Ann Arbor District Library

Halloween starts early at AADL! Enter our costume contest until 2PM today (winners announced at 3PM) and visit our Not-So-Scary Haunted House until 3:30PM! All at the Downtown Library!

Join contemporary Black romance novelists Beverly Jenkins, Elle Wright, Sherelle Green, and Angela Seals for a panel discussion exploring the depth, nuance, and evolution of Black love in literature. Sunday, November 8 at 1 PM at the Downtown Library. 📖 aadl.org/node/669554

🧶 Calling all fiber artists, makers, and purveyors of crafty goodness! Vendor applications are open for the 2027 Ann Arbor Fiber Arts Expo (AAFAX)! Share your fiber-inspired creations with a community that loves all things handmade. Find details and apply today at aadl.org/aafax!

It's #NationalFriendsofLibrariesWeek! We're recognizing Friends of the Ann Arbor District Library for their unwavering support of AADL, dating back to 1953. Visit their shop in-person Saturdays from 10 AM–4 PM or check out their online book shop! They even have past Summer Game prizes! 😉 faadl.org

Join us for a panel inspired by Bad Asians, the new novel by Lillian Li! Hear from five Asian Americans who walked away from culturally sanctioned careers to chase creative entrepreneurship—despite family pressure & financial fear. Sun, Nov. 1 at 4 PM at the Downtown Library. aadl.org/node/669102

The play “Patriot Ink” explores the lives of Mary Katharine Goddard and John Dunlap, the first people to print the Declaration of Independence. We did an email interview with the play's director & playwright ahead of an October 20 performance @aadl.org's downtown location. pulp.aadl.org/node/676616

In 2020, 30 people were picked by lottery to work out COVID policy for the state of Michigan. No actors, no script. This documentary details what happens when regular people make decisions on behalf of their community. Saturday, Oct. 31 at 3 PM at the Downtown Library. 🎥 aadl.org/node/674281

Join us for a performance by Reflejos Latinos, a folkloric dance group that promotes cultural traditions through dance and music. Friday, October 30 at 6:30 PM at the Downtown Library. 💃🏽 aadl.org/node/670045

For many, World War II did not end in 1945. Over 171,000 families waited years for the remains of loved ones. Kim Clarke's "The Last Full Measure" tributes those who gave their lives in battle & the people who brought them home. Thurs, Oct 29 at 6PM at the Downtown Library. aadl.org/node/671481

All AADL locations will be closed tomorrow (Monday, October 12) for a staff in-service daty. We'll see you Tuesday at 10 AM! 🗓️ aadl.org/aboutus/closures

Tiny Expo 2026 is Saturday, December 12 from 11 AM–6 PM at the Downtown Library! Join us for a full day browsing unique handmade wares from artists and crafters, right here at the Library. aadl.org/tinyexpo

Join us for a reception celebrating Andrew Sack's "f/8" and "Be There", two exhibits featuring Sacks’ early black and white editorial work, and his later professional photography which will be on display Oct 16–Jan 8! Friday, October 23 at 5 PM at the Downtown Library. 📷 aadl.org/node/674083

Join us for a reading and conversation with Zayd Ayers Dohrn, author of memoir "Dangerous, Dirty, Violent, and Young". This masterpiece of personal and social history brings us inside an infamous family and their lives underground. Fri, Oct 23 at 6 PM at the Downtown Library. aadl.org/node/668917

Heads up! All AADL locations will be closed for the day on Monday, October 12 for a staff in-service day. We'll be back to business as usual on Tuesday, October 13! 🗓️ aadl.org/aboutus/closures

Sinaboro: Korean Percussive Ensemble at the University of Michigan, was in the house last Friday night as part of Korea Week 2026! Attendees enjoyed a performance by Sinaboro and learned about traditional Korean drumming, even getting to play these percussive instruments as well. 🎶

Join Dale Carlson for a newly authored version of Epic Stained Glass, featuring new material from counties neighboring Washtenaw. See stellar examples from Jackson, Brighton, Howell, Plymouth, Northville, and more! Thursday, October 22 at 2 PM at AADL's Traverwood Branch. aadl.org/node/664943

