BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Mercer Public Library - ECPv6.16.4.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-WR-CALNAME:Mercer Public Library
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Mercer Public Library
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Chicago
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20250309T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20251102T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20260308T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20261101T070000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0500
TZNAME:CDT
DTSTART:20270314T080000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0500
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:CST
DTSTART:20271107T070000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260522T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260522T183000
DTSTAMP:20260408T184211Z
CREATED:20260408T184211Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T184211Z
UID:10001742-1779471000-1779474600@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Lost Locations: A Local History Talk
DESCRIPTION:Join Library Assistant Blaze Burton for the second part of the Lost Locations series on Friday\, May 22 at 5:30pm in the Mercer Community Center.   \nWhat is a Lost Location? Lost Locations are named places on maps where communities\, with houses\, schools\, and business once existed and have since disappeared. He will cover four more Lost Locations in this presentation; Powell\, Emerson\, Wellington and Buswell. The presentation will also cover how Blaze uses old maps\, databases and publicly available lidar mapping to explore these places.  \nFor more information\, please call the Mercer Public Library at 715-476-2366; this event is free and open to the public and no registration is required.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/lost-locations-a-local-history-talk/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Kids Events,Teen Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260525
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260526
DTSTAMP:20260429T204654Z
CREATED:20250918T192931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T204654Z
UID:10001691-1779667200-1779753599@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Library Closed
DESCRIPTION:The Library will be closed on Monday\, May 25 for Memorial Day.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/library-closed-10/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260618T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260618T130000
DTSTAMP:20260428T161751Z
CREATED:20260428T155443Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T161751Z
UID:10001745-1781784000-1781787600@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:'Circus Spark - A Family Circus Show' with Madison Circus Entertainment
DESCRIPTION:Join us on June 18\, 2026 from 12pm-1pm for the captivating circus performance of Madison Circus Entertainment in their ‘Circus Spark’ show! This event is perfect for all ages and there is no cost to attend; no registration is required. \nFor more information about all of our 2026 summer programs\, please click here or call the Mercer Public Library at 715-476-2366. Thanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Public Library\, all summer programs are FREE and open to the public. \n“Circus Spark” is a live\, family-friendly\, interactive circus show featuring juggling\, balance skills\, hula hoops\, and light audience participation\, The program contains no animals\, no fire\, and no loud surprises. \nMadison Circus Entertainment is a Wisconsin-based group of professional circus performers and instructors who love working libraries and community spaces. \n\nJosef (juggler) specializes in club juggling and playful object manipulation. His style is energetic\, welcoming\, and easy to follow\, with plenty of moments that invite the audience to laugh along.\nNora (hula hoops) brings a colorful hula hoop performance filled with flow\, rhythm\, and joy. Her work adds movement and visual magic that audiences of all ages enjoy.\nGoose (balance and flow) focuses on balance and flowing movement\, demonstrating impressive coordination and control. His work highlights focus\, patience\, and body awareness\, helping audience see how practice and balance work together in a calm and engaging way.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/circus-spark/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Kids Events,Teen Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Madison-Circus-Entertainment-logo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260623T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260623T110000
DTSTAMP:20260511T211259Z
CREATED:20260508T213609Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T211259Z
UID:10001762-1782208800-1782212400@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Create Your Own Nature Bingo Board with Crafty Cup
