Johnson County Library-Merriam Plaza

10/03/2026

What are you reading this weekend, friends?

10/03/2026

Happy National Frugal Fun Day!

What’s the ultimate flex right now? Staying frugal, of course! Make your wallet happy and swap your credit card for your Library card. You can save money on books, movies, video games, music and so much more, year-round.

10/02/2026

This week's pick is "The Cloud" by Jarvis.

About "The Cloud": Cozy, funny, and with heaps of heart, this picture book-a prequel to the internationally successful young reader series-tells a story of first friendship from the beloved creator of The Boy with Flowers in His Hair, winner of the Oscar's Book Prize. When Bear arrives at the Woody Woods for the first time, he is looking for a friend. But it seems like all the friends are already taken. Then he meets Bird, who is looking for something, too-the Puffy Fluffy Octopus Cloud! Bear decides to help her look for it, and so begins an unexpected adventure . . . Will they ever find that octopus-shaped cloud? Perhaps they might find something even better!

Find "The Cloud" here: https://jocolibrary.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S36C2030617

10/01/2026

This week we’re directing you to the Comprehensive Library Master Plan (CLMP) survey, which helps us better understand how you use the Library and how we can better serve you. Your input determines how and what we plan—make sure your voice is heard! It’s only 5 questions and the answers we receive will help shape the Library’s future.

10/01/2026

Life is full of turning points — big and small, public and private. In "Making the Turn," the newest book by Wyatt Townley, the author explores the curves, swerves and U-turns on life’s unpredictable path. Joined by world-class artist Hong Chun Zhang, the author and artist will discuss their collaboration and "Making the Turn" poetry/art installation opening in the Crossroads Nov. 6.

Q&A and book signing will follow the conversation. Free copies of the book will be available while supplies last. Additional books will be available for purchase and light refreshments will be served.

Registration is required. Do that and find more info here: https://trst.in/Sj3xD0

10/01/2026

It's a new month! Drop your TBR & TBW (to be watched) lists 📚️👀🎬️

10/01/2026

Reminder that the Thrive Together: Family Resource Fair is happening at Central Resource Library this Friday! This community-focused event is designed to help families with infants and toddlers ages 0-2 discover programs, services and opportunities that promote healthy growth and a strong foundation for their children. Come explore the many resources available to help your family thrive, including car seat safety checks by Overland Park Police Department.

Find a list of organizations and resources available at the event here: https://trst.in/fvFZER

09/30/2026

Heads up, friends: All Library buildings will be closed on Monday, Oct. 12, for Staff Development.

Our eLibrary is always open! Stream movies with Kanopy, access eBooks, eAudioBooks and magazines with Libby App, learn new things or get homework help with BrainFuse and so much more! Get started here: https://www.jocolibrary.org/elibrary-online-resources

09/30/2026

You can still join this Beginning Genealogy series with Johnson County Genealogical Society, which happens every Monday until October 13th. Save your spot to learn the basics of tracing your family history!

Explore essential skills such as building a family tree, using online resources, understanding records and preserving your discoveries. Perfect for beginners ready to start their journey into the past.

Attending each session is helpful, but not required; feel free to attend all or just one.

Registration is not required. However, if you plan to attend, please email [email protected] with your name, email address and the number of attendees.

09/29/2026

National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the history, contributions and diverse cultures of Hispanic and Latino Americans.

Today we're sharing the story of the Valdez family and their journey to Johnson County.

The month between Sept. 15 and Oct. 15 each year is dedicated as National Hispanic Heritage Month. This year, the Johnson County Museum unveiled its first bilingual, interactive digital exhibit. On…