Introducing two new ways to access news digitally on all your devices from anywhere: Global Newsstream and Historical U.S. Major Dailies. When you log in with your Oak Park card and PIN, you can find current and historical issues of these five major newspapers: You’ll also find some of the highest circulating news sources in the U.K., Mexico, … Read more
Introducing a new digital learning series called Tech Tips. In blog posts and emails, library staff will share digital learning tips in a short, approachable, and easy-to-digest manner. “We came up with this idea to reach our patrons who often attend our digital learning programs or have computer questions in the library,” says John Gargiulo, Supervising Librarian of … Read more
There are so many ways to bring stories into your lives, and podcasts offer a great way to listen, learn, enjoy, and grow anytime, anywhere—at home and on-the-go! Kidcasts are podcasts created especially for kids, and we’ve gathered together a list of our favorites recommended by NPR, Kids Listen, and American Public Media for you … 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
On this page we’re sharing what other organizations and people around the world are offering virtually, including lessons, classes, projects, and tours. We’ll update this page as we find out about new offerings, so please let us know if there’s something we should add. And remember: Your digital library has tons of resources to help … Read more
Miss visiting your public library? We sure do! Now you can put yourself inside the library virtually with custom Oak Park Public Library backgrounds for your next Zoom meeting! Watch the video below to learn how to upload your own virtual background in Zoom. Download library-themed backgrounds Right click on the image and choose “Save … Read more
We are living in uncertain times with a lot of fear and suffering. As library employees, we recognize this reality for ourselves, our households, our communities, and our world. And yet, even as library buildings are closed during the COVID-19 stay-at-home orders, we’re striving to connect, collaborate, and make a positive impact. Now more than … Read more
Interested in learning how to do something new? How about trying a new hobby or craft? Creativebug offers fun, easy-to-follow video classes on baking, painting, sewing, knitting, crocheting, drawing, jewelry making, and more. New classes are released daily, and the site also features downloadable patterns, templates, and recipes. Choose from more than 1,000 award-winning art … Read more
Aimed at lifelong learners, The Great Courses is a series of college-level courses designed to deliver high-quality learning experiences outside of a lecture hall. And you can get them on demand through your digital library! Through digital audio and video, you can pursue lifelong learning and personal enrichment in science, history, literature, religion, and more, … Read more
Oak Park cardholders now have access to on-demand virtual learning with a new library resource called Brainfuse HelpNow. HelpNow offers real-time help in skill building and test preparation. Learners of all ages can connect directly online with live, vetted tutors every day from 2 to 11 pm. Interactive tutoring & more With Brainfuse HelpNow, you … Read more