DESCRIPTION:Join Sara from the Crafty Cup as you make your own reusable Nature Bingo Board on Tuesday\, June 23 from 10am-11am. Choose the items you want on your board\, inspired by the forests\, lakes\, animals\, and hidden treasures of the Northwoods Kids will design their own fun bingo-style nature tracker using art supplies\, stickers\, and creative decorations to help guide your outdoor adventures. \nFor more information about all of our 2026 summer programs\, please click here or call the Mercer Public Library at 715-476-2366. Thanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Public Library\, all summer programs are FREE and open to the public. \nEstablished in May 2025\, Crafty Cup is owned by Kevin and Sara Towne and is a place to sip\, relax\, create\, and connect. Crafty Cup is located at 5203N US Hwy 51; for more information\, call 715-476-0169.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/nature-bingo-board-with-crafty-cup/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Crafty-Cup-Logo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260701T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260701T120000
DTSTAMP:20260428T161957Z
CREATED:20260428T161707Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T161957Z
UID:10001746-1782900000-1782907200@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Tie-Dye Party
DESCRIPTION:It’s time for our annual Tie-Dye Party on July 1 from 10am-12pm! Make your own custom tie-dye shirts using supplies provided by the Library right on time to wear during the 4th of July celebrations! \n100% cotton t-shirts will be provided by the Mercer Library on a first-come\, first-serve basis while supplies last. Supplies cannot be reserved or held for attendees. For larger groups\, we encourage attendees to bring their own shirts to ensure that you have all the sizes you need. From past experience and best practice\, we recommend that you use 100% cotton or other natural fiber (hemp\, denim\, bamboo\, or wool). Synthetic fibers (polyester or nylon) are not recommended but may be used; the Mercer Library cannot guarantee the outcome\, quality or vibrancy of the colors\, or the ability for the dye to last after washing. \nFor more information about all of our 2026 summer programs\, please click here or call the Mercer Public Library at 715-476-2366. Thanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Public Library\, all summer programs are FREE and open to the public. \nPhoto submitted by attendee of the 2024 Tie-Dye Party.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/2026-tie-dye-party/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Kids Events,Teen Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/482021067_1157459219412280_2141912511260295322_n.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260702T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260702T180000
DTSTAMP:20260429T153539Z
CREATED:20260429T152847Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T153539Z
UID:10001753-1783008000-1783015200@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Artist in Residence: Opening Reception for Mietzi "Marie" Bleck
DESCRIPTION:Join us in celebrating the work of our 2026-2027 Artist in Residence Mietzi “Marie” Bleck on July 2 from 4pm-6pm. Light snacks and drinks will be provided and no advanced registration is required; all are welcome to attend. Thanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Library\, the Artist in Residence program is free for all who wish to participate and enjoy our local artists’ work. For questions or additional details\, please contact the Library at 715-476-2366. \nPrints by Bleck have hung in the library since 1937 when they were donated by the Mercer Women’s Civic Club. With 89 years of history\, the Mercer Library is proud to recognize her importance to Mercer history and welcome her home. \nIn the hope of honoring her art\, life\, and service to our country\, several of her works will be prominently displayed at the Mercer Public Library\, including the addition of three new block prints. The legacy that Bleck has left through her depictions of life in 1930s Mercer has survived long after its initial creation. \nA multi-modal artist\, Bleck worked with linoleum cuts\, paints\, sketches\, and wrote poetry. Block prints that hang in the Library were made as a part of the federal Works Progress Administration’s (WPA) efforts to employ artists to beautify and enhance public spaces. Most of her work was inspired by her time in Mercer and Northern Wisconsin. She truly fulfilled the mission of the WPA in bringing art to our community and representing life in Mercer at the time. \nBorn in Oshkosh\, Mietzi Bleck lived most of her life in Mercer including as a teacher during the 1937-1938 academic year. She was the head of the Art Department of Oshkosh High School before joining the Navy’s WAVES program\, becoming a Aerographers Mate\, and moving to Palmer\, Alaska. After contracting an illness\, Bleck returned to Milwaukee\, where she ultimately succumbed\, having lived a full\, yet short life.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/opening-reception-marie-bleck/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260703
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260705
DTSTAMP:20250918T193024Z
CREATED:20250918T193024Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250918T193024Z
UID:10001692-1783036800-1783209599@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Library Closed
DESCRIPTION:The Library will be closed on Friday\, July 3 and Saturday\, July 4 for Independence Day.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/library-closed-11/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260708T121500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260708T140000
