approval of the December 2025 and early January 2026 invoices
• Public Comments
• City Council Liaison’s report
• Library Director's report
• Old Business
1. Discussion and update on the Library Space Needs Assessment
• New Business
1. Discussion and possible action regarding 2025 and 2026 library director goals

Meeting Minutes
Library Board of Trustees-Verona Public Library
500 Silent Street Verona, WI 53593
608-845-7180
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
Library Conference Room

Attendees: Spencer, Hopp, Jones, Kellor, Miller, Burkart, Conwell
Hopp called meeting to order 6:32
Approval of November Meeting Minutes
Spencer Correction: Spencer wasn’t here
Kellor motioned to approve, Jones seconded, Motion carried
Review and Approval of Nov. 2025 Invoices
Jones: Requested color change to negative balances
Conwell: Went over on adult events
Spencer motioned to approve, Miller seconded, Motion carries
Public Comments: none
City Council Liaison's Report:
• Passed budget, not eventful
• Voted to not renew contract with flock cameras
• A lot of comments about Backques property
• Additional public works space need
• Moving forward with Skatepark design
• Approved development of Range Trail property
Library Director’s Report:
• Burkart reviewed the contents of the director’s report.
• Community member donated $5,000.
Old Business:
1. Discussion and update on the Library Space Needs Assessment
o Will continue to discuss the possibility of creating a new building (consider: donors, OPN
suggestions, land and utility costs, proposals to donors, etc).
o Hopp will have conversations with OPN and come back in next few meetings with next
step ideas.
New Business:
1. Discussion and possible action regarding the Dane County 2026 Extension of Service
Agreement
o Conwell motioned to approve, Spencer seconded, Motion carried

2. Discussion and possible action regarding the 2026 endowment disbursement

o
o

Burkart presented a proposal to host a spring Artist-in-Residence and fall travelling
exhibit from the Smithsonian called A New Moon Rises: Views from the Lunar
Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera using 2026 endowment disbursement funds.
Kellor motioned to approve, Jones seconded, Motion carried

Director’s Report
Verona Public Library
December 2025
Circulation
Items circulated: this includes all items checked out and renewed from the library, including
items requested by patrons from other libraries.
Items
Circulated
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Total

2025

2024

2023

2022

2021

49,310
44,262
52,126
47,280
46,806
58,000
61,051
55,597
47,037
45,869
42,023
44,901
594,262

48,218
47,599
50,433
45,552
43,352
57,330
60,127
55,179
46,523
47,097
46,203
44,005
591,618

47,722
46,003
52,026
46,674
44,226
59,454
58,102
58,081
45,429
47,785
44,975
43,655
594,132

46,024
42,218
49,314
47,514
42,775
52,827
52,448
55,184
45,066
42,440
43,939
42,000
561,749

29,669
28,925
36,647
31,448
32,633
52,142
52,220
51,007
42,894
43,527
43,507
39,089
483,708

New Library Cards: The number of new library accounts created each month for patrons who
reside in the City of Verona, does not reflect patrons’ “home library” selection.
New Library
2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
Cards
January
212
171
188
119
27
February
106
176
137
149
36
March
212
189
176
155
24
April
119
150
152
129
36
May
108
124
142
140
71
June
197
262
290
344
179
July
206
217
218
239
160
August
207
195
212
206
129
September
121
136
141
141
105
October
114
187
170
150
99
November
122
148
119
144
64
December
111
117
128
122
87
Total
1,835
2,072
2,073
2,038
1,017

Holds Filled: Number of items checked out from our hold shelves per month, includes items
pulled from our collection and items sent from other SCLS libraries.
2025
2024
2023
2022
2021
Holds Filled
January
12,733
11,436
11,882
12,153
15,287
February
10,100
11,303
10,432
9,722
15,255
March
11,003
11,091
12,068
10,837
16,760
April
11,034
10,423
10,065
10,780
14,262
May
11,057
10,275
10,358
9,446
11,915
June
11,357
10,845
11,473
10,202
11,985
July
11,440
10,819
9,537
10,912
11,910
August
10,781
11,192
10,631
10,644
10,827
September
10,620
10,496
10,395
10,962
10,740
October
10,847
10,678
9,434
11,324
10,363
November
10,210
10,129
9,839
10,114
9,431
December
9,743
9,665
9,010
9,761
9,909
Total
130,464
129,014
129,257
121,986
149,181

Reference
Reference Statistics November 2025
Computer Lab Use: 708
Test Proctoring: 6 exams
Outer Library Loans: 40 requests
Personal Archiving Lab Sessions: 5
Library Visits: the number of people who pass through the front entrance of the library, as recorded by
the automated people counting sensor.
Library Visits

2025

2024

2023

2022

2021

January

18,476

16,183

16,114

10,780

0

February

17,627

18,492

15,945

11,193

0

March

20,406

19,457

18,160

13,628

0

April

20,127

17,727

18,062

16,488

2,889

May

18,158

17,169

16,049

12,366

5,015

June

24,154

23,528

22,204

16,624

11,757

July

25,821

23,261

20,232

17,057

13,407

August

23,134

22,187

22,619

18,830

13,267

September

17,974

17,053

14,958

13,890

10,746

October

19,427

19,832

17,011

14,009

10,346

November

16,624

16,116

16,152

15,729

9,371

December

17,187

15,805

16,190

13,552

10,562

Total

239,115

226,810

213,696

174,146

87,360

Reference Questions: Number of questions answered per month that qualify as reference questions as
defined by the WI Department of Public Instruction.
Reference
Questions
January

