Events

Do you have a project that you need a little motivation to finish? Do you get lonely working on your projects at home? Just want a little company? Join your fellow crafters at the  Library for an afternoon of crafting and chatting. Bring your craft project(s) from home and join us for a crafty social hour! Craft & Chat meets Tuesdays from 1-2 PM. NO REGISTRATION.

Step into a world of captivating stories and lively discussions at our Novel Idea Book Club! Whether you're an avid reader or someone looking to discover new books and ideas, this is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow book lovers, share your thoughts, and dive deep into a wide range of genres. We meet the third Tuesday of each month at 1:30 with Retired English teacher Steve Holland as our guide. What makes our book club special? It’s not just about reading—it’s about engaging with others in thoughtful conversations, exploring different perspectives, and broadening horizons. Each meeting is a chance to discover books you might not have picked up on your own, all while enjoying a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. Whether you agree or disagree with the book, it's the lively debates and shared enthusiasm that make each session so enjoyable. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to build a sense of community! You’ll get to know new people who share your love of reading, make lasting friendships, and be part of a group where your opinions truly matter. So come for the book, stay for the conversation—and discover why our Novel Idea Book Club is so much more than just a group of people reading the same book. It’s a place where ideas come to life, connections are made, and your next great read is just a discussion away! The January book is Horse by Geraldene Brooks. “Brooks’ chronological and cross-disciplinary leaps are thrilling.” —The New York Times Book Review “Horse isn’t just an animal story—it’s a moving narrative about race and art.” —TIME“A thrilling story about humanity in all its ugliness and beauty . . . the evocative voices create a story so powerful, reading it feels like watching a neck-and-neck horse race, galloping to its conclusion—you just can’t look away.” —Oprah DailyWinner of the Anisfield-Wolf Book Award, the Dayton Literary Peace Prize, and the Dr. Tony Ryan Book Award · Finalist for the Chautauqua Prize · A Massachusetts Book Award Honor Book A discarded painting in a junk pile, a skeleton in an attic, and the greatest racehorse in American history: from these strands, a Pulitzer Prize winner braids a sweeping story of spirit, obsession, and injustice across American history. NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED. YOU CAN FIND A COPY OF THE BOOK FOR CHECK OUT ON THE NOVEL IDEA BOOK CLUB DISPLAY AT THE BMPL LIBRARY.

Join us for an afternoon of real-life narratives, where we share heartfelt and captivating experiences. Join us to connect, share, and embrace the beauty of real-life tales! NO REGISTRATION.  OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.  FREE.

Do you have a project that you need a little motivation to finish? Do you get lonely working on your projects at home? Just want a little company? Join your fellow crafters at the  Library for an afternoon of crafting and chatting. Bring your craft project(s) from home and join us for a crafty social hour! Craft & Chat meets Tuesdays from 1-2 PM. NO REGISTRATION.

Do you have a project that you need a little motivation to finish? Do you get lonely working on your projects at home? Just want a little company? Join your fellow crafters at the  Library for an afternoon of crafting and chatting. Bring your craft project(s) from home and join us for a crafty social hour! Craft & Chat meets Tuesdays from 1-2 PM. NO REGISTRATION.

Felting is one of the oldest forms of textile arts. Needle felting is begun by rolling a small amount of wool and stabbing it with the needle. It is a quick hobby to learn, and many find it stress-relieving. This month, we will be making Valentine Hearts, which will combine two skills we've learned, three dimensional felting and applique ! Even if you've missed previous classes, please feel free to join us as you will be able to learn these basic techniques during our February class. Consider registering for this cute and functional Needle Felting project! All material will be supplied. We will meet in the BMPL Annex. Please join us for this NO cost adult program (18 years and older). Registration is REQUIRED for this program. Fill out the form below.

Do you have a project that you need a little motivation to finish? Do you get lonely working on your projects at home? Just want a little company? Join your fellow crafters at the  Library for an afternoon of crafting and chatting. Bring your craft project(s) from home and join us for a crafty social hour! Craft & Chat meets Tuesdays from 1-2 PM. NO REGISTRATION.

Join us for a twist on traditional string art. Instead of string, we will use pink neon electroluminescent wire to wrap and create a one-of-a-kind work of art to display. This is the perfect way to spend time with friends, make new connections, and tap into your artistic side. No experience is needed, just bring your creativity and enjoy a laid-back, enjoyable afternoon in a supportive, social environment. Don’t miss out—your next masterpiece is just an wire away! This class has a suggested (but not required) donation of $8. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Please sign up below.

