Local genealogist Kate Penney Howard will explore challenges and resources for tracing ancestors who faced religious persecution. She will cover key historical periods of faith-based oppression, including the Spanish Inquisition, European wars of religion, and Soviet anti-religious campaigns. Other topics will include: specialized archives that can reveal details about persecuted individuals; interpreting coded religious references in documents; and identifying name changes adopted to avoid detection. The talk emphasizes the importance of understanding historical context and religious practices to accurately trace family lines. Lastly, it addresses the emotional aspects of uncovering ancestral trauma and suggests ethical ways to honor these stories.

We are changing up the format of our Beginner Tech program! Are you struggling to learn the basics of your laptop, tablet, or smartphone? Come to this informal program to learn how to operate your new-to-you technology! We will show you how to access the internet, write and send an email, block unwanted callers, delete old texts and messages, download or remove apps, and more! Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Call 574-834-7122.

Genealogists and those interested in learning genealogy are invited to check out Roots and Branches. This will be a time for one-on-one discussion, sharing tips, building your tree, and tackling brick walls. Attendees will also learn about the Genealogical Proof Standard and how they can apply it to trace their ancestors accurately. This program will take place the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Join Kosciusko County Sheriff Jim Smith at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 11, for an important presentation on the latest scams and how to protect yourself. As scammers grow more sophisticated, learning what to watch for is key to staying safe. This free, public event will equip you with practical tips to safeguard yourself and your loved ones. Register at the front desk or call 574-834-7122.

Join the Citizen Science Club at NWCPL and explore the wonders of nature in a whole new way! Whether you love nature walks, bird watching, stargazing, or other outdoor activities, this club is perfect for you. Discover how you can contribute to real scientific research while enjoying the beauty of the world around you. It's a fun, educational way to connect with nature and make a difference! PROJECT OF THE MONTH: Watershed Foundation's annual Snapshot Water Monitoring Day.