2025

2024

2023

2022

2021

1,338

1,929

1,640

1,061

821

February

1,260

2,161

1,638

1,653

924

March

1,489

1,989

1,830

1,758

1,347

April

1,747

2,004

1,896

1,226

948

May

1,223

1,995

2,031

1,117

1,085

June

1,678

2,638

2,487

2,183

2,200

July

1,734

2,144

2,058

1,691

2,365

August

1,519

2,242

2,331

2,075

1,847

September

1,491

1,490

1,837

1,341

1,543

October

1,492

1,804

1,840

1,566

581

November

1,235

1,340

1,836

1,628

458

December

1,307

1,431

1,835

1,356

721

Total

17,513

23,394

23,259

18,655

14,840

Meeting/Study Room Use: The total number of meeting room reservations for the Community Room,
Conference Room, and Study Rooms each month as recorded by library room reservation software.
Meeting/Study
Room Use
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Total

2025

2024

2023

2022

2021

647

560

474

164

-

636

674

487

206

-

661

575

524

272

-

675

569

506

305

-

606

551

509

328

-

565

519

422

314

-

636

490

423

316

-

565

499

538

411

-

588

521

172

327

-

664

676

512

398

-

554

634

528

453

-

529

591

495

396

-

7,326

6,859

5,590

3,890

0

Collection Management
Three new items were added to the Adult Kits collection: a graphing calculator, mini hot air gun,
and an infrared temperature gun.
Number of items added to and deleted from the library collection through November 2025:
Items
Added
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
Sept.
October
November
December
Total
Items
Deleted
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
Sept.
October
November
December
Total

Books

Audio

589
863
711
1077
1119
707
807
727
878
834
767
611
9690

3
1
50
3
3
15
44
19
10
2
3
23
176

Books

Audio

612
502
758
613
1126
674
1174
253
592
454
1200
558
8516

2
1
267
323
5
5
10
4
12
6
63
3
702

Video
games
2
2
14
9
12
11
6
4
16
23
9
4
112
Video
games
0
1
0
1
0
13
20
1
1
1
1
2
41

Video

Other

Magazines

Total

23
4
54
34
23
32
29
35
29
58
14
26
361

12
11
1
13
5
7
3
6
5
17
11
10
101

130
128
129
129
125
130
100
130
143
131
90
137
1,502

759
1009
959
1265
1287
902
989
921
1081
1065
894
811
11,942

Video

Other

Magazines

Total

5
0
7
551
4
25
32
61
796
647
14
1
2143

35
1
19
1
1
0
12
1
1
0
1
0
72

482
39
132
116
204
13
52
98
323
0
29
178
1666

1136
544
959
1605
1340
730
1300
418
1725
1108
1308
742
13,140

Personnel and Staff Development
Theresa, Stacey, Jenny, and Mark attended SCLS migration webinars.

Jenny attended the ALA Games and Gaming Round Table New Member Orientation and a Ryan
Dowd webinar.
Mark virtually attended the WISCAT User Group meeting.
Julia completed the SCLS training video on Horror Readers Advisory.
Theresa attended the Friends’ meeting on November 25.
Theresa held a Page meeting on December 5.
Theresa attended the online all-day conference on Thursday, December 4: PRH Winter Book &
Author Festival.

Equipment and Physical Facilities
Work on a new donor recognition mural near the children’s area will get started in early January. Local
artist Elena Delzer has been commissioned to do the mural.

Administration and Internal Operations
Stacey, Tonja, Abby, and Katie have continued work on the review and update of the library
website and plan to complete the project in January.

Marketing and Public Relations
Facebook graphics & web/tv slides: 71
Fliers and bookmarks: 61
FB posts: 56
Instagram posts/reels: 4
FB followers: 5,593
Insta followers: 1,920
November Events Newsletter 1: 8,882 recipients; In the spotlight: Let’s Hike, Verona!
November Events Newsletter 2: 9,024, recipients; In the spotlight: Artist-in-Residence: Elena
Delzer
Let’s Hike, Verona!: Goal Reached! Our goal of hiking 1,200 miles (the length of the Ice Age
Trail) in October was met and surpassed with 82 participants, 160 entries and 1,784.53 miles
hiked! Congratulations to all the Let’s Hike participants!

Library System and Interagency Cooperation
The library participated in a city-wide food drive for Badger Needs Network.

Theresa watched a webinar about the cataloging and circulation modules of the new ILS,
SirsiDynix.
Jenny attended the meeting for the Migration Discovery Layer Working Group.
Jenny was elected to the WLA Board of Directors as the WAPL Board Liaison and joined the
WAPL annual conference committee as the technology chair.
Leah worked with BRMS librarian Melanie Galdes to facilitate programming at the middle
school.

