Programs

Our Programs

Programs at EGFPL

Discover the excitement of learning, creativity, and community with our free library programs! Whether you’re exploring new hobbies, diving into fun activities, or connecting with others, we have something for everyone. Join us and be a part of our vibrant library community—your next adventure awaits!

 

February Programs & Events

February Programs & Events

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Programs for Children

Baby Storytime

Baby Storytime is for families with babies ages 0 to 2 and includes stories, songs, baby sign language, and more. Storytime introduces young children to the library through books, rhymes, and playtime.

Dungeons and Dragons

D&D at the library is a tabletop role-playing game where you create characters and embark on adventures. Character sheets and dice are provided, but feel free to bring your own.

Lego Club

Lego Club invites you to build and create with Legos in the children’s space. After you’re done, you can showcase your creation in our Lego display case. This is a passive program.

Pre-K Storytime

Preschool Storytime engages children ages 3 to 5 in books, interactive stories, songs, and crafts each week. This program helps children build school skills like letter recognition, taking turns, listening, fine motor skills, and more.

Pokemon Club

The Pokémon Club is for trainers under 12 to enjoy games, trading cards, and exciting activities. Whether you’re new or experienced, join in the fun and adventure!

The Tutoring Lab

Free drop-in tutoring. Get help with test prep, math, science, grammar, and more in a small group setting. Limited spots. First Come first serve.

Chess Club

The chess club offers guidance for beginners and open play for experienced players, welcoming all skill levels and ages. Extra chess boards are appreciated.

Inside Scanvenger Hunt

Solve this month’s riddle by exploring the library for a chance to win a prize. This is a passive program.

Little Bites: Snack Workshop

Join us monthly for a hands-on snack-making experience where kids and their grown-ups cook, learn, and explore new flavors together—registration required! Call 423-745-7782 or visit the front desk to sign up.

Meals for Kids and Teens

Children and teens ages 18 and under can eat a free meal every Monday through Friday from 4:00 pm to 4:30 pm Saturday from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm.

Toddler Storytime

Toddler Storytime motivates toddlers ages 3 to 5 to get the wiggles out with music, interactive stories, bubbles, and more each week! Toddlers will be introduced to books, songs, counting practice, interactive stories, parachute play, and more.

1000 Books Before Kindergarten

The 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program encourages families to read 1,000 books with their children before they start school. Track your progress and enjoy the journey of early literacy together.

Programs for Teens

Chess Club

The chess club offers guidance for beginners and open play for experienced players, welcoming all skill levels and ages. Extra chess boards are appreciated.

Dungeons and Dragons

D&D at the library is a tabletop role-playing game where you create characters and embark on adventures. Character sheets and dice are provided, but feel free to bring your own.

Teen Advisory Board

TAB is a group for teens aged 12-18 that discusses ideas for improving library services. Members must commit to 10 hours of volunteering per year and attend at least one meeting per month. They also host events for children, organize parties and games, create book displays, participate in outreach events, and fundraise.

Creative Minds Unleashed: Multi Art Media Club

Creative Minds Unleashed allows teens to explore various art forms based on monthly prompts. Participants create and showcase their work, sharing feedback and ideas in a supportive community. An art craft is also available during the program.

Meals for Kids & Teens

Children and teens ages 18 and under can eat a free meal every Monday through Friday from 4:00 pm to 4:30 pm Saturday from 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm.

Teen Anime Club

Our Teen Anime Club offers a chance to watch popular anime, discuss episodes with fellow fans, and participate in a monthly craft related to the shows.

The Tutoring Lab

Free drop-in tutoring. Get help with test prep, math, science, grammar, and more in a small group setting. Limited spots. First Come first serve.

Programs for Adults

Adult Craft Time*

Adult Craft Time is a creative session where you can explore various crafts and connect with others. *Registration is required and closes 24 hours before each session.

Chess Club

The chess club offers guidance for beginners and open play for experienced players, welcoming all skill levels and ages. Extra chess boards are appreciated.

My Weekend is All Booked – Adult Book Club

My Weekend is All Booked is an adult book club that meets monthly to discuss a different book. Community and library staff lead the discussions, and multiple copies of the selected book are available for checkout before the meeting.

Technology Class for Beginners*

Our free monthly Technology Class covers a new digital topic each month to help you master the digital world. *Registration is required and closes 24 hours before each session.

Adult Education Workshop*

The Adult Education Workshop at the library offers opportunities to enhance your skills and learn something knew. *Registration is required and closes 24 hours before each session.

