Strategies for communication, ways to support activity engagement and potential safety concerns can help families and care partners maximize the routine of stroke patients. One of the keys to enhancing the day-to-day experiences of all involved is making appropriate modifications as changes occur and providing ongoing support.

Test your music knowledge with a fun game of musical themed bingo! Your bingo card will include music from multiple different decades and multiple different genres!

If you have ever had to take an extended break from the workforce to raise children, to manage a disability, become a caregiver to a family member, or after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, this program may be helpful for you to attend. Reentering a competitive job market can be challenging because so many things have changed in the job search process. It can seem intimidating from knowing where to start, what to say, and how to prepare yourself…

A talk exploring the many fascinating personal and professional parallels between Mark Twain and Rod Serling of the Twilight Zone. Presented by Mark Dawidziak, author and editor of over 25 books.

Hear about some of the lost restaurants of Cleveland in this storytelling program based on the book which features historic eateries between Public Square and Playhouse Square. Otto Moser’s, Alpine Village, the Mayfair Casino are just a few of the restaurants covered in the book. The restaurant “cluster” of East 4th St., Short Vincent and the Terminal Tower are also spotlighted. Bette Lou Higgins from Eden Valley Enterprises will share some of her favorite tales in this presentation with PowerPoint…

Learn how to reduce stress and build personal resilience with corporate health coach Viktoria Levay.

In this engaging talk, Professor Sharona Hoffman will address some of the social, financial, legal, medical, and other challenges that we face as we grow older or care for aging loved ones. Based on her 2022 book, Aging with a Plan, the author will offer a wealth of practical advice backed by research studies and illustrated by many personal anecdotes.

Join us for a demonstration on how to make this crowd-pleasing snack perfect for any movie night. Learn how to make basic popcorn on the stovetop and the different ways to customize using fresh herbs and other additions. Great for beginners!

If you ever wanted to know the true meaning of a tragic artist, look no further than Vincent van Gogh. Join us as historian Susan Cannavino shares the landscape of his personal life. Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence Branch Library.

Dig up your perennials to exchange for new plants you don’t have! Gain some new knowledge and have some fun with other enthusiasts. Come to the Independence Branch for our Fall Plant Exchange. Dig up your perennials and swap with others. Add some new variety to your garden by exchanging plants and learning. Gardeners may begin arriving at 1:45 AM to unload and display their plants. Bring perennials in bags, pots, yogurt containers, whatever you choose. The Exchange will begin…

Join Julie Koenig of Royally Amused to discuss the Coronation of King Charles III. British-born Julie Koenig is a keen observer and lifelong student of the British monarchy. She is well-versed in the colorful history and traditions of the British royal family. Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence Branch Library.

Learn about the Cleveland Documenters and how you can take part in this civic engagement opportunity. A Signal staff member and a Cleveland Documenter will present an overview of how Cleveland Documenters works and how Greater Clevelanders can be trained and paid to document local public meetings.

Explore the paranormal in this informative presentation by the Ohio Researchers of Banded Sprits. Join Ohio Researchers of Banded Spirits (ORBS) as they cover everything from who they are, why they got started, types of Spirits, equipment they use, how you can get started and some of the most compelling evidence we have recorded over our 17 years investigating the paranormal. ORBS has been one of Ohio's top paranormal teams for over 17 years and has worked on well over…

Come to this workshop to find out about popular things that retirees do besides traveling, enjoying family, and having time to themselves. This is hybrid program. You can attend via Zoom or in-person at the Independence Branch. Are you searching for a way to make life fulfilling after retirement? If this is you, join us as we help you discover that retirement offers many opportunities for people to feel just as fulfilled as they were when they were a part…

The Raisin’ Canes consists of seniors from 59 to 80+ years of age in a wonderful little vaudeville show. Includes dancing, great old songs, celebrity imitations, and jokes. The group, based in the Donna Smallwood Activities Center in Parma, have won numerous awards and have entertained audiences throughout the Cleveland area. Come join in the fun! Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence Branch Library and presented in partnership with the Independence Civic Center. This program will be held at…

Join us for a presentation from Western Reserve Historical Society and learn about the once declared “the most beautiful street in America.” Euclid Avenue was once home to powerful families who not only shaped Cleveland, but national politics and industry, as well. Hear their stories as you take a walk down Euclid Avenue in the 19th Century and learn about the beautiful art and architecture of their homes.