Fundraising
The end of year giving campaign resulted in $19,845 in donations for the library endowment
fund. In total, in 2025 the endowment fund received $33,447 in donatations from 79 donors.

Exhibits
The library did not host any exhibits in December, but the center of the library featured a beautifully
decorated Christmas tree. The tree was donated by Summer’s Tree Farm, transported and set up by the
Verona Department of Public Works staff, and decorated by the library staff.

Library Events and Programs
1000 Books before Kindergarten
13 kids were registered this month, bringing the total number of registrants to 2893.

Kids’ Events
Late Fall Story Times
November 17 – December 18
Baby Story Time: Fridays at 10:30 am and 1:00 pm
Toddler Story Time: Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:30 am
Preschool Story Time: Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:30 am
Sensory Story Time: Thursdays at 9:30 am
Everybody Story Time: Thursdays at 10:30 am
Baby Story Time: 8 story times, attendees: 95, average: 12
Toddler Story Time: 10 story times, attendees: 326, average: 33
Preschool Story Time: 10 story times, attendees: 266, average: 27
Sensory Story Time: 6 story times, attendees: 206, average: 34
Everybody Story Time: 4 story times, attendees: 95, average: 24
Total: 38 story times, 988 attendees

Like circulation, story time attendance is low at the end of the year. Without story time, though,
we would be concerned that our children’s book circulation would be even lower. We will
consider ending story time a week earlier in the future, though.
Story Time Mending
Wednesdays and Thursdays, November 19 – December 17, 9:30 – 11:00 am
Does your child have a favorite toy with a dangling arm or missing eye? Has their beloved baby
quilt sprouted a hole or a torn binding? Does your child insist on wearing that sweatshirt with
the loose pocket? Local resident Nancy will offer free mending services during story time on
Wednesdays and Thursdays. No zipper replacements please. Nancy stopped doing this two
weeks early due to low December interest and is reevaluating for 2026.
Attendees: 0
Read to a Dog
Saturday, November 22, 1:30 – 3:00 pm
Ages 5 and up. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend.
Attendees: 12
Favorite Books and Bites: The Emily Windsnap series
Monday, November 24, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Ages 8 - 11. Registration required. Discuss the Emily Windsnap series, plus enjoy activities and
snacks related to the books. Pick up a copy of the first book of the series, The Tail of Emily
Windsnap by Liz Kessler at the children's desk to read in advance, or if you're already a fan, just
sign up and join us.
Attendees: 6
Kids Drop-in Crafts
Wednesday, November 26, 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Ages 6-11. Drop by the library for some fast fun crafts. Make a place card holder with water
color and pipettes. Create a festive garland with paper cutouts to decorate your room. Stop by
and make something fun. No sign up necessary.
Attendees: 61
Music & Movement Story Time
Tuesday, December 2, 10:00 – 10:30 am
Ages 1-5. Join us for singing, dancing, instruments, and stories in this active story time for
children and their caregivers.
Attendees: 68
Nutcracker Story Time with Madison Ballet
Tuesday, December 2, 4:30 – 5:00 pm, repeated 5:30 – 6:00 pm
Ages 3-10. Registration required. Join a faculty member from Madison Ballet to discover the
beloved story of the Nutcracker through reading, music, and dance. This interactive program
introduces audiences to the magic of ballet and the joy of storytelling. While adults are

encouraged to attend, please register only the children attending. Please register for only one
session. Madison Ballet would like to partner with us again in the future.
Attendees: 67, 68
Craft a Gift
Wednesday, December 3, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Ages 6-11. Want to make something special and from the heart? Drop in and join us while we
have our button maker and other supplies out. While supplies last! No registration.
Attendees: 34
Minecraft Club
Thursday, December 4, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Ages 6-11. Have fun playing Minecraft and interacting with peers. Build in Minecraft based on a
new challenge each session! Minecraft Club does not include instructions on how to play or a
shared server. Registration required.
Attendees: 30
Read to a Dog
Thursday, December 4, 4:00 – 5:30 pm
Attendees: 5
Young and the Restless
Friday, December 5, 10:00 – 11:00 am
Ages 1-4. Get your wiggles out! Young and the Restless open indoor play time is an opportunity
for kids to be active, develop motor skills, and make new friends. Geared to ages 1-4 and their
caregivers. Drop in any time; no registration.
Attendees: 50
Winter Story Time
Saturday, December 6, 9:30 – 10:00 am
Ages 0-5. Join us for a winter-themed story time with books, songs, and rhymes. No
registration. Adding the theme to our Saturday story time publicity might be increasing our
attendance numbers.
Attendees: 39
Read to a Dog
Saturday, December 6, 1:30 – 3:00 pm
Ages 5 and up. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend.
Attendees: 10
Child Development Story Time
Tuesday, December 9, 10:30 – 11:00 am
Ages 2-5. Join a member of CI Pediatric Therapy Centers' staff for an interactive story time of
books, songs, movement, crafts and fun! Activities will be geared towards 2-5 year olds, but all

