Where can people of diverse backgrounds come together to be engaged in the future of their communities? Libraries!
Because libraries are critical to a functioning democracy, in late 2025 we hired a Civic Literacy Librarian to deepen our commitment to this aspect of our mission.
Civic Literacy Librarian Simon Czerwinskyj (pictured above) develops programming around current civic topics and provides information relating to elections, taxes, and the functions of our local government. Through these efforts, he hopes to empower and engage the Oak Park community, inspiring civic participation.
Below, find programs, information, and resources to help you prepare for voting and more.
Get ready for the March 17 election
Are you registered to vote in the March 17 Gubernatorial Primary Election? Check your voter information and explore your library’s Civic Engagement resources hub, which includes these topics:
- Voting & elections
- Know your elected officials
- Evaluate sources of news & information
- Be a part of the political process
Join conversations on taxes, media literacy, democracy & AI
Click on each program for more information and to register.
Your Tax Bill Explained
Thursday, February 5, 6:30–7:30 pm, Main Library
Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi will be on hand to explain your 2025 tax bill and answer your questions.
Older Adult Coffee Hour
Thursday, February 6, 9:30–11 am, Main Library
Our monthly coffee hour for older adults features coffee and conversation, plus a presentation this month (starting at 10:30 am) with our Civic Literacy and Business & Government librarians.
Conversations About AI: Data Centers
Saturday, February 21, 12–1:30 pm, Main Library
Creative Technology Specialist Kay and Health & Wellness Specialist Claire will lead an informative discussion about data centers, highlighting those that are located in, or are being proposed to be built in, Illinois. We will explore the growth of data centers in recent years to facilitate the production of AI, their impact on the electrical grid and water consumption, and other community impacts.
Project 2025 and Our Democracy
Thursday, March 5, 7–8:30 pm, Main Library
Lawyer Jack Bentley will discuss Project 2025, including what measures have been implemented, and what we can do about it. Brought to you in partnership with the League of Women Voters of Oak Park and River Forest.
VIRTUAL: An Introduction to News Media Literacy
Tuesday, March 31, 7–8 pm, virtual
In this workshop, you’ll learn practical skills for assessing the credibility of information from different outlets and strategies for building a set of reliable sources you can return to regularly. Modern media is increasingly confusing, with a mix of professionally produced and user-generated content. Dr. Michael A. Spikes, of Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, will explore how this blending of sources—and AI-generated material—blurs the lines between types of content, making it harder to know what to trust.
Bonus: Read 9 steps to help spot misinformation & disinformation