December is a busy month for the royals! Learn all about the history of Christmas traditions with royal expert Julie Koenig. Enjoy Christmas traditions by sampling a mince pie and get into the festive spirit by wearing a paper crown! British-born Julie Koenig is a keen observer and lifelong student of the British monarchy. She is well-versed in the colorful history and traditions of the British royal family. Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence branch Library. Registration opens on…

In this hands-on program, learn how to make a quick yeast bread dough that you can take home for baking. For beginners. Explore bread making and learn some basic techniques to start your baking journey. Learn about yeast, kneading, and what goes into a simple loaf of sandwich bread. This is a hands-on program so participants should dress accordingly. Participants should be prepared to take home their dough immediately after the program for baking, or refrigeration. Registration begins Tuesday, December…

Ring in the New Year by learning tips for reorganizing your 2024 job search. Who says no one keeps their New Year’s resolutions? Ring in the New Year by learning tips for reorganizing your 2024 job search. This includes tips for: setting new, achievable goals, revising your resume, changing your job search strategy, and developing a winning attitude that will lead to a successful job search with rewarding results! An email address is required in order to receive the link…

A representative from the American Red Cross will discuss the facts and history of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), also known in military circles as the Law of Armed Conflict. Topics include definition and history of IHL; the difference between war and armed conflict; types of armed conflicts; principles of IHL; and who and what is protected under IHL. This information will be delivered in a strictly neutral manner, as the American Red Cross does not take sides in any controversy…

The Venner Clarinets perform a wide variety of music from Mozart to mambo, Rossini to ragtime, all arranged for clarinet ensemble. Originated by the late Theodore Johnson of the Cleveland Orchestra, the ensemble promotes the beauty of the instrument in a chamber music setting. Program is appropriate for all ages. Registration begins Saturday, December 30 at 9:00 a.m.

Caregivers: How much do you know about managing money? This free program by the Alzheimer's Association will help you learn about the costs of caregiving and the benefits of early planning and teach you how to avoid financial abuse and fraud, start a conversation about finances, assess financial and legal needs and find support. Registration begins Wednesday, January 10 at 9:00 a.m.

Historian Susan Cannavino will share the fascinating story of Josephine Baker, a world renowned entertainer and World War II spy. Baker's story has it all: Paris in the 1920s, World War II espionage, the adoption of 12 children, and the fight against racism. Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence Branch Library and presented in partnership with the Independence Civic Center. This program will be held at the Independence Civic Center: 6363 Selig Dr. Independence, OH 44131 Registration begins on…

Explore the world of bookmaking and learn how to create this no-sew design. Originally developed as a less cumbersome alternative to parchment scrolls, concertinas (sometimes called accordion fold books) are a simple, no-sew way to create your own blank book! This workshop will guide you through the process of preparing your paper, decorating your covers, and assembling a concertina booklet. All supplies provided; no experience necessary. Presented by Amanda Nyx, multimedia artist. www. fiercelyserene.com Registration begins Saturday, January 27 at…

Explore the secrets of the Heirloom Apothecary in this escape room game. Participants will have 40 minutes to test their clue-finding skills before time runs out. Join us for an immersive escape room experience as you work closely with your fellow players to unravel the mysteries behind this curious Apothecary. Participants will work as a group to decipher clues, solve puzzles, and beat the clock before the Apothecary closes its doors forever. Registration begins Tuesday, February 6 at 9:00 a.m.

Join us as we color, relax, meet new people and chat with old friends. Coloring pages and utensils provided. Registration opens February 16th at 9am. Sponsored by Friends of the Independence Branch Library.