DTSTAMP:20260616T180746Z
CREATED:20260616T180520Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260616T180746Z
UID:10001732-1783512900-1783519200@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Mid-Month Movie Matinee with the Mercer Senior Center
DESCRIPTION:The Mercer Public Library and the Mercer Senior Center are teaming up to offer the Mid-Month Movie Matinee! Join us on Wednesday\, July 8 at 12:15pm for a special screening of The Good Dinosaur (2015) at the Mercer Public Library. \nIn a world where dinosaurs and humans live side-by-side\, an Apatosaurus named Arlo makes an unlikely human friend. While travelling through a harsh and mysterious landscape\, Arlo learns the power of confronting his fears and discovers what he is truly capable of. This film is rated PG.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/mid-month-movie-matinee-with-the-mercer-senior-center-4/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Kids Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/The-Good-Dinosaur.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260709T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260709T150000
DTSTAMP:20260428T162834Z
CREATED:20260428T162727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T162834Z
UID:10001747-1783605600-1783609200@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:'All About Owls' with the Discovery Center
DESCRIPTION:Don’t miss out on “All About Owls” with the North Lakeland Discovery Center on July 9 from 2pm-3pm. \n“All About Owls” explores the seldom seen\, silent winged hunters who do their jobs when the sun goes down. Learn about their special night hunting adaptations and some basic owl behaviors to gain a better understanding of the benefits of these hunters of the night. Attendees will also have the chance to dissect sterilized Barn Owl pellets\, each containing small mammal skeleton parts which can be reconstructed and glued on cards. \nFor more information about all of our 2026 summer programs\, please click here or call the Mercer Public Library at 715-476-2366. Thanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Public Library\, all summer programs are FREE and open to the public; no registration is required.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/all-about-owls/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Kids Events,Teen Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260716T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260716T120000
DTSTAMP:20260428T190853Z
CREATED:20260428T181101Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T190853Z
UID:10001748-1784199600-1784203200@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:World Snake Day with J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue
DESCRIPTION:July 16 is World Snake Day! Join us in celebrating our slithering friends with J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue on July 16 from 11am-12pm. \nJ&R Aquatic Animals is dedicated to addressing the issue of unwanted exotic pets. They recognize the potential harm of releasing these animals into the wild and stive to provide responsible alternatives. \nFor more information about all of our 2026 summer programs\, please click here or call the Mercer Public Library at 715-476-2366. Thanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Public Library\, all summer programs are FREE and open to the public; no registration is required.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/world-snake-day/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Kids Events,Teen Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260716T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260716T190000
DTSTAMP:20260622T160250Z
CREATED:20260429T154516Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260622T160250Z
UID:10001754-1784224800-1784228400@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:A Conversation With Patricia Skalka
DESCRIPTION:We’re pleased to host Patricia Skalka and her presentation on the Dave Cubiak Door County Mysteries as a part of our A Conversation With… speakers’ series Patricia will present on July 16 from 6pm-7pm and will be available for book signing and questions following. \nPatricia Skalka was a 2024 Wisconsin Library Association Notable Author will bring Door County to Mercer with the Dave Cubiak mystery series. Join forces with the former Chicago cop as he pits forces against a roster of clever killers on the Door County Peninsula. “Death Stalks Door County”\, the first Cubiak book\, was recognized by USA Today as the book to represent Wisconsin in its special feature: “50 States/50 Books to Read.” \nThanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Library\, the events in the A Conversation With… speakers’ series are free and open to the public. Speakers receive an honorarium\, reimbursements for mileage\, and lodging. For more information\, contact the Library Director\, Julia Pusateri\, at director@mercerpubliclibrary.org or by calling 715-476-2366.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/a-conversation-with-patricia-skalka/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Skalka-author-2014-c-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260723T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260723T173000
DTSTAMP:20260506T193831Z
CREATED:20260506T193041Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T193831Z