Hub New Music presents the world premiere of Systems of Similitude by composer Elijah Daniel Smith. Smith's work draws inspiration from the literary dystopias of Lois Lowry, Aldous Huxley, Ray Bradbury, & George Orwell. Thursday, October 22 at 6 PM at the Downtown Library. 🎶 aadl.org/node/674107

AADL honored the life of Dolly Parton on 9/25 with Dolly Day! Dolly was, among many things, an extraordinary singer-songwriter and philanthropist. Her Imagination Library has donated hundreds of millions of free books to children. Rest in Peace, Dolly. The world is less sparkly without you in it. 💖

Join Max Schikora, bar manager at Echelon Kitchen and Bar and Huna Bar, for a look at his journey through the restaurant and bar industry. He’ll share his expertise, stories, and a few of his favorite creations to sample! Tuesday, October 20 at 6 PM at the Downtown Library. 🍸 aadl.org/node/674215

It can be hard to make friends as adults, so we're making space for that to happen. Show up to this themed meet-up, no lecture, no craft, just a gathering of people who want to meet someone new. Wednesday, October 21 at 6 PM at AADL's Traverwood Branch. aadl.org/node/671300

A2CAF: Small + Indie Press is happening now at the Downtown Library! 🌟 Come browse the tables, meet the artists, and have your favorite comics signed! We’re here until 5 PM. aadl.org/a2cafsip

Artist Jiyoung Kim introduced the AADL community to the philosophy and beauty of traditional Korean painting (Hangukhwa) through an engaging demonstration as part of Korea Week 2026! Participants watched 2 live painting demonstrations and then got to try their own hands at creating a piece of art.

John Dunlap & Mary Katharine Goddard risked their lives to print & distribute the first copies of the Declaration of Independence. This play shares what is known about their lives & their commitment to American independence. Tuesday, Oct. 20 at 6:30 PM at the Downtown Library. aadl.org/node/671703

AADL Printmaking Festival is Saturday, November 14, 11 AM–5 PM at the Downtown Library! Print Fest celebrates letterpress, screen printing, block printing, and other hand-printed goods. Join us for talks by local printmakers, try your hand at printmaking, and drop in for demos! aadl.org/printfest

The color! The fabric! The design! The symbolism! Korea Week 2026 at AADL started off with exploring the beauty of both traditional and modern Korean hanbok. Check out aadl.org/koreaweek for the rest of the event line-up for this year! 🇰🇷

OCTOBER IS HERE! 🍂🎃 Check out everything happening at AADL this Halloween at aadl.org/halloween!

We're gearing up for a BIG weekend at the Downtown Library... A2CAF: Small + Indie Press returns this Saturday (Oct. 3) from 11 AM–5 PM! Then, on Sunday (Oct. 4) from 11 AM–4 PM, Tattoo Art Fest makes its grand AADL debut! 🌟 Explore day of details at aadl.org/a2cafsip and aadl.org/tattooart.

Whether you’re reading 1,000 books before kindergarten or for a personal challenge, track your progress and reward yourself along the way with Akako G. Shins milestone stickers! Pick up a Read 1,000 Books booklet and milestone stickers at the staff desk at any of our libraries. aadl.org/1000books

Join us for a group discussion about "True Biz" by Sara Nović! Charlie, Austin, & February find their lives inextricable from one another and changed forever in this story of sign language, great persistence, daring, and joy. Sat., Oct. 17 at 3 PM at AADL's Pittsfield Branch. aadl.org/node/673173

Join art historian Dr. Deborah Lubera Kawsky to explore the backstories behind iconic MidCentury structures, such as Breuer’s Grosse Pointe Central Library & Girard’s McLucas House! This event is in partnership with a2modern. Friday, October 16 at 6 PM at the Downtown Library. aadl.org/node/669474

The eternal struggle between good and evil was on full display at the Great Library Brawl with Pure Pro Wrestling last Sunday out at the AALF! Be sure to check out the video from the event - now on our website and YouTube channel!

AADL is thrilled to welcome 2026 headliner Katie Kitamura to A2 Community Bookfest this fall. Join Katie at 10:30 AM on Sunday, November 15 for a special keynote talk! Her newest release, "Audition", was shortlisted for the 2025 Booker Prize and a finalist for the 2026 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.