Join dieticians from Margaret Mary Health to learn about how to shop, cook, and eat healthy on a budget. This is a FREE informational presentation. No Sign up.

Craft and Chat for today (2/18) has been cancelled.   Do you have a project that you need a little motivation to finish? Do you get lonely working on your projects at home? Just want a little company? Join your fellow crafters at the  Library for an afternoon of crafting and chatting. Bring your craft project(s) from home and join us for a crafty social hour! Craft & Chat meets Tuesdays from 1-2 PM. NO REGISTRATION.

Step into a world of captivating stories and lively discussions at our Novel Idea Book Club! Whether you're an avid reader or someone looking to discover new books and ideas, this is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow book lovers, share your thoughts, and dive deep into a wide range of genres. We meet the third Tuesday of each month at 1:30 with Retired English teacher Steve Holland as our guide. What makes our book club special? It’s not just about reading—it’s about engaging with others in thoughtful conversations, exploring different perspectives, and broadening horizons. Each meeting is a chance to discover books you might not have picked up on your own, all while enjoying a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. Whether you agree or disagree with the book, it's the lively debates and shared enthusiasm that make each session so enjoyable. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to build a sense of community! You’ll get to know new people who share your love of reading, make lasting friendships, and be part of a group where your opinions truly matter. So come for the book, stay for the conversation—and discover why our Novel Idea Book Club is so much more than just a group of people reading the same book. It’s a place where ideas come to life, connections are made, and your next great read is just a discussion away! The February book is The Year of Pleasures by Elizabeth Berg. In this rich and deeply satisfying novel, a resilient woman embarks upon an unforgettable journey of adventure, self-discovery, and renewal.  Betta Nolan moves to a small town after the death of her husband to try to begin anew. Pursuing a dream of a different kind of life, she is determined to find pleasure in her simply daily routines. Among those who help her in both expected and unexpected ways are the ten-year-old boy next door, three wild women friends from her college days, a twenty-year-old who is struggling to find his place in the world, and a handsome man who is ready for love. Elizabeth Berg's The Year of Pleasures is about acknowledging the solace found in ordinary things: a warm bath, good food, the beauty of nature, music, friends, and art.  NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED. YOU CAN FIND A COPY OF THE BOOK FOR CHECK OUT ON THE NOVEL IDEA BOOK CLUB DISPLAY AT THE BMPL LIBRARY.

Southeast Indiana Creative Collective: a community for local artists to share, create, and explore together. Pottery, photography, painting, crafting, illustration, writing, music, fashion, theatre, sewing/quilting, embroidery, dance, printmaking, graphic design—there are no rules about what kind of creative person you have to be to join! Have Questions? Email kerseykatie@gmail.com This program is by SEI Creative Collective held at BMPL. NO REGISTRATION. OPEN TO ADULTS.

Join Deb McIntyre at Batesville Library. She will discuss her newly released book, A Wishful Eye. The novel takes place in Ripley and Jefferson counties in Indiana and central and northern Kentucky during the last half of 1849 and centers around the Underground Railroad. Deb will read from her work and answer questions. She will also be available after the program if you would like to purchase a copy or have a copy signed.

Do you have a project that you need a little motivation to finish? Do you get lonely working on your projects at home? Just want a little company? Join your fellow crafters at the  Library for an afternoon of crafting and chatting. Bring your craft project(s) from home and join us for a crafty social hour! Craft & Chat meets Tuesdays from 1-2 PM. NO REGISTRATION.

Join us for an afternoon of real-life narratives, where we share heartfelt and captivating experiences. Join us to connect, share, and embrace the beauty of real-life tales! NO REGISTRATION.  OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.  FREE.

Do you have a project that you need a little motivation to finish? Do you get lonely working on your projects at home? Just want a little company? Join your fellow crafters at the Library for an afternoon of crafting and chatting. Bring your craft project(s) from home and join us for a crafty social hour! Craft & Chat meets Tuesdays from 1-2 PM. NO REGISTRATION.

Felting is one of the oldest forms of textile arts. Needle felting is begun by rolling a small amount of wool and stabbing it with the needle. It is a quick hobby to learn, and many find it stress-relieving. This month, we will be making a Shamrock. If you've missed previous classes, please feel free to join us as you will be able to learn these basic techniques during our March class. Consider registering for this cute and functional Needle Felting project! All material will be supplied. We will meet in the BMPL Annex. Please join us for this NO cost adult program (18 years and older). Registration is REQUIRED for this program. Fill out the form below.

