NILES — The Niles District Library seeks to build a community of lifelong learners who want to make Niles their lifelong home. A library card is not required to participate in any programs. All programs are free.

For more information, call (269) 683-8545, email marketing@nileslibrary.net, or check out the Niles District Library Facebook page, Twitter page, @TheNDLib or nileslibrary.com.Monday.

Thursday, Oct. 18

• 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. — The Connection

As Berrien County’s Housing Resource Center, The Connection provides a centralized intake that works together with the consumer to rapidly re-house those who are homeless.

• 10:30 and 1:30 p.m. — Storytime

Storytime features three books, a color song, and music and movement. The program will end with a hand stamp, coloring sheet and a craft.

• 1 to 4:30 p.m. — Mahjong

Volunteers are available weekly to teach people how to play Mahjong.

• 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. — Club H20 Meeting

Club H2O is a faith-based group especially designed for young women, ages 13-18.  It seeks to be a safe place for them to connect with each other while engaging in discussions and activities to increase self-esteem, healthy coping strategies and learn about boundaries to build secure relationships. To join Club H2O is free to all participants and the program is facilitated by master’s level therapists.

• 6 to 7:30 p.m. — Teen Time

Teens are invited to visit and hang out. There are games, books, and a place to study here in the new Teen Department. Snacks will be provided.

• 6:30 to 8 p.m. — Young Life Information Meeting

Young Life invites people to join them for an informational meeting. Everyone is invited.

The group’s goals are:

• Growing character, finding purpose, and building friendships.

• Impacting children’s lives in a positive and fun way.

• Call or text: (859)-325-1176.

Friday, Oct. 19

• 9:30 a.m. to noon — TOPS

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is a nonprofit, noncommercial weight-loss support group and wellness education organization. TOPS offers tools and programs for healthy living and weight management, with exceptional group fellowship and recognition. The group was established in 1948 to champion weight-loss support and success, TOPS has helped millions of people live healthier lives. New members are welcome.

• 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. — Medicare Made Clear

The community is invited to a Medicare Made Clear educational seminar. Those who attend can learn all about Medicare choices. Facilitators will also share tools and resources to help people understand the coverage that may be right for them, including a free educational guide. Whether people are just getting started with Medicare or simply looking to learn more, the facilitators said they are here to help.

• 1 to 3 p.m.  Twisted Stitches

The community is invited to bring a yarn or sewing project and enjoy a hot beverage while they chat and work. Rookies are welcome. David, the teacher, will be there to provide help and instructions.

Saturday, Oct. 20

• 10 a.m. to noon — Chess Club

Love to play chess?  This group meets twice monthly to play. All ages and abilities are welcome.  Lesson can be taught for those who need to learn. Those interested in Chess Club can meet in the Children’s Department.

• 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. — SkillShare: Open Shop

Open Shop is a time for anyone to bring in a problem, project, or something that needs repair. There are currently Open Shops scheduled every Tuesday and Saturday. This is when a staff person or volunteer will be in the workshop, able to offer general help. This is also when you can browse the collection of Things in person.  Please email laura.hollister@nileslibrary.net if they would be willing to volunteer on any of the open shop days.

• 10:30 a.m. to noon — From Field to Cupboard: Make Your Own Tomato Soup

These sessions use the same tools and methods to take fresh produce from a bushel basket to a jar on your shelf. Learn how to cook the fruit and process it using the juicer attachment available to check out from the collection of Things. Simple water bath canning will also be demonstrated.

This is a session from the new SkillShare series Fix It Yourself/Do It Yourself (FIY/DIY). A knowledgeable volunteer will provide hands-on instruction on a particular job, repair, or project to empower an individual to fix or do things themself. Sessions will be related to the workshop areas and tools (electrical, general, drywall, and sewing) or the collections of “Things” (Art, Assistive Devices, Crafts, Games, Home Improvement, Kitchen Tools, Music, Recreation, and Science/Technology). If you have a skill you’d like to share, or something you’d like to learn, please email CommunityEngagement@nileslibrary.net.

• Noon to 1:30 p.m. — Senior Academy: Life Transitions- Because the Unexpected Will Happen