Dive into the eerie universe of H.P. Lovecraft's cosmic horror at our library program. Join fellow enthusiasts for an afternoon of tabletop gaming in the atmospheric setting of Mansions of Madness. Immerse yourself in the eerie world of H.P. Lovecraft's cosmic horror at our library program. Join fellow enthusiasts for an afternoon of spine-chilling adventure as we explore the mysteries and madness lurking within the Mansions of Madness board game. Dive into the unknown, solve eldritch puzzles, and face otherworldly…

Learn about the total solar eclipse and how to safely view it. The Eclipse on Monday April 8, 2024, will be a total solar eclipse. It will be the last total solar eclipse visible to the contiguous United States until 2044. Learn about this once in a lifetime opportunity and how to safely participate. Eclipse glasses will be provided to attendees. Registration begins Thursday, February 29 at 9:00 a.m.

Experience the Beatles first American tour through photos, interviews, and concert footage. In the winter of 1964, a musical and cultural phenomenon swept the United States. Rock and pop music acts from England became popular and had a phenomenal influence on the American pop music market. Known as the British Invasion, this musical explosion was spearheaded by the Beatles. This program chronicles their first American tour in 1964 with interviews, concert footage, and never-before seen photos by Paul McCartney of…

Bring unwanted arts and crafts supplies you no longer want or need and exchange them for something new! Participants may arrive at 1:00 to unload and display their materials. Come to the Independence Library and start your spring cleaning early. This is a great way to clear your crafting space and to try something new. Exchange any unwanted arts and crafts supplies (yarn, needles, fabric, beads, and more) and take-home new supplies to start your next project. Contributions must be…

Cuyahoga County Master Gardeners will share techniques you can use to welcome pollinators and other beneficials to your vegetable garden and landscape. Not enough buzz in your garden? Bring your garden to life! Cuyahoga County Master Gardeners will share techniques you can use to welcome pollinators and other beneficials to your vegetable garden and landscape. Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence Branch Library. Registration begins Friday, March 15 at 9:00 a.m.

Join us for a career retrospective of Stephen Sondheim, one of the greatest composers and lyricists of the 20th century. Sondheim brought us iconic and influential theater products such as West Side Story, Company, Follies, and Sweeney Todd. Kelly Minelli, music educator, shares an in-depth exploration of a fascinating career of the man “credited with reinventing the musical.” This program is in partnership with Playhouse Square production of “Company”. Registration begins on Wednesday, March 20 at 9:00 a.m.

Learn about the story behind this lesser-known, trailblazing local Cleveland athlete. When Larry Doby signed with the Cleveland Indians in July 1947, he became the second African-American player in Major League Baseball and the first in the American League. Though Doby played on some of the greatest Indians teams of all time, he never quite received the same media attention as Jackie Robinson, who had broken MLB’s color barrier on April 15, 1947, which meant that both his achievements and…

Gain confidence in speaking with new people in this hands-on workshop presented by Kimberlee Franz, Certified Etiquette Instructor. Being able to relate to others is essential for building and maintaining positive relationships, whether in professional or personal settings. In this program we will explore the various aspects of social etiquette to help you feel confident in any situation: Introductions Remembering Names Showing Confidence in Communication Being an Active Listener Ease of Transition within Topics of Conversation Being Mindful of Personal…

Join us as we make a delicious grape salad and then picnic outside (weather permitting) with our snack and a favorite book! Please bring your own picnic blanket and/or chair and a book to read! Registration opens April 17th at 9am.

Dig up your perennials to exchange for new plants you don’t have! Gain some new knowledge and have some fun with other enthusiasts. Come to the Independence Branch for our Spring Plant Exchange. Dig up your perennials and swap with others. Add some new variety to your garden by exchanging plants and learning. Gardeners may begin arriving at 1:45 AM to unload and display their plants. Bring perennials in bags, pots, yogurt containers, whatever you choose. The Exchange will begin…

Representatives from Grace Brothers Farm, Nursery & Supply will discuss the importance of a strong local food system, share tips on how to eat seasonally, and describe practical ways to eat more local food.

This is hybrid program. You can attend via Zoom or in-person at the Independence Branch. If you have ever had to take an extended break from the workforce to raise children, manage a disability, become a caregiver to a family member, or after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, this program may be helpful for you to attend. Reentering a competitive job market can be challenging because so many things have changed in the job search process. It can seem…

Homemade cheese is surprisingly simple to make. In this demonstration you will explore the world of homemade cheese and learn how to turn milk into basic cheese using commonly available ingredients and tools.

