Note: Libraries Will Be Closed on October 12, 2026
By Michele Miller
What’s What New Port Richey
September is the American Library Association’s Library Card Month, and with that comes a nudge to locals to take advantage of one of the best resources in our community. At several locations of your choosing.
One of the perks of living in New Port Richey is having TWO library systems at my disposal – the New Port Richey Public Library, which is operated by the city, and Pasco County Libraries, which boast several branches and are operated by the county- a real plus in the event that a book on your “To Read” list is on the shelf in Dade City or Wesley Chapel. Simply put a hold on it, and it’s ferried to your home branch – in my case, Centennial Park Library.
Love that. Along with the Meescan from the New Port Richey Library, which tells me how much money I’ve saved by borrowing rather than buying books – something that makes me less sad about offloading some coveted titles in the home bookcase to the free little library at the rec center since I’ve realized I’m probably not going to read them again.
Well, maybe some of the self-help stuff.
Your library card broadens horizons in that you can borrow a book, a DVD, or learn how to use a computer. There’s the opportunity to find a new hobby. Take a stab at line dancing. Learn a new language. Join a book club. Chess Club. D & D Club. Get some gardening advice. Practice yoga or tai chi. Attend a concert. Build and throw clay pots. Get some insite on Medicare. Get your blood pressure checked.
The list goes on…..and on.
Scroll down for a taste of special and ongoing events and programs, or access the Pasco County or New Port Richey Library websites directly at the links below.
Pasco County library card gives you access to all branches across Pasco County, New Port Richey, Pinellas County, Hernando County, and other libraries, providing an extensive selection of books, technology resources, classes, seminars, and other enrichment programs.
Be sure to explore local libraries on your own online by accessing the New Port Richey Public Library website here and the Pasco County Libraries website here.
SPECIAL EVENTS
HALLOWEEN THEMED PROGRAMS
BODY & MIND
BOOK CLUBS
CAREER & TECH HELP
CLUBS | ONGOING
GARDENING | HORTICULTURE
LEARN A LANGUAGE
MUSIC & ART PROGRAMS
STORYTIMES
StoryWalk®
Adult D&D Basics – Starkey Ranch Dungeon Crawlers, 1-5 p.m. Saturday, October 3 at the Starkey Ranch Library | Join the Waitlist
Ever wanted to play D&D, but felt overwhelmed getting started? In this introductory one-session D&D adventure, players start with a blank character sheet and learn how to create a simple character as they play through a training dungeon created by an old veteran to teach newbies the basics before they go off trying to fight a dragon with no experience. Along the way, you’ll learn the basics of combat, adventuring, and the rules of the game in a relaxed and casual environment with other new players.
* Adult D&D Basics, 1-5 p.m. Saturday, October 18 at the Starkey Ranch Library
Embark on a lighthearted journey into the world of Dungeons & Dragons! In this introductory session, we’ll explore the essentials of adventuring: how characters come to life, how gameplay unfolds, and how campaigns weave together into epic tales. Whether you’ve never picked up a set of dice or you’re simply curious about how heroes are made, this session offers a friendly and imaginative place to begin your quest.
RAIL: Hands-On Robotics for Tweens, 2-3:30 p.m. Saturday, October 10 at South Holiday Library | Ages 8-12
Come have some robot fun with RAIL (Robotics Advancement in Libraries), a hands-on robotics program where kids ages 8-12 can explore robotics through fun, interactive challenges.
Florida’s Creepy Cryptids, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Thursday, October 15 at the New Port Richey Public Library. For all ages
RPG, premier cryptozoologist for the History Channel’s History’s Greatest Mysteries, returns to the Library for a presentation on Florida’s creepiest cryptids. From the Skunk Ape to the Pensacola Sea Monster to the real Conjuring House, Florida is home to some of the spookiest supernatural creatures. A belief in cryptids is not necessary to enjoy this talk, only a sense of curiosity and a willingness to explore forests, folklore, and enduring mysteries with fresh eyes. Click here for more info and a link to the NPR Library.
