East Cleveland Public Library 2026 Spring Program Guide
This Program Guide is published by the East Cleveland Public Library. 14101 Euclid Avenue, East Cleveland, OH 44112. A copy of this publication may be picked up at The East Cleveland Public Library and is available for viewing and download online at eastclevelandpubliclibrary.org Library Board of Trustees Carol Shaheed, President Sheila Hunt-Sharpley, Vice President Otis Mays, Secretary Michael Wilson, Member Dr. Joy Jordan, Member Tyisha Blade, Member Nathan Paige, Member Editorial Staff Darin Gooch, Digital Publications Coordinator Liz Anastasiadis, Marketing & Program Associate Our Mission The mission of the East Cleveland Public Library is to provide life enhancing, conscious-raising library services and cultural activities that reflect the needs of the East Cleveland Community. Children’s..........3, 4 Teens..........5 Adults..........6 Technology..........7 Bite Into Books.........8 Women’s History Month.....9, 10 Founder’s Day..........11 East Cleveland History..............12 Upcoming Events/Important Dates.......13 Library Services.......14 Sponsors.......15 Employee Spotlight.......16 Friends of The ECPL...............17 East Cleveland History (cont.)..........18
A word from our Administative Coordinator Elmer Turner Greetings, my name is Elmer Turner, I am the Administrative Coordinator, and I am also in charge of Board Relations for the East Cleveland Public Library. Like many of my co-workers, my role covers so much more than my title suggest. One day I may be buying pizzas for a children’s event and the next, I may be meeting with the most interesting local business owners or public officials. As the Administrative Coordinator, I disseminate information to the administrative staff to support the smooth operation between the various departments of the library. As the person responsible for Board relations, I act as the liaison between the Executive Director and the Trustees of the library. Much of my job revolves around sharing information between Administration, Trustees, and staff. It also includes the coordination of people and resources to best serve the community. In my role here, I seek to help the library run as smoothly and efficiently as possible. I believe this is how the community gets the most out of their library and I believe that is why the library is so beloved in East Cleveland. Unfortunately, I rarely have a chance to interact directly with library patrons to see the end results of the work that I do. However, I do see the smiles on the faces of the patrons who have received library services or attended library programs and that is how I know that the work I do is reaching the people of the East Cleveland whom it is intended.
Bend & Pretend Tuesdays, March 3rd, 24th, May 12th & 26th; Saturday, April 18th, 2026 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm Join us for a playful yoga adventure! Kids will explore fun poses, breathing exercises, and mindful movement designed to build flexibility, balance, and calm—all in a kid-friendly way. Pages and Pathways: Books & Bites Thursdays, March 5th & 19th; April 16th & 30th; May 21st & 28th, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Join Ms. D and guest author Tracy Jackson for a “book tasting” experience where students sample stories across genres like a literary bistro. Designed for youth in grades 1 - 6. Registration required. Call (216) 541-4128 ext. 6259. *This Program is funded by Starting Point OST Author Read-Aloud & Interactive Story time Wednesday, March 11th, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am Join author Tamara Barkley for an inspiring storytime featuring All the Things That I Can Be If I Just Believe in Me. The program includes a meet-and-greet, interactive creative activities, a read-aloud, and affirmation exercises that encourage imagination and self-belief. SEL & Wellness Workshop for Parents Saturday, March 14th, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm Presented by C&B Event Planning, LLC and the East Cleveland Public Library. This hands-on workshop helps parents support emotional well-being in young children by exploring big emotions, emotional vocabulary, routines, regulation strategies, and using books and play as learning tools. Cooks and Books Presents: Cathartic Cooking with Chef DJ Wednesday, March 25th, April 8th and May 27th, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm A monthly cooking class for children and parents led by Chef DJ of A Little Goes a Long Way LLC. Cooking is used as a calming, creative outlet to build confidence, emotional expression, and kitchen skills. Registration required for each participant. Please send text to 440-596-1326/216-217-5236 upon scanning of QR codes to ensure registration . Type and Play April 4th & April 18th, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Kids must first type a short paragraph to practice typing skills before earning game time. A fun way to balance learning Youth Adult *Daycares are recommended to call ahead for space accommodations and programming. The East Cleveland Public Library proudly partners with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and the Ohio Governor’s Imagination Library. 3 Children’s