Do you have a project that you need a little motivation to finish? Do you get lonely working on your projects at home? Just want a little company? Join your fellow crafters at the Library for an afternoon of crafting and chatting. Bring your craft project(s) from home and join us for a crafty social hour! Craft & Chat meets Tuesdays from 1-2 PM. NO REGISTRATION.

Cancelled Registration is required for this program. This registration is for the 1:00pm program. Join us for a fun and interactive 90-minute chocolate-making class at the Batesville Memorial Public Library! Learn about the rich history of chocolate while getting hands-on experience in tempering, molding, and dipping to create your own delicious treats with experts from Candyland Creations and More. Plus, take home your handmade chocolates in a goody bag! The History of Chocolate: Discover how chocolate evolved from ancient civilizations to modern-day treats. Tempering 101: Learn the secrets of melting and tempering chocolate for a smooth, glossy finish. Hands-On Creations: Molded chocolates (solid and filled) Hand-dipped chocolate treats Decorating Techniques: Learn how to drizzle, sprinkle, and add creative toppings. Goody Bag Take-Home Treats: Each participant gets a fun goody bag filled with their handcrafted chocolates. Q&A Session: Ask questions and get expert tips for making chocolate at home. All Supplies Provided: We’ll supply everything you need, including aprons, gloves, and ingredients. Please let us know if you have any food allergies.  Suggested donation amount: $10 Sign up is required below.

CANCELLED Registration is required for this program. This registration is for the 5:00pm program. Join us for a fun and interactive 90-minute chocolate-making class at the Batesville Memorial Public Library! Learn about the rich history of chocolate while getting hands-on experience in tempering, molding, and dipping to create your own delicious treats with experts from Candyland Creations and More. Plus, take home your handmade chocolates in a goody bag! The History of Chocolate: Discover how chocolate evolved from ancient civilizations to modern-day treats. Tempering 101: Learn the secrets of melting and tempering chocolate for a smooth, glossy finish. Hands-On Creations: Molded chocolates (solid and filled) Hand-dipped chocolate treats Decorating Techniques: Learn how to drizzle, sprinkle, and add creative toppings. Goody Bag Take-Home Treats: Each participant gets a fun goody bag filled with their handcrafted chocolates. Q&A Session: Ask questions and get expert tips for making chocolate at home. All Supplies Provided: We’ll supply everything you need, including aprons, gloves, and ingredients. Please let us know if you have any food allergies.  Suggested donation amount: $10 Sign up is required below.

Join the Mayor’s Book Club, a new opportunity to foster community discussion around various topics. No rsvp expected, we’re happy to have you drop in! In January, March, May, July, September, and November, Mayor John Irrgang will participate in a discussion about a different book each month. The selected book for March is “Meet Me at the Library: A Place to Foster Social Connection and Promote Democracy” by Shamichael Hallman. You can borrow a copy at the Batesville Memorial Public Library. UPCOMING DATES AND TITLES: May 8, 2025 at the BMPL at 630pm “Slaughterhouse Five” by Kurt Vonnegut July 10, 2025 at the BMPL at 630pm “Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time” by Jeff Speck September 11, 2025 at the BMPL at 630pm “Bet The Farm” by Beth Hoffman November 13, 2025 at the BMPL at 630pm “The How of Happiness” by Sonja Lyubomirsky In February, April, June, August, October, and December, we’ll dive deep into a specific section of “Strong Towns: A Bottom-Up Revolution to Rebuild American Prosperity by Charles L. Marohn Jr.” (Keep an eye on these updates to see what chapters we’ll be covering on that date). Our goal for these meetings is to unearth ideas and inspiration to take back to our neighborhoods, businesses, schools, and service organizations to build a better community. February 13, 2025 April 10, 2025 June 12, 2025 August 14, 2025 October 9, 2025 December 11, 2025 All these meetings will be at the BMPL at 630pm

Do you have a project that you need a little motivation to finish? Do you get lonely working on your projects at home? Just want a little company? Join your fellow crafters at the Library for an afternoon of crafting and chatting. Bring your craft project(s) from home and join us for a crafty social hour! Craft & Chat meets Tuesdays from 1-2 PM. NO REGISTRATION.

Southeast Indiana Creative Collective: a community for local artists to share, create, and explore together. Pottery, photography, painting, crafting, illustration, writing, music, fashion, theatre, sewing/quilting, embroidery, dance, printmaking, graphic design—there are no rules about what kind of creative person you have to be to join! Have Questions? Email kerseykatie@gmail.com This program is by SEI Creative Collective held at BMPL. NO REGISTRATION. OPEN TO ADULTS.

