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A small chihuahua dog sitting on a pink blanket

Read With a Dog
2026-01-17 14:00:00 2026-01-17 15:00:00 America/New_York Read With a Dog Read With a Dog Headquarters Library - Youth Services Area

Saturday, January 17
2:00pm - 3:00pm

Add to Calendar 2026-01-17 14:00:00 2026-01-17 15:00:00 America/New_York Read With a Dog Read With a Dog Headquarters Library - Youth Services Area

Headquarters Library

Youth Services Area

Read With a Dog

Ripley, a chihuahua therapy dog, is ready for stories, pets, and lots of low to the ground hugs. Weighing in at just over six pounds, Dodi is great for kids who are hesitant to meet new furry friends. 

AGE GROUP: | Elementary (6-11 years) |

EVENT TYPE: | Reading Literacy |

TAGS: | #therapydog | #stories | #readwithadog | #Animals |

Headquarters Library
Phone: 352-334-3900
Hours
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Mon, Dec 29 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Tue, Dec 30 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Wed, Dec 31 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Thu, Jan 01 10:00AM to 7:00PM
Fri, Jan 02 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, Jan 03 10:00AM to 5:00PM
Sun, Jan 04 12:00PM to 5:00PM
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About the branch

The Headquarters Library provides access to resources and services in the City of Gainesville and surrounding areas.  It also serves as the headquarters of Alachua County Library District.

