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Homeschool Meetup

Tour of the National Parks
2025-03-31 13:00:00 2025-03-31 14:00:00 America/New_York Homeschool Meetup Come participate in math, science, history, art and literature-based learning to support your child's homeschool curriculum. Recommended for ages 6-12. Southwest Branch -

Monday, March 31
1:00pm - 2:00pm

Add to Calendar 2025-03-31 13:00:00 2025-03-31 14:00:00 America/New_York Homeschool Meetup Come participate in math, science, history, art and literature-based learning to support your child's homeschool curriculum. Recommended for ages 6-12. Southwest Branch -

Come participate in math, science, history, art and literature-based learning to support your child's homeschool curriculum. Recommended for ages 6-12.

Come with us as we take a short virtual tour of the National Parks of the USA! Learn why it's so important that we preserve these public spaces!

Recommended for ages 6-12.

AGE GROUP: | Kids |

EVENT TYPE: | Education & Learning |

TAGS: | homeschool | bb-home-education |

Southwest Branch
Phone: 407-835-7323
Hours
Mon, May 19 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Tue, May 20 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Wed, May 21 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Thu, May 22 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Fri, May 23 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, May 24 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Sun, May 25 Closed
(Closed in observance of the Memorial Day holiday.)
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About the branch

The Southwest Branch opened on March 21, 1989 in a beautiful Mediterranean style building designed by Schweizer and Associates Architecture Firm, who also designed the Orlando Public Library. Serving the Dr. Phillips and Metrowest communities, Southwest is near International Drive and the attractions. Southwest is a popular place for local adults, children, students and tourists.

Read the Southwest blog often for more information on upcoming programs for children and adults, book news and book club discussions, technology classes, art exhibits, new library materials, and more. Email us your suggestions or questions; or post a comment. Let us hear from you!

