By Health & Wellness Specialist Claire Ong
October is Health Literacy Month, a time to recognize the importance of making health information easy to understand and the healthcare system more accessible to navigate.
Did you know that our library offers a range of resources and programs focused on health and wellness? Explore our collection of resources and find support for your health and wellness journey during Health Literacy Month and beyond.
1. Explore Consumer Health Complete
I encourage you to explore Consumer Health Complete, an online resource that covers a wide range of health and wellness topics. You can browse more than 800 medical fact sheets and pamphlets for general wellness tips, medical FAQs, and more.
While you’re exploring, check out ebooks like The Self-Care Year: Reflect and Recharge With Simple Seasonal Rituals. This book draws inspiration from the natural world, offering bite-sized self-care practices, projects, and mind and body exercises, along with tips for better sleep, yoga positions to try, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques.
2. Sign up now for health & wellness events
Oaktober & Beyond: A Tree Talk & Stroll
Friday, October 24, 4 pm, Main Library
The Oak Park Public Library and Trinity Pierce invite you to an afternoon of tree appreciation. Learn about the trees in our neighborhood, the economic, environmental, and health benefits of trees, and ways to support green spaces. Additionally, we’ll take care of our own well-being as we listen and then stroll outside in Scoville Park, home to a diverse collection of trees.
Classroom Kitchen Series With Kristyn Slick
Harvest Crisps & Casseroles: Wednesday, October 15, virtual
Fall Flavors Reimagined: Wednesday, November 19, virtual
Curious home chefs and their families can learn new cooking skills. Kristyn will guide participants and share tips and tricks.
Folk Music Performance: Jonas Friddle
Monday, November 17, 7 pm, Main Library
The health benefits of music are well known. Join us for a program featuring a folk music performance by Jonas Friddle, presented in part by the generous support of the Friends of the Oak Park Public Library.
3. Read a book
Our Collection Management Librarians have compiled a great list of titles for Health Literacy Month.
4. Try something new!
Dive into and learn about a new healthy hobby:
Start a bucket baking list: What better way to usher in the fall season than with homemade baked goods? Now is the time for madeleines, apple pie, blueberry muffins, banana bread, and cinnamon rolls. For recipes to try, check out A Good Day to Bake: Simple Baking Recipes for Every Mood.
Start a sauce library: For those looking to add some spice and flavor to their dishes or elevate a dessert, making sauces is a great way to start. Here are a few ideas to inspire you: marinara, herby cilantro-mint chutney, lemon-caper dressing, chili crisp, blueberry syrup, tahini dressing, and salsa. Find recipes and more inside The Make-Ahead Sauce Solution: Elevate Your Everyday Meals With 61 Freezer-Friendly Sauces.
Start a weekly wellness journal: Start small by dedicating at least 15 minutes each week to assess your physical and emotional well-being and identify areas for improvement and things to let go of. Whether on your computer, mobile device, or notebook, this is an empowering and invaluable form of self-care.
5. Join online programs presented by our community partner, RUSH Oak Park Hospital
Our community partner Rush Oak Park Hospital hosts Health Talks at Home, an online series of free community health programs. Respected Rush providers will share insights and tips for healthy living.
About Claire
Health and Wellness Specialist Claire believes creativity is essential to well-being. Her reading tastes vary with the seasons, and when not working through her pile of books, she is on a mission to traverse the world.