All Around the Region!

All About Books

Karen J. Hall
May 11 at 6 p.m.

The Surry County Genealogical Association will meet at the Mount Airy Public Library The speaker will be Karen J. Hall who will speak on the History of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Karen has written two books on the history of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Don’t miss this informative session!

 Thursday, May 21 at 11 a.m.

Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Sample.

Join us for light refreshments and good discusion about this month’s book!  Elkin Public Library

Community Book Club Presents: North Carolin Reads. May’s selection is The Caretaker by Ron Rash. Our in-person book club will meet on the last Wednesday of the month at 1 p.m. Online discussions held on May 27 at 6:15 p.m. Mt Airy Public Library Visit virtually at the Elkin Public Library.

nchumanities.org/programs/north-carolina-reads/

North Carolina Reads is North Carolina Humanities’ statewide book club! NC Reads annually features five books that explore issues of racial, social, and gender equality and the history and culture of North Carolina. All five books pose critical questions about how North Carolinians view their role in helping to form a more just and inclusive society. 

Virtual Book Chat, Tuesday, June 23 at 6:15 p.m. Night Magic by Leigh Ann Henion Elkin Public Library

Book Brunch
Thursday, June 25 at 11a.m.

Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry. Grab your book and a snack to share! Elkin Public Library

General Interest

Stories & Songs in Boonville
Tuesday, May 12 at 5 p.m.

Boonville Community Public Library welcomes Dr. Fred Hobson, Jr!

The Stories and Songs Series is pleased to welcome Dr. Fred Hobson, Jr, the South’s leading cultural and literary historian.

In 2013, he retired from UNC–Chapel Hill as a Lineberger Professor in Humanities, Emeritus. In 1970 and 1971, he shared the Pulitzer Prizes for Journalism as Editorial Writer for the Winston-Salem Journal and Sentinel. In 1994, Hobson’s biography of H.L. Mencken was also nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. A basketball player at Yadkinville High School and UNC–Chapel Hill, he had much to bring to his book Off the Rim: Basketball and Other Religions in a Carolina Childhood.

Other accolades include being a Fellow of the National Endowment for the Humanities and serving as Co-Editor of the Southern Review at LSU. He grew up in Yadkinville, NC, where his father, Fred Sr., was superintendent of the Yadkin County School System. Boonville Community Public Library

History Show-&-Tell
Thursday, May 14 5:30 p.m.

Got a unique piece of local history? Is there a fun or fascinating story behind it? Bring it along and tell us all about it – we’d love to hear! Photos, artifacts, signs, business memorbabilia, art or textiles! Call to register 336-835-5535. Elkin Public Library

Cooking Classes – May 28 at 5 p.m.

May Recipes Customizable Burrito Bowls, No-Bake Protein Balls. 

Come for the recipes & dinner and stay for the fun! Jonesville Public Library

Community Listening Session –  Let Your Voice Be Heard!

Drop in and tell us about:

  • Local Health Programs and Community Needs
  • How to Create Healthier, Better Communities
  • What Help is Available for Issues in your Area?

A part of the Community Health Assessment. Learn more here.  For All Residents of the local community June 8, 4-6 p.m. at the Elkin Public Library

Mesozoic Murder Mystery
June 11, 5-7 p.m.

Adults Only: A canister of dinosaur DNA needs to be recovered from Triassic Island, but the most dangerous predator may not have sharp teeth and claws. 

Max of 10 adult players, but more can participate as long as you’re OK working as a pair or group; register to save a spot! Feel free to dress up. We’ll have themed snacks and music! Register here.

Yadkin County Public Library

The American Revolution in Celebration of America 250

For all ages at the Jonesville Public Library

June 19 at 5 p.m. – The Life Before and Causes of the American Revolution. History Night with Jenn is taking a break in May to get ready for the celebration of America 250 with a two-part series on the American Revolution!

Jonesville Public Library

The American Revolution in Celebration of America 250

For all ages at the Jonesville Public Library

July 2 at 5 p.m. – Key figures, events and ideas of the American Revolution. History Night with Jenn is taking a break in May to get ready for the celebration of America 250 with a two-part series on the American Revolution!

Jonesville Public Library

Real Guacamole & Salsa Making
Monday, July 6, 3-5 p.m.

Chop, mix and make and taste salsa and guacamole! Registration required, 336-835-5586. Elkin Public Library

Bridgerton & Hamilton Themed Evening
July 9, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Come along adults, and have some fun with history; costumes and fan gear welcome!