Upcoming events

Crochet Granny Stars - Yarnfiti Stitched Together Space Series
Tue, May 20, 10:15am - 12:00pm
Technology Classroom
Crochet a star granny square. Granny squares are the foundation of many blankets, bags and sweaters. Learn how to crochet in circles and then use increase stitches to make a star.
This event is full
Mindful Start Family Yoga
Tue, May 20, 11:00am - 11:30am
Southwest - Ask at Desk
Silly and fun yoga poses designed for kids! Flow-through an imaginative journey filled with puppets, parachute games and relaxing rest time! Recommended for families.
Open Lab - Ask A Tech
Tue, May 20, 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Technology Classroom
Are you stuck on a software-related project or simply need constructive ideas to get you started? Let us help! A technology trainer will be available to assist you in this open lab.
Microsoft Excel - Pivot Tables
Wed, May 21, 10:15am - 11:15am
Technology Classroom
Dread analyzing data? Simplify the process and create meaningful reports using the powerful PivotTable tools. Learn how to create and customize PivotTables and PivotCharts using Microsoft Excel.
Time to Sleep
Wed, May 21, 11:00am - 11:30am
Ever wonder how nature gets its rest? Toddlers will find out during this exciting storytime. Recommended for ages 18-36 months.
Sewing - Introduction to the Sewing Machine
Wed, May 21, 12:45pm - 2:45pm
Technology Classroom
Ever wanted to make your own custom clothes, home decor, costumes or accessories? Join us in this basic sewing class and learn about sewing safety, basic sewing machine skills and stitching seams.
This event is full
Southwest LEGO® Club
Wed, May 21, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
The LEGO® Club at the Southwest Library invites you to come use your imaginations to build! Bricks will be provided but cannot go home with you. Recommended for ages 6-12.
Storytime Crafts - (Children's Area)
Thu, May 22, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Drop-in before and after storytime to create a make-and-take craft. Recommended for families.
Microsoft PowerPoint Level 3
Thu, May 22, 10:15am - 11:15am
Technology Classroom
Get more precise control over your presentation. Learn how to insert slide transitions, add animations and hyperlinks. Create a customized photo album with simple to use tools.
Storybook Fun
Thu, May 22, 10:30am - 11:00am
The use of picture books, songs and told stories will encourage your child to read, talk, sing, write and play. Recommended for children ages 3 to 5.
Toddler Time
Thu, May 22, 11:00am - 11:20am
The use of picture books, finger plays, songs and flannel board stories will encourage the development of verbal and listening skills for this active age group. Recommended for ages 18 to 36 months.
Microsoft PowerPoint - Create Custom Templates
Thu, May 22, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Technology Classroom
Make universal style changes to all slides in your presentation. Learn how to customize a theme and to format slides through the slide master.
Tiny Tales
Thu, May 22, 11:30am - 11:45am
The rhythm and repetition of nursery rhymes are used to introduce young children to literature. Hold your child in your lap and enjoy this special time together. Recommended for babies 0-18 months.
Understanding Medicare - An Overview of the U.S. Healthcare Program
Fri, May 23, 10:30am - 11:30am
Southwest - Ask at Desk
This program provides an overview of Medicare, explaining its structure and the various coverage options available to beneficiaries.
Qigong Movement and Breathing
Fri, May 23, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Southwest - Ask at Desk
Embark on a transformative journey with Jasmine Win, a modern qigong instructor, and discover the ancient practice of qigong. Learn at your own pace and ability in this joyful and relaxing class.
Embroider a Rocketship - Yarnfiti Stitched Together Space Series
Sat, May 24, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Technology Classroom
Blast off with this simple felt Rocket Ship design! Once finished, you can submit your project for display in this year's Yarnfiti Community Project.
Hearts of Gold Therapy Dogs
Sat, May 24, 10:30am - 11:30am
Children's Area
Children can improve their reading skills by reading to a therapy dog with Golden Retriever Rescue of Mid-Florida. Practice with a furry friend and build your confidence. Recommended for ages 6-12.
This event is full
Growing Up WILD: Hiding in Plain Sight
Sat, May 24, 11:00am - 11:30am
Children learn about the important adaptation of camouflage. Recommended for ages 3-5.
Y Read: Book Read Aloud
Sat, May 24, 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Conference Room
Experience the joy and camaraderie of reading aloud great literature with others each week. Facilitator-led in partnership with the Dr. P. Phillips YMCA and Southwest Library. 18+
Teen Time
Sat, May 24, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Unplug and explore crafts from the past with a modern twist. Meet new friends and indulge in a variety of self-directed calming hobbies. All supplies provided. Recommended for ages 13-18.
Family Fiber Arts Shooting Star - Yarnfiti Stitched Together Space Series
Sat, May 24, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Technology Classroom
Make a wish on this easy felt shooting star design! Be ready to thread a needle and do some sewing. Once finished, you can submit your project for display in this year's Yarnfiti Community Project.
This event is full
Gather and Unwind - Fiber Arts Meetup
Tue, May 27, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Technology Classroom