You are locked in the cellar/meeting room along with a group of other opera goers. You have 45 minutes to find the code and escape before the Opera House is destroyed. Look for clues, solve puzzles, and beat the clock!

You are locked in the cellar/meeting room along with a group of other opera goers. You have 45 minutes to find the code and escape before the Opera House is destroyed. Look for clues, solve puzzles, and beat the clock!

Join Julie Koenig of Royally Amused to discuss the British royal palaces and gardens! British-born Julie Koenig is a keen observer and lifelong student of the British monarchy. She is well-versed in the colorful history and traditions of the British royal family. Join her for a presentation about the royal palaces and gardens!

"The Shawshank Redemption Revealed," author and Largely Literary co-founder Mark Dawidziak presents a program based on his 2019 book "The Shawshank Redemption Revealed," which was published on the 25th anniversary of director Frank Darabont's film adaptation of Stephen King's novella. Filmed in Ohio and starring Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman, "The Shawshank Redemption" has risen in popularity since its release in 1994, reaching No. 1 on IMDB's list of most-loved movies. Dawidziak conducted more than 70 interviews for the book,…

ORBS (Ohio Researchers of Banded Spirits) have been researching the paranormal for 18 years. They have conducted over 400 paranormal investigations and witnessed a great deal of supernatural phenomena. ORBS will discuss the history and ghosts behind some of Ohio’s most haunted locations—with evidence to support their findings.

Five marriages. One love child. World War II hero. The behind the scenes of Gone With The Wind. Join us to learn the true story of Ohio native and King of Hollywood Clark Gable. Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence Branch Library and presented in partnership with the Independence Civic Center. This program will be held at the Independence Civic Center: 6363 Selig Dr. Independence, OH 44131

Chef Peggi Cruz will demonstrate how to cook Vegan Puerto Rican Rice (Arroz con Gandules) without losing any of its tantalizing flare! Learn about some of Puerto Rico’s traditional ingredients, how to use them, and how to make a delicious, authentic, vegan, Island dish (Arrroz con Gandules) that will surely wow your family and friends!

Enjoy the music, stories, and wit of local violinist Mary Beth Ions. She will perform favorites from a variety of musical genres, including popular music, show tunes, ethnic and classical numbers, and even your requests!

Hiding in obscure corners and in plain sight, chilling tales from Cleveland’s paranormal past await reawakening. The long-forgotten story of a colossal phantom that stalked the grounds of Erie Street Cemetery will be revealed. A stately stone rowhouse on Prospect was the scene of a tragic suicide, and a chilling haunting that followed. Hanged murderers were also said to roam the corridors of the Old County Jail. Take a step back in time with author and investigative historian William G.…

Experience an innovative and unique musical performance by this dynamic local hip hop artist. Celebrating lyricism, individuality and weaving a symphony of the strange. Phyll Thomas; creates a sonic fusion that is a kaleidoscope for your ears. His music defies the mundane, —a vibrant fusion that lingers long after the song is over.

Join us when former TV anchor and author Jack Marschall visits to discuss his latest book, Sounds of Our Souls. Jack Marschall’s professional career spanned more than three decades in broadcast journalism and public communication. He has authored six books of fiction and poetry that resonate with heartfelt messages of empathy, peace, hope and love.

Learn helpful strategies that can help you transition back into the world of work successfully. This is hybrid program. You can attend via Zoom or in-person at the Independence Branch. If you have ever had to take an extended break from the workforce to raise children, to manage a disability, become a caregiver to a family member, or after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, this program may be helpful for you to attend. Reentering a competitive job market can…

Join us for an enjoyable afternoon of entertaining music. Singer Debbie Darling presents the #1 hit songs of the 1940s. With live piano accompaniment by David Strieter. Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence Branch Library and presented in partnership with the Independence Civic Center. This program will be held at the Independence Civic Center: 6363 Selig Dr. Independence, OH 44131

Birth Matters invites you to an informative gathering where families who wonder about alternatives to mainstream birthing choices can ask questions. Learn more about the community midwives serving your area and discover your birthing options. Facilitators will discuss qualifications, benefits, and risks as well as other allied resources and professionals who can help you prepare for birth and meet your needs. Presented by Birth Matters.

