New partnership shines a light on local BIPOC artists

Jordan Campbell and Jon Veal

To amplify awareness around the creative work of local BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) artists, a new spring program series combines people and resources from your library and the local community arts organization Compound Yellow. Everyone of all ages is welcome to attend these free educational programs funded by an Illinois State Library … Read more

‘Turning the tide on climate change’: One Earth Film Festival

One Earth Film Festival

The 11th annual One Earth Film Festival, the Midwest’s premier environmental film festival, is now underway. It runs March 4-13 and offers both in-person and virtual watch parties. The theme this year is “turning the tide on climate change and environmental racism.” ‘We need to push back right now’ As the film festival organizers write, … Read more

A conversation with thought leaders in the national reparations movement

"From Here to Equality" book cover, authors William Darity Jr. and A. Kirsten Mullen

By Christian Harris Note: A version of this post first appeared in Wednesday Journal and OakPark.com on December 7, 2021. Read the piece on OakPark.com » As a young Black man growing up in Oak Park, I was never taught that Black people lived here before the 1950s, when world-renowned chemist Percy Julian moved in. I would … Read more

New! Read all about it: Access 5 of the most popular U.S. national & regional newspapers

Newspapers with magnifying glass

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

Now virtual, English conversation program ‘has really blossomed’

People on Zoom computer screen

“I live alone, and so I don’t have anyone to talk to. I feel great that today I had a chance to meet others virtually, and I learned many new words in English.” -Participant in English Language Conversation program Before the pandemic, English language learners came together every Saturday morning at the Main Library to … Read more

Logo image contest deadline extended until July 26

As one of the library’s Teen Services initiatives, Leading Edge strives to surround teens with opportunities to maximize their innate potential to lead socially and academically through peer mentoring and coaching. To help spread the word and increase program visibility, we are inviting interested teens to enter an image contest to promote Leading Edge at … Read more

Updated with results for 2020: Let’s pick the best, together!

Book Madness Winner

And the Book Madness winner is… We went from 16 titles to 1 clear winner, and former First Lady Michelle Obama’s Becoming takes the prize! Thanks to everyone who voted online these last two weeks; more than 450 votes were cast. Percentage breakdowns by rounds and individual pairings are available below. Funny to see how some contests … Read more

Found online for adults & teens: Entertainment & fun

Couple with remote

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

Talking with young kids about coronavirus

CDC Clean Hands Campaign

Things are changing so quickly. How do we engage with our young ones about everything that’s going on? Here are a few resources to help get you started. We’re adding new content virtual content daily on this page and pulled together a quick roundup of more virtual ways for kids to learn, stay engaged, and … Read more

Art in the library: Inspiring empathy, connection

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