Have a great time mingling with other Central Florida fiber artists while working on your craft. Be sure to bring your work in progress, yarn and tools. All levels are welcome.
Mindful Start Family Yoga
Tue, May 27, 11:00am - 11:30am
Southwest - Ask at Desk
Silly and fun yoga poses designed for kids! Flow-through an imaginative journey filled with puppets, parachute games and relaxing rest time! Recommended for families.
Time to Eat
Wed, May 28, 11:00am - 11:30am
Everyone eats! Get ready for fun songs and stories to promote early literacy skills as toddlers discover what different animals eat. Recommended for ages 18-36 months.
Southwest LEGO® Club
Wed, May 28, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
The LEGO® Club at the Southwest Library invites you to come use your imaginations to build! Bricks will be provided but cannot go home with you. Recommended for ages 6-12.
Storytime Crafts - (Children's Area)
Thu, May 29, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Drop-in before and after storytime to create a make-and-take craft. Recommended for families.
Storybook Fun
Thu, May 29, 10:30am - 11:00am
The use of picture books, songs and told stories will encourage your child to read, talk, sing, write and play. Recommended for children ages 3 to 5.
Toddler Time
Thu, May 29, 11:00am - 11:20am
The use of picture books, finger plays, songs and flannel board stories will encourage the development of verbal and listening skills for this active age group. Recommended for ages 18 to 36 months.
Tiny Tales
Thu, May 29, 11:30am - 11:45am
The rhythm and repetition of nursery rhymes are used to introduce young children to literature. Hold your child in your lap and enjoy this special time together. Recommended for babies 0-18 months.
Joy of Reading: No- Pressure Book Club
Thu, May 29, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
All book lovers welcome! Join us to chat about what you are reading. No assigned book to read. A fun and engaging social book club. Held bi-monthly. Registration required. Ages 18+
Macramé a Moon Hoop - Yarnfiti Stitched Together Space Series
Sat, May 31, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Technology Classroom
Loop a hoop with some simple knots to create a dreamy Moon design. Once finished, you can submit your project for display in this year's Yarnfiti Community Project.
This event is full
Fitness Bingo for Seniors
Sat, May 31, 10:30am - 11:30am
Join us for a fun time exercising your way to fitness using the game of Bingo. Get moving and win a prize! Designed for seniors and any adults with mobility challenges. Reg. req. Seniors and adults.
Y Read: Book Read Aloud
Sat, May 31, 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Conference Room
Experience the joy and camaraderie of reading aloud great literature with others each week. Facilitator-led in partnership with the Dr. P. Phillips YMCA and Southwest Library. 18+
Dungeons & Dragons Drop-In Adventure (13-17)
Sat, May 31, 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Technology Classroom
Let's play Dungeons & Dragons together! Choose a premade character or bring your own to embark on an adventure full of mysteries, puzzles, dangers, and treasure.
Baby Loves Red! - Summer at Your Library
Mon, Jun 02, 11:00am - 11:30am
R-E-D, Red! Celebrate your baby's first primary color through movement, music, rhymes and stories. Recommended for ages 0-18 months.
Caregiver Connect: Stay and Play
Mon, Jun 02, 11:30am - 12:00pm
Connect with other caregivers to meet and mingle while your little ones, ages 0-5, explore imaginary play with new and old friends. Recommended for families.
Masterpiece Junior: Botanical Illustrations - Summer at Your Library
Mon, Jun 02, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Explore the world of plants through botanical illustrations! Learn to observe, sketch, and bring nature's beauty to life. Recommended for ages 6-12.
This event is full
English Conversation Hour 1
Mon, Jun 02, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Southwest - Ask at Desk
Come practice your basic English conversation skills! This class is intended for beginning English Language Learners.
Comedy Maks' Variety Show - Summer at Your Library
Tue, Jun 03, 10:30am - 11:00am
There's something for everyone in this high-energy variety show. Your kids will be dazzled with juggling, magic, plate spinning and more! Recommended for ages 6-12.
Mindful Start Family Yoga
Tue, Jun 03, 2:00pm - 2:30pm
Southwest - Ask at Desk
Silly and fun yoga poses designed for kids! Flow-through an imaginative journey filled with puppets, parachute games and relaxing rest time! Recommended for families.
Cancelled
Outreach Event: Storytime at Bill Frederick Park
Wed, Jun 04, 10:00am - 11:00am
Join us for an outdoor nature Storytime hosted near the playground at Bill Frederick Park. Small fee required to enter the park. Recommended for ages 0-12.
I Spy Colors - Summer at your Library
Wed, Jun 04, 11:00am - 11:45am
Toddlers will recognize basic colors that make up their world through stories, rhymes and songs. Recommended for ages 18-36 months.
Southwest LEGO® Club
Wed, Jun 04, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
The LEGO® Club at the Southwest Library invites you to come use your imaginations to build! Bricks will be provided but cannot go home with you. Recommended for ages 6-12.
Storytime Crafts
Thu, Jun 05, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Drop-in before and after storytime to create a make-and-take craft. Recommended for families.
Cybersecurity Basics - PLA DigitalLearn
Thu, Jun 05, 10:15am - 11:15am
Technology Classroom
