BRINGING OUR COMMUNITY TOGETHER
The BIG IDEA is TLCPL’s action plan to build, improve and grow in inclusion, diversity, equity, and access. An essential part of this work is providing our community with resources and materials that inform, challenge, and inspire people to learn more about our shared human experience.
Find the full list of programs and other BIG IDEA initiatives below.
Birmingham Book Club
Switchboard Soldiers by Jennifer Chiaverini
(Tu) March 19 | 2 — 3:30 p.m. | Birmingham
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Books on Tap
The Lager Queen of Minnesota by J. Ryan Stradal
(W) March 20 | 7:30 — 8:30 p.m. | Library in the Community
Talk books, socialize, and relax with a cold one at Patron Saints Brewery, located at 4730 W Bancroft St #8, Toledo, OH 43615. 21 and over only.
Her Voice, Her Run
(Th) March 21 | 5:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Main Library
Running for public office can feel like a daunting task. Especially as a woman, where female representation in government spaces is underrepresented. Where do you start? Who can you ask for help?
Roots and Flowers: The Life of Marta Terry González
Author Discussion with Dr. Abdul Alkalimat
(Th) March 21 | 6:15 — 7:15 p.m. | Kent
Dive into Black Studies with former UT Africana Studies chair Dr. Abdul Alkalimat as he discusses his book on Afro-Cuban librarian Marta Terry González. Traditional Cuban fare will be served.
Edible DNA
(F) March 22 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Lagrange
Learn all about DNA- what it looks like and the nearly erased history of scientist Rosalind Franklin.
Edible DNA for Women's History Month
(M) March 25 | 3 — 4 p.m. | Mott
Learn about DNA- what it looks like and the nearly erased history of scientist Rosalind Franklin. Enjoy building a DNA model you can eat!
A Steinem Celebration: 90 Years of Gloria
(M) March 25 | 6 — 8 p.m. | Main Library
Celebrate Gloria Steinem's 90th birthday and the Steinem Sisters Collection's 10th anniversary. Join us for a discussion on libraries as feminist spaces and refreshments!
BIG IDEA Book Club
How To Say Babylon by Safiya Sinclair
(Tu) March 26 | 5:30 — 6:30 p.m. | Online Programs
A discussion group dedicated to diverse voices, perspectives, and authors. We'll aim to construct a meaningful conversation about anti-racism and embrace the diversity of our community.
Edible DNA for Women's History Month
(W) March 27 | 4:30 — 5:30 p.m. | Kent
Learn about DNA- what it looks like and the nearly erased history of scientist Rosalind Franklin. Enjoy building a DNA model you can eat!
Navigating Transgender Healthcare Legislation
(W) March 27 | 6:30 — 8 p.m. | Main Library
Join Equality Toledo and a panel of experts for an interactive event to empower parents and allies by creating a greater understanding of the state of transgender healthcare in Ohio.
Online Romance Book Club
Dark Lover by J.R. Ward
(W) March 27 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Online Programs
Are you sick of being shamed for loving romance? Join our Online Romance Book Club! From enemies-to-lovers to regency era, fantasy to fake-relationship, we'll read and chat across the romance genre!
Women's History Month Music Challenge
(F) March 29 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Lagrange
Are you a music aficionado? Put your skills to the test with our music challenge- guess the artist correctly and score points for your team.
Sanger Teens Book Group
(M) April 1 | 12 a.m. — 11:59 p.m. | Sanger
A read and complete at your own pace program, featuring a different book title each month chosen specifically for 9-12 grade level readers. Continues all month long.
Music and Movement Playdate
(M) April 1 | 11 a.m. — noon | King Road
A playdate complete with dance, music and stories! This mixed-ability playtime, for children ages 2-5, is offered in partnership with Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club
Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi
(M) April 1 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger
A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.
Washington Book Club
Switchboard Soldiers by Jennifer Chiaverini
(Tu) April 2 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Washington
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Waterville Book Club
The Dressmakers of Auschwitz by Lucy Adlington
(Tu) April 2 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Waterville
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book group is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Local History Book Club
We are the Troopers by Stephen Guinan
(W) April 3 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Main Library
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Inclusive Storytime
(Th) April 4 | 10 — 11 a.m. | King Road
In partnership with the Ability Center, parents and children are invited to talk, sing, read, write and play as we share stories, music and movement. Parent discussion and play will follow storytime.