UID:10001759-1784820600-1784827800@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Artist in Residence: Honoring Mietzi Bleck through Block Printing with Cedar Nelson
DESCRIPTION:Join the Mercer Library in celebrating the life\, legacy\, and art of Mietzi “Marie” Bleck through her more prolific medium\, block printing. On Thursday\, July 23\, artist Cedar Nelson will host a beginner workshop on capturing the beauty of the Northwoods through this dynamic media. Space is limited to 12 participants and advanced registration is required. Reserve your space by calling the Mercer Library at 715-476-2366. \nThanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Library\, all programs in the Artist in Residence series are free and open to the public. For more information\, contact the Library Director\, Julia Pusateri\, at director@mercerpubliclibrary.org or by calling 715-476-2366. \nMercer Public Library has decided to posthumously recognize local artist Mietzi “Marie” Bleck as the 2026 Artist in Residence. Prints by Bleck have hung in the library since 1937 when they were donated by the Mercer Women’s Civic Club. With 89 years of history\, the Mercer Library is proud to recognize her importance to Mercer history and welcome her home. \n 
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/honoring-mietzi-bleck-block-printing/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Featured-Images-Website-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260731T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260731T113000
DTSTAMP:20260428T190752Z
CREATED:20260428T190716Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T190752Z
UID:10001749-1785493800-1785497400@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Dinosaur Dimensions
DESCRIPTION:Don’t miss out because July 31 at 10:30am is your chance to “meet the dinosaurs”! Dinosaur Dimensions with Strutz Entertainment brings a collection of realistic puppets to create a unique experience like no other. With four different dinosaurs in the herd\, you won’t want to miss this. \nFor more information about all of our 2026 summer programs\, please click here or call the Mercer Public Library at 715-476-2366. Thanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Public Library\, all summer programs are FREE and open to the public.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/dinosaur-dimensions/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Kids Events,Teen Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Dinosaur-Dimensions.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260804T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260804T150000
DTSTAMP:20260428T154203Z
CREATED:20260428T153304Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T154203Z
UID:10001744-1785830400-1785855600@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Annual Used Book Sale
DESCRIPTION:The Friends of the Mercer Library will sponsor a USED BOOK SALE on Tuesday August 4 from 8am-3pm. Our book sales offer great deals on books for all ages\, jigsaw puzzles\, DVDs\, and more. The Book Sale is buy what you want and take what you want so feel free to stock up your bookshelves\, early plan for holiday presents\, or just take some time to browse what’s for sale. \nAll proceeds from the sale benefit the Friends of the Mercer Public Library who support programs and events\, materials\, new equipment\, and special items for the library. You can help by shopping at the sale or by donating used items for the sale — or both! \nWe need your donations for the sale!\n\nWhile we accept small amounts of donations throughout the year\, we will accept large quantities from July 27 through August 1 during normal library operations. \n We love donations of good condition hardcover books\, paperback books\, children’s books\, DVDs\, and CDs. We also appreciate board games and puzzles if they are in good condition with all their pieces. We we can only accept workbooks like crossword puzzles\, Sudoku\, and coloring books if they are in new\, unused condition.  \nWe do not accept textbooks\, encyclopedias\, magazines\, outdated medical or legal books\, and “condensed” books. We also cannot accept any items that are moldy or water damaged\, have strong odors\, or have insect or rodent damage due to the risk of spreading those problems to other books at the library. Thank you!
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/2026-used-book-sale/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260805
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260806
DTSTAMP:20260429T204529Z
CREATED:20250918T193256Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T204529Z
UID:10001756-1785888000-1785974399@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Library Closed
DESCRIPTION:The Library will be closed on Wednesday\, August 5 for Loon Day.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/library-closed-13/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260805T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260805T160000
DTSTAMP:20260428T203154Z
CREATED:20260428T203154Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T203154Z
UID:10001752-1785920400-1785945600@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Friends @ Loon Day
DESCRIPTION:Stop by and say hi to the Friends of the Mercer Library at the 2026 Loon Day on August 5! \nStay tuned for more information coming soon!