Cybersecurity is all about the safety of our information when we’re online. Build confidence as you visit websites, create passwords, and respond to email.
Storybook Fun
Thu, Jun 05, 10:30am - 10:55am
The use of picture books, songs and told stories will encourage your child to read, talk, sing, write and play. Recommended for children ages 3 to 5.
Toddler Time
Thu, Jun 05, 11:00am - 11:20am
The use of picture books, finger plays, songs and flannel board stories will encourage the development of verbal and listening skills for this active age group. Recommended for ages 18 to 36 months.
Tiny Tales
Thu, Jun 05, 11:30am - 11:45am
The rhythm and repetition of nursery rhymes are used to introduce young children to literature. Hold your child in your lap and enjoy this special time together. Recommended for babies 0-18 months.
Video Conferencing Basics - PLA DigitalLearn
Thu, Jun 05, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Technology Classroom
Learn how to create an account on a popular video conferencing platform (Zoom) and build confidence when using features of the platform in an online meeting.
Mad Science: Color Your World - Summer at Your Library
Fri, Jun 06, 10:30am - 11:15am
This interactive performance brings the science of color to life with dazzling chemistry experiments that change before your eyes! Recommended for ages 6-12.
Southwest Art Meet Up
Fri, Jun 06, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Bring your own art or craft projects to work on or create something new with provided supplies. Connect with others who enjoy crafting and art! Registration preferred. 18+
Outreach Event: Storytime at Bill Frederick Park
Sat, Jun 07, 10:00am - 11:00am
Join us for an outdoor nature Storytime hosted near the playground at Bill Frederick Park. Small fee required to enter the park. Recommended for ages 0-12.
Growing Up WILD: Tracks
Sat, Jun 07, 11:00am - 11:30am
Children will explore animal tracks. Presented as a part of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies Project WILD®. Recommended ages 3-5.
Y Read: Book Read Aloud
Sat, Jun 07, 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Conference Room
Experience the joy and camaraderie of reading aloud great literature with others each week. Facilitator-led in partnership with the Dr. P. Phillips YMCA and Southwest Library. 18+
Web Design Camp (Ages 13-17) (3-Day)
Mon, Jun 09, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Design an eye-catching website. Program your page with HTML5, CSS, and interactive elements.
This event is full
Mother Goose on the Loose - Music
Mon, Jun 09, 11:00am - 11:30am
Using rhymes, songs, and more, we will be interacting together to help develop important pre-literacy skills in our littlest ones! Recommended for ages 0-18 months.
Caregiver Connect: Stay and Play
Mon, Jun 09, 11:30am - 12:00pm
Connect with other caregivers to meet and mingle while your little ones, ages 0-5, explore imaginary play with new and old friends. Recommended for families.
The Art of Hieroglyphs - Summer at Your Library
Mon, Jun 09, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Did you know Hieroglyphics have been found carved in temple walls and sarcophagi? Join us to learn about this beautiful Ancient Egyptian writing. Recommended for ages 6-12.
This event is full
Microsoft Office Expert Camp (Ages 10-12) (3-Day)
Mon, Jun 09, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Technology Classroom
Create dynamic presentations, crunch numbers and create eye-catching flyers in this three-day camp. Build your skills towards becoming a Microsoft Office expert.
This event is full
Music with Mr. Richard - Summer at Your Library
Tue, Jun 10, 10:30am - 11:15am
Liven up and sing along to original and wacky songs. Experience live music with a guitar and rock out with the whole family. Get ready to move and dance together. Recommended for ages 3-5.
Web Design Camp (Ages 13-17) (3-Day)
Tue, Jun 10, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Design an eye-catching website. Program your page with HTML5, CSS, and interactive elements.
This event is full
Microsoft Office Expert Camp (Ages 10-12) (3-Day)
Tue, Jun 10, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Technology Classroom
Create dynamic presentations, crunch numbers and create eye-catching flyers in this three-day camp. Build your skills towards becoming a Microsoft Office expert.
This event is full
Mindful Start Family Yoga
Tue, Jun 10, 2:00pm - 2:30pm
Southwest - Ask at Desk
Silly and fun yoga poses designed for kids! Flow-through an imaginative journey filled with puppets, parachute games and relaxing rest time! Recommended for families.
Web Design Camp (Ages 13-17) (3-Day)
Wed, Jun 11, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Design an eye-catching website. Program your page with HTML5, CSS, and interactive elements.
This event is full
Color Safari - Summer at Your Library
Wed, Jun 11, 11:00am - 11:45am
Toddlers will embark on a safari adventure and learn about the colors of nature through songs and a story. Recommended for ages 18-36 months.
Microsoft Office Expert Camp (Ages 10-12) (3-Day)
Wed, Jun 11, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Technology Classroom
Create dynamic presentations, crunch numbers and create eye-catching flyers in this three-day camp. Build your skills towards becoming a Microsoft Office expert.
This event is full
Southwest LEGO® Club
Wed, Jun 11, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
The LEGO® Club at the Southwest Library invites you to come use your imaginations to build! Bricks will be provided but cannot go home with you. Recommended for ages 6-12.
Storytime Crafts
