Librarian stands next to bookshelf in a lobby

Pop-up library launches at CRC

In our continued quest to be a library for everyone, we strive to offer the widest possible access with the fewest barriers as possible. So we’re thrilled to offer a new way for community members to use the library and … Read more

3D printer printing an octopus

Creative Studio turns 1

We’re celebrating the first anniversary of the Creative Studio! Since the digital makerspace officially opened last April on the Main Library’s third floor, it’s been a fantastic year of learning, expanding offerings, and, of course, lots of creativity. “The Creative … Read more

LinkedIn Learning on laptop

Tech Tips: Getting started with LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning is an online learning platform with video tutorials to learn business, software, technology, and creative skills to achieve personal and professional goals. Check out LinkedIn Learning FAQs. Meet LinkedIn Learning With LinkedIn Learning you can: How to log in … Read more

Autism Acceptance & Pride with a rainbow infinity symbol

Autism acceptance & pride: Videos & activities for early learners

By Shelley Harris, Children’s Librarian Happy Autism Acceptance Month! To understand why we’re celebrating… Let’s start at the beginning: What is autism & why acceptance? There are two brain types: Neurodiversity encompasses both brain types. Autism is a complex neurodivergent, developmental disability … Read more

Screenshot of audiobook player on Libby app

Tech Tips: How to listen to audiobooks in Libby

By John Gargiulo, Supervising Librarian of Creative Technology In an earlier Tech Tips post, I shared tips and tricks on how to read ebooks and digital magazines on Libby with your smartphone or tablet. But did you know you also can listen to … Read more

Screenshot of magazines available on Libby app

Tech Tips: How to read ebooks & magazines in Libby

By John Gargiulo, Supervising Librarian of Creative Technology Did you know that as an Oak Park Public Library cardholder you can access tens of thousands of ebooks and digital audiobooks, and thousands of digital magazines on your smartphone or tablet? In this series … Read more

Two students working together on a tablet at STEAM Fest 2023

STEAM Fest is Thursday, April 18

By Eileen Saam, Children’s Librarian Experience the wide world of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) at the Main Library this spring, as we once again partner with Oak Park Elementary School District 97 and the Oak Park Education Foundation for … Read more

Adult reading a picture book with a baby

9 ways to encourage spontaneous, meaningful language

Library staff love to talk about the importance of language and play for kids: It helps them explore their world, learn about themselves and the people around them, get ready for school learning, and so much more! Pediatric staff from … Read more

Book collage

ICYMI: Recently released fiction & nonfiction

By Collection Management Librarians Dontaná & Kathy Check out these recently released fiction and nonfiction titles that might have flown under your radar. They are perfect for celebrating Black History Month. Fiction Hush Harbor by Anise Vance Why you should try … Read more

Oak Park Elementary School District 97 art teachers pose in front of a wall of student art in the Main Library

Celebrating art in March

Youth Art Month in Main Library Lobby Thanks to all the Oak Park Elementary School District 97 teachers (pictured above) for curating this display of artwork by students in grades K-5. It will be on view all March in the Main … Read more

A computer desktop cluttered with files

Tech Tips: How to declutter your devices in 4 steps

By Creative Technology Librarian Amy Hofmockel Do you have a desktop covered in icons you don’t use? Are you interested in decluttering your digital workspace? Let’s go over some basics of file management so you can find the files you want … Read more

Child using tablet

Just for kids: Educational & fun apps, a librarian-curated list

By Children’s Librarian Eileen Saam During winter break, parents and caregivers may find themselves stressing about the amount of time that their kids are spending on a screen. While it’s surely important to set limits, time spent playing educational apps can … Read more

Parent and child using laptop together

Online safety (Part 1): 5 tips to share with kids

By Children’s Librarian Eileen Saam The internet can be a powerful educational tool and a fun place for kids to explore, but here at the library, we understand that online safety for kids is top-of-mind for parents and caregivers. Keeping … Read more