ages are welcome! No registration.
Attendees: 54
Parent/Child Book Club: From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler
Tuesday, December 9, 5:30 – 6:30 pm
Ages 8-11. Registration required. In December, Parent/Child Book Club will discuss the novel
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L Konigsburg.
Attendees: 12
Pokémon Club
Thursday, December 11, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Ages 6-11. Join fellow Pokémon fanatics for a Pokémon related activity each month. Bring your
Gameboy, Switch, or learn to play the trading card game and compete against other kids! Bring
your own deck or borrow one of ours. No registration.
Attendees: 24
Crochet Workshop
Friday, December 12, 3:30 – 4:30 pm
All ages. Registration required. Crochet help for if you’re stuck, need guidance on a new skill or
stitch, or just picking out a new project! Please register for one 15-minute session per person.
Assistance provided by Mara from the Sow's Ear.
Attendees: 1
Beginning Crochet
Friday, December 12, 4:30 – 5:30 pm
Ages 8-15. Registration required. Learn the basics of crochet like holding the yarn and hook,
chaining, and the single crochet stitch with Mara from the Sow's Ear. Yarn and tools will be
provided.
Attendees: 3
Toddler Art and Play
Tuesday, December 16, 10:00 – 11:00 am
Ages 1-3. Toddler Art and Play is a drop-in program that includes messy process art and sensory
play for toddlers ages 1-3. We recommend wearing clothes that can get messy.
Attendees: 61
Read to a Dog
Wednesday, December 17, 4:00 – 5:30 pm
Ages 5 and up. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend.
Attendees: 13
Graham Cracker House Decorating
Wednesday, December 17, 4:00 – 5:30 pm
Ages 4-11. Decorate a graham cracker house! Create your own mini masterpiece by adding

sweet touches to a graham cracker house. While supplies last! No registration.
Attendees: 102
Young and the Restless
Friday, December 19, 10:00 – 11:00 am
Ages 1-4. Get your wiggles out! Young and the Restless open indoor play time is an opportunity
for kids to be active, develop motor skills, and make new friends. Geared to ages 1-4 and their
caregivers. Drop in any time; no registration.
Attendees: 74
Kindermusik
Monday, December 29, 9:30 – 10:00 am
Ages 0-5. Registration required. The Wonder Studio presents a demo Kindermusik class for ages
0-5 and accompanying adult. Older siblings are also welcome. Come sing, play, and move with
us!
Attendees: 30
Kids Drop-In Crafts
Monday, December 29, 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Ages 6-11. Drop by the library for some fast fun crafts. Make a paper bag puppet with googly
eyes and other craft supplies. Sculpt an animal out of pipe cleaners. Stop by and make
something fun. No registration.
Attendees: 57
Favorite Books & Bites: The Wayside School Series
Monday December 29, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Ages 8-11. Registration required. Discuss the Wayside School series, plus enjoy activities and
snacks related to the books. Pick up a copy of the first book of the series, Sideways Stories from
Wayside School by Louis Sachar at the children's desk to read in advance.
Attendees: 5
Noon Year’s Party
Wednesday, December 31, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
All ages. Celebrate the end of 2025 and the beginning of 2026 with dancing, activities, and
refreshments throughout the library! No registration.
Attendees: 604

Upcoming Kids’ Events
Read, Learn, Score with Soccer Shots
Monday, January 5, 9:30 – 10:00 am, 10:30 – 11:00 am
Ages 2-3; Ages 3-5. Registration required.Enjoy a book about soccer, learn a basic soccer skill,
then try to score a goal! Presented by Soccer Shots of Madison.

Music & Movement Story Time
Tuesday, January 6, 10:00 – 10:30 am
Ages 1-5. Join us for singing, dancing, instruments, and stories in this active story time for
children and their caregivers.
Read to a Dog
Thursday, January 8, 4:00 – 5:30 pm
Ages 5 and up. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend.
Minecraft Club
Thursday, January 8, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Ages 6-11. Have fun playing Minecraft and interacting with peers. Build in Minecraft based on a
new challenge each session! Minecraft Club does not include instructions on how to play or a
shared server. Registration required.
Young and the Restless
Friday, January 9, 10:00 – 11:00 am
Ages 1-4. Get your wiggles out! Young and the Restless open indoor play time is an opportunity
for kids to be active, develop motor skills, and make new friends. Geared to ages 1-4 and their
caregivers. Drop in any time; no registration.
Winter Story Time
January 12 – March 6
Baby Story Time: Fridays at 10:30 am and 1:00 pm
Toddler Story Time: Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:30 am
Preschool Story Time: Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:30 am
Sensory Story Time: Thursdays at 9:30 am
Everybody Story Time: Thursdays at 10:30 am
Child Development Story Time
Tuesday, January 13, 10:30 – 11:00 am
Ages 2-5. Join a member of CI Pediatric Therapy Centers' staff for an interactive story time of
books, songs, movement, crafts and fun! Activities will be geared towards 2-5 year olds, but all
ages are welcome! No registration.
Parent/Child Book Club: Two Degrees
Tuesday, January 13, 5:30 – 6:30 pm
Ages 8-11. Registration required. In January, Parent/Child Book Club will discuss the novel Two
Degrees by Alan Gratz.
Read to a Dog
Wednesday, January 14, 4:00 – 5:30 pm
Ages 5 and up. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend.

