By Children’s Librarian Hal Patnott Tarot is a journey. The cards of the major arcana in the Rider-Waite deck—the most commonly seen deck in the English-speaking world, but there are others!—depict the story of the youthful fool setting off on an adventure where they will encounter new people, face great challenges, and discover more about … Read more
Want to learn how to make it, sew it, fix it, grow it, cook it, or build it? Develop a new skill, start a new hobby, and learn for the fun of it with these how-to books and resources that our librarians love. How-to books How-to resources from your digital library Browse how-to ebooks, videos, … Read more
The Obama Portraits are now on display at the Art Institute of Chicago, through August 25. President Barack Obama’s official presidential portrait was painted by Kehinde Wiley. But did you know that an earlier work by Wiley is on display on the Main Library third floor, open to all to experience anytime the library is … Read more
If you’re missing football now that the Super Bowl is over, get your sports fix with these films recommended by Adult Services Librarian Rashmi! Rashmi’s favorite sports films The top 10 All top picks, listed alphabetically by sport Baseball Bull Durham Field of Dreams A League of Their Own Moneyball The Pride of the Yankees Basketball He Got … Read more
Like so much else these days, our monthly library groups for writers, performers, language learners, and more are now meeting virtually. While all in-person programs are canceled through August, these online programs are drawing new participants as well as regulars. For example, Oak Parkers who joined the virtual French Conversation Hour in April met new … Read more
As your public library, we love to share! Here’s a roundup of free entertainment resources for adults and teens that we’ve been collecting. Have something to share? Please do! Email communications@oppl.org. Nature Explore the natural world around you with free field guides from The Field Museum. Experience spring garden moments with the Chicago Botanic Garden. … Read more
Featured on the cover of the latest issue of The Storyline, the mosaic peace sign sculpture (pictured above) was created by teen library volunteers and local artist Tia Etu. It now stands outside Dole Center, 255 Augusta St., home to Dole Branch Library. Etu, a working artist with a studio on Harrison Street in the … Read more
Six replica Benin bronzes are now on display on the Main Library’s third floor, with three more coming soon. Part of the library’s Multicultural Collection, these replicas can spark important conversations about pre-colonial African culture and the repatriation of cultural heritage artifacts. The original Benin bronzes, from the Kingdom of Benin in what is now … Read more
Celebrated artist, author, former Oak Parker and School of the Art Institute alum Chris Ware has a new book out, Rusty Brown. Here’s what Slate and The New York Times Book Review had to say about it. And coincidentally, a Rusty Brown comic strip is one of the three Chris Ware pieces owned and displayed on the third floor of … Read more
In November, two traveling art exhibits that inspire empathy and connection are on display at the Main Library. When Home Won’t Let You Stay, in the Idea Box, shares stories and portraits of refugees. Community on a Shelf, in the Lobby Community Engagement Space, explores the human side of mental illness, community support, and libraries. … Read more