West Toledo Book Club
Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto
(Th) April 4 | 2 — 3 p.m. | West Toledo
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book group is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Better Toledo | Redlining in Toledo, The Fair Housing Center
(Th) April 4 | 3 — 5 p.m. | Main Library
The Fair Housing Center discussing the community impact of redlining in Toledo
Oregon Evening Book Club
The Mothers by Brit Bennett
(Th) April 4 | 6 — 7 p.m. | Oregon
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Sylvania Book Club
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
(Th) April 4 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Sylvania
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion. Registration Required.
Online Wellness Book Group
The Courage to be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi
(W) April 10 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Online Programs
Join us for a virtual book discussion devoted to self-discovery and fulfillment.
Waterville Daytime Book Club
The Churchill Sisters by Rachel Trethewey
(Th) April 11 | noon — 1 p.m. | Waterville
Good conversation, friendly faces, and great books—that’s what book club is all about. We’re looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Point Place Book Club
The Last Flight by Julie Clark
(Th) April 11 | 2 — 3 p.m. | Point Place
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Sylvania Book Club
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
(Th) April 11 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Sylvania
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion. Registration Required.
Savory Tarts with Sur le Pouce
(M) April 15 | 6 — 7:30 p.m. | Washington
Create your own savory tart in this fun French cooking class.
Birmingham Book Club
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
(Tu) April 16 | 2 — 3:30 p.m. | Birmingham
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Oregon Book Club
Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston
(Tu) April 16 | 2 — 3 p.m. | Oregon
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Books on Tap
Birnam Wood by Eleanor Catton
(W) April 17 | 7:30 — 8:30 p.m. | Library in the Community
Talk books, socialize, and relax with a cold one at Patron Saints Brewery, located at 4730 W Bancroft St #8, Toledo, OH 43615. 21 and over only.
Online Comic Book Group
Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood by Marjane Satrapi
(Th) April 18 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Online Programs
Do you love comics and graphic novels (or looking to get into them)? Join us as we discuss some of the most thought-provoking and artistically striking comics from across a variety of genres.
BIG IDEA Book Club
Carry: A Memoir of Survival on Stolen Land
(Tu) April 23 | 5:30 — 6:30 p.m. | Online Programs
A discussion group dedicated to diverse voices, perspectives, and authors. We'll aim to construct a meaningful conversation about anti-racism and embrace the diversity of our community.
Maumee Book Club
Horse by Geraldine Brooks
(W) April 24 | 10 — 11 a.m. | Maumee
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Online Romance Book Club
Forget Me Not featuring Author Julie Soto
(W) April 24 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Online Programs
Are you sick of being shamed for loving romance? Join our Online Romance Book Club! From enemies-to-lovers to regency era, fantasy to fake-relationship, we'll read and chat across the romance genre!
Celebrating Arab American Heritage in Northwest Ohio
(F) April 26 | 2 — 4 p.m. | Sanger
Celebrate the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the Arab community, while becoming aware of current challenges.
Rice around the World
(F) April 26 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Lagrange
Every culture has a unique way of cooking. Learn about a new culture every month as we recreate a rice dish.
Human Library
(Sa) April 27 | noon — 3 p.m. | Main Library
A Human Library is where "books" are real people that "readers" check out to discuss shared experiences, differing perspectives, challenge bias, stereotype and prejudice through personal conversation.
Kimono Culture
(Tu) April 30 | 5:30 — 6:30 p.m. | Toledo Heights
This informative overview will cover yukata basics, kimono accessories, tools to help you get dressed, seasonality and other tips for wearing kimono.
Music and Movement Playdate
(M) May 6 | 11 a.m. — noon | King Road
A playdate complete with dance, music and stories! This mixed-ability playtime, for children ages 2-5, is offered in partnership with Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
Meet Children's Author Angela Shinozaki
(M) May 6 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Maumee
Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a reading of Yasuko and the Dream Eater by local author, Angela Shinozaki including special activities after the reading.
Sound Bath with Singing Bowls
(M) May 6 | 4:30 — 5:30 p.m. | Point Place
Relax to the sounds of a singing bowl sound bath performance by local artist Jennifer Bak. We invite you to bring your own yoga mat, wear comfortable clothes, and meditate with us at your library!
Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club
The Leavers by Lisa Ko
(M) May 6 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger
A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.
Meet Children's Author Angela Shinozaki
(Tu) May 7 | 3:30 — 4:30 p.m. | Sanger
Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a reading of Yasuko and the Dream Eater by local author, Angela Shinozaki including special activities after the reading.
Sound Bath with Singing Bowls
(Tu) May 7 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Sylvania
Relax to the sounds of a singing bowl sound bath performance by local artist Jennifer Bak. We invite you to bring your own yoga mat, wear comfortable clothes, and meditate with us at your library!
Sound Bath with Singing Bowls
(M) May 13 | 5:30 — 6:30 p.m. | Oregon
Relax to the sounds of a singing bowl sound bath performance by local artist Jennifer Bak. We invite you to bring your own yoga mat, wear comfortable clothes, and meditate with us at your library!
Meet Children's Author Angela Shinozaki
(Sa) May 18 | 10 — 11 a.m. | King Road
Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a reading of Yasuko and the Dream Eater by local author, Angela Shinozaki including special activities after the reading.
Meet Children's Author Angela Shinozaki
(Sa) May 18 | 2 — 3 p.m. | Heatherdowns
Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a reading of Yasuko and the Dream Eater by local author, Angela Shinozaki including special activities after the reading.
Sound Bath with Singing Bowls
(M) May 20 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Waterville
Relax to the sounds of a singing bowl sound bath performance by local artist Jennifer Bak. We invite you to bring your own yoga mat, wear comfortable clothes, and meditate with us at your library!
Small Town PRIDE!
Southernmost by Silas House
(M) May 20 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Holland
A traveling book group rotating between different small-town library locations.
BIG IDEA Book Club
Biting the Hand: Growing Up Asian in Black and White America
(Tu) May 28 | 5:30 — 6:30 p.m. | Online Programs
A discussion group dedicated to diverse voices, perspectives, and authors. We'll aim to construct a meaningful conversation about anti-racism and embrace the diversity of our community.
Rice around the World
(F) May 31 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Lagrange
Every culture has a unique way of cooking. Learn about a new culture every month as we recreate a rice dish.
Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club
Remembrance by Rita Woods
(M) June 3 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger
A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.
Better Toledo | Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities
(Th) June 6 | 3 — 5 p.m. | Main Library
Learn about disability etiquette, language usage, respectful interactions; best practices for fostering a disability-inclusive workplace culture; tips for recruiting, hiring, and supporting employees
Pride & Poetry
(Th) June 13 | 6:30 — 8:30 p.m. | Reynolds Corners
Read, share, watch, and experience poetry about and by LGBTQIA+ authors - and share your own.
Sylvania Book Club
Conjure Women by Afia Atakora
(Th) June 13 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Sylvania
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion. Registration Required.
Pen to Palette Book Discussion with Toledo Museum of Art
(Sa) June 15 | 1 — 2 p.m. | Library in the Community
Interested in the intersections of art and prose? Read a book, then meet in-person for a personalized tour featuring objects, arts and cultures from our chosen book.
Rice around the World
(M) June 17 | 3 — 4 p.m. | Lagrange
Every culture has a unique way of cooking. Learn about a new culture every month as we recreate a rice dish.
Reproductive Justice with Solace Health & Wellness
Steinem Sisters Collection Talking Circle
(Th) June 20 | 6:30 — 8 p.m. | Maumee
Solace Health & Wellness owner, Erin Martin, will join us for a discussion on reproductive justice: what it means, where we are today, and what we can do in the future.
Online Romance Book Club
How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang
(W) June 26 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Online Programs
Are you sick of being shamed for loving romance? Join our Online Romance Book Club! From enemies-to-lovers to regency era, fantasy to fake-relationship, we'll read and chat across the romance genre!
Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club
The Lady's Handbook for Her Mysterious Illness, Sarah Ramey
(M) July 1 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger
A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.
Adapted Chair Yoga featuring Integration Yoga with Jenn
(W) July 10 | 2 — 3 p.m. | Oregon
Explore yoga through traditional poses redesigned for a sitting position. Based upon attendees' needs, extra poses may be added suited for standing while using the chair for stability and support.
