Programs & Events FAQs

  • General Questions

    There is no charge to attend any library program.

    The library is happy to put up flyers for cultural events as well as non-profit activities that are open to the whole community as space permits. You can give them to the staff at each branch's circulation desk and the manager will review it before posting it.

    Or you may wish to send them to our Marketing department at 215 S. 15th St, Omaha, NE 68102 and they will be able to distribute it to the appropriate libraries after approval.

    No, we don't currently offer any ESL or ELL classes. To see a list of library resources to help you learn English and find providers in the area, visit our English Language Learners page.

    Unfortunately, we are no longer hosting speed dating events. Omaha Public Library has had an extraordinary run of hosting speed dating events where folks have had the opportunity to meet a love connection. As much as we loved hosting these events, we have decided to focus on other organizational priorities

    Yes! OPL usually offers babysitting classes over the summer, please see our events calendar for more details.

    We encourage patrons to come into their local branch for one on one help with your technology needs.  For more information about the type of technology support we provide, visit our technology services page.

    OPL welcomes program proposals from the public, qualified speakers, authors and performers. The programming committee evaluates each proposal based on how it supports the library's mission, the potential interest and benefit to library customers, the expertise and presentation skills of the speaker, and budgetary considerations.

    Fill out this form to submit your proposal.

  • Storytime

    Storytimes are based on two core ideas. The first is that reading begins at birth. The second is that parents are a child's first and best teacher. Storytime allows caregivers and children to participate in fun activities that promote the development of early literacy skills, and they can continue those activities at home.

    Early literacy is what children know about reading and writing before they can read or write. This usually happens between birth and five years old. It's never too early to start learning, and that is the goal during storytime. Hearing stories read aloud helps even the youngest children get excited about books and learning.

    Omaha Public Library storytimes are based on the American Library Association's "Every Child Ready to Read" philosophy. Therefore, every storytime includes the five practices of reading, writing, singing, talking and playing. Children develop a love of books, learn new words, and identify letters and sounds as OPL staff share stories, songs, rhymes and literacy tips for caregivers.

    Children (and their adults) will have fun participating in storytime with engaging books, action songs and rhymes, fingerplays and more at our special programs designed for little learners. With an emphasis on early literacy skills, these programs will help your child love books.

    Adults are strongly encouraged to participate in storytime activities with their child. Parents and caregivers can learn by watching library staff demonstrate good read-aloud skills and by being aware of the age-appropriate books, music, songs and activities staff use during storytime. They can take this knowledge and continue to teach early literacy skills outside of storytime.

    Please check the calendar to find a storytime that matches the age of your child and is close to your home. Space at storytimes may be limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis unless otherwise indicated on the calendar listing. Daycares or large groups should call ahead. 

  • Summer Reading Program

    Summer Reading Program encourages and incentivizes kids, teens, and adults to visit their local library and read during the summer. Studies show that students who read during the summer months get better grades and reading scores when they return in the fall. Adults who read during the summer set a positive example for the children in their lives.

    You can sign up starting June 1, 2025.

    OPL will offer a variety of free, fun programs at branches and other venues throughout the summer. See a complete list of events on OPL's events calendar, opens a new window. 

    All ages are welcome to participate.

    If you wish to register a daycare group, summer school class or summer camp to participate in Summer Reading Program, contact the library staff at any OPL location, opens a new window.

    Parents or family groups should register using the individual registration form.

    No. You will be prompted to provide your home branch location, name, zip code and age range.