Environmental Committee Meeting, 6-7 p.m. Thursday, October 15 at the New Port Richey Library
The Environmental Committee offers advisory opinions and recommendations to the City Council on environmental issues facing the city, serves as the planning committee for the City’s major environmental events, and explores new environmental initiatives. All meetings are open to the public.
English Tutor Orientation, 12 – 2 p.m. Saturday, October 17 at the New Port Richey Public Library
Make a difference in your community by becoming a volunteer English tutor! This orientation for new tutors will cover everything you need to know to create engaging and successful lesson plans for adult English learners. No experience necessary – only a willingness to help!
Majesty of Rock – Journey Tribute Band, 4-5:30 p.m. Saturday, October 17 at the Starkey Ranch Theatre, Library & Cultural Center | $13
Enjoy the wonderful music of Journey performed live by the Majesty of Rock band. Tickets are on sale for $13 each, plus tax and fees. Starkey Ranch Friends of the Library will provide concession items for cash donations. Concert tickets can be purchased at bit.ly/SRTheatreTickets
City of New Port Richey Cultural Affairs Meeting, 6 – 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 21, at the New Port Richey Library | The public is welcome to attend
The Cultural Affairs Committee is an official committee of the City of New Port Richey. The committee is composed of committed individuals who are appointed by the City Council. Members make recommendations and advise the City Council regarding financial sponsorship and the creation and support of activities that promote the cultural education and appreciation of those who live, work, and play within the city. The Cultural Affairs Committee holds monthly meetings, and the public is invited to attend.
Booktober Chills &Thrills, 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, October 22 at the Starkey Ranch Library in Odessa
Calling all mystery lovers! Celebrate the spooky season with a host of our local mystery authors. Enjoy crafts, mocktails, bites, live readings, and author meet-and-greets in a thrilling night of suspense and storytelling. Crafts available while supplies last. Registration is encouraged but not required.
Meet these authors!
New Port Richey Library Riverside Concert Series featuring Lily Holbrook, 6 – 7 p.m. Friday, October 23 in Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey | Free
From the promo….
From New York City to Los Angeles, Lily Holbrook has captivated audiences with her enchanting voice and folk-rock sound. Now based in St. Petersburg, the acclaimed singer-songwriter blends heartfelt music with a passion for activism, using her songs to inspire and champion causes close to her heart.
Come hungry! Smash & Grab will be on site, serving up some fresh, made-to-order smash burgers during the show.
This performance will take place in the southwest corner of Sims Park, near the Grassin Bridge. Please feel free to bring a blanket or chair for seating.
Jane Austen Tea Party, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Saturday, October 24 at the New Port Richey Public Library | For adults
But indeed I would rather have nothing but tea.” — Sir Thomas Bertram (Mansfield Park)
Step into the world of Regency-era England with a tea party celebrating one of literature’s most beloved authors. Enjoy a proper English tea service, along with Jane Austen trivia, themed crafts, and more.
This event is presented in partnership with The White Heron Tea & Gifts.
STEM Saturday – Rockets, 2-3:30 p.m. Saturday, October 31 at the Regency Park Library in New Port Richey
Children will build and launch their own rockets while learning about force, motion, and engineering design. Kids will test their designs, measure how far their rockets fly, and discover what makes a rocket soar. It’s a fun, high-energy program perfect for curious young scientists. This program is geared for children ages 8 and up. For more information, click here.
Rhymes to Readers Storytime Trick-or-Treat Parade, 11 a.m. Friday, October 30 at the New Port Richey Public Library in downtown New Port Richey
This special themed storytime is also one of the cutest days of the year: the annual Trick-or-Treat Parade! Rhymes to Readers Storytime will begin at 11 am with some fun Halloween stories, rhymes, and songs for little ones. Afterwards, everyone will line up and begin trick-or-treating around City Hall to visit each City department. Costumes are encouraged, and don’t forget to bring something to hold your candy, too!