Upcoming events

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Rescheduled
Spanish Conversation Club
Sat, Jan 03, 10:30am - 11:30am
New date Saturday, January 03, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Are you learning Spanish? Join us for casual conversation practice.
Spanish Conversation Club
Sat, Jan 03, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Meeting Room B
Are you learning Spanish? Join us for casual conversation practice.
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Sat, Jan 03, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
GED Study Sessions - Working toward success!
Sat, Jan 03, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Meeting Room B
Are you preparing for the GED? If you have questions or need some motivation and support, come join us at the library with an... more
Are you preparing for the GED? If you have questions or need some motivation and support, come join us at the library with an experienced GED prep teacher.
Teen Movie Club
Sat, Jan 03, 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Teen Space
Join us for a showing of a PG-13 movie from the library's collection.
Cancelled
Read With a Dog
Sat, Jan 03, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Join us in Youth Services where you can read your favorite story to a furry friend.
Pathfinder Society for Teens - Tabletop RPG
Sun, Jan 04, 12:30pm - 4:00pm
Foundation Room
Come participate in a fantasy world where you take control of your actions in a story! You can play as a character that you created or... more
Come participate in a fantasy world where you take control of your actions in a story! You can play as a character that you created or as one provided at the game.
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Sun, Jan 04, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Mon, Jan 05, 2:00pm - 6:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
Elementary Book Club
Mon, Jan 05, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Storywoods Room
Please join a group from the University of Florida as we read and discuss popular books at the 3rd-5th grade reading level.
Cancelled
Beginners' English Conversation Club
Mon, Jan 05, 4:30pm - 5:45pm
A casual conversation club for beginner-level English learners to practice speaking.
Baby Time
Tue, Jan 06, 10:30am - 11:00am
Storywoods Room
Join us for a story time filled with rhymes, songs, bounces and more geared for babies and their caregivers.
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Tue, Jan 06, 11:00am - 3:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
Computer Help Drop-In
Tue, Jan 06, 2:00pm - 6:00pm
Get help learning how to use the computer. This is for everyone from true beginners to those wanting to refine their Microsoft Excel skills.
Teen Gaming
Tue, Jan 06, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Teen Space
Join us in the Teen Space for Nintendo Switch gaming.
Sewing Meetup
Tue, Jan 06, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Sewing provides a dedicated time for experienced makers to work on personal sewing projects. Registration is required, and... more
Open Sewing provides a dedicated time for experienced makers to work on personal sewing projects. Registration is required, and participants must be able to use sewing machines independently.
Adult Chess Club
Tue, Jan 06, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Meeting Room B
Join other adult players in a friendly game of chess! All skill levels are welcome.
Preschool Story Time
Wed, Jan 07, 10:30am - 11:00am
Storywoods Room
Read, laugh, and sing with us for Preschool Story Time.
Libby & Hoopla APP-y Hour
Wed, Jan 07, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Want to download eBooks, eAudiobooks, & eMagazines onto your tablet, Kindle, or phone? Bring your personal devices and we'll teach you... more
Want to download eBooks, eAudiobooks, & eMagazines onto your tablet, Kindle, or phone? Bring your personal devices and we'll teach you how to use the Libby and Hoopla apps. 
Job Club
Wed, Jan 07, 11:30am - 1:30pm
Meeting Room B
Get help with your job search. Not great with computers? That's ok! We're here to help.
Reading for Fun - Language Learning Book Club
Wed, Jan 07, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Meeting Room B
A relaxed and supportive group for adults who are learning English or want to get more comfortable with reading.
LegoSpace
Wed, Jan 07, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Storywoods Room
Create new LEGO masterpieces every week at the Headquarters Library.
Cozy Crafts
Wed, Jan 07, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Craft something cozy with us!
Exploring AI: Tools and Techniques for Everyone - AI: The Good, The Bad, The Inevitable
Wed, Jan 07, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Meeting Room B
Artificial intelligence (AI) is already part of your life. Get an overview of what it is (and isn't) and some ways that you can use it.... more
Artificial intelligence (AI) is already part of your life. Get an overview of what it is (and isn't) and some ways that you can use it. Participants will also be able to set up a ChatGPT account.
to BEHOLD
Wed, Jan 07, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
We will learn about homelessness and how it impacts our community. We also are creating items such as socks and scarves to donate. ... more
We will learn about homelessness and how it impacts our community. We also are creating items such as socks and scarves to donate. All materials are provided and all skill levels are welcome.
Justice Impacted Collaborative
Wed, Jan 07, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Meeting Room A
Individuals interested in post-incarceration support are invited to join this monthly meeting. This group is facilitated by those with... more
Individuals interested in post-incarceration support are invited to join this monthly meeting. This group is facilitated by those with lived experience.
