News Updates for February 01-07, 2024

The month of February features two new displays in our collection space: Black History Month and Blind Date with a Book! On our red wall in the children’s area, explore titles that celebrate Black History Month with stories that feature black characters and non-fiction accounts of African-American trailblazers.

And for the adventurous reader, browse the Blind Date with a Book display. The books have been wrapped in brown paper so you can’t judge them by their covers. Your only clues are the labels, “fiction, non-fiction, adult, and young adult.” Take a chance and check out a book for your next cozy evening in! Here’s hoping it’s a match made in library-heaven.

Children’s Storytime / Thursday, February 1st, 10:00—10:30 a.m. Come to the Library for a fun story time filled with stories, songs, and silly rhymes. Recommended Ages: 0-5.

Play Group with Friends / Thursday, February 1st, 10:30—11:00 a.m. Bring your children for a playdate at the Library while you enjoy conversation with other parents and caregivers in the community. Recommended Ages: 0-5.

Chair Yoga / Thursday, February 1st, 1:30—3:00 p.m. Come to the Library to enjoy gentle, non-strenuous yoga in a group setting. All stretches performed can be adjusted to individual participants’ comfort, activity level, and accessibility needs. Recommended Ages: 19+.

Kids Take-Home Crafts / Sunday, February 4th Choose from multiple crafts to pick up at the Library and then make at home! Kits are available first come, first served while supplies last. Recommended Ages: 0-11.

Illinois Libraries Present: A Conversation with Jerry Craft (via Zoom) / Tuesday, February 6th, 7:00—8:00 p.m. Prepare to be transported into the world of New York Times bestselling author and illustrator, Jerry Craft. He will be joined in conversation by Ronnell Whitaker, a founding member of the Lit-X Teacher Cohort. Registration required.

Coffee Talk / Wednesday, February 7th, 9:00—10:00 a.m. Twice a month, seniors are welcome to visit for coffee and light refreshments in the company of other seniors in the community! This week, the League of Women Voters is discussing past and current issues in voting, getting out to vote, and how barriers to voting can be addressed. Recommended Ages: Senior.

Adult Craft N’ Chat: Homemade Valentines / Friday, February 9th, 5:30—6:30 p.m. Come to the library and design a thoughtful homemade valentine using materials like ribbon, lace, and cardstock. Limited Space. Please register by calling the Library. Recommended Ages: 19+.

The IDEA Zone / Saturday, February 10th, 1:00—3:00 p.m. Come to the Library and bring your designs to life in the IDEA Zone! We have a variety of materials, supplies, and equipment for you to use or bring your own! A signed user agreement must be completed by the time of the event. A copy of this agreement can be found on our website [HERE] or by visiting the Library. Recommended Ages: 8+. Parental supervision required.

Free Medical Screenings with IMSS / Sunday, February 11th, 12:30—2:30 p.m. The Illini Medical Screening Society will be at the Library to conduct free screenings that determine risk for obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Drop by any time to have your free screening.