We always have a fun variety of programs happening at New Ulm Public Library. We hope you’ll join us for some of these upcoming events.

Who saved countless people from the horror of the Hinkley Fire? How did it feel to be on a sinking frozen ore boat just yards from shore in Duluth during the Mataffa storm? What was it like to lead over 50 African-Americans out of bondage in the largest mass escape in the history of the Civil War? Charlie Maguire, “Minnesota’s Songwriting Sleuth,” has the answers to these and more questions in gripping songs and ballads he has researched meticulously over the years. Maguire will perform those songs at the library on Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 6:30 p.m. This free public program is made possible by a grant provided by the Traverse des Sioux Library Cooperative and funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

Love to knit, crochet, quilt, or do other forms of needleworking? Join our self-directed open needlework group on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Needleworkers of all varieties, levels and abilities are welcome to join this age 16 and older group. Each needleworker should bring his/her own materials and ideas. People are welcome to come and go as they see fit.

If you like to express yourself through art, join our Art Group. This self-directed group meets each Wednesday from 2-5:30 p.m. at the library through May 13 (with the exception of January 29). Artists of all levels and abilities are welcome to join this adults-only group. Each artist should bring his/her own materials and ideas. All materials must be non-odorous. People are welcome to come and go as they see fit.

Escape the cold with an Afternoon Family Movie in our Children’s Room on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. We’ll show a rated PG movie and serve free popcorn.

New Ulm Film Society, coordinated by Steven Sherman, Clay Schuldt, and Jack Beranek, continues its Animated Films series on Tuesday, Feb. 11 at 6 p.m. Join us for free popcorn and a discussion of the film following the screening. Special thanks to the Optimist Club of New Ulm for sponsoring film screenings at the library. Visit www.newulmlibrary.org for film titles.

Love science and exploration? Join our Wednesday Wonder Club on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 3:30 p.m. The Club will meet one Wednesday per month to explore a different scientific principle (future dates to be announced). One Wednesday we’ll investigate the science of construction by making a spaghetti tower, the next we’ll study fractions by measuring ingredients for a no bake treat. Students in 2-4 grade are welcome. Registration is required; please call 507-359-8331 to register and for more information.

Children ages 5 and older are invited to join LEGO Club on Thursday, Feb. 20 at 3:30 p.m. Kids can take on the building challenge or free build. We can’t wait to see your creations!

The Narren are back! They’ll visit the library on Saturday, Feb. 22 at 10 a.m. to celebrate Fasching with us. Attendees will have the chance to make a Fasching craft and to learn more about the Narren and their hand-carved wood masks.

We hope you’ll join us for one of these great events in February.