Teen Gaming 2-4 p.m.
Drop by the library with your friends to play DDR, Guitar Hero II or collectible card games like Magic: The Gathering or Yu-Gi-Oh. Snacks provided. Ages 13-18.

TRYPS Theater: Live at Eleven 11 a.m.-Noon Program Room, Children's Area
This month's theme: Kites, Lions and Lambs. TRYPS is Columbia's professional theater group for young audiences. At this free workshop, ages 12 and younger will participate in original plays, improvisation, sing-alongs, puppetry and poetry.

Teen Gaming 12:30-4 p.m. Training Center
The second floor computer lab will be open just for you and your friends to play online games like Runescape or collectible card games like Magic: The Gathering. Snacks provided. You may want to bring headphones for computer games. (Must have library card with parental permission to use the Internet.) Ages 13-18.

Tunes at Two 2-3 p.m. Reading Balcony
Local musicians provide a musical backdrop at the Columbia Public Library on the first Sunday of every month. This month we present John White (fiddle), Amber Gaddy (banjo) and David Cavins (guitar).

Teen Reading Challenge Bookmark Contest
Design a bookmark for Daniel Boone Regional Library’s upcoming Teen Reading Challenge. Create an original design related to this summer's theme, Metamorphosis. Up to six winners will get their bookmarks printed and distributed to help promote the program this summer. Get an entry form on the library's web site or at any library or the bookmobile. Entry deadline is Friday, April 4. One entry per person, please. Ages 13–18.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 9:30-11:30 a.m. Friends Room
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Tuesday, February 19.

Drop-in Internet & Computer Help Noon-1:30 p.m. Training Center
Need to learn how to fill out an online job application? Set up an e-mail account? Find something on the web? Use the library's web site? Bring your questions to this weekly drop-in session, and we will help. You can also use this time for self-guided study with our interactive tutorials.

First Tuesday Book Sale Noon-7 p.m.
This month, we will feature books on history and current events at this two-day extended sale. First Tuesday sales feature some of the very best books that have been donated to the Friends. The Friends also conduct sales every Tuesday in the library lobby Noon-3 p.m. and, starting March 18, 5-7 p.m. as well. All proceeds go to support library services.

Reading to Fido 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Your child can read to a dog from the Show Me Canines therapy group. This is a unique and fun way to help improve children's literacy skills. All dogs are certified by Therapy Dogs International, Inc. and overseen by a handler during the reading sessions. Kindergarten age and older.

First Wednesday Book Discussion Noon-1 p.m. Friends Room
Bring a snack and join us for a book discussion the first Wednesday of each month. This month we will discuss "The Chatham School Affair" by Thomas Cook. The narrator reveals the truth behind a controversy that destroyed five lives, shattered a quiet community, and forever scarred a young boy. The New York Times Book Review said "The Chatham School Affair cements this superb writer's position as one of crime fiction's most prodigious talents, a master of the unexpected ending." At this discussion, you may pick up a copy of "In the Land of Second Chances" by George Shaffner to be discussed April 2.

Family DDR: Dance Dance Revolution 6:30-7:30 p.m.
You've seen the older kids dancing, now come learn some moves and show us what the younger set and moms and dads can do. Ages 6-12 with a parent.

Consumer Protection 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Lobby
This is National Consumer Protection Week which encourages people to master the financial facts of life. A representative from the FDIC will give out free information about managing money wisely and protecting yourself against fraud and rip-offs.

First Tuesday Book Sale Noon-7 p.m.
This month, we will feature books on history and current events at this two-day extended sale. First Tuesday sales feature some of the very best books that have been donated to the Friends. The Friends also conduct sales every Tuesday in the library lobby Noon-3 p.m. and, starting March 18, 5-7 p.m. as well. All proceeds go to support library services.

DDR: Dance Dance Revolution 7-8 p.m. Program Room, Children's Area
Come learn some moves or teach us your favorites. Show us what you've got! Ages 13-18. Registration begins Tuesday, February 26.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Thursday, February 21.