Easter Egg-stravaganza Thursday, April 2nd, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Hop on over for a festive celebration filled with music, games, crafts, and an egg-citing Easter egg hunt! Families will dance, play, create, and hunt for eggs in a joyful, hands-on experience. Ohio Animal Adaptations: Teeth, Beaks, and Furs Wednesday, April 15th, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Presented by the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Participants will explore animal beaks, skulls, and furs to learn how Ohio animals adapt to survive in their environments. WonderWiggle Story Time Wednesdays, April 22nd & May 27th, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am A playful mix of stories, music, movement, and creative fun featuring puppets, sing-alongs, parachute games, and interactive activities. Supports early literacy using the *Every Child Ready to Read* approach. Southern Mother’s Day Brunch Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm Celebrate the special women in your life at our 5th Annual Mother’s Day Celebration. This Southern-themed brunch honors moms, grandmothers, caregivers, and loving mother figures. Designed for youth ages 12 and under and their families, the event features entertainment, games, crafts, literacy activities, prizes, and giveaways. Spring attire encouraged. Registration required. Call (216) 541-4128 ext. 6259. Tween Magic: Our Stories, Our Voices Thursday, May 7th, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm A creative storytelling circle for girls ages 11 - 13, presented by Lake Erie Ink in partnership with the East Cleveland Public Library. Through six one-hour sessions held between May and October, participants will explore poetry and personal storytelling centered on identity, social-emotional learning, and sisterhood. The program culminates in a community Story Walk celebrating youth voices. Bodyworks: Explore Your Super-Machine! Thursday, May 14th, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Discover how your body works through hands-on exploration of anatomical models and museum specimens. Learn how major organ systems work together to keep you healthy and strong. Day at the Met: Community Prom Saturday, May 23rd, 2026 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm ECPL’s first Community Prom, inspired by the Met Gala theme “Sunday Best.” Enjoy a Hair & Style Showcase, Red-Carpet Arrival, music, dancing, and light refreshments. Presented by C&B Event Planning, LLC. RSVP required. Call (216) 541-4128 ext. 6259. Scoops & Screen: An Ice Cream Social Saturday, May 23rd, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Cool off and enjoy a sweet treat with us! Relax with friends while savoring a variety of delicious ice cream flavors and enjoying a book-to-movie themed screening. Come get the full scoop! 4 Children’s
Series Night (UNO) Wednesday, April 1st, 2026 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm A relaxed hangout where teens build friendships while playing UNO. This program supports teamwork, communication, and positive social interaction in a fun setting. Series Night (Game Stations) Wednesday. April 8th, 2026 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm Game Stations include card and board games, video games, puzzles, quick challenges, and team-building activities designed to keep teens active, engaged, and connected. Series Night (Creative Corner) Wednesday, April 15th, 2026 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm A creative space for teens to express themselves through art, bracelet making, coloring, journaling, and other hands-on activities. 3D Print Name Tag Thursday, April 16th, 2026 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm Teens design and create their own personalized name tags using a 3D printer—fun, creative, and uniquely theirs Stack and Bounce Games Wednesday, April 22nd, 2026 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm Fast-paced challenges where teens test skill and speed by stacking cups with one hand and bouncing ping pong balls into cups. Team Up: Roblox Adventures Thursday, April 30th, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm A multiplayer gaming program where teens collaborate, trade, and complete missions together in Roblox, encouraging teamwork and social interaction. Trivia Night Thursday, May 7th, 2026 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm A lively trivia hangout featuring questions about internet culture, new hip-hop, sports, and a “Would You Rather?” game for laughs and friendly competition. GAME DAY! Saturday, May 9th, & 16th, 2026 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm A fun-filled event where teens and children play on PS5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch while enjoying games and challenges together. This program is open to teens and children. Ice Cream Social Thursday, May 14th, 2026 3:30 pm - 4:00 pm A sweet social event where teens and kids enjoy ice cream, relax, and connect with friends. Glow in the Dark Party (Glow Up Party) Thursday, May 28th, 2026 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm An energetic celebration filled with glowing lights, neon colors, music, and games. Teens are invited to glow up and enjoy a high-energy party atmosphere. 5 Teens
Fitness Bingo Every Monday during Spring 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm Come and play bingo, win prizes and workout in the chair or stand if you like. It's all about having fun and staying healthy! Create and Conversate with Caprice Every Wednesday during Spring 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Do you love crafts? Bring your creativity and think outside the box! You will make unique, one-of-a-kind works of art. Create while having great conversations with Caprice. Health is Wealth: The importance of eating healthy foods daily with Troy Dillard Thursdays, April 9th, 16th, & 23rd, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm Come learn about: • Herbs and whole foods • Why you should eat more plant base foods • What's in the food you are eating: food additives and flavor booster • Processed vs. ultra processed food Cowan Fireplace Presentation Saturday, April 11th, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm East Cleveland Public Library is home to the only known publicly accessible Cowan fireplace in the world. Learn a little bit about R.G. Cowan, his importance to pottery and the Cleveland community, and learn about the inspiration behind our magnificent fireplace. 6 Adults
