“Schools are a reflection of our society, so in the wake of social justice and anti-racism demonstrations, we must support our students in becoming global citizens in a diverse democracy.” —Oak Park Elementary School District 97, Anti-Racism in District 97 All Oak Park Elementary School District 97 middle school students are reading and discussing Stamped: … Read more
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
By Shelley Harris and Genevieve Grove, Children’s Librarians Can you imagine a year without your library’s summer reading program? Neither can we! That’s why we’ve put together a safe, convenient, and fun new way to participate in our classic program online, starting June 1. This summer’s virtual version is super flexible, makes it easy to … Read more
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
Oak Park cardholders now have access to on-demand virtual learning with a new library resource called Brainfuse HelpNow. HelpNow offers real-time help in skill building and test preparation. Learners of all ages can connect directly online with live, vetted tutors every day from 2 to 11 pm. Interactive tutoring & more With Brainfuse HelpNow, you … Read more
Our summer reading program is open to all kids, wherever they live. And this past summer, we were able to better share it with kids who are new to the United States and still learning English. For the first time, we translated summer reading guides into multiple languages, including Albanian, Japanese, Polish, and Vietnamese. Librarian Genevieve … Read more
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
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