Pre-register and get a charcuterie teacup snack (25 max)! Activities (while supplies last) include decorating masquerade masks, dance cards, & paper fans; making hair accessories; and bracelet making with Beth Holcomb (first 10 registrants are free, $10 for 2 bracelets after that), along with flowers, music, and trivia + riddles at 5 and 6 p.m. in the meeting room.  Register here.

Yadkin County Public Library

Gourmet Gladiators
Cooking Competition
Tuesday, July 24 at 11 a.m.

Compete in one or both categories: Sweet vegetable or savory fruit. Registration required, 336-835-5586. Elkin Public Library

Adults only BINGO
July 31 at 3 p.m.

Bring your book bucks and bid on prizes! Register at 336-835-5586. Elkin Public Library

Veteran’s Coffee every Thursday at 9 a.m. Join us for a delightful gathering where you can sip on coffee, all while connecting with fellow veterans in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

This is a wonderful opportunity to share your experiences, both old and new, as you reminisce and forge new friendships with those who have walked a similar path. Whether you’re looking to meet other veterans in your area or simply enjoy engaging conversations, these meetings promise to be a occasion that fosters camaraderie and connection. We warmly welcome all veterans to come and share their stories, ensuring that everyone feels valued and included in our community. Walnut Cove Public Library

Every Second Tuesday, 1 p.m.

Contemplative Reading & Writing Workshops with Ulrike Wiethaus, Ph.D.

The workshop will introduce the ancient art of contemplative writing and reading called Lectio Divina. It was widely practiced in medieval monastaries to foster personal growth and deeper insight. Combining Lectio Divina with mindfulness meditation, we will explore short texts and generate reflective writings that we will share with ht egroup. Adults only. Texts will be provided along with any other materials but participants are encouraged to bring their own writing materials, such as journals or preferred pens! King Public Library 

Registrration is requested. Call 336-983-3868 

Your Story Starts Here…

Every Friday at 10 a.m. Beginning on May 8. Writing can seem like a lonely business, but it doesn’t have to be. The new Yadkin Valley Writers group is a weekly gathering for adult writers for all genres and skill levels. The library provides the space, the reflections and the community support, YOU provide the imagination! Let’s build the local literacy scene together! Jonesville Public Library

Exciting news, nature lovers! Our beloved library is thrilled to announce that NC state park passes are now available for check out, but you’ll want to hurry—these treasures are first come, first served! 

Imagine your family embarking on unforgettable adventures, exploring the stunning landscapes of North Carolina’s beautiful parks, where laughter fills the air and memories are made under the sun-dappled trees. This is your chance to connect with the great outdoors, breathe in the fresh air, and create magical moments with your loved ones! So, come visit us at the library soon and grab your state park pass before they’re gone—let’s make this season one filled with joy, exploration, and community spirit! 

Park Passes are available for check out at the Walnut Cove Public Library on a first come first served basis. One week checkout with one week renewal available.

Gardening

NC Cooperaative Extension Logo with NC State Master Gardener Logo

Thursday, May 21 at 2 p.m.

It’s almost Strawberry time! We will be learning about different types of strawberries and how to plant and maintain them. Participants should bring a 10″ hanging basket with drainage holes. Class size is limited, registration is required. Call 336-789-5108. Mount Airy Public Library

The Yadkin County Cooperative Extension and Yadkin 4-H Club have collected and distributed seed donations for this year, restocking Boonville, East Bend, Jonesville, and Yadkinville libraries’ Seed Libraries!

We would like to thank all of the patrons and businesses who have donated: Tractor Supply in Yadkinville, Dollar Tree in Yadkinville, Lowe’s in Mocksville, and Walmart in Elkin.

Here is a list of what varieties are available at the Yadkinville seed library (please note, quantities will not be updated regularly on inventory list): Seed Inventory. There should be similar seed varieties at the Boonville, East Bend, and Jonesville Public Libraries.

First come, first serve, and you can take as many seed packets as needed, within reason (e.g. do not take all of any one seed). Anything you do not use, feel free to return, as we have empty seed envelopes.

Boonville Community Public Library

East Bend Public Library

Jonesville Public Library

Yadkin County Public Library

Seed Library

Pick out some seeds or bring some in to contribute to our small collection and make it grow! Accepting all kinds at any time of the year!  King Public Library

Seed library photo for Walnut Cove Public Library. For more information call 336-591-7496.

Health & Wellness

Third Mondays 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Learn how Substances Hurt our Community, Gain knowledge on resources and join with others to make a difference. Snacks are provided. Professionals FREE: 1.5 CEUs

Questions call 828-767-0811. Offered by A Still Waters Training Elkin Public Library

Third Saturdays 10:30 a.m.