Governing Board Meeting
Thu, Jan 08, 10:30am - 1:00pm
Meeting Room A
Alachua County Library District Governing Board
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Thu, Jan 08, 12:00pm - 2:30pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
Color Me Calm: Coloring for Adults
Thu, Jan 08, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Foundation Room
Color your cares away and achieve an inner calm! Join us for an hour of relaxing and restorative coloring. 
After School Art Club
Thu, Jan 08, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Come make art with us! We’ll be doing a new art activity twice a month exploring the rich world of art history and exploring our own... more
Come make art with us! We’ll be doing a new art activity twice a month exploring the rich world of art history and exploring our own creativity!
Crocheting for Adults
Thu, Jan 08, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Foundation Room
Come join us as we chat & crochet. New stitches & patterns will be presented to advance our knowledge of all things crochet. Please... more
Come join us as we chat & crochet. New stitches & patterns will be presented to advance our knowledge of all things crochet. Please bring your own supplies
Adult Board Gaming
Thu, Jan 08, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Meeting Room B
Participants will learn new board games or have the opportunity to play already learned board games with fellow game enthusiasts.
Cricut For Beginners
Thu, Jan 08, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Learn how to use a Cricut cutting machine
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Fri, Jan 09, 1:00pm - 6:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
Post-Incarceration Peer Support Group
Fri, Jan 09, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Foundation Room
Join us the 2nd Friday of each month for a peers only support group for those returning from prison or jail.
Cancelled
Spanish Conversation Club
Fri, Jan 09, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Are you learning Spanish? Join us for casual conversation practice.
Rescheduled
Spanish Conversation Club
Sat, Jan 10, 10:30am - 11:30am
New date Saturday, January 10, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Are you learning Spanish? Join us for casual conversation practice.
Spanish Conversation Club
Sat, Jan 10, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Meeting Room B
Are you learning Spanish? Join us for casual conversation practice.
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Sat, Jan 10, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
GED Study Sessions - Working toward success!
Sat, Jan 10, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Meeting Room B
Are you preparing for the GED? If you have questions or need some motivation and support, come join us at the library with an... more
Are you preparing for the GED? If you have questions or need some motivation and support, come join us at the library with an experienced GED prep teacher.
Sensory Story Time
Sun, Jan 11, 12:30pm - 1:00pm
Storywoods Room
Accessible for patrons on the autism spectrum and those with sensory sensitivities. Introduce children to the library and rhythms of... more
Accessible for patrons on the autism spectrum and those with sensory sensitivities. Introduce children to the library and rhythms of story time in a gentle, fun, and enriching manner.
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Sun, Jan 11, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Mon, Jan 12, 2:00pm - 6:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
Cancelled
Beginners' English Conversation Club
Mon, Jan 12, 4:30pm - 5:45pm
A casual conversation club for beginner-level English learners to practice speaking.
Everyday English
Mon, Jan 12, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Foundation Room
Gives adult learners the change to engage in practical English language skills.
Free Notary Services
Tue, Jan 13, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Study Room C
Free notary services provided by a library volunteer.
Baby Time
Tue, Jan 13, 10:30am - 11:00am
Storywoods Room
Join us for a story time filled with rhymes, songs, bounces and more geared for babies and their caregivers.
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Tue, Jan 13, 11:00am - 3:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
Computer Help Drop-In
Tue, Jan 13, 2:00pm - 6:00pm
Get help learning how to use the computer. This is for everyone from true beginners to those wanting to refine their Microsoft Excel skills.
Read With a Dog
Tue, Jan 13, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Youth Services Area
Join us in Youth Services where you can read your favorite story to a furry friend.
Intro to Sewing - Learn to use a sewing machine!
Tue, Jan 13, 4:00pm - 6:30pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Join us for an adult crafting program from MakerSpace: learn how to use a sewing machine! Beginners welcome. (Event renamed: previously... more
Join us for an adult crafting program from MakerSpace: learn how to use a sewing machine! Beginners welcome. (Event renamed: previously named Stitchcraft for Adults)
Teen Art Club
Tue, Jan 13, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Teen Space
Interested in drawing or painting? Making zines or jewelry? Come try out new art techniques and have fun with new friends!
Adult Chess Club
Tue, Jan 13, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Meeting Room B
Join other adult players in a friendly game of chess! All skill levels are welcome.
Preschool Story Time
Wed, Jan 14, 10:30am - 11:00am
Storywoods Room
Read, laugh, and sing with us for Preschool Story Time.
Libby & Hoopla APP-y Hour
Wed, Jan 14, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Want to download eBooks, eAudiobooks, & eMagazines onto your tablet, Kindle, or phone? Bring your personal devices and we'll teach you... more
