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
By Collection Management Librarian Dontaná Pi Day approaches, and what better way to celebrate than with pie? But what is Pi Day and what does it have to do with pie, you ask? This celebration of the mathematical constant π (pi) is observed yearly on March 14 (3.14 are the first three digits of this constant). … Read more
By Shelley Harris, Children’s Librarian Scary things are back in the news. Even when we try to insulate children from the news, we often underestimate how much they can overhear and how much they can pick up on tension in their caregivers. It’s very challenging for kids and adults when kids get worried and have … Read more
This change was made in accordance with a Village order that has now expired. This change came from the Park District of Oak Park to comply with the Village of Oak Park’s public health order in response to the current surge of COVID-19 cases. Specifically, the Oak Park order mandates proof of vaccination for customers age 5 … Read more
Did you know your library has a permanent art collection? You can see works of art at all three locations, including two recently donated paintings now on display at the Main Library. And this spring, monthly exhibits by local artists are returning to the Main Library Art Gallery and Maze Branch, after a two-year hiatus … Read more
In honor of Black History Month, let’s learn more about Arturo Alfonso Schomburg, a Puerto Rican historian, writer, curator, and activist! Born in Santurce, Puerto Rico in 1874, Schomburg was the son of a Puerto Rican merchant of German descent and an Afro-Caribbean woman from the Danish West Indies. He spent the majority of his … Read more
By Children’s Librarian Eileen Saam Have you heard about TechGirlz? Each month, the Oak Park Public Library hosts TechGirlz workshops for girls in grades 5-8. What is TechGirlz? Nonprofit organization TechGirlz offers free, fun, interactive workshops with a focus on empowering middle school girls to explore the possibilities of technology and empower their future careers. TechGirlz’s … Read more
by Collection Management Librarian Kathy Love nonfiction? Looking for some new books? Check out these recently released titles that also happen to celebrate Black History Month. Find more titles and resources connecting you to Black history » Recently released nonfiction The Black Agenda: Bold Solutions for a Broken System edited by Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman Why … Read more
By Collection Management Librarian Dontaná Love fiction? Looking for some new books? Check out these recently released titles that also happen to celebrate Black History Month. Find more titles and resources connecting you to Black history » Recently released fiction None but the Righteous by Chantal James Why you should try it: Haunting and reflective, … Read more
UPDATE: Under Latonia’s leadership, Teen Services expanded and changed its name to “Middle and High School Services” in August 2022. Say hello to the newest member of our team, Latonia Jackson! “I am passionate about helping others reach their fullest potential,” Latonia says. “I am eager to grow and learn every day. If you’re willing, … Read more