Join Ms. Heather for It’s Yoga Y’all! at the Mount Airy Public Library.

KING:
Career Connections Job Lab
King Public Library By appointment every Monday, Wednesday and Friday 1-5 p.m.

YADKINVILLE:
NC Works
returns to the Yadkin County Public Library. The second and fourth Friday each month from 9 a.m. until noon. Get help with your job search in person!

Partners Geriatric Adult Specialty Team – Thursdays (dates below) 5-6 p.m. Presentation and Q&A. No registration is needed.

UPCOMING 2026 TOPICS

May 7, 14 & 21, 2026 – Mental Health Awareness Month: Chronic Stress Management, Understanding Depression and Depression and Stress Management for Caregivers

September 3, 10, 17 & 24, 2026 – Alzheimer’s and Brain Wellness Month: Dementia Basics, Types of Dementia, Parkinson’s Disease Dementia, Reducing Dementia Risks

October 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2026 – Alzheimer’s, Caregivers and Mental Health Month: Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities, Dementia, Communication Tips and Understanding Behavior Changes & Challenges

November 2026 – National Family Caregiver Month – Holidays and Dementia

Boonville Crosswalk Support Group 
Every Tuesday and Friday evenings at 5:30 p.m.

Come exercise and be a part of a great weight loss support group!

NC Works 9 a.m. – Noon 

Every 2nd Friday of each Month – April 10 

Mondays, 8 a.m. – Noon AND 1-4:30 p.m. at the Surry Community College, Yadkin Campus. Yadkin County Public Library

Adult Walking

Geared for adults 18 years and up looking to meet new people, exercise or start new habits to better your health. Meeting Wednesday, April 1 outside the front doors of the Yadkin County Public Library. All fitness levels are welcome. Yadkin County Public Library

Thursday, April 9, 5-7 p.m.

Saturday, April 18, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Come join us at the library for a fun evening of using the library’s computers or bring your own Wi-Fi ready tablet or laptop and we’ll get started on your family tree or the tangled roots!

Made possible through the generous support of the America 250 Yadkin County Committee and the Yadkin County Historical and Genealogical Society. Yadkin County Public Library

Thursday, April 9, 5-7 p.m.

Saturday, April 18, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Do you have a cool photo, family Bible or other old book, quilt or other object you want to talk about? Have you resesarched your family tree and have one cool family store you’d like to share?
Each presenter is limited to a maximum of 15 minutes for talking and answering audience questions. Sign up to talk here.  Yadkin County Public Library

Summer Programming!

Check each Branch Page to learn the new Collaborative Summer Learning Programming that is already being planned! You don’t want to miss a thing!

Check out these Kick Off Events:

Yadkinville: MESStival & Vice Cream Truck – May 27, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Elkin: Friday, June 12, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Music, Arts & Crafts

Crafting Americana Style

Tuesday, July 7 at 10 a.m. Yadkin County Public Library

Crafting with Red, White & Blue

Thursday, July 9 at 10 a.m.
Yadkin County Public Library

Adult Watercolor
Monday, May 11 at 6 p.m.

Come join us May 11 at 6 p.m. for a fun evening of painting. Supplies provided. King Public Library

Painting with Paint, Palette & Pizzazz

Come join us Thursday, June 14, 2026 at 6 p.m. for a fun evening of painting a fun sunflower and bees. A donation of $10 for supplies can be given to any library staff member. For more information or to sign up, contact the library at 336-367-7737. Boonville Community Public Library

Adult Acrylic Painting
Tuesday, May 19 at 6 p.m.

Come join us May 11 at 6 p.m. for a fun evening of painting with Kevin Casteel (Paint, Palette & Pizzazz). King Public Library

Cotton Roses, May 22 at 2 pm.

Create a beautiful rose from cotton pads using simple techniques. This easy, beginner-friendly craft is perfect for all skill levels. For adults only. Please bring one wine glass. All other materials are provided. April Shows Bring May Flowers! Call 336-789-5108 to register. Mount Airy Public Library

Mandala Walking Sticks
Monday, June 1, 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Preparing for Trail days: Painting Mandalas on Walking Sticks! Registration required. Elkin Public Library

We are creating lap blankets for our community. Everyone is invited to make one granny square each week, and our Yarning Around group will assemble the blankets to donate to those in hospice care. We’d love your help—call us for more details! This project is scheduled to run through September 2026. Elkin Public Library

Art Brunch, Wednesday, June 17 at 11 a.m.