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/friends-loon-day/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/mercer-friends.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260806T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260806T120000
DTSTAMP:20260511T175520Z
CREATED:20260511T175505Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T175520Z
UID:10001763-1786014000-1786017600@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Kid's Yoga with Rooted Soul Yoga Studio
DESCRIPTION:Join us on August 6 at 11am for a kids’ yoga class with Amanda from Rooted Soul Yoga Studio! Amanda will lead the class through a story\, incorporating physical poses\, breath work\, and mindfulness. \nFor more information about all of our 2026 summer programs\, please click here or call the Mercer Public Library at 715-476-2366. Thanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Public Library\, all summer programs are FREE and open to the public. \nRooted Soul Yoga and Wellness Studio is based in Mercer\, WI. Rooted Soul is a place to gather and connect with yourself and others in a warm\, caring atmosphere\, exploring movement and breath\, embracing self healing and finding mind\, body connection.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/kids-yoga/
CATEGORIES:Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260812T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260812T173000
DTSTAMP:20260506T202510Z
CREATED:20260506T202510Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T202510Z
UID:10001761-1786548600-1786555800@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Public Screening: "Soul of a People: Writing America's Story"
DESCRIPTION:Join us on August 12 from 3:30pm-5:30pm for a free screening of the 2009 documentary “Soul of a People: Writing America’s Story”.  This screening is a part of the 2026-2027 recognition of artist Mietzi “Marie” Bleck\, who created works that have hung in the Library since 1937 as a part of the WPA-Federal Arts Project. Thanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Library\, the Artist in Residence program is free for all who wish to participate and enjoy our local artists’ work. For questions or additional details\, please contact the Library at 715-476-2366. \nSynopsis (from the American Library Association) \nThe film shows a spectacular range—from New York to the West Coast\, from Chicago to the Deep South. The stories of the writers and the people they chronicled take viewers beyond stock images of the Depression into the trials and fragile joys of people’s lives. The Writers’ Project workers were assembling guides and interviews\, but they were also knitting together the cultural fabric torn apart by the national crisis. \nFor this sweeping subject\, the film uses a broad palette of archival film and audio from the 1920s and ’30s\, murals from the arts project\, FSA photographs\, live-action footage and spellbinding interview commentary shot in High Definition. Interviews with surviving Project workers Stetson Kennedy in Florida and Studs Terkel in Chicago (one of his last interviews) provide riveting stories that help anchor the narrative. A diverse group of leading authors\, poets and historians provide witty and heartbreaking insights on an extraordinary vision of the America we never knew. Rarely seen footage from early social documentarians from the 1930s reinforce the immediacy of these perspectives. \nThe soundtrack features a collection of original field recordings made by Writers’ Project workers on acetate disk\, using a massive machine the size of a coffee table\, which was lugged along to interview sites. Newly restored by the Library of Congress\, this recording device is shown “in action” in the film. Sound elements include Cuban and gospel songs\, audio of Zora Neale Hurston singing and collecting stories in Florida\, street vendors in New York and folk songs of the West. A number of commissioned musical works by artists such as Taj Mahal\, the Gypsy Kings and Peter Ostrushko\, and a musical score by Joseph Vitarelli\, highlights the range of cultures the Writers’ Project set out to capture. The film also draws upon a rich reservoir of radio broadcasts\, including a passionate defense of the WPA arts projects (in the face of scrutiny by the Dies Committee) from a young Richard Wright in 1939. \nThe film shows the most chaotic publishing venture in history and the remarkable national biography it produced. It reveals how out-of-work Americans\, young and old\, found hope in the country’s darkest days and created a legacy for American culture. Viewers will leave with a deep feeling of how that legacy has renewed meaning today. \nMajor funding for the documentary Soul of a People: Writing America’s Story was provided by the National Endowment for the Humanities\, and the state humanities councils of Illinois\, Nebraska\, Idaho\, Maryland\, Texas and Wisconsin. Produced in association with the Library of Congress\, the documentary will be broadcast in HD on the Smithsonian Network. \nA companion book\, Soul of a People: The WPA Writers’ Project Uncovers Depression America\, by documentary co-producer and writer\, David Taylor\, was published by Wiley and Sons in February 2009.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/soul-of-a-people-writing-americas-story/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Soul-of-a-People.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260813T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260813T120000
DTSTAMP:20260428T201144Z
CREATED:20260428T193950Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260428T201144Z
UID:10001750-1786618800-1786622400@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:'Unearth a Story' with magician Isaiah Foster