Dungeons & Dragons

D&D at the library is a tabletop role-playing game where you create characters and embark on adventures. Character sheets and dice are provided, but feel free to bring your own.

Yarnaholics

Yarnaholics is a group for crocheting and knitting with fellow enthusiasts. Bring your own projects, or if you’re new, come learn and practice with provided beginner materials.

The Tutoring Lab

Free drop-in tutoring. Get help with test prep, math, science, grammar, and more in a small group setting. Limited spots. First Come first serve.

Notices & F.A.Q.s

Reservation Notice

Some of our library programs require reservations due to limited space. To reserve your spot, please visit our front desk or give us a call. Reservations are accepted until 24 hours before the program start time on business days.

Please note that if you reserve a spot but do not attend or cancel without notifying us on three separate occasions, you may be restricted from participating in future library programs for a designated period.

To register call 423-745-7782 or see the front desk.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!

Non-Descrimination Notice

Our library is committed to ensuring that all services and programs are accessible and equitable to everyone. We do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age. For more information, or to request accommodations, please contact us.

Is there a cost to participate in library programs?

All library programs are free of charge unless otherwise noted.

Can I drop my kids off for programs?

For teen programs, yes, you can drop your children off. However, please ensure they are aware of and follow any specific program guidelines. For other age groups, we ask that a caregiver remain with the child during the program.

Where can I find previous recorded programs?

For previous recorded programs, check out the following playlist: Interviews and Lectures Playlist

Photography Notice

Please be aware that our library programs are open to the public, and photos may be taken during these events. These images may be used to promote future programs and other library activities through our social media channels, in-library displays, press releases, or data reports for city/county board meetings.

If you have concerns about having your photo posted, or if you are attending with a child in foster care or under similar protection, please notify our front desk or the event photographer upon arrival. Your privacy and the privacy of those you are with are important to us.

Program's Code of Conduct
Is it required to have a library card to attend a program?

No, a library card is not required to attend programs. However, we invite you to get a library cards with us!

What age groups are the programs suitable for?

Program descriptions include age recommendations, which can be found in the category, title, or description of each event. For more details, click on the event in the calendar or on the home page’s program slider. Children’s programs are typically divided into ages 0-5 and 6-11. Teen programs are for ages 12-18 (still in high school), and adult programs are for ages 18 and up (out of high school). If your child is between these age ranges (e.g., 5/6 or 6/11), please use your discretion to choose the most suitable program. During school breaks, we offer more family-friendly programs. If you have any questions or concerns, please give us a call.

Giving Back to Your Library

Donate Today!

Giving Back to Your Library

Donate Books

Donate your gently used books and give them a new home! Your contribution to our Friends of the Library book sale directly supports us!

Donate Food

  Your donations of non-perishable food for our blessing box items provide vital support to individuals and families facing food insecurity in our community.

Donate Supplies & Materials

Whether it’s art supplies, STEM kits, or other resources, your contributions directly enhance the quality and variety of our offerings.

Donate Money

Help us make a difference in our community! Your financial support enables us to continue offering essential services, innovative programs, and maintaining our facilities for everyone to enjoy.

Donate Prizes

Spark a love for reading and learning by donating prizes for our programs including our Summer Reading Program! Your generosity encourages participation and rewards our community members, especially children and teens, for their literary achievements.

Donate Your Time

Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting our operations, events, and initiatives. Whether you’re helping with shelving books, assisting with programs, or contributing your unique skills, your time and dedication make a difference in enriching the library experience for everyone.

Donate Items from Our Amazon Wishlist

Simplify the donation process by selecting items from our Amazon Wishlist! Your purchases directly fulfill specific needs identified by our library staff, ensuring that your donation makes a meaningful impact on our programs and services.

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How Donations Are Used

Your donations fuel our library’s mission. They’re vital for acquiring new materials, maintaining our facilities, and funding innovative programs that benefit our community directly. Your generosity ensures that our library remains a vibrant hub of learning and enrichment for all. Thank you for your support!

Thank you!

 

FAQ

How can I donate money to the library?

Donating money to the library is easy! You can visit our website and click on the “Donate” button to make a secure online donation. Alternatively, you can stop by the library in person and speak with a staff member about making a contribution.

Can I donate books that are not in perfect condition?

While we prefer gently used books, we accept donations in various conditions. Books that are heavily damaged or outdated may be recycled. Your contributions are greatly appreciated regardless of their condition.

How do I purchase items from the library's Amazon Wishlist?

To purchase items from our Amazon Wishlist, simply visit the wishlist page on our website. From there, you can browse through the list of requested items and choose which ones you’d like to purchase. Your purchases will be shipped directly to the library for immediate use.

