For the third year in a row, the library was proud to collaborate with local partners to host a Family and Community Discussion Series focused on intergenerational, anti-racist discussion circles inspired by books and other media. “I always look forward to these circles!” said one participant, who told us they’ve participated in this series for … Read more
Today is the first official day for the library’s new executive director, Joslyn Bowling Dixon. Last month, the Board of Library Trustees was thrilled to formally announce its unanimous vote to hire Joslyn as the library’s next executive director. Joslyn assumes the role from Interim Executive Director Lori Pulliam, who stepped up after previous Executive … Read more
The library is partnering with the Oak Park Township to offer free personal hygiene supplies for youth at the library. Kids and their families can help themselves to soap, shampoo and conditioner, toothbrushes and toothpaste, floss, deodorant, lotion, and menstrual products. The supplies are located inside a small latched cabinet in the wheelchair-accessible bathroom in … Read more
Please note: As of March 24, 2023, the library has changed its usage from “Latinx” to “Latine.” Nora is now the Latine Language & Culture Librarian. “As an organization, we are continuously learning and evolving to meet the needs expressed to us by our community,” says Manager of Community Engagement Sarah Yale. “Increasingly, we are hearing from … Read more
Approved by the Board of Library Trustees on October 6, 2022 Whereas the Oak Park Public Library adheres to the American Library Association Freedom to Read Statement; Whereas the Oak Park Public Library adheres to the American Library Association Freedom to View Statement; Whereas the Oak Park Public Library has Collection Strategy Statement that was … Read more
By Collection Management Librarian Kathy 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. Oak Park Public Library acknowledges that Oak Park is situated … Read more
We’ve got some fantastic programs for adults coming up this fall, thanks to Jabez Patterson, Programming Librarian in Adult Services. Jabez, who joined the library in January, collaborates with local authors, musicians, and more to bring high-quality virtual and in-person programs to the library. He’s guided by community interests as well as his own—which include … Read more
Oak Park artist Tia Etu will unveil her latest contribution to art in the library this June, when she presents her mixed-media painting The Call in a Main Library Idea Box exhibit. You can join the artist and see her work in a reception on Saturday, June 18. Juneteenth-inspired piece joins permanent art collection The … Read more
By Collection Management Librarian Kathy Learn more about the life of Malcolm X with these nonfiction and fiction materials—as we celebrate what would have been his 97th birthday on May 19. Materials about Malcolm X The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Malcolm X Why you should try it: Consistently making lists of the best and/or … Read more
This message was originally sent to library staff from our Teen Services Librarian Alex Gutierrez. Thanks, Alex, for capturing the spirit of the LETAB Essentials Drive (which continues through May 16) and what it provides to our community! Donations will benefit three local charities: Sarah’s Inn, New Moms, and Housing Forward. Hello everyone, As some … Read more