Bring snack to share and paint while we listed to live harp music by Hannah Jean. Registration required. Elkin Public Library

Recurring Classes & Clubs

Mondays

Happy Crafter-Noon – Join us Mondays at 2 p.m. for crafting. For Adults 18 and up. We will meet at First Baptist Church at 714 N. Main Street. Park in the back. Call the library to sign up at 336-789-5108.

  • Sunlit Silhouette Art – July 7
  • Reverse Coloring Collage Art – July 14
  • Wine Bottle Watering Can – July 21

Mount Airy Public Library

Adult Painting – Acrylic and Watercolor Programs – Join us Mondays at 6 p.m. for painting. Dates and times are subject to change, please check with the library first. King Public Library

Make & Take Crafts, every Monday at 11 a.m. in Boonville.

  • May 4 – Good Posture Pillow – Bring an old sweatshirt to cut up to make your pillow
  • May 18 – Diamond Painting – Bring your own, or we have a small selection you can choose from 

Contact the Boonville Public Library for more information, 336-367-7737.

Yarning Around, first two Mondays at 6 p.m.:  May 4 & May 11

Contact the Elkin Public Library for more information.

tuesdays

Cozy Crafters Hour – Tuesdays from 10-11 a.m. Come join us to learn a new skill or work on an existing project. Bring your own materials or use some of ours. Enjoy meeting others in the community. Dobson Public Library

The Living Room Stitchers Club – Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to Noon – Whether you’re into knitting, crochet, quilting, or cross stitch, bring your project and enjoy good company. Beginners and experts alike are welcome! Charles H Stone Memorial Library

Welcome to the Coloring Corner – Join us Tuesdays at 6 p.m. for a relaxing evening of coloring. For Adults 18 and up. Bring your own coloring supplies or borrow ours. Listen to soft music, color and indulge in an hour of “you time”. Questions? Email Cara at cmaynard@nwrl.org. Mount Airy Public Library

2nd Tuesday of every month at 2 p.m. Special Ingredient changes each month.

Secret Ingredient for December is RED or GREEN

Bring any dish that is red or green and share the recipe. If able please email recipes to elyon@nwrl.org. We love to make new friends and eat delicious food together!

Mount Airy Public Library

Watercolor Classes, One Tuesday and One Thursday each month at 6 p.m. Walnut Cove Public Library. Spots fill up fast! See specific dates and subjects below:

March – Stained Glass Window

  • Registration Opens March 2
  • Thursday Class, March 26
  • Tuesday Class, March 31

April – Butterfly

  • Registration Opens April 1
  • Thursday Class, April 23
  • Tuesday Class, April 28

May – Gnome

  • Registration Opens May 1
  • Tuesday Class, May 19
  • Thursday Class, May 28

June – Potted Cactus

  • Registration Opens June 1
  • Tuesday Class, June 16
  • Thursday Class, June 25

July – Island Paradise

  • Registration Opens July 1
  • Tuesday Class, July 21
  • Thursday Class, July 30

August – Fox

  • Registration Opens August 3
  • Tuesday Class, August 18
  • Thursday Class, August 27

September – Fall Acorns

  • Registration Opens September 1
  • Thursday Class, September 17
  • Tuesday Class, September 29

October – Blue Ghost

  • Registration Opens, October 1
  • Tuesday, October 20
  • Thursday, October 29

November – Ornaments

  • Registration Opens Nov 2
  • Tuesday, November 17
  • Thursday November 19
wednesdays

Wednesdays, 1 – 4 p.m. Fall Art Class with Linda Beroth – Eight week series of classes. Downstairs Community Room. Charles H Stone Memorial Library

A Stitch at a Time Crochet Club – Meets every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Materials needed: 1 skein of medium/worsted weight yarn and 1 (5.5mm) crochet hook. Contact the Boonville Public Library for more information.

