By Children’s Librarian Shelley Harris “Fairy tales are more than true: not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten.” This quote by author Neil Gaiman is one I think about a lot when autumn comes and Halloween rolls around. This is the time of year … Read more
By Collection Management Librarian Kathy These tales of the supernatural and the occult are sure to get you in the Halloween spirit. Frighteningly true tales Where the Tour Buses Don’t Go by Gerry Lekas Why you should try it: Take a walk on the scary side when you explore the dark underbelly of the Windy … Read more
By Hal, Rainbow Services Librarian Astrology and astronomy are similar words that are easy to confuse! Both relate to space and the universe, but astronomy is a branch of science, and astrology is an interpretation of the movements of the stars, planets, and other celestial bodies. Back in September, Children’s Librarian Genevieve Grove shared books and … Read more
By Kristen Romanowski, Staff Writer & Editor Artist Jacob Hashimoto stopped by the Main Library in September. While in the area for the opening of his show at a Chicago gallery, he came to Oak Park to make repairs to parts of his intricate artwork in our library’s permanent art collection. Hashimoto’s 8-by-12-foot piece skip … Read more
By Collection Management Librarian Dontaná The time of ghouls, ghosts, and otherworldly creatures is upon us! Are you ready to have the stuffing scared out of you? Dig into these new tales of slasher and bizarro horror, featuring the two reigning kings of the genre, and a local favorite. Terrifying tales The Final Girl Support … Read more
Halloween season is finally here! Looking for a spine-chilling read, a creepy tale, or a story that’s just a little eerie and fun? Our Oak Park librarians have something for all ages! Plus, watch a video about letting kids take the lead on how scary they want their stories, and find more titles to stream … Read more
By Children’s Librarian Eileen Saam Many people use Google to search for information on the internet. Google is a powerful tool for research. It is fast and convenient and can help you access lots of useful information. But is Google always the best research tool for everyone? Often Google is not a good tool to … Read more
By Nichelle Stigger, Brooks Middle School Note: A version of this post first appeared in Wednesday Journal and OakPark.com on October 5, 2021. Read the piece on OakPark.com » I have one rule in my sixth grade Language & Literature classroom at Brooks Middle School: lead with love. When working with a partner, when walking in the hallways, … Read more
By Shelley Harris, Children’s Librarian October is the month especially set aside to celebrate and recognize various disabilities, including Augmentative and Alternative Communication Awareness Month, something dear to my heart as my brother uses a communication device to speak, and Down Syndrome Awareness Month, dear to Miss Jenny’s heart because of her niece. But that’s … Read more
By Collection Management Librarian Dontaná Each fall we gather to celebrate and recognize former head librarian Barbara Ballinger and her many years of dedicated service to the library and to Oak Park. Sponsored by the Friends of the Oak Park Public Library, this year’s Barbara Ballinger Lecture features a virtual lecture and Q&A with author Michelle … Read more