Hot Cocoa Story Time
Wednesday, January 14, 6:30 – 7:00 pm
Join us for hot cocoa-themed stories and songs! Designed for ages 2-6. No registration.
Pokémon Club
Thursday, January 15, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Ages 6-11. Join fellow Pokémon fanatics for a Pokémon related activity each month. Bring your
Gameboy, Switch, or learn to play the trading card game and compete against other kids! Bring
your own deck or borrow one of ours. No registration.
Read to a Dog
Saturday, January 17, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Ages 5 and up. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend.
Toddler Art and Play
Tuesday, January 20, 10:00 – 11:00 am
Ages 1-3. Toddler Art and Play is a drop-in program that includes messy process art and sensory
play for toddlers ages 1-3. We recommend wearing clothes that can get messy.
Storybuild Bakery
Wednesday, January 21, 6:15 – 7:00 pm
Ages 5-7. Registration required. Build with giant magnetic Superspace tiles! Listen to a story,
and then build, pretend, and craft. Join in creative play centered around constructing and
running a bakery!
Kids’ Drop-In Crafts
Thursday, January 22, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Ages 6-11. Drop by the library for a fast fun craft. The library will have bead and air-dry clay
available to craft a bracelet or a clay figure. While supplies last. No registration required.
Young and the Restless
Friday, January 23, 10:00 – 11:00 am
Ages 1-4. Get your wiggles out! Young and the Restless open indoor play time is an opportunity
for kids to be active, develop motor skills, and make new friends. Geared to ages 1-4 and their
caregivers. Drop in any time; no registration.
Read to a Dog
Friday, January 24, 4:00 – 5:30 pm and Saturday, January 25, 1:30 – 3:00 pm
Ages 5 and up. Registration required. Grab your favorite book and read to a furry friend.
Favorite Books & Bites: The Sinister Summer Series
Monday, January 26, 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Ages 8-11. Registration required. Discuss the Sinister Summer series, plus enjoy activities and
snacks related to the books. Pick up a copy of the first book of the series, Wretched Waterpark
by Kiersten White, at the children's desk to read in advance, or if you're already a fan, just sign
up and join us.

Family Fort Night
Wednesday, January 28, 6:30 – 8:00 pm
All ages. Join us for Family Fort Night! Come set up a fort in the children's area and crawl in for
an evening of reading together. Some sheets and clips will be provided. You are welcome to
bring your own sheets or lightweight blankets for building your fort. No registration.

Teen Events
Crafty Tuesday
Tuesday, November 4, 4 pm
Stop by Teen Central for DIY projects. Create throughout the week, as supplies last. Comments:
Teens created personally designed mugs with Sharpies.
Attendees: 24
Crafty Tuesday
Tuesday, December 2, 4 pm
Stop by Teen Central for DIY projects. Create throughout the week, as supplies last. Comments:
Teens folded trees from paper and added twinkly happy lights!
Attendees: 21
Eat Your Words
Monday, December 8, 5:30 – 7:00 pm
Enjoy breakfast-for-dinner! Create pancake art and play storytelling games in a relaxed group
setting. Eat your words – without judgement – in this writing workshop for teens!
Attendees: 1
BRMS Make’n’munch
Thursday, December 11, 11:00 – 1:30 pm
Students at Badger Ridge Middle School who have signed up for library during lunch can enjoy
some crafting time. Comments: Kids used paint pens, gelatos, and Sharpies to cover mini
magnetic canvases!
Attendees: 22
Teen Cookie Decorating & Crafting
Thursday, December 18, 4:00 – 5:30 pm
Find joy in the season by frosting sugar cookies and making simple crafts! Create homemade
cards, beaded gifts, collage decor, and more. Drop in for a while or stay!
Attendees: 8

Upcoming Teen Events
Crafty Tuesday
Tuesday, January 6, 4:00 pm
Stop by Teen Central for DIY projects. Create throughout the week, as supplies last.

Eat Your Words
Monday, January 12, 5:30 – 7:00 pm
Enjoy breakfast-for-dinner! Create pancake art and play storytelling games in a relaxed group
setting. Eat your words – without judgement – in this writing workshop for teens!
BRMS Make’n’munch
Thursday, January 15, 11:00 – 1:30 pm
Students at Badger Ridge Middle School who have signed up for library during lunch can enjoy
some crafting time.
Teen Among Us IRL
Friday, January 23, 7:30 – 9:30 pm
If you dare, come to the library after-hours for a dark, live-action game of Among Us. Someone
is taking out browsers in the stacks. Find the imposter before it’s too late! Costumes and
ridiculous hats encouraged.
Needle Felt-Teen
Tuesday, January 27, 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Learn basic needle felting! Create a small, felted creature friend (sloth anyone?!). If you wish,
give it a functional twist. Turn your creature into a pencil topper, bag charm, or key chain.
Donuts & Gaming
Thursday, January 29, 4:00 – 5:30 pm
Snack on donuts and more! Face off on the Nintendo Switch or SNES, try a board game or
puzzle, or bring your own device. Stay and enjoy the good vibes or drop in for a sweet treat!