Hooked – Wednesdays at 3 p.m. – Join our crochet and knitting club, Open for all skill levels. Bring your own yarn and make the group project, or bring your own project to work on. We meet at Pages Books & Coffee. Mount Airy Public Library

thursdays
Thursdays, 9 a.m. – Noon. Fall Art Class with Linda Beroth – Eight week series of classes. Downstairs Community Room. Charles H Stone Memorial Library

Water Color Classes

One Tuesday and One Thursday each month at 6 p.m Walnut Cove Public Library Spots fill up fast! See specific dates and subjects below:

March – Stained Glass Window
  • Registration Opens March 2
  • Thursday Class, March 26
  • Tuesday Class, March 31
April – Butterfly
  • Registration Opens April 1
  • Thursday Class April 23
  • Tuesday Class, April 28
May – Gnome
  • Registration Opens May 1
  • Tuesday Class, May 19
  • Thursday Class, May 28
June – Potted Cactus
  • Registration Opens June 1
  • Tuesday Class, June 16
  • Thursday Class, June 25
July – Island Paradise
  • Registration Opens July 1
  • Tuesday Class, July 21
  • Thursday Class, July 30
August – Fox
  • Registration Opens August 3
  • Tuesday Class, August 18
  • Thursday Class, August 27
September – Fall Acorns
  • Registration Opens September 1
  • Thursday Class, September 17
  • Tuesday Class, September 29
October – Blue Ghost
  • Registration Opens, October 1
  • Tuesday, October 20
  • Thursday, October 29
November – Ornaments
  • Registration Opens Nov 2
  • Tuesday, November 17
  • Thursday November 19
friday

Every Friday at 11 a.m. Jonesville Public Library

Join us Friday mornings from 10 – 11 a.m. at the library for a game of MahJong! Participants will learn the game, connect with friends, and enjoy friendly competition with their peers. It’s a great way to build skills and kick off the day with something new! Mount Airy Public Library

Tai Chi – Fridays at 10 a.m. – Experience meditation in motion. All skill levels are welcome. Meeting at the Surry County Senior Center at 401 Technology Lane, Suite 100. Mount Airy Public Library

Book Clubs

Book Clubs are available at most of our 13 Regional branches. Please see the locations and times below or call your nearest branch to learn more.
  • Community Book Club
    4th Wednesday at 1 p.m.
    Mount Airy Public Library

Non-Traditional Book Clubs

Silent Book Club Often with traditional book clubs there’s the scramble to finish the assigned book, and the pressure to have something smart to say. Wouldn’t it be great to have a book club where you could just enjoy books, friends, and maybe some coffee — without any homework? At Silent Book Club, there’s no assigned reading. We will also talk about what each other is reading, and in the process, maybe learn about a new book to try! Yadkin Public Library Third Thursdays from 5-6:30 p.m.

These Book Clubs are available online

  • Jonesville Public Library – Join us on Facebook. Online discussions are held either on a post or in a private group chat.
    Book Hoarders (general fiction) Our February book is The American Queen by Vanessa Miller. Jonesville Public Library was one of the libraries that was chosen by the North Carolina Humanities to receive book boxes and special swag for the statewide book club. Books will be available for pickup during the month for participants.  
    Better Read than Dead (mystery) Our February book is You Shouldn’t Have Come Here by Jeneva Rose. This book is also available instantly through the Hoopla app.
  • Yadkin Public Library – Virtual clubs Cozy on Up in NC Cardinal (cozy mystery focus) via Amazon Book Clubs and Goodreads are available now!
  • Mount Airy Public Library – Join our new virtual book club. Know They Self: A Book Club that is genre based. Exploring Contemporary Romance with Emily  Follow the book club here: BOOKCLUB GROUP We will discuss the book in the Facebook Group.
Overhead view of people reading open books

Story Time

Story Times are available for a variety of ages and are available at most of our Regional branches. Please see the locations and times below or call your nearest branch to learn more!

  • Preschool Story Time
    Mondays at 10:30 a.m.
    Alleghany Public Library
  • STEAM Story Times
    4th Monday – Grades K-2 at 3:30 p.m.; Grades 3-5 at 4:30 p.m. Occasionally times will vary from this schedule due to holidays number of weeks in a month. Please check before planning to attend. Elkin Public Library
  • Rhythm Rhyme & Story Time
    Monday at 10 a.m. for ages birth to age 5
    Walnut Cove Public Library
1st Week of Month
  • Monday: Francisco
  • Tuesday: Germanton
  • Wednesday: King
  • Thursday: King/Pinnacle
  • Friday: Danbury
2nd Week of Month
  • Monday: open
  • Tuesday: Walnut Cove
  • Wednesday: Sandy Ridge
  • Thursday: Lawsonville
  • Friday: Danbury

Bookmobile Schedule

Side view of NWRL Surry County Bookmobile
3rd Week of Month
  • Monday: open
  • Tuesday: Danbury
  • Wednesday: Asbury
  • Thursday: King
  • Friday: Danbury
4th Week of Month
  • Monday: Danbury
  • Tuesday: Pine Hall
  • Wednesday: Sandy Ridge
  • Thursday: Walnut Cove
  • Friday: Danbury