Skip to main content
close
font 1 font 2 font 3
Reset to standard size
Font size options
Increase or decrease the font size for this website by clicking on the 'A's.
Yellow on Black White on Black Soft Greys Black on Linen Black on White
Reset to default contrast
Contrast options
Choose a color combination to give the most comfortable contrast.

Registration now closed

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 05 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Tue, May 06 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Wed, May 07 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Thu, May 08 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Fri, May 09 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, May 10 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Sun, May 11 Closed
previous
this week
next
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

Growing Up Wild: The Deep Blue Sea
Sat, May 10, 11:00am - 11:30am
Children will develop an awareness of oceans and ocean life. Presented as a part of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies Project WILD®. Recommended for ages 3-5.
Y Read: Book Read Aloud
Sat, May 10, 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+
Mother Goose on the Loose - Bugs
Mon, May 12, 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, May 12, 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.
Homeschool Meetup - Making Your Map
Mon, May 12, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Come participate in math, science, history, art and literature-based learning to support your child's homeschool curriculum. Recommended for ages 6-12.
MakeCode Arcade (Ages 6 - 12) - Coding Games - Shark Attack!
Mon, May 12, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Technology Classroom
Code Shark Attack with Microsoft MakeCode Arcade! After coding this game, return to create the Pixel Art & Animations! Bring a free login to get the most of this class https://arcade.makecode.com
This event is full
Hand Sewing Sashiko Patterns -Vacation House - Beginner Level
Tue, May 13, 10:15am - 12:15pm
Technology Classroom
Learn sashiko hand sewing techniques that form geometric patterns from simple running stitches. Create beautiful designs using the continuous running stitch.
Mindful Start Family Yoga
Tue, May 13, 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.
Computer Basics Level 2 - Creating & Saving Files
Tue, May 13, 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Technology Classroom
Get your computer skills racing. Learn how to create, rename, delete, and organize files and folders on your computer.
Microsoft Excel - Automate Tasks
Wed, May 14, 10:15am - 11:15am
Technology Classroom
Automate everyday tasks with macros. Record data entry and formatting. Insert and modify objects to run macros without coding.
Jungle Jubilee
Wed, May 14, 11:00am - 11:30am
Are you ready for an adventure? Toddlers will listen to stories and participate in literacy-building activities in this exciting jungle storytime. Recommended for ages 18-36 months.
Microsoft Excel - Formulas & Functions
Wed, May 14, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Technology Classroom
Calculate your data with formulas and functions. Use the Function Library to find the best fit for your project. Insert financial, logical, lookup, math and text functions.
Southwest LEGO® Club
Wed, May 14, 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 15, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Drop-in before and after storytime to create a make-and-take craft. Recommended for families.
Microsoft PowerPoint Level 1
Thu, May 15, 10:15am - 11:15am
Technology Classroom
Identify the basic features and tools to get you started. Learn how to create a presentation by using templates, text, and picture files.
Storybook Fun
Thu, May 15, 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 15, 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 Level 2
Thu, May 15, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Technology Classroom
Capture your audience attention with a visually compelling presentation. Learn how to insert and customize SmartArt graphics, tables, charts and video.
Tiny Tales
Thu, May 15, 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.
Southwest STEM - Airplanes
Thu, May 15, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Join us for this monthly program as we explore the world around us using Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Recommended for ages 6-12.
Device Advice
Sat, May 17, 10:30am - 11:30am
Technology Classroom
Have a new tablet or smartphone, but not sure how to use it? Let us get you started with the basics, so you become more familiar with your personal device.
Beginner Line Dancing
Sat, May 17, 10:30am - 11:30am
Learn beginner line dance steps to all types of music. Discover a fun way to exercise your body and mind. Partners not needed. Bring water. Non-stick sole shoes recommended. 15 to 18+
Y Read: Book Read Aloud
Sat, May 17, 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+
Sewing - Quilted Star Coaster - Confident Beginner - Yarnfiti Stitched Together Space Series
Sat, May 17, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Technology Classroom
Shoot for the stars with this cute, quilted coaster design. Once finished, you can submit your project for display in this year's Yarnfiti Community Project.
Mother Goose on the Loose - Mothers
Mon, May 19, 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, May 19, 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.
Homeschool Meetup: Cardboard Creations
Mon, May 19, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Come participate in math, science, history, art and literature-based learning to support your child's homeschool curriculum. Recommended for ages 6-12.
LEGO Spike (Ages 6 - 12) - Science & Engineering
Mon, May 19, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Technology Classroom
Build and program machines with LEGO® Education SPIKE™. Join us as we apply physical science concepts and the engineering design process through hands-on learning.
This event is full
English Conversation Hour
Mon, May 19, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Southwest - Ask at Desk
A series of workshops in which students can practice their English speaking and listening skills. Recommended for those with a basic understanding of English.
Podcast Listening Club: Making Connections
Mon, May 19, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Conference Room
This month's playlist topic: Making Connections delves into the science and art of building meaningful relationships, from fostering trust to embracing vulnerability. Reg. preferred. Ages 18+
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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+
See all events