DESCRIPTION:‘Unearth a Story’ with magician Isaiah Foster on August 13 from 11am-12pm! \nUnearth a Story is a 45-minute family magic show that brings books to life with wonder\, laughter\, and unforgettable moments. The show blends amazing magic\, light juggling\, whimsical puppetry\, and clean\, interactive comedy that keeps kids and adults engaged from start to finish. Each magical moment connects back to a book introduced by Isaiah and highlights the power of imagination and the joy of reading. Audience members don’t just watch the magic – they become part of it\, helping to unlock hidden surprises\, discover secrets within books\, and “unearth” the treasurers of storytelling. \nFor more information about all of our 2026 summer programs\, please click here or call the Mercer Public Library at 715-476-2366. Thanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Public Library\, all summer programs are FREE and open to the public. \nIsaiah Foster’s interest in magic began when he was given a trick at the age of 9. He learned it and used it to entertain family and friends. He started gathering more magic and sharing with more audiences who encouraged his love for entertainment.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/unearth-a-story/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Kids Events,Teen Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Magic-of-Isaiah.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260820T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260820T190000
DTSTAMP:20260429T191108Z
CREATED:20260429T182030Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T191108Z
UID:10001755-1787248800-1787252400@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:A Conversation With Marnie O. Mamminga
DESCRIPTION:We’re pleased to host Marnie O. Mamminga and her presentation on “Return to Wake Robin: One Cabin in the Heydey of Northwoods Resorts” as a part of our A Conversation With… speakers’ series. Marnie will present on August 20 from 6pm-7pm and will be available for book signing and questions following. \nMarnie O. Mamminga\, award winning author and essayist\, travels back in time in “Return to Wake Robin: One Cabin in the Heyday of Northwoods Resorts”. With 5 generations of memories\, Mamminga reminisces on summers spent at Wake Robin\, her family cabin on Big Spider Lake. She has also authored “On A Clear Night: Essays from the Heartland” and two Eric Hoffer awards for children’s books with her “Finding Wisdom in Nature” series. \nThanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Library\, the events in the A Conversation With… speakers’ series are free and open to the public. Speakers receive an honorarium\, reimbursements for mileage\, and lodging. For more information\, contact the Library Director\, Julia Pusateri\, at director@mercerpubliclibrary.org or by calling 715-476-2366.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/a-conversation-with-marnie-mamminga/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/marnie-author-photo-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260824T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260824T173000
DTSTAMP:20260506T193747Z
CREATED:20260506T193559Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T193747Z
UID:10001760-1787585400-1787592600@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Artist in Residence: Honoring Mietzi Bleck through Watercolor with Lisa Krueger
DESCRIPTION:Join the Mercer Library in celebrating the life\, legacy\, and art of Mietzi “Marie” Bleck through her watercolor painting. On Thursday\, August 24\, artist Lisa Krueger will host a beginner workshop on capturing the beauty of the Northwoods through this dynamic media. Space is limited to 12 participants and advanced registration is required. Reserve your space by calling the Mercer Library at 715-476-2366. \nThanks to a sponsorship by the Friends of the Mercer Library\, all programs in the Artist in Residence series are free and open to the public. For more information\, contact the Library Director\, Julia Pusateri\, at director@mercerpubliclibrary.org or by calling 715-476-2366. \nMercer Public Library has decided to posthumously recognize local artist Mietzi “Marie” Bleck as the 2026 Artist in Residence. Prints by Bleck have hung in the library since 1937 when they were donated by the Mercer Women’s Civic Club. With 89 years of history\, the Mercer Library is proud to recognize her importance to Mercer history and welcome her home.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/honoring-mietzi-bleck-watercolor/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Featured-Images-Website-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260907
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260908
DTSTAMP:20260429T204757Z
CREATED:20250918T193328Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T204757Z
UID:10001757-1788739200-1788825599@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Library Closed
DESCRIPTION:The Library will be closed on Monday\, September 7 for Labor Day.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/library-closed-14/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261126
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261128
DTSTAMP:20250918T193619Z
CREATED:20250918T193619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250918T193619Z
UID:10001694-1795651200-1795823999@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Library Closed
DESCRIPTION:The Library will be closed on Thursday\, November 26\, 2026 and Friday\, November 27 for Thanksgiving.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/library-closed-15/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20261224
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20261226
DTSTAMP:20250918T193727Z
CREATED:20250918T193727Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250918T193727Z
UID:10001695-1798070400-1798243199@mercerpubliclibrary.org
SUMMARY:Library Closed
DESCRIPTION:The Library will be closed on Thursday\, December 24\, 2026 and Friday\, December 25\, 2026 for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
URL:https://mercerpubliclibrary.org/event/library-closed-16/
CATEGORIES:Adult Events,Featured,Friends of the Library,Kids Events,Teen Events
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR