In honor of Black History Month, the second annual Idea Box Black History Museum honored Black Oak Park history and the leaders who defied racial barriers to lay the foundation of this diverse, progressive village. Read more »
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Honoring Transgender Day of Remembrance
Extended: ‘Gender Is a Galaxy, Gender Is a Weapon’ This Idea Box exhibit has been extended to hold space for mourning and to honor the victims of the shooting that took place on November 19 at Club Q, an LGBTQ Nightclub in Colorado Springs. One day before Transgender Day of Remembrance, a shooter attacked Club … Read more
Meet Nora, Latinx Language & Culture Librarian
Please note: As of March 24, 2023, the library has changed its usage from “Latinx” to “Latine.” Nora is now the Latine Language & Culture Librarian. “As an organization, we are continuously learning and evolving to meet the needs expressed to us by our community,” says Manager of Community Engagement Sarah Yale. “Increasingly, we are hearing from … Read more
‘Freedom is still possible’: Artist Tia Etu on her new work for library collection
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
The Storyline returns: Summer issue out in June
After a pandemic hiatus, our library magazine is back! The summer 2022 issue of The Storyline is online now. Limited print copies will be available while they last at all library locations starting in June. The summer issue highlights what’s happening for kids, adults, and teens at the library and in the community, such as … Read more
Ramadan Around the World on display through April 30
Ramadan Mubarak! Throughout the month of Ramadan, view a beautiful collection of what brings together Muslims from different parts of the world, presented to you in collaboration with Dima Ali, community member and founder of Being Different. Every year, Muslims around the world celebrate Ramadan. Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and the holy month … Read more
The Main Library Idea Box became a dedicated space for multicultural holiday and celebration displays. The intention was to amplify voices and celebrate differences, especially by partnering with members of the community who represent different identities. See a Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) ofrenda in remembrance of those who died from COVID-19 »
Census recruiting in Oak Park: ‘A call to action’
By Guest Writer Erich Luepke UPDATE: If you would like to learn more about working for the Census, and believe you can help our community outreach efforts, please email the author of this piece at Erich.d.luepke@2020census.gov. Erich Luepke is an Oak Park resident recruiting people to apply for jobs with the 2020 Census. The opinions … Read more
Art in the library: Inspiring empathy, connection
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
‘Rich in resources when we engage’
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