There’s a vibrant community center in town where residents have access to an array of events, educational training, resources — and even rare cultural artifacts. The Rocky River Public Library, which has served the community since 1928, offers an inclusive environment where people of all ages can come to learn, connect, explore and be entertained. And it’s all free.
“We’re here to serve everybody,” says Stacey Hayman, the library’s outreach manager. “We want to have the greatest variety of entertaining and educational things possible.”
Here are five standout offerings available beyond books.
1. Explore the Cowan Pottery Museum
The Rocky River Public Library is home to the Cowan Pottery Museum, which houses over 1,200 pieces by R. Guy Cowan, founder of the famed Cowan Pottery Studio in Lakewood, Ohio. Between 1912 and 1931, Cowan and his team produced high-quality ceramic objects that achieved international recognition for their artistry and design. Today, the museum, which displays the work of Cowan and his associates and even contains one of Viktor Schreckengost’s seven famed “jazz bowls,” draws pottery enthusiasts from around the world to admire the superior craftsmanship and detail of the work.
2. Catch a Movie
Every month, the library features a free movie screening in the auditorium, typically a recently released film soon after it exits theaters. There’s no need to register in advance for the screenings, or even arrive on time; movies in the auditorium are a low-pressure opportunity to gather with the community and have fun while experiencing a new movie on a big screen. Plus, says Hayman, “there is free, fresh, hot popcorn.”
3. Flex your Knowledge
Trivia fans come together in regular (friendly) competition at the library for its popular trivia night. The convivial competition, which is hosted once a month, allows for groups of up to six people to work together to claim victory, while individuals or smaller groups can be paired with a larger team to form a group of six to claim the top prize. All are welcome to participate — just be sure to check the events page on the library’s website and register before arriving.
4. Let the kids explore light
One of the newest additions to the library’s already extensive children's options is an interactive light table with an illuminated surface covered with magnetized plastic shapes. The table allows little ones to play and experiment with different combinations of shapes, colors and light as they glide pieces over the surface of the table. It’s safe for tiny hands and offers endless entertainment for little ones without risk of breaking or losing pieces.
5. Apply for or renew a passport
Rocky River residents and those in surrounding communities have access to simple, convenient passport services. Library staff provide a complete checklist of what’s required along with all the necessary paperwork and can even take passport photos on-site. Once an applicant’s paperwork is complete, they’ll mail in the application without the need to take a second trip to the post office. Appointments are available online up to two days in advance, and same-day appointments are available for those in a rush.