What types of food items are needed for the Blessing Box?

We welcome donations of non-perishable food items for our Blessing Box. Examples include canned goods, pasta, rice, cereal, peanut butter, and canned fruits and vegetables. Please ensure that all items are unopened and within their expiration dates.

How do I contribute prizes for the Summer Reading Program?

Donating prizes for the Summer Reading Program is simple! You can drop off your donations at the library during our regular operating hours. Toys are always a great option. If you’re unsure about what types of prizes to donate, feel free to contact us for suggestions.

Why should I donate to the library?

Donating to the library directly impacts our local community by supporting educational initiatives, fostering literacy, and providing access to resources for people of all ages. Your contribution helps maintain a vital community institution that serves as a hub for learning, creativity, and connection. Additionally, libraries often operate on tight budgets, so your donation can have a significant and immediate impact on the quality of services and programs we offer.

Help EGFPL By Donating Today!

About Us

About Us

About the E.G. Fisher Public Library

E.G. Fisher Public Library’s Mission

The E.G. Fisher Public Library builds community, offering all people in McMinn County a full range of resources needed to live, learn, govern, and work.

The library is a dependable source of reliable information and of challenging ideas that enlighten and enrich.  The library offers materials in many formats that enhance leisure time and expand our knowledge of our world.  The library encourages the love of reading and the joy of learning and offers the assistance people need to find, evaluate, and use electronic and print information resources that help us live successful and rewarding lives. 

Our Manager Team

Rebeckah Coleman

Library Director

Meleena Livesay

Program Director

Cyndi Scott

Assistant Circulation Manager

E.G. Fisher Public Library

Location

1289 Ingleside Avenue Athens, Tn, 37303

Library Hours

Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday

9:30AM – 8:00PM

Wednesday & Friday

9:30AM – 5:30PM

Saturday

9:30AM – 5PM

Closed

Sundays & First Wednesday of the Month

Contact

(423) 745-7782

Resources

Discover Essential Resources in Athens, TN

Your Guide to Community and Library Services

Explore a comprehensive collection of resources and services available in Athens, TN, from community organizations to library offerings, all designed to support your educational and personal growth.

Community Organizations & Resources

  • Athens Chamber of Commerce
  • Athens City Hall
  • Athens City Schools
  • Athens County Schools
  • Athens Housing Authority
  • Athens Parks & Recreation
  • McMinn County Dept. of Children’s Services
  • McMinn County Dept. of Human Services
  • McMinn County Dept. Economic Development Authority
  • McMinn County Health Dept.
  • McMinn Senior Center
  • McMinn County Veteran Services
  • Athens-McMinn Family YMCA
  • Athens Head Start
  • Coordinated Charities
  • United Way of McMinn and Meigs Counties
  • Grace and Mercy Ministries
  • Love Thy Neighbor Project
  • Nourish One Child
  • SETHRA
  • Wesley Memorial Food Pantry
  • McMinn County Veteran Serives
  • Table Graces
  • Good Faith Clinic
  • CASA McMinn & Meigs
  • Athens Utilities Board
  • Isaiah 117 House
  • Women at the Well
  • the H.O.P.E. Center
  • American Job Center of Athens
  • Adult Education (Athens)
  • McMinn County Education Foundation
  • UT Extension Office – McMinn
  • Star Regional Medical Center – Athens
  • Full Circle Medical Center for Women
  • Shower Bus

Tennessee Electronic Library

Homework Help

Find encyclopedia and journal articles on all kinds of topics to help with school projects.

Test Prep

Prepare for academic and occupational exams like ACT, SAT, AP, EMT, HiSET, CLEP, NCLEX, and more.

Career Tools

Explore new careers, build a resume, and improve workplace skills.

Genealogy

Locate census and vital records to research family history.

Newspapers

Discover hundred of newspapers, including the Tennessean (1812 – today).

Language Learning

Uncover 100+ languages, including English.

Legal Assistance Resources

Find Legal Help in Athens, TN

Legal Aid of East Tennessee

Legal Aid of East Tennessee provides essential free legal assistance to low-income individuals and families.

Tennessee Legal Assistance Hotline

Call the Tennessee Legal Assistance Hotline for immediate legal advice and referrals to local attorneys who can help with your case.

McMinn County Juvenile Services

McMinn County Juvenile Services’ mission is to provide preventive and rehabilitative services to juveniles and families in need.

Southeast Tennessee Legal Services

Southeast Tennessee Legal Services is dedicated to providing accessible legal assistance and guidance to individuals and families in our community.