This is hybrid program. You can attend via Zoom or in-person at the Independence Branch. Many people are discovering that retirement provides them with an opportunity to do now what they have always wanted to do. If this sounds like you, come to this workshop to learn about popular things retirees do besides traveling, enjoying family, and having time to yourself. Examples include learning how to put your business acumen to work by becoming a mentor at SCORE (Service Corp…

Join us for an interactive murder mystery where you solve the crime! Based on the novel The Glass House by Ann Cleeves. Hoping to learn the art of the crime short story, a group of aspiring authors gather at the Writers’ House, a fortified farm on the Northumberland coast. However, the body of Tony Ferdinand, course tutor, academic and literary star-maker, is found in the garden. Who could have done it and why? Do you have what it takes to…

At one time, Cleveland was the automobile capitol of the world. Join the Western Reserve Historical Society for a look at a treasure trove of Cleveland-made vehicles. At one time, Cleveland was the automobile capitol of the world. Join the Western Reserve Historical Society for a look at the turn of the 20th century and discover a treasure trove of Cleveland-made vehicles. Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence Branch Library and presented in partnership with the Independence Civic Center.…

An actress from Women in History will present a portrayal of Stagecoach Mary Fields. Born into slavery in the 1830s, Fields lived an adventurous life that eventually led to her becoming the first African American woman to carry mail on a Star Route for the United States Post Office Department. Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence Branch Library. Registration begins on Saturday, January 4 at 9:00 a.m.

Learn the rich history of Cleveland’s westside streets. Have you ever wondered how some Westside Cleveland streets got their names? Were they named in honor of prominent people? Perhaps they were named after the landowner who sold their farm to city development? Join us on this tour to find out which road names have significance to Riverside Cemetery's residents. Presented by Jamie Lynne Owens and Maria P. Moldovan. Registration begins on Saturday, January 25 at 9:00 a.m.

Learn more about the African American soldiers served on the Western frontier following the American Civil War. As the American Civil War ended, the United States faced the task of rebuilding the war-torn country. Jobs were hard to find, food was scarce, and thousands were homeless. People traveled west to start a new life on the frontier. Learn more about the journey of the soldiers of the 9th and 10th Calvary, how they earned the nickname "Buffalo Soldiers", and how…

Join us for a breathtaking musical and educational performance. Sugata Chatterjee will perform and present on the grammar and history of Indian classical music. She will perform “raagas” which are the melodic framework in Indian classical music. The improvisation of Indian classical music is vast. It’s limit is the horizon. Sugata Chatterjee was born In Kolkata, India. She started learning Indian classical music since her childhood. Her first guru or teacher is Pandit Satya Ranjan Chatterjee. She continued her training…

Celebrate gardening and Women’s History with this fascinating presentation about this local green thumb. Explore the rich history of gardening through the life of Ella Grant Wilson, the celebrated Florist of Millionaires Row. Known for her exceptional work with Cleveland’s elite, Ella was instrumental in shaping horticultural practices of her time. This engaging talk blends her gardening expertise with her legacy as a pro-women advocate. Presented by the Western Reserve Historical Society. Registration begins on Saturday, March 1 at 9:00…

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Richfield Coliseum. Let's go back in time and remember Frank Sinatra, the Cleveland Cavs Miracle of Richfield, the Cleveland Force, rock & roll concerts, Ali vs Webner, the circuses, and more! We will view rare videos and audio clips. Presented by Gerry Nemeth, local historian. Sponsored by the Friends of the Independence Branch Library and presented in partnership with the Independence Civic Center. This program will be held at the Independence…

Bring unwanted arts and crafts supplies and exchange them for something new! Participants may arrive at 10:00 to unload and display their materials. Limit of 2 boxes of supplies per person. Come to the Independence Library and start your spring cleaning. This is a great way to clear your crafting space and to try something new. Exchange any unwanted arts and crafts supplies (yarn, needles, fabric, beads, and more) and take-home new supplies to start your next project. Contributions must…