Spooky Season Reading Challenge, through October 31 at the New Port Richey Public Library. Read, complete fun challenges, and fill out your bingo card along the way in this seasonal reading challenge for adults. Everyone who gets a BINGO will receive a prize, and those who complete the entire card will be entered for a chance to win tickets to a ghost tour in Downtown Tarpon Springs!
Spider Scavenger Hunt, October 1 – 31 at the New Port Richey Public Library. Find the clues hidden around the children’s library. Fill out your answer sheet and return it to the desk to receive a small prize.
ClayWorks Handmade Cornucopias, 1-3 p.m. Saturday, October 3 at the Starkey Ranch Library. Make your own ceramic cornucopia by hand. Join us on Saturday, October 3. Items made during this program will need to be finished at a following glaze program. Glazing sessions are Monday, October 26 from 3:30 to 5:30 pm, Wednesday, October 28 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm, and Friday, October 30 from 2:30 to 4:30 pm.
Halloween Balloon Decor, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Monday, October 5 at the New Port Richey Library. For adults. Registration encouraged.
Tween Craft: Woven Yarn Ghosts, 4-5 p.m. Thursday, October 8 at the South Holiday Library. Create your own woven yarn ghosts. This program is intended for grades 4-7.
Spooktacular Halloween Science, 1 – 2 p.m. Monday, October 12 at the New Port Richey Public Library. Experience creepy potions, a dry ice cemetery effect, floating eyeballs, and more! Be sure not to miss this spook-tacular event, presented by Mad Science of Tampa Bay. Recommended for elementary-aged children but open to all families.
Bedazzled Pumpkins – Adult Craft, 2-3 p.. Wednesday, October 14 at the Regency Park Library. Choose your favorite rhinestones, then decorate your pumpkin with sparkle, creativity, and a touch of glamour
Saturday Storytime: Tricks & Treats, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Saturday. October 17 at the Regency Park Library. With themed stories, songs, and crafts, it is sure to be sweet. Costumes are encouraged!
Haunted Hues for Teens, 5-6:30 p.m. Monday, October 19 at the New Port Richey Public Library. Create your own Halloween masterpiece using a paint-by-number set! All supplies will be provided. This event is for middle and high school students. Please register to reserve your spot, as supplies are limited.
Halloween Story Time, 10:15-11 a.m. Tuesday, October 20 at the South Holiday Library.
Vampire Trivia!, 6-7 p.m. Thursday, October 20 at the South Holiday Library. Think you’re the ultimate vampire expert? Test your knowledge for a chance to win some scary-fun prizes! *This program is intended for adult patrons. Registration is required. All prizes and supplies will be provided.
Spooky Snack Lab – Homemade Ranch Dressing & Veggie Monsters, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 21 at the Regency Park Library.
Youth Painted Treat Totes, 4-4:45 p.m. Friday, October 23 at the Regency Park Library. Express yourself this season by painting on your very own treat tote
Children’s Decoupage Pumpkin Decorating, 2-3 p.m. Satruday, October 24 at the South Holiday Library.
Lit Lounge: Horror, 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, October 27 at the New Port Richey Public Library. Join us for a chilling evening at the Lit Lounge as we dive into some of literature’s most macabre and monstrous stories. Enjoy live readings, specialty mocktails, free raffles, and more. Writers are also invited to share their own spooky stories! Participants may read up to 5 minutes of their work.
Teen Holiday Bash, 4:30-6 p.m. Thursday, October 29 at the South Holiday Library. Teens are welcome to partake in Halloween-themed games, activities, and make their own Frankenstein’s Monster from stuffed animals.
Adult Spooky Stories, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, October 31 at the Starkey Ranch Library. Guest reader/voice performer Pam Kaplan shares hair-raising tales this Halloween just for adults! Includes an opportunity for audience participation… plus Halloween treats. Seating is limited & registration is required.
