Explore-a-Story Returns to Celebrate Joy, Music, and Early Literacy

The St. Joe County Public Library invites families with young children to join Explore-a-Story, a joyful celebration of early literacy and the little things that fill our hearts with happiness. Inspired by My Heart Fills with Happiness by Monique Gray Smith, this year’s interactive event takes place Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:30 pm at the Main Library – Community Learning Center (305 S Main St, South Bend). 

This FREE event is designed for children ages 0–8 and their caregivers. Explore-a-Story brings stories to life through music, movement, art, and play. 

Event Highlights: 

• Immersive Storytelling (1:00–1:30 pm): Experience My Heart Fills with Happiness in a live retelling featuring the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi. Each family receives a copy of the book, a colorful scarf, and a shaker to use and take home (while supplies last). 
• Free Playtime (1:30–2:30 pm): Families can rotate through hands-on stations, including a sensory room, drumming workshop by Rhythm to You, face painting by Rainbow Expressions by Bianca, imagination playground building, and a family “What Fills Your Heart” art board. 
• Fischoff Musical Performance (2:30–3:30 pm): Enjoy Stories & Music (S.A.M.) I Am featuring the Verona Quartet in A Bad Case of the Stripes by David Shannon—an all-ages concert blending music and storytelling. 
• Fischoff Activities & Book Signing (3:30–4:30 pm): Create colorful, hands-on crafts inspired by the book and meet the musicians. Families can take home a free copy (while supplies last). 

More Information: www.sjcpl.org/programs/explore-a-story/