Chess challenges young minds to think critically. It teaches sacrifice and strategy, and exercises the ability to think ahead. And it’s fun! Whether kids are new to chess or have been playing for some time, check out these resources. On-demand … Read more
By Children’s Librarian Shelley Harris Sometimes kids and adults get nervous about visiting a new place for the first time. We get it! It can be useful to know what to expect before your first visit. With that in mind, we … Read more
Develop a new skill, dive deep into a hobby you love, or expand your knowledge on a topic you’ve always wanted to explore with these books our librarians love. Check out the curated titles below, plus more to explore in … Read more
Have you ever wished you could explore the worlds of your favorite characters? Do you dream of running off on a grand adventure with your friends by your side? If you answered yes to either of those questions, then you … Read more
By Children’s Librarian Shelley Harris Every July, we come together to celebrate Disability Pride as a community! As a disabled librarian (neurodivergent and chronically ill), I love creating programs not only for disabled kids but celebrating us as well. When … Read more
Your public library is here to connect you with books, learning experiences, events, and online resources that celebrate people with disabilities and disability as an identity in July and all year long. What is Disability Pride Month? Disability Pride Month … Read more
Did you know that 70% of disabled adults do not engage in community activities? After hearing the above statistic, we developed the Community Sensory Garden at the Maze Branch Library. Communities are so much richer when everyone is involved, and … Read more
Summer is here, and with it comes so many ways to play, explore, learn, and connect as a family. In partnership with the Collaboration for Early Childhood, we’ve gathered a selection of free and family-friendly events, activities, and local resources … Read more
Your public library is here with books, resources, and experiences that can help us connect and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. Titles we suggest More to explore Reading lists for kids From your digital library Upcoming events For adults Wednesday Movie … Read more
This year, our theme for kids summer reading is Plant a Seed, Read. Visiting the library to check out our programs, books, and kits is a great way to plant seeds of creativity, curiosity, and a love for reading. June … Read more
This year, the theme for kids summer reading is Plant a Seed, Read, so let’s learn more and celebrate a beautiful, transforming creature who pollinates our gardens—the butterfly. Find books and resources below to explore. Discover facts about monarch butterflies … Read more
Your public library is here with books, resources, and experiences that can help us connect and celebrate Jewish American history and culture. The month of May is recognized as Jewish American Heritage Month in Illinois. Title suggestions for all ages … Read more
Your public library is here with books, resources, and experiences that can help us connect and celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander heritage. The month of May is recognized as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month … Read more
Kids summer reading is just around the corner! Mark your calendars to sign up for June 1. Looking for books and magazines to read? You are in luck! Get ready for summer reading by exploring eight different ways to find … Read more
Join us for an awesome adventure at your public library this summer! We’re thrilled to kick off our summer reading program (for kids and adults), which runs all summer long—June 1-August 31. Once again, we’re bringing back Beanstack, a cool … Read more
Every year on Earth Day, April 22, we celebrate our precious planet. Check out ways you can celebrate and protect our planet at the same time below! Join us for Earth Month programs at the Main Library Earth Month Community … Read more
Your public library is here with books, resources, and experiences that can help us connect and celebrate Arab American history and culture. The month of April is recognized as Arab American Heritage Month in Illinois. Titles we suggest More to … Read more
Signs of spring are here and your public library, in partnership with the Collaboration for Early Childhood, has put together a collection of activities, events, and resources for you and your little ones. Here’s to exploring, learning, and playing in … Read more
So you, your child, or your student has been diagnosed with autism? Congratulations! As overwhelming as it can be to hear a diagnosis, you are now ready to find and receive the supports you need to live the life you … Read more
Did you know that children’s staff have created more than 400 early learning videos since March 2020?! You can watch them all in a YouTube playlist and find them organized into 16 different categories on the Early Learning page—including art, … Read more
