Oak Park artist Tia Etu will unveil her latest contribution to art in the library this June, when she presents her mixed-media painting The Call in a Main Library Idea Box exhibit. You can join the artist and see her work in a reception on Saturday, June 18. Juneteenth-inspired piece joins permanent art collection The … Read more
Celebrated the second Sunday each May (this year on May 8), Mother’s Day was first proposed by abolitionist and poet Julia Ward Howe. In her 1872 “Mother’s Day Proclamation,” Howe suggested that people observe Mother’s Day as a day dedicated to peace and supported the importance of coming together during challenging times. In honor of these … Read more
Observed each October, Health Literacy Month highlights the importance of making health information easy to understand. Learn more at healthliteracymonth.org » Want to take charge of your health? Your public library can help you access trusted health information through online resources, books, virtual programs, and more. Learn more about health and wellness at your library » … Read more
Over two days, restorative justice practitioners from organizations including Heartland Alliance, Catherine Cook School, and A.L.M.A. (Arts Language Music Alliance) led workshops and spoke on panels at the Main Library, sharing strategies and creating community. Read more »
We began collaborating with community partners, leading to ongoing initiatives in restorative justice, multicultural programming, and opportunities for teens in social justice, leadership, and college and career readiness.
By Christian Harris Note: A version of this post first appeared in Wednesday Journal and OakPark.com on December 7, 2021. Read the piece on OakPark.com » As a young Black man growing up in Oak Park, I was never taught that Black people lived here before the 1950s, when world-renowned chemist Percy Julian moved in. I would … Read more
By Beronica Puhr Note: A version of this post first appeared in Wednesday Journal and OakPark.com on August 3, 2021. Read the piece on OakPark.com » 2021 is the Year of the Butterfly in Oak Park Butterflies symbolize hope and renewal, and their existence is vital to the health of our planet. We all need hope and … Read more
This week, we celebrate both National Library Week (April 4-10) and National Public Health Week (April 5-11). The American Public Health Association sponsors National Public Health Week every April. The theme this year, during what it calls “the most challenging public health crisis of our lifetimes,” is Building Bridges to Better Health. National Library Week … 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