Attention artists! Come and join this new adult drawing club. It meets once per month at BMPL. All levels welcome! All mediums welcome!  Come to this first meeting to help shape what future sessions will look like. Each month will have a different approach. One month we might work on a still-life. One month might be a video-led drawing exercise. Use the time to work on a current project. Bring your own supplies or use the (limited) supplies available. Once each month on the third Friday from 1-3.   Registration Suggested Below

Do you have a project that you need a little motivation to finish? Do you get lonely working on your projects at home? Just want a little company? Join your fellow crafters at the Library for an afternoon of crafting and chatting. Bring your craft project(s) from home and join us for a crafty social hour! Craft & Chat meets Tuesdays from 1-2 PM. NO REGISTRATION.

Step into a world of captivating stories and lively discussions at our Novel Idea Book Club! Whether you're an avid reader or someone looking to discover new books and ideas, this is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow book lovers, share your thoughts, and dive deep into a wide range of genres. What makes our book club special? It’s not just about reading—it’s about engaging with others in thoughtful conversations, exploring different perspectives, and broadening horizons. Each meeting is a chance to discover books you might not have picked up on your own, all while enjoying a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. Whether you agree or disagree with the book, it's the lively debates and shared enthusiasm that make each session so enjoyable. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to build a sense of community! You’ll get to know new people who share your love of reading, make lasting friendships, and be part of a group where your opinions truly matter. So come for the book, stay for the conversation—and discover why our Novel Idea Book Club is so much more than just a group of people reading the same book. It’s a place where ideas come to life, connections are made, and your next great read is just a discussion away! The March book is Destroyer Angel by Nevada Barr. Anna Pigeon, a ranger for the U.S. Park Services, sets off on vacation—an autumn canoe trip into the Iron Range in upstate Minnesota. With Anna is her friend Heath, a paraplegic; Heath's fifteen-year-old daughter, Elizabeth; Leah, a wealthy designer of outdoor equipment; and her daughter, Katie, who is thirteen. For Heath and Leah, this is a shakedown cruise to test a new cutting edge line of camping equipment. The equipment, designed by Leah, will make camping and canoeing more accessible to disabled outdoorsmen. On their second night out, Anna goes off on her own for a solo evening float on the Fox River. When she comes back, she finds that four thugs, armed with rifles, pistols, and knives, have taken the two women and their teenage daughters captive. With limited resources and no access to the outside world, Anna has only two days to rescue them before her friends are either killed or flown out of the country, in Destroyer Angel, the New York Times bestseller by Nevada Barr. NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED. YOU CAN FIND A COPY OF THE BOOK FOR CHECK OUT ON THE NOVEL IDEA BOOK CLUB DISPLAY AT THE BMPL LIBRARY.

Join us for an afternoon of real-life narratives, where we share heartfelt and captivating experiences. Join us to connect, share, and embrace the beauty of real-life tales! This month Hertel's Shoe Store will share their history story. NO REGISTRATION.  OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.  FREE.

Join us for this month’s crafting group. We will be making a neutral colored wreath perfect for any decor. This is the perfect way to spend time with friends, make new connections, and tap into your artistic side. No experience is needed, just bring your creativity and enjoy a laid-back, enjoyable afternoon in a supportive, social environment. Don’t miss out on your next masterpiece! This class has a suggested (but not required) donation of $10. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Please sign up below.

Come to this engaging session to learn about women who had great accomplishments and lived in Ripley, Franklin, or Decatur County to celebrate Women’s History Month. Did you know who these local women are: a female African American Underground Railroad Conductor, a leading suffragist, a popular national children’s author, a widowed mother who had 6 sons serve at the same time during WW 2? Or a female who dressed as a man to serve in the Civil War, an all-star in the All American Girls Professional Baseball League, the third woman to serve in the U.S. Senate, inventor of a groundbreaking fire escape, a WW 2 pilot, members of the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, and a small group of women who established schools throughout the Midwest-they even created a college which is today a renowned Indiana University. Join retired history teacher John Pratt as he shares what he learned as he dug into the history of The Notable Women of Ripley/Franklin/Decatur Counties. NO Registration.

Do you have a project that you need a little motivation to finish? Do you get lonely working on your projects at home? Just want a little company? Join your fellow crafters at the Library for an afternoon of crafting and chatting. Bring your craft project(s) from home and join us for a crafty social hour! Craft & Chat meets Tuesdays from 1-2 PM. NO REGISTRATION.