Want to download eBooks, eAudiobooks, & eMagazines onto your tablet, Kindle, or phone? Bring your personal devices and we'll teach you how to use the Libby and Hoopla apps. 
Homeschool Makerspace
Wed, Jan 14, 11:30am - 12:30pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Join us for makerspace programs designed for homeschool families!
Job Club
Wed, Jan 14, 11:30am - 1:30pm
Meeting Room B
Get help with your job search. Not great with computers? That's ok! We're here to help.
Reading for Fun - Language Learning Book Club
Wed, Jan 14, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Meeting Room B
A relaxed and supportive group for adults who are learning English or want to get more comfortable with reading.
LegoSpace
Wed, Jan 14, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Storywoods Room
Create new LEGO masterpieces every week at the Headquarters Library.
Perler Bead Creations
Wed, Jan 14, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Make a fusible Perler bead creation that you can keep.
to BEHOLD
Wed, Jan 14, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room,Study Room D
We will learn about homelessness and how it impacts our community. We also are creating items such as socks and scarves to donate. ... more
We will learn about homelessness and how it impacts our community. We also are creating items such as socks and scarves to donate. All materials are provided and all skill levels are welcome.
Foundations of Investing
Wed, Jan 14, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Meeting Room A
Join financial advisor Nathaniel Wingfield from Edward Jones investing company to learn about the basics of managing your finances,... more
Join financial advisor Nathaniel Wingfield from Edward Jones investing company to learn about the basics of managing your finances, investments, and more over a four-part program series.
Exploring AI: Tools and Techniques for Everyone - ChatGPT: What It Can (and Can't Do For You)
Wed, Jan 14, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Meeting Room B
Includes an introduction to ChatGPT and the opportunity to set up a free account.
Story Time at Depot Park
Thu, Jan 15, 10:30am - 11:00am
Join us for story time in the park - we'll see you on the main stage inside the playground! Weather permitting.
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Thu, Jan 15, 11:00am - 2:30pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
Color Me Calm: Coloring for Adults
Thu, Jan 15, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Meeting Room B
Color your cares away and achieve an inner calm! Join us for an hour of relaxing and restorative coloring. 
STEAM Crafts
Thu, Jan 15, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Join us in the HQ MakerSpace Room this fall for STEAM Crafts! Every 1st and 3rd Thursday we’ll have new science and art projects... more
Join us in the HQ MakerSpace Room this fall for STEAM Crafts! Every 1st and 3rd Thursday we’ll have new science and art projects inspired by seasonal themes.
Adult Board Gaming
Thu, Jan 15, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Meeting Room B
Participants will learn new board games or have the opportunity to play already learned board games with fellow game enthusiasts.
Knitting Space
Thu, Jan 15, 5:00pm - 6:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Come join us for a relaxed knitting circle where established knitters can bring their own projects to work on and beginners can learn... more
Come join us for a relaxed knitting circle where established knitters can bring their own projects to work on and beginners can learn the basics. Registration is encouraged as supplies are limited.
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Fri, Jan 16, 1:00pm - 6:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
Spanish Conversation Club
Fri, Jan 16, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Meeting Room B
Are you learning Spanish? Join us for casual conversation practice.
Rescheduled
Spanish Conversation Club
Sat, Jan 17, 10:30am - 11:30am
New date Saturday, January 17, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Are you learning Spanish? Join us for casual conversation practice.
Saturday Story Time
Sat, Jan 17, 11:00am - 11:30am
Read, laugh, and sing with us! Join us for fun activities for children ages 5 and under and their caregivers. There will be stories,... more
Read, laugh, and sing with us! Join us for fun activities for children ages 5 and under and their caregivers. There will be stories, music, movement, rhymes and more to enjoy!
Spanish Conversation Club
Sat, Jan 17, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Meeting Room B
Are you learning Spanish? Join us for casual conversation practice.
Open Studio - Open hours at HQ Makerspace
Sat, Jan 17, 1:00pm - 5:00pm
HQ Makerspace Room
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser... more
Open Studio time at the Headquarters Library allows patrons to work on creative projects at their own pace. 3D printers and a laser cutter are available for public use with staff assistance.
Registration opens Saturday, January 3 2026 at 1:00pm
Cancelled
Read With a Dog
Sat, Jan 17, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Join us in Youth Services where you can read your favorite story to a furry friend.
GED Study Sessions - Working toward success!
Sat, Jan 17, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Meeting Room B
Are you preparing for the GED? If you have questions or need some motivation and support, come join us at the library with an... more
Are you preparing for the GED? If you have questions or need some motivation and support, come join us at the library with an experienced GED prep teacher.
Teen Movie Club
Sat, Jan 17, 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Teen Space
Join us for a showing of a PG-13 movie from the library's collection.
Read With a Dog
Sat, Jan 17, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Youth Services Area
Read With a Dog
See all events