Introducing Early Bird Learning videos

New: Early Bird Learning Videos text with chicken on rocketship and birdie on stack of books

By Shelley Harris, Children’s Librarian Let’s take a walk through memory lane! In January 2016, Jenny (pictured above with Ruthie the camel) and I launched the Early Bird Reader program, with weekly literacy tips texted out and monthly videos for caregivers that dug a little deeper into a specific literacy topic. In March 2020, we had … Read more

5 ways for kids to make the most of the library (and their library card) this summer!

A collage of photos featured on this page

By Children’s Librarian Genevieve Grove School’s out, but learning is in at the Oak Park Public Library this summer! Sure, we have books, but also so many other options to engage your brains and bodies. Check out these fun ways to use your library today.  Need a library card? Apply at any library branch or … Read more

‘As long-distance grandparents who want to stay in touch, this was a big gift’

Person reading from and showing picture book with a bee

For the past four years, Oak Park library patron Lindsay Olson has hosted a weekly Zoom storytime with her granddaughters on the West Coast. “We were so grateful we had our storytime sessions in place when the pandemic hit,” Olson says. “Not seeing our family for two years was made easier by our Sunday storytimes.” … Read more

Kids summer reading: What to read, listen to, watch & do!

Summer Reading June 1-August 31: Oceans of Possibilities with two children reading and listening with headphones while riding a fish

By Children’s Librarian Eileen Saam Summer is here, and so is this year’s summer reading program: Oceans of Possibilities! The program runs all summer long, June 1-August 30. Here at the Oak Park Library, we are so excited about all the possibilities that the summer reading program provides for kids and families. Everyone is encouraged … Read more

Spring sensory play: Videos & activities for early learners

Toddler touching a flower on a bush

By Shelley Harris, Children’s Librarian Play is how kids learn. We say this so often because it’s one of the most important things for adults who raise or work with kids to remember. Librarians included! Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers learn best when they can explore the things and world around them in their own way and own … Read more

Mothers and Others for Peace

Flower petals arranged in the shape of a peace sign

Celebrated the second Sunday each May (this year on May 8), Mother’s Day was first proposed by abolitionist and poet Julia Ward Howe. In her 1872 “Mother’s Day Proclamation,” Howe suggested that people observe Mother’s Day as a day dedicated to peace and supported the importance of coming together during challenging times. In honor of these … Read more

Celebrate Earth Day: Activities for grade schoolers

Earth Day April 22 with illustration of Planet Earth with trees around the outside

By Children’s Librarian Eileen Saam Every year on Earth Day, April 22, we celebrate our precious planet. Check out ways you can celebrate and protect our planet at the same time below! And find seven more ways for all ages to get involved this Earth Day » Check out these digital titles & videos to learn … Read more

Earth Day: 7 ways to get involved

Earth Day April 22

Earth Day has been celebrated every April 22 since 1970. Learn more about Earth Day and its history from EarthDay.org, and below find seven ways to get involved locally! 1. Turn trash into treasure Celebrate Earth Day with your friends at the Main Library after school! In the Earth Day Upcycle Crafts for Kids & … Read more