More Local Halloween & Fall Festival Events
Get tickets to area museums and theatrical performances at Richey Suncoast for FREE with Your Library Card!!!
Check out the New Port Richey Library’s Theatre Pass Program and the Pasco County Libraries Discovery Pass Program, where you can use your library card as your ticket to the theatre! As part of the Theatre Pass Program with the Richey Suncoast Theatre, your library card will get you two tickets to a theatre show. To register, fill out the registration form for your desired showing. Seating is assigned by the Richey Suncoast Theatre. If you require special accommodations, please get in touch with the theater at 727-842-6777. Click here for info.
The Pasco County Libraries Discover Pass Program also grants two tickets to area museums, including the Glazer Children’s Museum, the Florida Holocaust Museum, the Imagine Museum, the Tampa Bay History Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg.
- Walk & Talk Club, 10-11 a.m. most Mondays at the New Port Richey Public Library.
- Tai Chi Gung, 2 – 3 p.m. most Tuesdays at the New Port Richey Library.
- Kids Yoga, 11 – 11:45 a.m. most Wednesdays at the New Port Richey Library.
- Yoga with Stacey, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 14, at the Starkey Ranch Library. Explore various gentle poses, breathwork and meditation that will help increase your flexibility, strength, and balance and to connect to your inner self and decrease stress.
- Chair Yoga, 12-1 p.m. Wednesday, October 14, at the Starkey Ranch Library. Chair yoga adapts traditional poses for a more accessible session. Please note: Patrons may sign up for regular yoga or chair yoga, but taking both classes back-to-back is not permitted.
- Silver Lining Social, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Thursday, October 1 at the New Port Richey Library. Seniors in Service invites you to a Silver Lining Senior Social! Enjoy some time relaxing and mingling with neighbors and new friends. Light refreshments available. Registration encouraged.
- Yoga for Beginners, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Oct. 6, 20, 27 at the New Port Richey Library. Learn basic poses, breathing techniques, balance, and mindful movement in this 8-week workshop.
Health Care Events
- Flu Shots and Health Screening with BayCare, 12 – 2 p.m. Saturday, October 10 at the New River Library in Wesley Chapel. Free flu shots (age 9+), health screenings (age 18+) for blood pressure, lipids, BMI, and diabetes, and information and prevention education with BayCare.
- Tools to Quit | Tobacco Cessation Class, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 21 at the New Port Richey Public Library.
- BayCare Health Screening, 1 – 3 p.m. Saturday, October 24 at the Land O’Lakes Library. Join BayCare for free health screenings. This includes screenings for blood pressure, BMI, and Glucose checks (all done via finger sticks). Each screening should take about 10-15 minutes per person. Walk-ins welcome.
Medicare Assistance | SHINE
- Medicare 101, 10 – 11 a.m. on the first Thursday of the month at the New Port Richey Library. Followed by private one-on-one sessions. The Medicare 101 presentation conducted by the SHINE Program will provide information on the basics of Medicare, with coverage that falls into four different areas called “Parts”: Medicare Parts A, B, C & D, and what they mean to you. A SHINE volunteer will also be available to answer questions about each Part that holds your interest. www.floridashine.org
- SHINE Medicare Help @ Pasco County Library Branches
- 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Thursday, October 15 at the New River Library in Wesley Chapel.
- 10 – 11 a.m. Saturday, October 17 at the Land O’Lakes Library in Land O’Lakes.
- 10:30 – 11 a.m. Thursday, October 22 at the Hugh Embry Library in Dade City.
CLICK-TO ADVERTISMENT
- Centennial Park Book Club: The Berlin Letters by Katherine Reay (adults), 12 – 1 p.m. Tuesday, September 1 at the South Holiday Library.
- Hudson Library Romance in Review Book Club – Mad Honey, 5:45-6:45 p.m. Tuesday, October 6 at Sugar Bomb Dessert & Drink Cafe, 7200 Ridge Rd STE 13, Port Richey. This month’s discussion will be on This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub.
