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
“It was love.” That’s how planning committee member Josh Easter summed up last weekend’s Restorative Community Practices Conference—three days of peace circles, panel discussions, workshops, meals, music, and conversation. The October 4-6 conference drew national experts, local activists and teachers, families with children, community leaders, and passionate individuals. Together, we took a deep dive into … Read more
New! Watch the promotional video » Join us for the three-day Restorative Community Practices: Building Stronger Families, Schools, and Communities conference at the Main Library this October 4-6. Expanding on last fall’s restorative justice conference, this year’s conference takes a wider look at how restorative practices can be applied within families, schools, and communities. Also … Read more
This year’s Teen Summer Volunteer program goes through the end of July, but already the community can see the efforts of the teen volunteers paying off. Since June 10, volunteer teams have been serving the community in various ways, including helping local organizations, creating outdoor public artwork, and showing younger kids why science, technology, engineering, … Read more
We know the middle school years can be a time when kids need even more adult guidance, places to go, and things to do. That’s why, in addition to two full-time librarians who work with middle and high schoolers, we recently added two more staff members dedicated to serving tweens and teens. And now that … Read more
Did you know there’s a barbershop inside the Oak Park Public Library? Twice a month, the Main Library Idea Box brings in local barbers to give free haircuts to anyone who comes in. All are welcome, including children and teenagers. And on Friday, May 17, from 2 to 6 pm, it’s turning into a space … Read more
Join us as we dig in for the first full season of the Maze Branch Sensory Garden. Launched last fall with local families who have kids with disabilities, the garden is completely accessible and offers programs through summer and fall. “We have a wide range of supports so anyone can come in and be comfortable … Read more
In honor of Teen Tech Week, March 3-9, explore all of the digital resources and services your public library has to offer! Teen tech titles Digital tools & programs for makers Explore your creativity with the help of technology at the library, including a 3D printer, laser cutter, scan/copy/print station, and an oversized copier … Read more
Challenging young people to challenge themselves. Educating our students outside the box. Helping them develop their own compass to navigate their way through the world. That’s what the Youth Social Justice Conference at the Main Library on Saturday, March 16, 10 am-3pm, is all about. A day of learning, exchanging ideas, growth All are invited … Read more
As an 18-month grant-funded initiative to empower youth for college and career builds to a finish at the Main Library, those involved are calling it a “community catalyst” for the way it’s sparking opportunities, strengthening relationships, and energizing young people, families, and those who work with young people. “To catalyze something means you can walk … Read more
