Celebrity book club round-up, January 2024

Read with the stars text with sparkling stars and a book collage above

By Collection Management Librarian Dontaná Since Oprah’s first book club pick in 1996, we have been reading as the celebrities do, falling in love with, or hating, characters with our fellow book club readers. Book clubs offer an opportunity to be in community with others, even if we’re not together in person.  Other celebrities who love … Read more

Online safety (Part 2): Fun & interactive lessons for kids & caregivers

Caregiver and kid sharing laptop

By Children’s Librarian Eileen Saam Whether playing video games, chatting with friends, watching videos, or browsing a favorite website, it’s important to keep online safety in mind. Although most of us are aware of important online safety tips, we all need helpful reminders, and kids need continual guidance to stay safe on the internet. Previously, … Read more

Library swag now on sale through January

Proceeds will support future innovations & initiatives Share and wear Oak Park library pride with your purchase of any limited-edition items—mugs, hats, scarves, T-shirts, hoodies (zippered and pullover), zippered totes, and even onesies for the 24-month and under crowd. Items are available for purchase at the Main Library now through January 31, or while supplies … Read more

Best of 2023: Kids & picture books

Best of 2023: Kids & Picture Books

Oak Park’s Best of 2023 is back! Our annual librarian-curated selection of titles features some of the titles most requested and checked out by Oak Parkers. See our kids and picture books favorites on this page or browse more using the links below. Adult fiction: General | Adult fiction: Romance, lives & relationships | Adult fiction: Mystery, thriller, sci-fi & fantasy | Adult nonfiction | Teen fiction | Teen nonfiction … Read more

Best of 2023: TV shows, movies & music

Best of 2023: Movies, music & more

Oak Park’s Best of 2023 is back! Our annual librarian-curated selection of titles features some of the titles most requested and checked out by Oak Parkers. See some of our favorite TV shows, movies, and music on this page or browse more using the links below. Adult fiction: General | Adult fiction: Romance, lives & relationships | Adult fiction: Mystery, history & sci-fi | Adult nonfiction | Teen fiction | Teen nonfiction … Read more

Just for kids: Educational & fun apps, a librarian-curated list

Child using tablet

By Children’s Librarian Eileen Saam During winter break, parents and caregivers may find themselves stressing about the amount of time that their kids are spending on a screen. While it’s surely important to set limits, time spent playing educational apps can offer kids fun and valuable learning experiences. But with so many games and apps to … Read more

Gift Guide 2023

Gift Guide 2023 text with a gold gift box wrapped in a white ribbon surrounded by glitter stars

Looking for gift ideas for this holiday season? Might we suggest a great book? Our collection management librarians have gathered some of their favorite recently published titles that are sure to engage, educate, and inspire people of all ages on your list! Adults | Teens & kids Adults: for the… Teens & kids: for the…

Tech Tips: How to use Creativebug

Creativebug logo on top of a table with a floral watercolor and painting supplies

By Health & Senior Services Librarian Rose Barnes Whether you are new to crafting or a seasoned master crafter, there is something for everyone on Creativebug.  An inspirational resource for DIY, crafters, and makers, Creativebug features more than 1,000 award-winning art and craft video classes taught by recognized design experts and artists. You can take … Read more