- Regency Park Book Club – Magpie Murders, 2-3 p.m. Tuesday, October 13. Meet other readers and talk about Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz. The book club meets once a month to share ideas about the chosen book, find new favorites, and enjoy good conversation.
- South Holiday Branch Story Seekers – Tween Book Club, 4-5 p.m. Thursday, October 15. Each month, tweens will make a book-themed craft and discuss that month’s book club book before voting on the next read.
- South Holiday Branch Book Club, 2 – 3 p.m., Thursday, October 8. (adults)
- Regency Park Library Mystery Book Club – How to Solve Your Own Murder, 2-3 p.m. Tuesday, October 20.
- Career Source, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Centennial Park Library in Holiday. Check the schedule for individual help by appointment.
- Career Source, 10 – 11 a.m. Tuesday, September 8 at the Regency Park Library.
- Career Source Employment Assistance, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Tuesday, August 18 at the South Holiday Library.
- Tech Help, Mondays & Thursdays at the New Port Richey Public Library. Register in advance for these classes to learn how to use email, word programs, social media, and more. Teens and adults.
- Walk & Talk Club, 10 – 11 a.m. Mondays at the New Port Richey Library.
- Chess Club, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m., Mondays at the New Port Richey Library. All ages.
- Stitched Together Knitting & Crochet Club, 4 – 7 p.m. Tuesdays at the New Port Richey Library.
- Tiara Club, 2 – 4 p.m. Wednesday, October 7 at the South Holiday Library. Hair jewelry crafting for adults.
- Teens & Tweens Chess Club, 3 – 5 p.m. Thursday, October 22 at the Starkey Ranch Branch.
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- Dungeons & Dragons Club, 3 – 5 p.m. Tuesday, October 6 & 20 at the Starkey Ranch Branch. Explore the fantastic world of Dungeons & Dragons. Character creation and all D&D-related things. You may bring your own materials, such as the Player’s Handbook, dice, and a notebook.
- Anime Monday: Anime & Manga Club, 5 – 6 p.m. Monday, October 26. November 30 & December 28 at the New Port Richey Library. For middle and high school ages. Discuss your favorite shows, characters, and manga series, and discover new recommendations from other fans. Enjoy Japanese snacks and chat, share fan art, and explore fun activities like trivia, crafts, and more.
- Teens & Tweens Chess Club, 3 – 5 p.m. Thursday, October 8 at the Starkey Ranch Library.
- Ready, Set, Write! Workshop, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Saturdays, October 3. November 7 and December 5 at the New Port Richey Public Library. In this six-month workshop for new writers, we’ll explore the foundational elements of storytelling through short lectures and hands-on writing activities. Sharpen your skills, develop your craft, and bring your story to life!
- Poetry Club – Bob Dylan, 12:30 p.m. Saturday, September 5 at the New Port Richey Public Library.
New Port Richey Library has a Seed Borrowing Program and also hosts a weekly community market called Tasty Tuesdays
The weekly market is located in the courtyard of the New Port Richey Public Library at 5939 Main Street, New Port Richey. The market is open every Tuesday, rain or shine, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Find locally sourced foods, sustainably grown produce, cottage-industry baked goods, hand-made items, and more.
- English Basic Skills – Zoom, 10 – 11 a.m. Saturdays. This is a one-hour basic skills class for English language learners who have limited English fluency. The class is taught in English and is held on Zoom. Basic topics include greetings, simple conversations, and basic grammar. This is an adult class. Please email the South Holiday Library to sign up. Registration is required. sh@pascolibraries.org
- English Conversation Group – South Holiday Zoom, 2 – 4 p.m. Tuesdays and 10 – 11:30 a.m. Fridays. English conversation for speakers of other languages. Practice your English speaking skills in a group on Zoom. Speakers of all levels are welcome. We have a new topic for every meeting. Intended for adults. Please email the South Holiday Library for more information and to register. sh@pascolibraries.org
- Gluten Tag! 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fridays at the New Port Richey Library. Practice your German language skills in an informal and friendly group setting. Intermediate speakers.