Eleanor Roosevelt’s list of accomplishments is staggering – diplomat, activist, author, and First Lady of the United States. Join us for a deeper look into the life of one of the most influential and admired people in United States history. You will see Eleanor in a whole new light. Part 1 on May 7 at 6:30 p.m. focuses on her relationship with her parents, her unhappy childhood, her brilliant education, and her relationship with Franklin. Registration for part 1 begins…

Dig up your perennials to exchange for new plants you don’t have! Gain some new knowledge and have some fun with other enthusiasts. Come to the Independence Branch for our Spring Plant Exchange. Dig up your perennials and swap with others. Add some new variety to your garden by exchanging plants and learning. Gardeners may begin arriving at 11:45 AM to unload and display their plants. Bring perennials in bags, pots, yogurt containers, whatever you choose. The Exchange will begin…

Arborist Sean Fenton teaches you how to protect your home from a falling tree. Join us to learn how the arboriculture world assesses trees on clients’ properties to determine risk level and recommended remediation. Certified arborists play a vital role in identifying and managing tree risks. When people are nervous of a tree falling on their house or property it can be assessed with science! Presented by Sean Fenton, arborist with Bartless Tree Experts, www.bartlett.com Registration begins on Thursday, April…

Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of “Jaws” and take a look behind-the-scenes of this iconic film. Are you still afraid to go back in the water? In June 1975, “Jaws” terrified movie audiences and, 50 years later, the film still continues to haunt us. Here is the story of the film, the actors and, of course, the shark. Registration begins on Friday, May 23 at 9:00 a.m.

Join us for a fun-filled and fascinating program of Russian music and anecdote. Oleg Kruglyakov will play classical and folk music using a balalaika, a Russian three-stringed triangular instrument. Registration begins on Monday, June 2 at 9:00 a.m.

SCAMO is a fun, bingo-style game that teaches you how to spot, avoid and report current scams. Learn about how to handle robocalls, dodge common scams and what agencies make up Scam Squad working to protect residents with the Cuyahoga County Department of Consumer Affairs! Registration begins on Monday, June 30 at 9:00 a.m.

This is hybrid program. You can attend via Zoom or in-person at the Independence Branch. Experts report that on average, people change careers between 3+ times during their work life. For this reason alone, job seekers must know what skills - hard, soft, and transferable - they have to offer across multiple careers/jobs. In this program, first-time career planners and career changers will learn the beginning steps of identifying their career interests, personality, skills, and values and how they can…

Greater Cleveland Volunteers will present information about many opportunities to share your time and talents to help others. Learn how to get started in making a difference in your community. Greater Cleveland Volunteers is a local nonprofit organization that has been serving Cuyahoga County for more than 50 years. Their mission is to promote volunteerism and encourage people to share their time and talents to help in our community. They help people age 18 and older find opportunities to serve…

Explore the world of this beloved hobby from tips and tricks to surprising secrets. What makes a puzzle valuable? What's the best inexpensive puzzle? Which brands have the highest quality? And what about all those thrift store puzzles? Local culture writer and lifelong dissectologist Erin O'Brien has found the answers within her sprawling collection of 400+ jigsaw puzzles. Inside all those boxes, she's uncovered much more than just weirdly shaped pieces. They've contained a deceptive 18th century horse, a mysterious…

In the mid- to late-nineteenth century, Spiritualism, a religious movement centered on communication with the dead, swept into Northeast Ohio. This program will address how Clevelanders embraced Spiritualism, and how they reacted as some Spiritualists, both locally and nationally, tried to use “new” technologies like photography to capture scientific evidence of life after death—some making earnest attempts, while others mounted carefully conceived efforts to double-cross believers. Presented by the Western Reserve Historical Society.

The Cleveland Museum of Art comes to you! Explore the tombs of ancient Egypt like an archaeologist. Participants handle authentic artifacts from the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection and learn about mummification, burial practices, religion, and everyday life through these artifacts.