November, dinosaurs are taking over the Aurora Public Library District (APLD)! Whether your little one is a budding paleontologist or you’re a movie buff with a soft spot for prehistoric classics, we have an exciting lineup of activities that will bring dinos to life in the most fun and creative ways. From fossil discoveries to dino bowling, there’s something for everyone to celebrate DINOvember in roaring style!
Starting off with the littlest dino lovers, APLD has the fun-filled Tino Dinos program at West Branch Monday, Nov. 4 where the focus is on literacy, creativity, and sensory play. “It’s not only about the fun; it’s about developing important skills like motor coordination and sensory exploration,” said Library assistant Tony Ortega. “I’m looking forward to seeing the kids dig in the sand for dinosaur fossils!” Older children at West Branch can experience their own interactive, dino-tastic program Saturday, Nov. 9, with Dinosaur Discoveries, where they’ll get up close with real fossils and have the chance to meet Ranger, a giant dinosaur puppet, in the parking lot before the program starts. “It’s funny, informative, and exciting for all ages,” said librarian Diana Kocunik. “We had [the presenter] T-Rexplorers in 2022, and it was a huge crowd-pleaser.” This program brings the thrill of paleontology to life and lets your child explore the world of dinosaurs in a hands-on way.
Speaking of hands-on, craft-loving paleontologists at the Eola Road Branch can enjoy two exciting dinosaur-themed activities. Thursday, Nov. 14, kids ages 5+ can create their own dino at the Paper Plate Dinosaur Craft event. Then, Thursday, Nov. 21, elementary-aged children can join the fun at the Dinosaur Bookmark Craft, where they’ll make their own dino-themed bookmarks to use with their favorite books. It’s a great way to celebrate your love for both dinosaurs and creativity!
At the Santori Library, get ready to dig deep into the world of dinosaurs with We Dig Dinos! Saturday, Nov. 16. Participants can expect to learn amazing dino facts, play exciting dinosaur-themed games (dino bowling!), and create a cool dino craft to take home. “We had so much fun last year!” says Library Assistant Stef Caterer. “We love showing our customers that we support and celebrate the things they love—including dinosaurs!” Plus, who doesn’t love the chance to bowl with dinosaurs?
If you’d prefer less hands-on activities, get ready for some epic adventures on the big screen! This DINOvember, we’re host to Dinosaur Movie Mondays November 4, 11, and 18, giving you the perfect chance to sit back and enjoy some dino-mite cinematic classics. The first showing, The Land Before Time, will take place at the Santori Library, followed by Jurassic Park and Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs at West Branch. “This is an intergenerational experience,” said Library assistant Linda Bonilla. “Maybe Jurassic Park is a parent’s favorite, and now they can share it with their teenager!” With dino-themed snacks and family-friendly fun, it’s the ultimate way to bring dino lovers of all ages together for a roaring good time.
Whether you’re digging for fossils, bowling with dinos, or watching T-Rex on the big screen, our DINOvember programs are packed with fun and learning. With programs, books, movies, and scavenger hunts available, the library has something for every dino lover this DINOvember. Grab your dino-loving friends and head to the Aurora Public Library District for an unforgettable prehistoric celebration! For more information about these upcoming events, please visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/events or contact the library at 630-264-4117.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.