- Mandarin Class, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Fridays at the New Port Richey Library.
- English Next Level, 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. Fridays at the New Port Richey Library.
- English Conversation Corner, 3 – 4 p.m. Saturdays at the Starkey Ranch Library. This program is for adults ages 18+ looking to improve their English speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. For more information, call Starkey Ranch Library at 727-815-7126, or email sr@pascolibraries.org.
- English Practice Café, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, Nov. 28 & Dec. 26 at the New Port Richey Library. Improve your English skills through casual conversation in a comfortable environment. Enjoy fun activities, coffee, and snacks while practicing English with tutors and other students. This is an 18+ event.
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- UkePlay: Ukulele Play-Along, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 1, Nov. 5, Dec. 3 at the New Port Richey Library. For teens and adults.
Adult Art Labs and Free Art Closet Days are regularly held at the Centennial Park Library. Registration often fills up before the start of the month, so if you are interested in those events, visit the Centennial Park Library calendar here.
Clayworks Classes of all sorts and for all ages are held regularly at the Starkey Ranch Library. For more information, visit the Starkey Ranch Library Calendar here.
- Baby Storytime Session 1 with Ms. Becky, 10:15 – 10:50 a.m. most Mondays at the Starkey Ranch Library. Families with children ages 10 months to 3 years.
- Baby Storytime Session 2 with Ms. Becky, 11 – 11:45 a.m. Mondays at the Starkey Ranch Library. Families with children ages 10 months to 3 years.
- Toddler Story Times, 10:10 a.m., 10:50 a.m., and 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Starkey Ranch Library.
- Storytime, 10:15 a.m. Wednesdays at the Centennial Park Library. This is an early literacy event, intended for children ages birth-5. Registration is not required; however, space and supplies may be limited.
- Storytime, 10:15 a.m. Wednesdays at the South Holiday Library.
- Story Time Sessions, 10:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Wednesdays at the Regency Park Library.
- Preschool Storytime, 10:15 – 11 a.m. Thursdays at the Starkey Ranch Library. Ages 3 – 5.
- Rhymes to Readers, 1 – 1:45 p.m. Thursdays, and 11 – 11:45 a.m. Fridays at the New Port Richey Library.
Read to the Sharing Our World Therapy Dogs, 5 – 6 p.m. Tuesdays at the Regency Park Library. Join certified therapy dogs from Sharing Our World Therapy Dogs who love to hear a story! Practice reading skills, relax, and pet these friendly dogs.
Early Childhood Socialization and Early Literacy Programs
- Baby Social Early Literacy, 10:15 a.m., most Thursdays at the Regency Park Library. Bring your little one for a fun morning of play and socialization. This program is designed for babies up to 12 months & their caregivers.
- Preschool Playtime, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., most Thursdays at the Regency Park Library. Children learn and grow through play! Playdate @ the Library is a special time for young children and their caregivers to play, discover & meet new friends.
A StoryWalk® is an outdoor reading activity that allows children, families, and people of all ages to read a story while walking along a nature trail. Pages of a story are placed on posts on a trail, combining literacy and physical activity into one enjoyable experience.
James E. Grey Preserve, 6938 Plathe Road, New Port Richey. First installed in March of 2020, our StoryWalk® takes you down a 1/4 mile trail through the preserve, reading a story together along the way. A new story is installed three times a year, each featuring additional early literacy activities and interactive tasks to enhance the story as you go.
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, New Port Richey. Includes 18 reading station posts installed along a 0.20-mile nature trail loop on the back-left side of the playground area.
Withlacoochee River Park, 12249 Withlacoochee Blvd., Dade City. Withlacoochee StoryWalk®, located in Dade City, is a 0.30-mile trail with 18 posts.
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