Adult Events
Distance Learning English Classes for Adults
Mondays 6:00 – 7:30 pm, Level: Beginner, September 15 – December 8, 2025
Tuesdays 6:00 – 8:00 pm, Level: Intermediate, September 16 – December 8, 2025
This free group English class will be offered mostly online using Zoom. The last class will take
place in person at Verona Public Library on Monday, December 8. You will practice speaking,
listening, reading, writing and new vocabulary in English. This class is presented in partnership
with Literacy Network. The last class of session meets in-person at the library.
November 25, attendees: 15
November 26, attendees: 2
December 1, attendees: 12
December 2, attendees: 2
December 8: cancelled
Library Yarns Craft Group
Wednesdays, 4:30 – 6:00 pm
If you enjoy knitting, crocheting, embroidery, or another needlecraft, please join us at this
weekly drop-in stitching circle hosted by the library. Meet up with other fiber art enthusiasts,

learn new techniques, exchange ideas, or find inspiration for your next project. All skill levels
welcome.
December 3 attendees: 10
December 10, attendees: 9
December 17, attendees: 13
Drop-In Tech Help
Tuesdays, 9:00 – 11:00 am
Struggling with your phone, tablet or laptop? Simply drop by the library on a Tuesday or
Thursday between the hours of 9:00 -11:00 am for help from a knowledgeable librarian. Bring
your questions about topics like getting started with the Libby app, setting up an email account,
word processing, storing pictures, navigating social media platforms, and troubleshooting
software issues.
November 26, attendees: 0
December 2, attendees: 0
December 9, attendees: 0
December 16, attendees: 0
December 23, attendees: 0
December 30, attendees: 0
Memory Café
Tuesday, December 2, 3:30 – 5:00 pm
A "memory café" is a social gathering designed for individuals experiencing early dementia and
memory loss, along with their caregivers or loved ones. Come to connect, socialize, and build
support networks in a comfortable and welcoming environment centered around conversation
over coffee.
Attendees: 4
Madison Flute Club Performance
Tuesday, December 2, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Celebrate the season with gorgeous music from the Madison Flute Club! All ages welcome.
Attendees: 87
VASD Orchestra Winter Music Recital
Thursday, December 4, 5:00 – 6:00 pm
Enjoy some festive sounds as soloists and small groups of Verona Area High School music
students perform music for the season!
Attendees: 78
Adult Art Club
Tuesday, December 4, 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Feeling crafty but seeking a little camaraderie as you create? This is the club for you! Bring in
whatever project (sewing, knitting, drawing, etc.) you're working on or select from provided
supplies to do adult coloring or Zentangle. The atmosphere is informal and supportive, so come

enjoy some social time while pursuing your artistic interests!
Attendees: 16
Holiday Crafternoon: DIY Spa Gifts
Friday, December 5, 3:00 – 4:00 pm
Come and make bath salts blends and sugar scrubs for hostess gifts, friend gifts, or gifting to
yourself! After you've assembled your treats, dress them up with winter and seasonal decor
including ribbons, stickers, pinecones and more!
Attendees: 17
Verona Aspiring Writers Group
Monday December 8 & 22, 5:00 – 8:00 pm
The Aspiring Writers Group offers constructive feedback and inspiration to writers and aspiring
writers of all genres. Want to get a blog started or grow one? Hoping to be published in a
magazine? Trying to finish or fine-tune the next great American novel? We welcome all!
December 8, attendees: 10
December 22, attendees: 0
VPL Cookbook Club: Cookie Swap
Tuesday, December 9, 6:30 – 8:00 pm
To celebrate the holidays, this meeting will be a cookie swap! Make your favorite holiday
cookies to exchange, bring your recipe to share and discuss. We will drink eggnog and hot
cocoa while learning about one another's cookie-baking traditions!
Attendees: 29
Beginners Spanish Workshop
Wednesday, December 10, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Planning a trip abroad? Or want to try ordering in Spanish at your favorite restaurant? In this
fun, beginner-friendly workshop, Spanish teacher Shannon Lucy, M.A., will teach you greetings,
essential phrases, and cultural tips so you can feel confident using Spanish on your next
adventure or at a local restaurant. No prior experience required.
Attendees: 13
Spring Nights Flute Holiday Concert
Thursday, December 11, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Join this talented flute trio for an evening of beautiful and festive music.
Attendees:25
Spice Club
Friday, December 12
This month we feature Myrrh. Spice packets can be picked up at the service desk starting
December 12. Interested in learning more about spices? This club will feature a different spice
each month. Participants will be given a sample of the featured spice, a brief history of its use,
and a recipe that incorporates it. We will not actually meet - this is simply an opportunity to be

introduced to a new spice, or possibly a new way of using it.
Attendees: 25
Coffee with the Classics: Miracle on 24th Street
Friday, December 12, 10:00 – 12:00 pm
Enjoy coffee and a sweet treat as you watch classic cinema in the comfort of the library's
Community Room.
Attendees: 5
UW Russian Folk Orchestra Performance
Monday, December 15, 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Join the UW Russian Folk Orchestra for an unforgettable evening of music. The UW Russian Folk
Orchestra is an ensemble specializing in live performances of Slavic and East-European music
using authentic folk instruments such as balalaikas and domras.
Attendees: 119
Guided Zen Meditation Workshop
Tuesday, December 16, 6:30 – 7:30pm
Participants will receive instruction in basic Zen meditation from a trained practitioner including
how to position the body for stable and comfortable meditation, how to breathe correctly, and
an overview of meditation benefits. The session will include about 30 minutes of instruction,
followed by 15–20 minutes of practice and 5–10 minutes for questions.
Attendees: 12