Writing Science Fiction With Robin Bailey 7-8 p.m. Friends Room
Science fiction and fantasy author Robin Wayne Bailey will talk about his work and the process of writing sci-fi. Known for his fantasy and short story work, Bailey is a past president of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association and is well-known for his support of the traditions of the genre. He was a key player in the founding of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame, now located in Seattle, WA.

Poetry Out Loud Competition 10 a.m. Friends Room
Area high school students will be competing for a spot in the Missouri state championships at this poetry recitation competition. Missouri's winner will go to Washington, D.C. to compete for the national championship. Poetry Out Loud builds on the recent resurgence of poetry as an oral art form by bringing the dynamic aspects of slam poetry, spoken word, and theater into English classes. Come observe and encourage the students as they perform their poems. This program of the National Endowment for the Arts and The Poetry Foundation is coordinated locally by the City of Columbia Office of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the Missouri Arts Council. For more information, go to www.poetryoutloud.org.

Election Forum 6:30 p.m. Friends Room
Learn firsthand about the candidates running for Columbia's City Council and School Board and about the Columbia school tax on the April 8 ballot. Cosponsored by the League of Women Voters of Columbia-Boone County. Coffee at 6 p.m.

Countdown to Kindergarten 10-10:45 a.m.
In these monthly sessions (February-May), we'll use stories, songs and activities to help teach your child the critical skills and concepts needed for kindergarten. Each session is different. For children entering kindergarten in fall 2008, along with a parent. No siblings, please. Registration begins Monday, March 3.

Civil War Living History Day 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Through stories, living-history accounts and music in an indoor "encampment," kids can learn about what life was like for men and women in Missouri during the Civil War. Historians and Union and Confederate re-enactors will model historic garb, tell stories, share period food and answer youngsters' questions. Librarians will read stories to younger patrons and recommend books for all ages. Cosponsored by the Kingdom of Callaway Civil War Heritage Historical Committee and the Elijah Gates Camp 570, Sons of Confederate Veterans. Drop in with your family anytime. Teachers are welcome, too. Best suited to ages 6-11.

Friends of the Columbia Public Library Spring Book Sale 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friends Room
Come and peruse the offerings at this great sale. Hardbacks (fiction only) are $1 and paperbacks are 50¢. There will also be audiobooks, records, CDs, DVDs and special finds priced as marked. All proceeds go to support library services.

Countdown to Kindergarten 9:15-10 a.m. Program Room, Children's Area
In these monthly sessions (January-May), we'll use stories, songs and activities to help teach your child the critical skills and concepts needed for kindergarten. Each session is different. For children entering kindergarten in fall 2008, along with a parent. No siblings, please. Registration begins Tuesday, February 26.

Friends of the Columbia Public Library Spring Book Sale 1-5 p.m. Friends Room
Come and peruse the offerings at this great sale. Hardbacks (fiction only) are $1 and paperbacks are 50¢. There will also be audiobooks, records, CDs, DVDs and special finds priced as marked. All proceeds go to support library services.

Kids' Poetry Contest
Pick a peck of pickled proverbs, add a pinch of pepper and two hairs from a hog's tail, stir, and top with a generous portion of curious couplets. What do you get? Poetry, my friend. Whip up a verse of your own this April during National Poetry Month and enter it in this contest for ages 5-12. Your poem should tie into the themes of books, reading or libraries. Winners will receive a prize and the winning poems will be posted on the library's web site at the end of April. You can pick up an entry form at any Daniel Boone Regional Library or bookmobile, or submit your entry on the library's web site. Poems will be judged on originality and creativity. Entry deadline is Friday, April 11. One entry per person, please.

F.R.O.G.S. (Friends, Relatives Or Grandparents) 10-10:45 a.m. Program Room, Children's Area
If you're a friend, relative or grandparent caring for a child age 5 or younger, then F.R.O.G.S. is for you. We meet each month to teach adults and kids about safety, health, emotional and social development, language, play, etc. A specialist from Educare Boone County leads these sessions. Registration begins Tuesday, March 4.

