James Memorial Public Library has another full schedule of events coming up this month. One highlight will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 25 when local author and educator Rachel Johnson is scheduled to visit.

Johnson is an elementary teacher with over 14 years of experience and has published three children’s books. 

Her latest book, “Mrs. Johnson and the Chocolate Conundrum,” takes readers on a fascinating journey through the chocolate making process from cacao pod to finished confectionery treat. Johnson will have hands-on activities for listeners to engage with during her book reading. She will also have signed copies available for purchase. 

Those in need of an Easter Egg hunt should come to the library at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 4 for a candy-free, allergy- and sensory-friendly Bunny Rabbit Storytime and Egg Hunt. Children are invited to enjoy a bunny-themed storytime, followed by an egg hunt in the St. James Park. Kids will also get to decorate wooden eggs to take home.

The library is gathering a group for Friday, April 10 to attend the Special Olympics at Fort Leonard Wood. Contact Librarian Ken Kelly for more information.

Weekly events include Puppet Shows at 1 p.m. on Tuesdays, Storytime at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays and Chelsea’s Kids Time at 11 a.m. on Thursdays. 

Aurora’s Book Club will continue to work their way through “Because of Winn-Dixie” at 2:30 p.m. on Fridays. The group is led by a local middle schooler and geared toward middle school aged students.

A 9 a.m. Game Festival will be held on Saturday, April 11, where the library’s board game and puzzle collection will be out for kids and families to use. Those participating will get a ticket that can be used to win one of the games to take home.

Board Game Matrix is at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 18 and families are encouraged to bring their own board games from home to play with the community.

Rosati Winery will have a display case full of items set up in the library throughout the month for visitors to check out.

In other news, the library recently received $1,590 in donations to put in a new retractable collapsing stairwell to the attic. The staff would like to thank Dr. Tim’s Pharmacy, Mitchell Clinic, Hutcheson Ford, Phelps County Bank, Maries County Bank, Leo Cardetti Flags, Les Clancy and an anonymous donor for their generosity.