This year marks the 125th anniversary of the Fargo Public Library, celebrating over a century of literacy, learning, and community connection. To recognize this milestone, area residents are invited to attend a series of upcoming events and programs honoring the library’s history and connection to the community. Upcoming events include:
Trivia Night: History Edition – 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26, at the Main Library
Do you love history and trivia? Join us for an evening of questions that will test your knowledge of United States history — from the signing of the Declaration of Independence to the founding of the Fargo Public Library. The event will also feature special questions about last year’s 1975 time capsule opening, which offered a glimpse into life 50 years ago. Trivia is open to individuals or teams ages 15 and older. There will be prizes for the top winners and snacks. Pre-registration is required and opens Saturday, Jan. 10. To register, call 701.241.1492.
Bookworm Birthday Bash! – 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Main Library
Area kids are invited to get ready to wiggle into a world of stories as we celebrate the library’s 125th birthday with a bash made just for book-loving kids. Join us for a morning packed with party games, crafts, and sweet surprises. Explore new books, meet fellow bookworms, and help us make this birthday one for the storybooks. All materials will be provided, and no registration is required. For more details, contact the Children's Services Dept. at 701.241.1495.
JT Kennelly Band Performance – 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Main Library
The library’s anniversary celebration continues with a free performance by the JT Kennelly Band that is geared for the whole family. A country/folk/bluegrass band based in Fargo whose experienced musicians play from the heart, this group blends folksy bluegrass with a modern twist. Their music will have all ages dancing and singing along. Contact Sarah at 701.241.1492 for details.
Author Visit with J. Ryan Stradal – 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 16, at the Main Library
Join us for a talk from J. Ryan Stradal, best-selling author of Saturday Night at the Lakeside Supper Club, The Lager Queen of Minnesota, and Kitchens of the Great Midwest. His novels celebrate food, family, and the unique culture of the upper Midwest. Books will be available for purchase and signing.
Note: Seating is limited. Registration is not required, but do register to receive a reminder email about the event and RSVP for this free event either online or by calling [701.241.1492}(tel:7012411492 "701.241.1492") beginning Feb. 1.
“Pioneering Public Libraries in North Dakota” presentation by Dr. Ashley Baggett – 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 24 at the Main Library
In 1889, industrialist Andrew Carnegie called public libraries “the best gift that can be given to a community;” he believed through hard work and education everyone could improve their lives. North Dakotans overwhelmingly agreed. This talk, presented by Dr. Ashley Baggett, Associate Professor of History at NDSU, focuses on North Dakota’s pioneer spirit that shaped the construction of these libraries – most notably the value of community as locals banded together to raise funds, donate books, and train to work in the newly created profession of librarianship. This event is open to ages. For details, call Lori at 701.476.5977.
The library’s 125th Anniversary Event Series is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Fargo Public Library.
Fargo Public Library events are free and open to the public; adults must accompany children ages 9 and younger. For more information about the library, its services and a list of upcoming events, call 701.241.1492. If you need any accommodation in order to participate, we are happy to help to the best of our ability. Please contact the Fargo Public Library via email at Accessibility@fargolibrary.org or call 701.241.1495 at least three business days in advance.