Basic Computer Classes Ongoing 11:00 am - 4:00 pm An ongoing program for seniors focused on building basic computer skills. Learn how to use a mouse, practice typing, and understand the computer operating system. VR Destinations Mondays, March 2nd & 16th, 2026 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm Explore amazing places around the world without leaving the library! Learn how to use virtual reality to visit landmarks, museums, and exciting destinations through a VR headset. Let’s Learn A.I. Thursdays, March 5th & 19th, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Learn what artificial intelligence is and how it’s shaping the world around us. Try out fun A.I. tools and explore what they can do. Online Searching Saturday, March 7th, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm The internet is full of information—if you know how to find it. Learn how to effectively search the web for news, recipes, medical information, and more. Downloading and Uploading Saturday, March 21st, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Learn the basics of downloading and uploading files such as resumes, bills, and important documents. Participants are encouraged to bring a flash drive. Typing Tuesdays Every Tuesday in April, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Practice typing skills and improve speed and accuracy in a fun, relaxed setting. Perfect for beginners or anyone looking to sharpen their skills. Email 101 Saturday, April 18th, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Email is an essential communication tool. Learn how to send emails, attach files, and better navigate your inbox. Patrons will learn how to use their own email accounts more confidently. Adult Video Game Day Every Saturday in April & May, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm Relax, play, and connect with other adults who love video games. Try new games or practice your skills in a social setting. Note: April 25th and May 30th are excluded. Let’s Learn Social Media Every Monday in May, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Discover how to use popular social media platforms to connect with friends and family. Learn tips for posting, sharing, and staying safe online. Note: The library is closed Monday, May 25 (Memorial Day). How to TeleHealth Wednesdays, May 6th & 20th, 2026 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm Learn how to access medical care from home. This class covers how to set up and use TeleHealth for doctor visits and health check-ins. Learn My Computer Saturday, May 16th, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Perfect for anyone who says “I don’t know anything about computers.” Bring your laptop, tablet, or phone and learn how to use your own device in a supportive environment. We help patrons build useful technology skills and overall computer knowledge, including the internet, email, security, and more! Stop by ECPL to join our classes. Wi-Fi Hotspots are available upon request. Wi-Fi hotspots are available to East Cleveland residents and ECPL library card holders. Visit the computer lab to sign one out! The bridge to opportunity is digital. Get affordable internet service, free training and support, and discounted devices when you visit: www.ClevelandNavigators.org or call 216-307-6990. 7 Technology
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13 Upcoming Events/Important Dates We are proud to announce an upcoming partnership with The National Rites of Passage Institute to bring culturally rich, Black culture–centered programming to our community. This collaboration will highlight and celebrate the work of national Black authors. Date: TBA Location: East Cleveland Public Library Community Resource Fair Saturday, May 9, 2026 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM BCDI-Ohio is a statewide organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for children and families through education, advocacy, family engagement, and community-informed solutions. Our work centers on ensuring that children have access to safe, healthy, and supportive environments from the prenatal stage through early childhood and beyond. More information about our mission and programs can be found at bcdiohio.org. Community partners and health professionals to provide: • Community resource navigation and referrals • Safe sleep education for infants • Diabetes and Hypertension Health Workshop • Infant CPR Education and Demonstration • Our goal is to meet families where they are, in a familiar and trusted space, while offering practical tools, education, and connection that support long-term well-being. Location: East Cleveland Public Library Board Meetings The ECPL board meetings are held the 3rd Saturday of every month. Time: 2:00 pm Location: East Cleveland Public Library, Lower Auditorium Eastside Chess Club Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:30 pm - 5:45 pm Patrons are invited to come learn about the exciting game of chess! East Side Chess Club Tournament Join us at the ECPL for our annual East Side Chess Tournament Date: Saturday, April 25th, 2025 Location: East Cleveland Public Library Closing Dates Monday, May 25th, 2026 - Memorial Day eastclevelandpubliclibrary.org Scan the QR code with your smartphone and subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates!
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