Upcoming Adult Events
Library Yarns Craft Group
Meets each Wednesday. Drop-in between 4:30 – 6:00 pm
If you enjoy knitting, crochet, embroidery, or another needlecraft, please join us at a drop-in
stitching circle. Meet up with other fiber art enthusiasts, learn new techniques, exchange ideas,
or find inspiration for your next project. All skill levels welcome.
Distance Learning English Classes for Adults
January 20 – April 28
Mondays 6:00 – 7:30 pm, Beginner
Tuesdays 6:00 – 8:00 pm, Intermediate
This class is offered mostly online using Zoom. Practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing
in English. Students will receive free English textbooks by mail. In partnership with Literacy
Network.
Open Writing Time
Every other Monday, 5:00 – 8:00 pm

Need a place to write? Every other Monday throughout the year, the Conference Room will be open for
those who want to spend a little time working on their writing. Feel free to bring a snack - there will be
coffee, tea and hot chocolate available to keep you fueled! Just drop in.

Drop-In Tech Help
Tuesdays, 9:00 – 11:00 am
Struggling with your phone, tablet or laptop? Simply drop by the library on a Tuesday or
Thursday between the hours of 9:00 -11:00 am for help from a knowledgeable librarian. Bring
your questions about topics like getting started with the Libby app, setting up an email account,
word processing, storing pictures, navigating social media platforms, and troubleshooting
software issues.
Memory Café
First Tuesday of each month, 3:30 – 5:00 pm
A "memory café" is a social gathering designed for individuals experiencing early dementia and
memory loss, along with their caregivers or loved ones. Come to connect, socialize, and build
support networks in a comfortable and welcoming environment centered around conversation
over coffee.
Verona Aspiring Writers Group
Monday, January 5, 5:00 – 8:00 pm
The Aspiring Writers Group offers constructive feedback and inspiration to writers and aspiring
writers of all genres. Want to get a blog started or grow one? Hoping to be published in a
magazine? Trying to finish or fine-tune the next great American novel? We welcome all!
Crafting and a Movie
Thursday, January 8, 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Do you like to be entertained as you craft? This may be the event for you! Bring whatever
crafting project you're working on and watch a screening of Pride and Prejudice while you
create. Not a crafter? Come anyway and enjoy the popcorn and hot cider that will be provided!
The Historical Fiction Book Club
Friday, January 9, 10:00 – 11:00 am
Get in on the ground floor of this new book club in which we will read and discuss historical
fiction! Our first read will be The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead.
A Taste of Mystery Bookclub
Monday, January 12, 10:00 – 11:00 am
This month we will read and discuss Daisy Darker by Alice Feeney.
Glory Days in the Rearview with Local Author Mark Nepper
Tuesday, January 13, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Local author Mark Nepper is a former award-winning newspaper reporter and state and
nationally honored high school English teacher who has spent much of his life helping students

find ways to tell their stories. He now shares one of his own stories in his debut novel, Glory
Days in the Rearview: A Story of Love, Redemption, and Hope.
Time to Ship Another Steer: A Kenosha Farmboy’s Recollections
Thursday, January 15, 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Bill Mueller is a teacher, author, and a former Kenosha farm boy. Come and listen to his
recollections, both sweet and bittersweet, of growing up on a farm with 10 brothers and sisters.
Bill gathered his stories to share with his grandchildren, and ultimately turned them into a
book.
Coffee with the Classics: West Side Story
Friday, January 16, 10:00 – 12:00 pm
Enjoy coffee and a sweet treat as you watch classic cinema in the comfort of the library's
Community Room.
VPL Cookbook Club: Soup & Bread
Tuesday, January 20, 6:30 – 8:00 pm
It's cold outside! Let's get cozy with hearty soups and homemade breads.
DIY Card Making Class: Winter & Spring Themes
Thursday, January 22, 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Join Stampin' Up's Jamie Statz-Paynter for an evening of crafting beautiful cards featuring Valentine's
and Easter motifs. Each participant can make 4 cards - all supplies will be provided.

An Afternoon of Puzzling
Saturday, January 24, 1:00 – 3:30 pm
It's cold outside! Come spend some time in the cozy library doing jigsaw puzzles with family and
friends. Cookies and hot cocoa will be served. There will be lots of puzzles from which to
choose, but feel free to bring your own to work on if you prefer.
Extra, Extra, Eat All About It! Recipes and Culinary Curiosities from Historic Wisconsin
Thursday, January 29, 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Jane Conway and Randi Julia Ramsden have written a fabulous blend of a cookbook and
culinary history, featuring 50 recipes from late 19th and early 20th-century Wisconsin
newspapers alongside their historical context.
Join us as Randi Julia Ramsden discusses these intriguing topics and pick up a copy of the book
for yourself!

