Ottawa Library Unveils Exciting February Events for All Ages

The Reddick Public Library District in Ottawa has announced a diverse lineup of events and programs for February, catering to various interests and age groups. From interactive games to educational workshops, the library aims to engage the community throughout the month.

Highlights of February Programming

One of the standout offerings is the **Escape the Study Room Game**, running from **February 1 to February 15**. Teams of four will have **45 minutes** to solve a series of riddles, with a prize awarded to the winning team. Participants can either reserve a room or opt for a walk-in.

On **February 2**, adults will have the opportunity to enjoy the **Monthly Kit: Dark Chocolate**. This program will provide a sample of dark chocolate along with recipes. Kits are limited to one per person and will be available while supplies last.

The **Adult Winter Reading** program also kicks off on **February 2** and runs until **February 21**. Participants can submit book reviews online or via paper forms for a chance to win a gift certificate package from local restaurants and stores, with winners announced after **February 23**.

For families, **Story Time at the Woodland** will take place on **February 2** from **10:30 to 11:30 a.m.** at Nell’s Woodland. This event includes story listening, music, hiking, and crafting. Registration is required, and participants are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather.

Children aged three to five can join the **Ready, Set, Read!** program, scheduled for **Tuesdays, February 3, 10, 17, and 24**, from **10 to 10:45 a.m.** This engaging session will feature themed stories, crafts, and songs.

On **February 4**, younger children are invited to the **Shake, Rattle, Read!** program, also from **10 to 10:45 a.m.**, where they can participate in songs, stories, and crafts designed for those aged newborn to three.

Workshops and Special Events

Adults will have the chance to explore the **Language of Flowers** on **February 5** from **6 to 7 p.m.** This unique event, led by Marcy Lautanen-Raleigh, will delve into how flowers have been used to convey secret messages throughout history.

Health screenings will be offered on **February 6** from **9 to 11 a.m.** Attendees can receive free blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose checks, provided by OSF OnCall Connect. Participants are encouraged to hydrate beforehand, with no fasting required.

The library’s **Loop Group** will meet on **Saturdays, February 7, 14, 21, and 28**, from **1:30 to 3:30 p.m.** for knitting and crocheting sessions open to adults.

Another highlight includes the **Manga Club** on **February 7** from **2 to 3 p.m.**, where students in grades seven to twelve can discuss the manga “The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity!” and its anime adaptation.

For those interested in crafts, the **DIY Valentine’s Day Cards** workshop on **February 11** from **4:30 to 5:30 p.m.** will allow participants to create personalized Valentine cards using provided supplies.

The library will also host a **Voter Registration** event on **February 18** from **6 to 7:30 p.m.**, where adults can register to vote, bringing necessary identification and proof of address.

Finally, the month will culminate in the **Mural Unveiling** on **February 22** from **2 to 3 p.m.** in the library’s community room. Attendees can meet mural artist Clara Brubaker and participate in related activities while enjoying refreshments.

With an array of engaging activities, the Reddick Public Library District is set to become a hub of community engagement this February, inviting residents of Ottawa to participate and explore.