New ceramics display at Dole Branch

Glazed ceramic art figures of three people, a dog, and a cat, and a platter

The next time you’re at Dole Branch Library, come see a wonderful collection of ceramic pieces adorning the library shelves and walls. These pieces were created by participants in the Park District of Oak Park’s Active Adults ceramics class. We’ve included some photos here, but they’re really more impressive up close and in person! The … Read more

Disability Pride: ‘I really want to go big’

People pose during Disability Pride Month programs. At right, a girl holds a sign reading "Disability is not a bad word!"

When Children’s Librarian Shelley Harris was gearing up for Disability Pride Month celebrations at the library earlier this year, she kept thinking to herself: “I really want to go big. I want to go so big.” Harris spoke recently with WBEZ Chicago’s Reset about the library’s third year celebrating Disability Pride Month, which marks the … Read more

Free toiletries for youth at Main Library, thanks to partnership

Cabinet in restroom stocked with hygiene supplies and toiletries

The library is partnering with the Oak Park Township to offer free personal hygiene supplies for youth at the library. Kids and their families can help themselves to soap, shampoo and conditioner, toothbrushes and toothpaste, floss, deodorant, lotion, and menstrual products. The supplies are located inside a small latched cabinet in the wheelchair-accessible bathroom in … Read more

Librarian Shelley Harris recognized for dedication to young people

Shelley Harris holds an AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) board in the Maze Branch Community Sensory Garden

The Illinois Library Association (ILA) Youth Services Forum has awarded Children’s Librarian Shelley Harris with the 2021 Golden Ticket Award for her “outstanding local contribution” to young people through programs that “promote a love of literature and instill positive feelings about libraries.” Shelley’s “creativity, incredible work ethic, and commitment to serving young patrons and their … Read more