This Week at The Dalles Library: Oct. 12, 2026

Oct 11

Written By Columbia Community Connection

The Dalles, Ore., Oct. 11, 2026 — The Dalles Public Library has a full schedule of activities Oct. 13-17, including a virtual author discussion, arts and crafts workshops, family storytimes, teen gaming and a special screening of Into the Woods at the Granada Theatre.

Several programs celebrate the library's October community read of Grimm's fairy tales, with activities ranging from magic mirror crafts and Little Red Riding Hood picnic baskets to candle making and a spooky Saturday storytime.

Tuesday, Oct. 13

The Power of Limits: How Constraints Drive Genius with David Epstein — 11 a.m. to noon. Bestselling author David Epstein will discuss his latest book, Inside the Box: How Constraints Make Us Better, during a virtual presentation exploring how limitations can inspire creativity, innovation and improved performance. The program is intended for adults. Registration is required at libraryc.org/wascocountylibrary/210809/register. Live participants will have an opportunity to enter a book giveaway.

3D Doodler Open Studio — 4-5 p.m. School-age children can create their own three-dimensional projects using 3D printing pens provided by the Columbia Gorge STEM Hub. The workshop takes place in the library's Makerspace.

Inspired Reads Book Club: The Hobbit — 6-7 p.m. Teens and adults are invited to discuss J.R.R. Tolkien's classic fantasy novel The Hobbit. The Inspired Reads book club focuses on uplifting, thought-provoking literature and meaningful discussion. The gathering takes place in the library's meeting room.

Wednesday, Oct. 14

Adult Art Club: Magic Mirror — 1-2:30 p.m. Adults can create dark, decorative magic mirrors inspired by classic fairy tales. The workshop is part of the library's Grimm's fairy tales community read and takes place in the Makerspace.

Hot Chocolate Wednesdays — 2-4 p.m. Teens can visit the library's teen room to make a cup of hot chocolate and spend time with friends. The program continues on Wednesdays throughout October.

Thursday, Oct. 15

Meet an Employment Specialist — 2-4 p.m. Adults seeking employment can meet individually with a specialist from Goodwill's JobConnection program. Free services include resume assistance, job leads, interview preparation and information about hiring events. The program takes place in the main library.

Just Painting! with Yvonne Pepin-Wakefield — 6-7 p.m. Teens and adults can explore acrylic painting with artist Yvonne Pepin-Wakefield. The workshop takes place in the library's meeting room. Registration is required and closes at 6 p.m. Oct. 15.

Friday, Oct. 16

Fun Friday Fall Bash — 3:30-4:30 p.m. Children ages 5-10 can participate in fall-themed activities during the library's weekly Fun Friday program. Activities may include arts, crafts, games and hands-on learning. The program takes place in the children's wing, and all ages are welcome.

Fun Friday for Teens: Fall Festivities — 3:30-4:30 p.m. Teens can celebrate fall with creative activities in the teen room, including crafts to take home and edible projects.

Lesser-Loved Critter Plushies — 4-6 p.m. Teens and adults can learn to sew stuffed animals inspired by misunderstood creatures, including snakes, bats, spiders, sharks and wasps. Patterns range from beginner to advanced, and fabric and supplies will be provided. Participants may need additional time at home to complete their projects. The workshop takes place in the Makerspace.

Movie Night at the Granada: Into the Woods — 6-8 p.m. The library's Grimm's fairy tales community read continues with a screening of the musical fantasy film Into the Woods at the Granada Theatre. The event is intended for teens and adults.

Saturday, Oct. 17

Role-Playing Games — 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Teens and adults are invited to participate in role-playing games at the main library.

Special Spooky Saturday Storytime — 10:30-11:30 a.m. Preschool and school-age children and their families can enjoy a special spooky-themed storytime featuring tales, games and playful activities. The program takes place in the children's wing.

Virtual Reality Gaming — 1-3 p.m. Teens can explore virtual reality gaming at the library. Equipment is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Candle Making with Adventurous Aromas — 1-4 p.m. Participants of various ages can take part in a candle-making workshop presented by Adventurous Aromas as part of the Grimm's fairy tales community read. Sessions begin at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. in the library's meeting room. Tickets are required and will be available 30 minutes before each session.