Local libraries are hoping to inspire young athletes as well as readers and crafters this month with a host of special programs.

As area runners, jumpers and throwers return to the track field this month, the Turlock Library will present “An Evening with Track and Field Legend Neal Steinhauer.”

Steinhauer, former world record holder in the shot put, will recount his time spent representing the University of Oregon and the United States national track team in the 1960s. Steinhauer will share stories from this famous era in track and field history including his experiences touring with such stars as Tommie Smith, Lee Evans and Jim Ryun. This free event will be held at 7 p.m. March 11.

Also at the Turlock branch of the library, young crafters will have the opportunity to make a "stained glass" item at 4 p.m. March 10. Crafters will glue colorful tissue paper to a kite-shaped frame. When placed in sunlight, this completed craft will act like a prism.

Children can enjoy a St. Patrick’s Day craft at 4 p.m. March 17. Participants will make a rainbow chain with a shiny “pot of gold” at the end. Foil and glitter will be used to give this craft some eye-catching touches.

“As Seen on Pinterest” will be held at 7 p.m. March 18. Crafters will use clothespins and wire to create wreaths that may be decorated for any occasion or season. The program is recommended for ages 14 and older. Registration for this program is required; call 664-8100 to register.

Other activities meant to spur imagination include a LEGO day at 3:30 p.m. March 24. LEGO play helps children learn basic mathematic and engineering skills in a fun, hands-on environment. Children under the age of 4 are welcome to participate, however, they must have direct parental supervision.

Families are invited to enjoy games at the library at 4 p.m. March 31. Families can choose from a number of new and classic board games, puzzles, card games and more. Family game nights offer an opportunity for families to practice teamwork in an engaging environment.

In honor of Dr. Seuss' birth month, children who find the Cat’s Hat in the library will win a prize.

These programs are sponsored by the Friends of the Turlock Library. The Turlock Library is located at 550 Minaret Ave. in Turlock. For more information, contact the Turlock Library at 664-8100.

Denair Library

Teens can celebrate Teen Tech Week at the library at 3 p.m. March 10. This year’s theme is “Libraries are for making...” Teens will have the opportunity to create buttons using the library’s button maker, and a light-up box using a simple circuit.

Kindergarten through second grade students can participate in this month’s Crazy 8’s Math Club on at 4 p.m. March 12, 19 and 26. On March 12, children will build a glow-in-the-dark skyscraper using glow sticks and Styrofoam balls. On March 19 participants will learn about coins by weighing, flipping, and rolling them, followed by an extreme version of “rock, paper, scissors.” On March 26, children will use long foam tubes to build superball ramps. Participants will discover exactly how high a hill or how steep a curve a superball can handle.

The Denair Library is located at 4801 Kersey Rd., in Denair. For more information, contact the Denair Library at 634-1283.

Keyes Library

Keyes Library invites story-lovers of all ages to revel in reading and rhyme with a Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration at 3 p.m.  March 12. Participants can make a “Cat in the Hat” mask and a Dr. Seuss pop-up toy. Children can also play Find the Hat to receive a prize.  Birthday cake, light refreshments and prize drawings will also be available throughout the afternoon.

Theodor Geisel, who wrote under the pen name Dr. Seuss, has played an important role in charming children everywhere into reading. Celebrating Dr. Seuss’ birthday is a way for libraries, schools, and parents to underscore the importance and joy of reading.

This program is free and open to the community with support from donations, large and small, to the Friends of the Keyes Library. The Keyes Library is located on 4420 Maud Ave. For more information, call 664-8006.