Reading to Rover 5:30-7:30 p.m. Program Room, Children's Area
Your child will read for 15 minutes to a dog from Ann Gafke's Teacher's Pet Therapy Dogs while a handler oversees them. This is a fun and unique way to help improve children's literacy skills. All dogs are certified with Therapy Dogs International. Kindergarten age and older.

Basic Mac Skills 6:30-8 p.m. Training Center
This class will guide you through the basics of Mac OS X. We will talk about the essentials of using your Mac, including Apple's integrated software for e-mail, Internet, music, photos, etc., and how to customize your computer to your own particular needs. There will also be time to answer your questions. Registration begins Tuesday, February 26.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 9:30-11:30 a.m. Friends Room
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Tuesday, February 26.

Drop-in Internet & Computer Help Noon-1:30 p.m. Training Center
Need to learn how to fill out an online job application? Set up an e-mail account? Find something on the web? Use the library's web site? Bring your questions to this weekly drop-in session, and we will help. You can also use this time for self-guided study with our interactive tutorials.

Parenting Workshop: Calming and Comforting Babies 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friends Room
Noted pediatrician and child development expert Dr. Harvey Karp is the creator of "The Happiest Baby on the Block." One of his techniques involves activating your baby's "calming reflex." This reflex is literally the "off-switch" for crying. Tonya Christensen, RN, CCE, will teach you the five simple ways to turn on the calming reflex. This can be incredibly helpful to new or frustrated parents. Babies between the ages of birth and 3 months are welcome to come along. Cosponsored by the Parent Education Committee and Parents As Teachers. Registration begins Tuesday, March 4.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 6:30-8:30 p.m. Training Center
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Tuesday, February 26.

Tomatoes for Home Gardening 6:30-7:30 p.m. Friends Room
If you're interested in growing garden-fresh tomatoes, come by to learn about tomato variety selection, soil preparation, fertilizing, staking, watering, pests and diseases. Master Gardeners certified by University of Missouri Extension will be on hand to provide information and answer gardening questions.

Writing Our Lives 7 p.m. Friends Room
Local writers Jane Flink, Cathy Salter and Betty Littleton will discuss the role of writing in their lives, read from their work and comment on "the quiet nuances" that are a common thread in their writing. With her husband Dick, Jane Flink owned and edited the Boone County Journal in Ashland for many years. In addition to her weekly newspaper column, she recently published "Time and the River: The Great Flood of 1993" and her memoir, "Unmarked Trails." Cathy Salter is the author of “Notes From Boomerang Creek,” a weekly column run by the Boone County Journal and the Columbia Daily Tribune. Her article "Lewis and Clark’s Lost Missouri” was published by National Geographic Magazine in 2002, and she is currently working on a book of essays. Betty Littleton has published one novel, "In Samson’s Eye," written two others and just finished a family history. Her writings are all set in Oklahoma, revolving around a particular set of characters. She has been an English teacher, a college administrator and an attorney, but the constant in her life has been writing.

The Online Library 7-8:30 p.m. Training Center
The library provides free access to a variety of high-quality Internet databases that cardholders can use for study, in-depth research or practical help. In this hands-on class, learn how to use online auto repair manuals, legal forms, genealogy databases, full-text encyclopedias, archives of newspapers and magazines, plus much more. Registration begins Tuesday, February 26.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 9:30-11:30 a.m. OR 1:30-3:30 p.m. Training Center
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Tuesday, February 26.

Did You Know? 7-8 p.m. Program Room, Children's Area
Did you know you can make a lot with just an ordinary piece of paper? Each month in this program for elementary students, we explore new and fascinating topics. This month, with a little imagination and a piece of paper, we'll make paper airplanes, origami animals and games, and we'll even tell a story. Ages 6-12. Registration begins Tuesday, March 4.

