Become a personal history sleuth during the month of November through the Iowa City Public Library’s genealogy programs and classes. Whether you are just beginning to trace your family tree or if you’ve been at it awhile, the classes in November can help anyone along their journey.

The first class being offered is the Introduction to Genealogy course on Saturday, November 4, at 10 a.m. Learn the basics like where to start searching and how to keep track of the information you find once you get started.

One of the main ways of uncovering your family’s history is through the database Ancestry. The library offers a free subscription to its patrons and on Saturday, November 11, at 10 a.m., you can learn how to use it.

For the long-time sleuths, our Military Records class on Wednesday, November 15, at 2 p.m. can be a great place to unlock more information about your family. There are some key things you need to know about using these records and this class will teach you what you need to know.

Genealogy Day on Saturday, November 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. wraps up the month-long focus on genealogy. Librarians and genealogy volunteers will be on-hand throughout the day to help you with your genealogy searches. Patrons can come and go as they please completing as much or as little work as time permits. 

Classes are free, but patrons are encouraged to register early to reserve their spot. Register online or by calling the Library at 319-356-5200.

The City of Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department will host the City's Annual Halloween Parade and Carnival from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, October 27, at Mercer Park,

This is a new location for the event.

The event will kick off with a costume parade around the park. The fun will continue with both indoor and outdoor activities including carnival-style games, crafts, prizes, tricks, treats, performances, special visitors, and other Halloween fun.

The ICPL Bookmobile also will be on site.

All ages and abilities are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. In case of inclement weather, the parade will be canceled, but the carnival will still be held. This event is free to attend.

Not sure what to do with your solar eclipse glasses? Bring them to the Library!

The Library is an official Glasses Collection Center for Astronomers Without Borders and its corporate sponsor, Explore Scientific.

All collected solar eclipse glasses will be distributed in schools, libraries and other institutions in South America and Asia for use in the next two years.

Please drop off your glasses in the collection box, located near the indoor book returns on the Library’s first floor.

Glasses will be collected until November 1.

Fans of science fiction will enjoy The Collapsing Empire by John Scalzi. Brian calls it "... the beginning of a smart, new series and an introduction to a massive new universe." His only complaint? "It ended way too soon."

Mary was thrilled to read that her favorite "starter fluid" -- coffee -- is actually good for you! If you're looking to enhance your coffee-drinking experience, she recommends reading The Coffee Lover's Diet: Change Your Coffee and Change Your Life by Dr. Bob Arnot.

Candice may have outgrown her love of scary movies, but she still enjoys reading true crime. Check out her blog post about new titles in this genre and get ready to sleep with the lights on!