Community Paint Night, a launch event for Central Arkansas Library System (CALS) Community Learning Courses, will be held tonight, March 31, at 6:30 p.m. at Hillcrest Hall, 1501 Kavanaugh Ave.

A free, guided­ painting experience with local artists will include a first look at the course offerings, which will begin in May. Library programs are taking on an increasingly important role in the library’s contribution to the community. Over the past decade, programming has increased 215%. An expansion of that programming concentration is a new department dedicated to Adult Programming.

The keystone of that department is CALS Community Learning Courses, which cover a variety of subjects and skills that enable and encourage lifelong learning pursuits by offering short-­term, non­-credit learning and enrichment opportunities. Courses range from single sessions to intensive workshops with multiple sessions. A wide range of classes are offered in order to fit varying needs and schedules with the best rates possible for course fees and materials to ensure access and affordability. Registration is available at www.cals.org/community­learning­courses beginning Wednesday, April 1.

The public library has been serving the central Arkansas area for over 100 years. Today’s CALS patrons have access to over a million physical items, including books, magazines, CDs, and DVDs. CALS has adapted to serve users significantly in the last ten years while still providing traditional library services. Most CALS programs are free to the public and are designed to appeal to a variety of ages and interests. Last year, CALS presented over 2,100 programs for adults.

Regular programming includes computer classes, book clubs, eReader “petting zoos,” as well as special program topics such as hobby groups, tabletop gaming, a Doctor Who society, meditation and yoga, and gardening. CALS Community Learning will offer patrons an opportunity to participate in more intensive programs. For more information contact 918­3016 or communitylearning@cals.org.