Home Buying 101 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Friends Room
This pre-purchase home-buyer's seminar will teach you about the entire home-buying process, from start to finish. Completion of the class may qualify you for up to $3,500 toward your down payment or closing costs. Cosponsored and presented by the not-for-profit Enterprise Development Corporation. There is a $10 registration fee. Space is limited. Registration begins Saturday, February 16.

Family Read Aloud 10:30-11 a.m. Program Room, Children's Area
At this monthly program, we will read to you. That's it. Really. No songs, no puppets or crafts, sometimes even no pictures. Just come settle in to listen to chapters from classic children's books, longer picture books and newer favorites. All you need are your ears. We’ll also gather related books you might want to check out. Families, recommended for ages 5 and older, much older if you like, because you're never too old to enjoy a good read aloud.

Nutrition Can Be Fun and Yummy 2-3 p.m. Friends Room
For National Nutrition Month, come learn how to cook some simple, easy and nutritious snacks. Cooking is a great activity for kids to help out with. They learn nutrition and measuring and they can be proud of the yummy end results. Bring the whole family. Cosponsored by the Central Missouri Dietetics Association.

Genealogy Help: Tracing Your Irish Ancestors 7-8 p.m.
Tim Dollens, SoBoCo Library staff member and president of the Genealogical Society of Central Missouri, will share tips and assist you in researching Irish ancestry, migration and lineage.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 9:30-11:30 a.m. Friends Room
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Tuesday, March 4.

Reading to Rex 6-7 p.m.
Your child can read to a dog from the Show Me Canines therapy group. This is a unique and fun way to help improve children's literacy skills. All dogs are certified by Therapy Dogs International, Inc., and overseen by a handler during the reading sessions. Kindergarten age and older.

Drop-in Internet & Computer Help Noon-1:30 p.m. Training Center
Need to learn how to fill out an online job application? Set up an e-mail account? Find something on the web? Use the library's web site? Bring your questions to this weekly drop-in session, and we will help. You can also use this time for self-guided study with our interactive tutorials.

Capturing Silent Voices: Archives of Women's History 7 p.m. Friends Room
In honor of Women's History Month, we're hosting a panel discussion on the topic of using archives and material objects to reconstruct women's historical voices. Panel members Aimée Leonhard, Mary Beth Brown and Christine Montgomery will talk about their areas of expertise, how archives and objects can inform us about women's history, and what resources exist for those conducting their own research. Panel members will also address how to ensure that archives and objects are preserved to make everyone's voices heard in the future. Cosponsored by the American Association of University Women. Reception at 6:30 p.m.

Internet Basics 7-8:30 p.m. Training Center
Feeling lost on the web? We will get back to the basics of the Internet: how to navigate the web using a browser and perform simple searches to find the information you are seeking. Registration begins Tuesday, February 26.

Storyteller and Puppeteer Barbara Wilson 10-10:30 a.m.
Local storyteller and puppeteer Barbara Wilson has many years of experience working with children as a preschool teacher. Join us as she retells "The Little Red Hen," "Mrs. Wishy Washy" and other stories featuring animals.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Wednesday, March 5.

Drive Safely With AARP 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Friends Room
This is a two-day workshop designed to help you cope with driving challenges as you get older. Instructors from AARP will teach you how to compensate for changes in vision, hearing and reaction time, what to do if confronted with an aggressive driver, how medications may affect your driving and more. There is a $10 fee payable at the door to cover the cost of the workbook and materials. The workshop will continue on Thursday, March 20 at the same time. Registration begins Monday, February 25.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 1:30-3:30 p.m. OR 6:30-8:30 p.m. Training Center
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Tuesday, February 26.

Family DDR: Dance Dance Revolution 6:30-7:30 p.m. Program Room, Children's Area
You've seen the older kids dancing, now come learn some moves and show us what the younger set and moms and dads can do. Ages 6-12 with a parent. Registration begins Tuesday, March 11.

