We recommend checking with the venue or organization before attending any of the following events.

April 2026
What’s the Deal with Dead Man’s Curve and Other Good Questions about Cleveland
Join us for an exploration for what makes Cleveland “Cleveland” with author Jim Sweeney. Learn the answers to the questions native Clevelanders and newcomers have about the city. Why is Dead Man’s Curve so badly designed? Why is Burke Lakefront Airport still open? What makes Shaker Heights so great? There is a story behind everything in Cleveland and this program delivers them all. Jim Sweeney spent more than 20 years reporting in Greater Cleveland and thought he knew everything there…
Spring Craft Supply Swap
Join us at the Library for a fun and friendly Craft Supply Swap! It’s the perfect chance to do a little spring cleaning—clear out those extra arts and crafts supplies and discover something new. Participants may arrive at 11:30 AM to unload and display their materials. Please keep contributions to two boxes per person, and make sure items are clean and sorted with similar materials grouped together. Swap any unwanted arts and crafts supplies such as yarn, needles, fabric, beads,… Find out more »
Therapeutic Art for Parent Bereavement – Expressive Group Art Making to Help Parents
Join UH Connor Whole Health, Jess Grimm, ATR-P, for a therapeutic art group. In these groups you will learn how to utilize art materials in an expressive way to help with coping skills. No prior experience is required to participate. All needs will be accommodated. For questions or additional information, contact: Jessica Grimm, ATR-P, UH Connor Whole Health Registered ATR-P E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 216-285-4041 Find out more »
Live Magic ~ Behold the Impossible! Tricks & Tales from the Golden Age of Magic
Experience live magic, laughs, and stories with Cleveland magician Mark Jarvis—be part of the show as the impossible unfolds right before your eyes! When was the last time you witnessed live magic performed up close? Join Cleveland magician, Mark Jarvis, for an evening of astonishment and laugh-out-loud fun. Hear stories of Harry Houdini, Howard Thurston, and the Golden Age of Magic, and experience the wonder and amazement of classic and modern magic and illusions. Expect lots of laughs, hands-on magic,… Find out more »
Be the Fire: Rewriting Stress with Science and Soul
Break free from stress with a dynamic approach that blends science and creativity. What if your stress is not a flaw, but a fire waiting to be understood? In this empowering and approachable workshop, author, published researcher, and health educator Libbey Pelaia-Krumhansl share tools for navigating stress, shifting mindset, and reconnecting to your inner strength. Blending neuroscience, storytelling, and a little soul, participants will explore how language, thought patterns, and daily habits shape the brain and body - and how… Find out more »
May 2026
Spring Plant Exchange
Join us for a friendly neighborhood plant swap at the Independence Branch! Bring along your extra perennials and exchange them with fellow gardeners in the community. It’s a great chance to pick up new varieties for your garden, swap tips, and connect with other plant enthusiasts. Gardeners are welcome to begin arriving at 11:45 AM to unload and set out their plants. Feel free to bring your perennials in bags, pots, yogurt cups—whatever works for you! The exchange will officially… Find out more »
Grow With Intention: A Hands-On Garden Planting Experience
Explore gardening with mindfulness and intention, for beginners. Grow With Intention in this calm, hands-on experience designed for beginners. Participants will slow down and reconnect with nature as they plant seeds for their own indoor or outdoor herb and vegetable garden. Guided by life coach and community wellness facilitator Whitney Malone, guests will learn how gardening nurtures mindfulness, nourishment, and renewal while setting meaningful intentions for the season ahead. Everyone will leave with planted seeds and a refreshed sense of… Find out more »
TRAITOR! The Tragic Tale of Benedict Arnold
Discover the story behind one of America's most infamous turncoats. How could Colonial America’s most renowned battlefield general become the most despised man in America? Here is the sad tale of an ex-patriot who sought honor and glory but received the opposite. Carl Quatraro has spent his whole life in the Akron area. He graduated from Walsh Jesuit High School and The University of Akron and lives in Fairlawn. Carl retired in 2018 and now stays involved in his community… Find out more »
An Evening with Julia Child
An actress from Women in History will present a portrayal of Julia Child, world famous chef, author, and television personality. Julia Child made French cuisine accessible to American audiences. She was one of the first women to host her own cooking show on television, providing tips and lessons on how to prepare French food simply and easily. Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence Branch Library. Find out more »
June 2026
How to Multiply and Divide Perennials to Gain Free Plants
Shocked at the price of a new perennial at garden centers this year? Master Gardeners will help you fight inflation by teaching you how to create new plants from those you already own. This presentation will focus on when and how to divide perennials, how to grow new plants from cuttings, and propagating by “layering”. Your garden and your pocketbook will thank you for increasing your plant numbers without spending a dime! Presented by the Master Gardeners of Cuyahoga County. Find out more »
Successful Aging: Your Curiosity Matters!
Keep your mind sharp by exploring your curiosity and why it encourages cognitive health. Curiosity is one of the many components for supporting your cognitive health. Keep your brain active by exploring new areas or even revisiting prior interests but taking them to another level matters. Learn ways to enhance your curiosity that can enhance the quality of your days while providing support for the other essential pillars of your brain health routine. “Intellectual curiosity is a superpower.” - Anthony… Find out more »
July 2026
Hands-Only CPR
Participants will learn this life-saving technique to prepare for emergency situations. This American Red Cross Preparedness program features a skill-based training that teaches hands-only technique for CPR. This is a skill-based class, and a certificate will not be provided. Find out more »
Square Dancing: Friendship Set to Music
Enjoy a square dance demo by the Brecksville Squares, and try it yourself! The Brecksville Squares Dance Club invites you to a lively demo featuring colorful costumes, a live caller, and an opportunity to start square dancing yourself! This fun activity is great exercise and a wonderful way to expand your circle of friends. No partner is needed. Come and join the fun! Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence Branch Library and presented in partnership with the Independence Civic… Find out more »
August 2026
Princess Diana: The People’s Princess – Part 1
Princess Diana was an international icon whose activism, style, and charm made her a popular figure. Learn about how she became the People’s Princess. Presented by Susan Cannavino of Presentations With Pizzazz. Part 1 on Saturday, August 15 at 2:00 p.m. focuses on her early life, her relationship with her parents, her upbringing, and her introduction to Prince Charles. Registration for part 1 begins on Tuesday, July 15 at 9:00 a.m. Part 2 on Saturday, September 12 at 2:00 p.m.… Find out more »
WWII: The Code Breakers
A gripping look at the brilliant minds who worked in secrecy to turn the tides of World War II. The code breakers played a crucial role in the Allied victory by deciphering enemy communications, enabling the Allies to anticipate Axis movements and disrupt their plans. Three of the most significant figures were: - Alan Turing (British) — A leading codebreaker at Bletchley Park. - Elizabeth Smith Friedman (American) — A pioneering cryptanalyst, she dismantled Nazi espionage networks in the Western… Find out more »
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