Celebrating Native American Heritage Month: Books, an event, learning experiences & more

Native American Heritage book display in the Main Library

Oak Park Public Library acknowledges that Oak Park is situated on the ancestral land of the Bodewamiadkiwen (Potawatomi), Myaamia (Miami), Oceti Sakowin, Kiikaapoi (Kickapoo), and Peoria. We honor them and thank them for their stewardship of this land. Source: native-land.ca Your public library is here to connect you with books, videos, online resources, and learning experiences that … Read more

Tech Tips: How to scan a QR code (plus, how to print from a smartphone at the library)

Printing sign with QR code sitting in front of printers at the Main Library

By Digital Learning Specialist Amelia You probably have seen them somewhere by now, black and white square or circular barcode images—known as QR codes (short for Quick Response codes)—on contactless menus, advertisements, and even as a form of payment around the world. But what are QR codes? These barcode images are readable by digital devices—like … Read more

Celebrating AAC, ADHD & Down Syndrome Awareness Months: Activities for early learners & support for caregivers

Shelley pointing to a visual aid featuring autumn animals

By Children’s Librarian Shelley Harris October is a big month! Many kids are excited for Halloween, of course. We finally enter an autumn that will last a while; that’s usually pretty great. Sometimes we even see a few snow flurries, which is probably more exciting to me than to others.  And of course, every year, … Read more

Programs to help you better understand gender identities & be an ally

Hand holding a rainbow

In November, please join us for two adult programs focused on trans and nonbinary identities. As a Library for Everyone, we believe that offering programs like these are a necessary component of us striving to be an anti-racist and equitable organization. Trans & Non-Binary 101 & Allyship Workshop Do you want to better understand trans … Read more

‘Tom Lake’: Waiting for it? Loved it? Try these titles!

Book cover image for Tom Lake by Ann Patchett

By Collection Management Librarian Kathy I love how much our community uses the library. Sometimes that means waiting for the hottest titles. Don’t fret! I can help you find a similar reading experience to THAT book you are waiting for or that you finally read and loved. Tom Lake readalikes Good Company by Cynthia D’Aprix … Read more

Health Literacy Month: 3 ways to take charge of your health

Older adult meditating in a garden

By Health & Senior Services Librarian Rose Barnes October is the best! Apples, pumpkins, and crisp weather are back, and I am enjoying the change in the weather. Also, October is Health Literacy Month, a time to recognize the importance of making health information easy to understand and the healthcare system easier to navigate. Did … Read more

Celebrate Día de Muertos at library & in community

Front row, left to right: Jessy Martinez, Latine Language & Culture Librarian Nora Sanchez, Alma Martinez, Laura Pulido, and Maya Puentes. Back row: Omeyocan Dance Company

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) is typically celebrated on November 1 and 2. The celebration, which originated in Mexico, is rooted in indigenous practices that existed long before Spanish settlers arrived.  Together with community members, our Latine Language & Culture Librarian Nora Sanchez has been working to bring the celebration to the library … Read more

Chilling reads, thrilling tales & lots of Halloween fun

Smiling jack-o-lantern in a dark forest

Feel that chill in the air? Halloween season is here! And your Oak Park librarians are back with spine-chilling reads, creepy tales, and lots more Halloween fun: Browse: Spine-chilling tales & scary stories More from your digital library, sorted by audience & app HORROR FOR ADULTS HORROR FOR TEENS HALLOWEEN FOR KIDS Attend: Upcoming events … Read more

Partnership for teen mental health wins award

Group photo with Marché Pernell, Stephen Jackson, Dominique Hickman, Robert Simmons, Vann Harris, Ashley Knapp, Latonia Jackson, Synovia Knox, and Alexander Gutierrez in front of a wall mural

Since 2019, the library has been partnering with researchers from Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine to develop a digital tool to help teens with anxiety. Now in the fourth year of a five-year grant, the research partnership has won an award for its strong collaborative research principles and work to impact health and equity … Read more