Adapted Chair Yoga featuring Integration Yoga with Jenn
(W) July 10 | 6 — 7 p.m. | Holland
Explore yoga through traditional poses redesigned for a sitting position. Based upon attendees' needs, extra poses may be added suited for standing while using the chair for stability and support.
Adapted Chair Yoga featuring Integration Yoga with Jenn
(Sa) July 13 | 11 a.m. — noon | Sylvania
Explore yoga through traditional poses redesigned for a sitting position. Based upon attendees' needs, extra poses may be added suited for standing while using the chair for stability and support.
Rice around the World
(M) July 15 | 3 — 4 p.m. | Lagrange
Every culture has a unique way of cooking. Learn about a new culture every month as we recreate a rice dish.
Birmingham Book Club
The Hospital by Brian Alexander
(Tu) July 16 | 2 — 3:30 p.m. | Birmingham
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Adapted Chair Yoga featuring Integration Yoga with Jenn
(W) July 17 | 11 a.m. — noon | Reynolds Corners
Explore yoga through traditional poses redesigned for a sitting position. Based upon attendees' needs, extra poses may be added suited for standing while using the chair for stability and support.
Pride & Poetry
(Th) July 18 | 6:30 — 8 p.m. | Sanger
Read, share, watch, and otherwise experience poetry about and by LGBTQIA+ authors—and share your own.
Adapted Chair Yoga featuring Integration Yoga with Jenn
(Sa) July 20 | 11 a.m. — noon | Waterville
Explore yoga through traditional poses redesigned for a sitting position. Based upon attendees' needs, extra poses may be added suited for standing while using the chair for stability and support.
Adapted Chair Yoga featuring Integration Yoga with Jenn
(M) July 29 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | King Road
Explore yoga through traditional poses redesigned for a sitting position. Based upon attendees' needs, extra poses may be added suited for standing while using the chair for stability and support.
Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club
When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Regan Barnhill
(M) August 5 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger
A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.
Pride & Poetry
(Th) August 15 | 6:30 — 8 p.m. | Main Library
Read, share, watch, and otherwise experience poetry about and by LGBTQIA+ authors—and share your own.
Rice around the World
(M) August 19 | 3 — 4 p.m. | Lagrange
Every culture has a unique way of cooking. Learn about a new culture every month as we recreate a rice dish.
Birmingham Book Club
The Holdout by Graham Moore
(Tu) August 20 | 2 — 3:30 p.m. | Birmingham
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Women in Politics
Steinem Sisters Collection Talking Circle
(Tu) August 20 | 6 — 7:30 p.m. | Sylvania
Local elected officials will lead a discussion on their journeys to public office and what issues they see ahead for women in Lucas County.
Family Pride Night
(W) August 21 | 6 — 8 p.m. | Main Library
Enjoy family-friendly games and activities in honor of Toledo Pride.
Small Town PRIDE!
Countries of Origin by Javier Fuentes
(M) August 26 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | King Road
A traveling book group rotating between different small-town library locations.
Online Romance Book Club
Something Wild & Wonderful by Anita Kelly
(W) August 28 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Online Programs
Are you sick of being shamed for loving romance? Join our Online Romance Book Club! From enemies-to-lovers to regency era, fantasy to fake-relationship, we'll read and chat across the romance genre!
Better Toledo | Welcoming
(Th) September 5 | 3 — 5 p.m. | Main Library
Hear on the topic of "Welcoming" from the BGSU Institute for the Study of Culture & Society
Birmingham Book Club
Lady Tan's Circle of Women by Lisa See
(Tu) September 17 | 2 — 3:30 p.m. | Birmingham
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
(M) October 7 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger
A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.
Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club
Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley
(M) November 4 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger
A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.
Better Toledo | Cultural Invisibility by Jessica Vallejo
(Th) November 7 | 3 — 5 p.m. | Main Library
Jessica Vallejo from the Committee of 500 Years of Dignity and Resistance discussing the impact of Cultural Invisibility on the Indigenous community
Birmingham Book Club
The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi
(Tu) November 19 | 2 — 3:30 p.m. | Birmingham
Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.
Small Town PRIDE!
Becoming Nicole by Amy Ellis Nutt
(M) November 25 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Holland
A traveling book group rotating between different small-town library locations.
Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club
Revival Season by Monica West
(M) December 2 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger
A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.