AADL was delighted to host a Journey through India with Classical Dance last Friday night with Sreyashi Dey! Through the beautiful diverse performances and informative commentary, this fabulous event made for a Friday night we won't soon forget!

In this one-of-a-kind music experience as Super Guitar Bros Sam and Steve play acoustic guitar covers of video game tunes! Join us on Friday, October 16 at 6 PM at the Downtown Library. 🎵 aadl.org/node/669685

Join forensic psychiatrist Vasilis K. Pozios, M.D., to discuss how a mental health & pop-culture connection can be a win-win by facilitating authentic, compelling content while combating stigma, and helping us to notice, talk, & act. Wed, Oct 14, 6:30PM at the Downtown Library. aadl.org/node/67314

ICYMI! What an incredibly cool weekend hosting Pure Pro Wrestling and Akshara!

Join us for "Out Here", a film documenting the redeeming story of social worker Mark. After emerging from his own troubled past, Mark now spends his days helping others navigate the system he once struggled to survive. Wednesday, October 14 at 6 PM at the Downtown Library. 📽️ aadl.org/node/671658

Join us for a celebration of all things Dolly Parton, with screenings, music, crafts, and plenty of sparkle! Festivities start at 11 AM with screenings of classic Dolly flicks, and culminate with music, crafts, and plenty of sparkles at 5:30pm. More information can be found at aadl.org/dollyday.

Join the Joy Spring Quartet for "Autumn Serenade"! This energetic quartet will perform a selection perfect for fall, from Broadway, The Great American Songbook, cinema, classical composers, and more. Tuesday, October 14 at 6:30 PM at the Downtown Library. 🎼 aadl.org/node/669546

Join host Joyce Hunter of AACHM & interviewees from Phase 11 of the Living Oral History Project! View excerpts from the interviews, illustrating the experiences of local African Americans, followed by a meet & greet, and refreshments! Sun, Oct. 11, 3PM at the Downtown Library. aadl.org/node/671571

Learn about multicolored corn and traditional Native preparation methods, and sample traditional Native corn soup with Anishnabe Meejim! Sunday, October 11 at 2 PM at the Downtown Library. 🌽 aadl.org/node/668114

Ryan Henyard’s photography exhibition shows the connection between nature & Washtenaw County's Black community. We spoke to the photographer about “Reclaiming the Wild,” which runs through 12/31 at the African American Cultural & Historical Museum of Washtenaw County. pulp.aadl.org/node/675338

Make your own unique, tie-dyed creation with Dawn Henry! Please bring a white, 100% cotton T-shirt or other similarly sized item. One tie-dyed item per participant. 🫟 Saturday, October 10 at 3 OR 6 PM at the AALF. (265 Parkland Plaza) aadl.org/node/673372

Join Raúl Fraile Trio as they share their knowledge of flamenco and Spanish guitar's rich culture. The trio will detail the role and evolution of traditional music, the weight of flamenco worldwide, and more! Tuesday, October 6 at 6:30 PM at the Downtown Library. aadl.org/node/673445

Did you know?! Any items checked out at any one of AADL's five branches can be returned to any other branch from 10 AM–8 PM daily, or 24/7 at the outside return boxes. Return oversize items Downtown, where you can wheel them up the ramp while parked in the free loading zone outside the entrance!

One Room. One Album. No Phones. No Talking. Just Listening. Forget the distractions, settle in, and experience D'Angelo & The Vanguard's "Black Messiah" beginning to end, exactly as intended. Wednesday, October 7 at 6 PM at the Downtown Library. aadl.org/node/674069

Join Ellie Mitchell for a discussion on contemporary Indigenous fashion! Beginning with a history of the tribes that call Michigan home, Ellie will discuss how U.S. history has led to an intertribal Native American experience. Friday, October 2 at 6 PM at the Downtown Library. aadl.org/node/668214

National Hispanic Heritage Month is Sept. 15–Oct. 15! Explore AADL's in-person events and online resources today at aadl.org/hispanicheritagemonth.

Join us for a presentation rooted in Cecelia Rose LaPointe's identity as a Two-Spirit person. This program is based on Ojibway/Anishinaabe culture and includes poetry readings, discussions, and other creative activities! Saturday, Sept. 26 at 3 PM at AADL's Westgate Branch. aadl.org/node/668910