The Torresdale Branch of the Free Library is offering a plethora of free public events throughout the fall at 3079 Holme Ave.
Two Pajama Parties will be on Wednesday, Oct. 14 and Dec. 2, at 6:30 p.m. Children ages 2 to 5 and adult chaperones can join in for sing-a-longs, stories and a bedtime snack. Wear your pajamas and bring a stuffed toy.
Preschool storytime will be held on Tuesdays, Nov. 10 and Dec. 1, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children ages 2 to 5 and adult chaperones will enjoy stories, songs, puppets, coloring and a craft.
Sensory Storytime is geared toward children ages 10 and under who have a hard time in large groups, such as those on the autism spectrum or who are sensitive to sensory overload. They will be held on Wednesdays, Oct. 7, Nov. 18 and Dec. 30 at 6:30 p.m. Leaders will use preschool-level books, songs and movements with the children. Light refreshments will be served. There are only 10 spaces available for each session. Contact Miss Ann for a reservation.
The RADical Readers Book Club for students in the third through seventh grades will be held on Saturdays, Oct. 10, Nov. 14 and Dec. 12, from 1 to 3 p.m. Books, crafts, snacks and community service will be on the program, with a Kiddie Corner for younger children. Contact RADical Readers leader Khadijah Johnson at the stellarstudent@gmail.com for information. This is a program of the Friends of Torresdale Library.
LEGO Club will meet Saturdays, Oct. 10, Nov. 28 and Dec. 26, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Meant for children of all ages, this program is designed for all who love to build. LEGO bricks will be provided. Kids should bring their imaginations.
Halloween stories will take center stage with Mr. Malcolm on Saturday, Oct. 17, at 2 p.m. His show also includes songs and puppets. Children of all ages are welcome, accompanied by an adult, and should arrive in costume. Sponsored by the Friends of Torresdale Library.
Origami is the specialty of the NE Philly Folders, who will meet on Saturdays, Oct. 24, Nov. 21 and Dec. 19, from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Beginners and experienced folders of all ages are invited. Sponsored by the Friends of Torresdale Library.
A special event, Autism Awareness for African-American Families, will be held Monday, Oct. 26, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Parts 1 and 2 of this film will be shown, chronicling the challenges that five African-American families have faced with their children’s autism diagnoses. These families tackle the issues of race, pride, stigma and shame, ultimately leading to triumph. Children with special needs are welcome to attend. Sponsored by the Philadelphia Autism Project with Elwyn Seedlings, the ASERT Collaborative and the Free Library.
The holiday season kicks off at Torresdale Branch with the Winter Holiday Music concert on Saturday, Dec. 5, featuring Jessica Carroll performing Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa songs. All ages are welcome. Light refreshments will be served. Sponsored by Friends of Torresdale Library.
Santa Claus will visit the Torresdale Branch on Wednesday, Dec. 16, at 6:30 p.m., for an evening of stories, songs, snacks and a visit with Saint Nick. Parents should remember to bring their cameras. Sponsored by Friends of Torresdale Library.
Space is limited for many of these events. Call the library at 215–685–0494 to register. ••