THE BETTY J. KARWEICK VIRTUAL AUTHOR TALKS SERIES
Welcome to The Betty J. Karweick Virtual Author Talks Series, presented in partnership with the Library
Speakers Consortium. Here you will have access to live virtual visits including interactive questions and
answers with bestselling authors and talks on a broad assortment of topics given by experts in their
fields. Recordings of talks will be available for viewing after live event.
Author Talk: Scheming Wives & High Stakes Hilarity with Sue Hincenbergs
Tuesday, December 2, 1:00 – 2:00 pm
Views: 15
Upcoming Events:
The Creative and Compassionate Art of Seeing Others Deeply with David Brooks
Tuesday, January 13, 1:00 pm
Join us for and online discussion with prominent cultural writer and bestselling author David Brooks on
his book, How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply.
Nature, Art, and Service as Medicine with Journalist Julia Hotz
Tuesday, January 20, 1:00 pm
Be sure to jump start your new year with us as we chat virtually with journalist and author Julia Hotz
about her book The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and
Belonging.
Secrets and Second Chances with Liz Moore
Wednesday, January 28, 6:00 pm
We are thrilled to welcome Liz Moore to discuss her latest work, The God of the Woods, an instant New
York Times bestseller and one of NPR’s 2024 “Books We Love” highlights.

Outreach
Outreach Events
Outreach story times:
Total daycare story time presentations: 12
Books ‘n Booze at Stone Porch Alehouse
Thursday, November 20, 6:00–7:00 pm
The group discussed An American Marriage by Tayari Jones.
Attendees: 12
Four Winds Book Group
Tuesday, November 25 and Tuesday, December 23, 10:00–11:00 am
The residents met to discuss West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge and Bright Lights, Big
Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews. Comments: Both the November and December books were big
hits with the group!
Attendees: 8, 6
Noel Manor Book Group
Wednesday, November 26, 10:30–11:30 am
The group discussed Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline.
Attendees: 7
YMCA After School Program at New Century/Verona Area International School
Monday, December 1, 2:45–3:15 pm
Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at New Century/Verona Area International School.
Attendees: 27
Prairie Oaks Book Group
Thursday, December 4, 1:30–2:30 pm
The group read Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt.
Attendees: 4
Reindeer Live!
Saturday, December 6, 3:00–5:00 pm
The library hosted a craft project at the Chamber of Commerce’s annual reindeer event.
Attendees: 50
Story Time at The Sow’s Ear
Tuesday, December 9, 10:00–10:30 am

Join us for story time at The Sow's Ear! Enjoy a story time, craft project, and other activities for
children and their caregivers. Geared toward ages 2-5, siblings welcome.
Attendees: 19
YMCA After School Program at Sugar Creek
Tuesday, December 9, 3:00–3:30 pm
Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at Sugar Creek.
Attendees: 25
Senior Center Book Group
Wednesday, December 10, 10:00–11:00 am
The group discussed Hang the Moon by Jeannette Walls.
Attendees: 17
YMCA After School Program at Country View
Thursday, December 11, 2:40–3:10 pm
Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at Country View.
Attendees: 12
YMCA After School Program at Glacier Edge
Tuesday, December 16, 3:15–4:00 pm
Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at Glacier Edge.
Attendees: 16
YMCA After School Program at Core Knowledge Charter School
Tuesday, December 16, 3:45–4:15 pm
Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at Core Knowledge Charter School.
Attendees: 11
Upcoming Outreach Events
YMCA After School Program at New Century/Verona Area International School
Monday, January 5, 2:45–3:15 pm
Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at New Century/Verona Area International School.
YMCA After School Program at Country View
Thursday, January 8, 2:40–3:10 pm
Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at Country View.
Story Time at The Sow’s Ear
Tuesday, January 13, 10:00–10:30 am

Join us for story time at The Sow's Ear! Enjoy a story time, craft project, and other activities for
children and their caregivers. Geared toward ages 2-5, siblings welcome.
YMCA After School Program at Sugar Creek
Tuesday, January 13, 3:00–3:30 pm
Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at Sugar Creek.
Senior Center Book Group
Wednesday, January 14, 10:00–11:00 am
The group will be reading Things I Wish I Told My Mother by Susan Patterson and Susan DiLallo.
YMCA After School Program at Glacier Edge
Tuesday, January 20, 3:15–4:00 pm
Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at Glacier Edge.
YMCA After School Program at Core Knowledge Charter School
Tuesday, January 20, 3:45–4:15 pm
Crafts and stories at the afterschool program at Core Knowledge Charter School.
Prairie Oaks Book Group
Thursday, January 22, 1:30–2:30 pm
The group will be reading Code Name Hélène by Ariel Lawhon.
Books ‘n Booze at Stone Porch Alehouse
Thursday, January 22, 6:00–7:00 pm
The group will be discussing The Wedding People by Alison Espach.
Four Winds Book Group
Tuesday, January 27, 10:00–11:00 am
The residents will meet to discuss The Paris Daughter by Kristin Harmel.
Noel Manor Book Group
Wednesday, January 28, 10:30–11:30 am
The group will be discussing North Woods by Daniel Mason.