Landscape Planning 7 p.m. Friends Room
Make a plan for spring improvements and additions to your home landscaping now, and you'll be ready for the planting season. Learn about design principles, microclimates, plant combinations and more from members of the Heart of Missouri Master Gardeners.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 9:30-11:30 a.m. Friends Room
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Thursday, March 6.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 1:30-3:30 p.m. Training Center
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Tuesday, February 26.

Kim and Jim Lansford Concert 7-8 p.m. Friends Room
Jim and Kim Lansford view the American rural musical tradition not merely as a collection of antique voices who have had their say, but rather as living voices that continue to speak--with an abiding and often peculiar kind of power. Jim and Kim add to this tradition with powerful performances of early country duets and little-known songs and fiddle tunes gathered both from published collections and recordings of traditional music from the Ozarks, Midwest and South. Since 1980 they have performed together at festivals, concerts, workshops and dances across the country. For more information about the Lansfords, visit their web site at www.kimandjim.com. No children, please. Registration begins Tuesday, March 11.

Publish Your Own Book 9:30-11:30 a.m. Friends Room
Publishing a book is no longer the expensive and time-consuming project it used to be. You can have a real, professionally printed book in your hands within 10 days, and you can order one or two copies at a time with no obligation to buy more. Publishing your recipes, poems, memories, family stories, even the history of your business, church, or club can be easy (and fun). We'll explore "publish on demand" web sites and learn all about the process in this hands-on workshop. Registration begins Monday, February 4.

Pokémon Game Day 2-3:30 p.m.
Do you play the Pokémon collectible card game? Grab a friend, bring your cards, and come to the library to meet others who play. We'll provide snacks. Ages 8-12.

Children’s Author Marilyn Hope Lake 11-11:30 a.m. Program Room, Children's Area
Author Marilyn Hope Lake will read her picture book “Buddy and the Grandcats." Buddy is a terrier whose home is “invaded” by not one, but two cats. Harriet and Jackie are indoor cats that have never seen a dog up close; and now, one lives in their new home. With insight and humor, this story explores the issue of “blended” families. After the story time, Lake will answer questions about writing and her books. In addition to children’s books, Lake writes short stories, drama and poetry. Her books will be available for sale and signing. Families, recommended for ages 2-7.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 9:30-11:30 a.m. Friends Room
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Tuesday, March 11.

Spring Cleaning Crafts 10 a.m.-Noon OR 2-4 p.m. Program Room, Children's Area
During our spring cleaning, our staff members have gathered up a mountain of crafting odds and ends. Whether you want to mold clay beads, build a bridge with cotton swabs, or design a mask out of foam and feathers, come craft it up during spring break. Drop in with the whole family.

Drop-in Internet & Computer Help Noon-1:30 p.m. Training Center
Need to learn how to fill out an online job application? Set up an e-mail account? Find something on the web? Use the library's web site? Bring your questions to this weekly drop-in session, and we will help. You can also use this time for self-guided study with our interactive tutorials.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Wednesday, March 12.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 6:30-8:30 p.m. Training Center
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Tuesday, February 26.

Online Documents From the National Archives 9:30-11:30 a.m. Friends Room
The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is an independent agency of the federal government that preserves and documents government and historical records. NARA has partnered with nonprofit and commercial organizations to digitize these records and make them available online. Millions of documents are already available and more are being added every day, including fascinating documents like Revolutionary War and Civil War pension applications, records of the Southern Claim Commission after the Civil War and the investigative files of the FBI, 1908-1922. At this program, you'll learn all about NARA’s online partners and how to find the best free access to these records. Registration begins Thursday, March 13.