Thu, Jun 12, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Drop-in before and after storytime to create a make-and-take craft. Recommended for families.
Storybook Fun
Thu, Jun 12, 10:30am - 10:55am
The use of picture books, songs and told stories will encourage your child to read, talk, sing, write and play. Recommended for children ages 3 to 5.
Toddler Time
Thu, Jun 12, 11:00am - 11:20am
The use of picture books, finger plays, songs and flannel board stories will encourage the development of verbal and listening skills for this active age group. Recommended for ages 18 to 36 months.
Create a Sign For Your Room (Ages 5-6)
Thu, Jun 12, 11:15am - 12:00pm
Technology Classroom
Design a personalized sign for your room! Learn how to properly use the mouse to move pictures to drag and drop and use the keyboard to type in Microsoft Word.
Tiny Tales
Thu, Jun 12, 11:30am - 11:45am
The rhythm and repetition of nursery rhymes are used to introduce young children to literature. Hold your child in your lap and enjoy this special time together. Recommended for babies 0-18 months.
Dungeons & Dragons: Heroes of Hesiod (Ages 7-9)
Thu, Jun 12, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Technology Classroom
Go on a Dungeons and Dragons Adventure! Choose a character and become a monster slayer to help your village in this D&D campaign for kids.
Comedic Science Show: Into The Deep - Summer at Your Library
Fri, Jun 13, 10:30am - 11:30am
Experience a love story between a mermaid and a scientist who must traverse the ocean and its depths to find each other. Recommended for ages 6-12.
Create Comics (Ages 6-12)
Sat, Jun 14, 10:30am - 11:30am
Technology Classroom
Put together cool comic drawings using Comic Life. Change layouts, add cartoons and write a story to make your comic drawings come alive!
Y Read: Book Read Aloud
Sat, Jun 14, 1:30pm - 3:30pm
Conference Room
Experience the joy and camaraderie of reading aloud great literature with others each week. Facilitator-led in partnership with the Dr. P. Phillips YMCA and Southwest Library. 18+
D&D Drop-In Camp: Ghosts of Saltmarsh (Ages 13-17)
Sat, Jun 14, 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Technology Classroom
Play Dungeons and Dragons! Choose a character or use your own to explore the port town of Saltmarsh and its nearby landmarks. By sea or by land, a splendid treasure trove is yours for the taking.
Hand Sewing Sashiko Camp (Ages 12-17) - 3-Day
Mon, Jun 16, 10:30am - 11:45am
Learn the geometry of hand sewing using the simple running stitch to form geometric patterns.
Mother Goose on the Loose - Colors
Mon, Jun 16, 11:00am - 11:30am
Using rhymes, songs, puppets, musical instruments and more, we will be interacting together to help develop important pre-literacy skills in our littlest ones! Recommended for ages 0-18 months
Caregiver Connect: Stay and Play
Mon, Jun 16, 11:30am - 12:00pm
Connect with other caregivers to meet and mingle while your little ones, ages 0-5, explore imaginary play with new and old friends. Recommended for families.
Cuisine Corner Junior: Cereal Art - Summer at Your Library
Mon, Jun 16, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Learn how art and food go hand in hand while making a delicious masterpiece you can eat! Recommended for ages 6-12.
This event is full
LEGO Spike (Ages 6 - 12) - Science & Engineering
Mon, Jun 16, 2:00pm - 3:15pm
Technology Classroom
Build and program machines with LEGO® Education SPIKE™. Join us as apply physical science concepts and the engineering design process through hands-on learning.
This event is full
English Conversation Hour 1
Mon, Jun 16, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Southwest - Ask at Desk
Come practice your basic English conversation skills! This class is intended for beginning English Language Learners.
Mr. Harley's Kids Concert - Summer at Your Library
Tue, Jun 17, 10:30am - 11:15am
Dance along to rockin' tunes. From classic children's songs to original songs, you'll be sure to have a toe-tapping good time. Recommended for ages 3-5.
Hand Sewing Sashiko Camp (Ages 12-17) - 3-Day
Tue, Jun 17, 10:30am - 11:45am
Learn the geometry of hand sewing using the simple running stitch to form geometric patterns.
Design Minecraft Characters (Ages 6 - 12)
Tue, Jun 17, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Technology Classroom
Give Steve and Alex fresh new looks. Design characters, items, blocks and mobs for Minecraft using Tynker.
This event is full
Mindful Start Family Yoga
Tue, Jun 17, 2:00pm - 2:30pm
Southwest - Ask at Desk
Silly and fun yoga poses designed for kids! Flow-through an imaginative journey filled with puppets, parachute games and relaxing rest time! Recommended for families.
Hand Sewing Sashiko Camp (Ages 12-17) - 3-Day
Wed, Jun 18, 10:30am - 11:45am
Learn the geometry of hand sewing using the simple running stitch to form geometric patterns.
Climb Aboard the Shape Train - Summer at your Library
Wed, Jun 18, 11:00am - 11:45am
Chugga-Chugga-Choo-Choo! Toddlers will explore shapes through stories, songs and rhymes with a train theme. Recommended for ages 18-36 months.
Introduction to Circuitry (Ages 7-9)
Wed, Jun 18, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Technology Classroom
Explore the basics of electronics while you build exciting projects with Snap Circuits. Learn the basic science of electronics and how they impact our everyday lives.
This event is full
Southwest LEGO® Club
Wed, Jun 18, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
The LEGO® Club at the Southwest Library invites you to come use your imaginations to build! Bricks will be provided but cannot go home with you. Recommended for ages 6-12.
See all events