Dia de Muertos is a joyful celebration of loved ones who have died. It is celebrated every November 1 and 2. Altars known as ofrendas are filled with photos, as well as food and other items that were enjoyed by those who have died, to remember and celebrate their lives. We are celebrating with multiple … Read more
By Children’s Librarian Hal Patnott 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
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 skitter start trip vault bounce – and … Read more
By Collection Management Librarian Dontaná McPherson-Joseph 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
In 2017, the Village of Oak Park Board of Trustees approved a proclamation declaring the second Monday in October Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This day recognizes that Native peoples were the first inhabitants of North America and celebrates their history, traditions, and stories. We acknowledge that Oak Park is situated on the ancestral land of the … Read more
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 use when you need 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 Children’s Librarian Shelley Harris 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 McPherson-Joseph 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
Help us warm souls AND soles by donating new socks all October to benefit the clients of Housing Forward. And during the last week of October, we’ll be collecting donations of warm kids’ clothing and gear for Cradles to Crayons. October 1-31: New socks for Housing Forward clients Did you know that socks are consistently among the most … Read more