Self-Guided Computer Tutorials 1:30-3:30 p.m. Training Center
Learn at your own pace with these self-guided tutorials on the Windows operating system. An instructor will be present to get you started and to answer questions. If you're brand new to computers, start with the Mouse Tutorial. Or, pick from these lessons: Basic Skills, Computer Basics, Files and Folders, Exploring the Web, Outlook Express Basics, Basic or Intermediate Word Processing, Basic or Intermediate Spreadsheets, Basic or Intermediate Presentations or What's New in Windows Vista. Please bring headphones (the kind that work with a portable audio device) or purchase a set for $1.50. Registration begins Tuesday, February 26.

Local and Organic Food Systems 6:45 p.m. Friends Room
During National Nutrition Month, take this opportunity to learn about organic food and the importance of humane, sustainable local food systems. This program will feature two films followed by a panel discussion. "What Will We Eat?" is about the search for healthy, locally produced food, and "The Organic Opportunity" tells the story of the first county in the US to promote local organic agriculture as economic development. Cosponsored by the Central Missouri Dietetics Association.

FootLoose 7-8 p.m. Program Room, Children's Area
FootLoose is a fun, creative and highly entertaining band performing for New England-style contra dances and in concert. Infusing new life into past traditions, their repertoire of songs and instrumental pieces draws from many sources, including Celtic tunes, the old time sounds of the American South, swing musettes of Paris and sophisticated Brazilian choros. Band members at this concert will be David DiGiuseppe on accordion and cittern, pianist Pete Campbell and Jim Roberts on percussion. FootLoose has been performing and touring throughout the US since 1988 and has released four CDs, including their most recent "Trip to the Moon." No children, please, at this adult concert. Cosponsored by Mid-Missouri Traditional Dancers, for whom Footloose will also be playing dances Friday, Saturday, and Sunday March 27-29 in Lela Raney Wood Hall on the Stephens College campus. Registration begins Tuesday, March 18.

David DiGiuseppe: A Bag of Songs and Stories 10-10:45 a.m. Program Room, Children's Area
Musician and storyteller David DiGiuseppe puts on a delightful concert of fun songs and humorous tales for kids. Celebrating the rich heritage of our country's cultures and traditions, he draws from this American songbag and leads families through easy choruses and sing-alongs. An accomplished multi-instrumentalist, DiGiuseppe brings to the stage his banjo, accordion, concertina, mandolin, guitar, Appalachian dulcimer and Irish cittern. His stories include Jack Tales, Aesop's fables and others. He is also a member of the band FootLoose. Families with ages 5 and older.

Party With the Stars 7-9 p.m. Gene Martin Secret Garden
Spring has sprung, and we’ll start off our evening with a slide show on what it takes, astronomically speaking, to make it spring. We’ll see some of the latest NASA images of Saturn and Mars, and (if the weather permits) view both planets through an 11-inch computer-controlled telescope. Early spring skies can be very clear, so don’t miss this chance to see two major planets high in the sky! Both portions of the program will be fun for kids and adults. Hosted by Val Germann and cosponsored by the Central Missouri Astronomical Association. Enter through the Gene Martin Secret Garden, west end of main parking lot.

Guitar Hero II 6:30-7:30 p.m.
You boogied down with DDR; now rock out with your friends. Come play Guitar Hero II and be the rock star you were meant to be. Ages 13-18. Registration begins Monday, March 10.

Watch It Grow 11 a.m.-Noon Gene Martin Secret Garden
Break out the seed packets and get your hands dirty! Come learn some neat ideas about what seeds to plant and how to plant them. We'll show you some unusual containers and send you home with your own little potted plant of possibility to inspire you for the spring. Families, ages 5 and older. Registration begins Tuesday, March 18.

Behind Barbed Wire 11 a.m.-3 p.m. South Parking Lot
"Behind Barbed Wire” is a touring exhibit which brings to light the stories of Midwestern prisoners of war in Hitler’s Third Reich and enriches our historical awareness of our own connections to the greater World War II drama. The St. Paul-based, nonprofit educational organization TRACES created this exhibit, which comes to us on a specially outfitted bus that will be parked in the library's south parking lot. Adults and teens.