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Kal Penn headshot-CAA speakers

VIRTUAL: Illinois Libraries Present: The Many Lives of Kal Penn

Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Virtual Program at Virtual
Program Type:
Arts & Culture, Authors & Books
Age Group:
Adults, Older Adults
Event Details:

We are thrilled to welcome Kal Penn to close out our third season. Penn is an actor, writer, producer, and former Associate Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement....

Virtual Event
Library Branch: Virtual
Room: Virtual Program
Age Group: Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Arts & Culture, Authors & Books
Event Details:

We are thrilled to welcome Kal Penn to close out our third season. Penn is an actor, writer, producer, and former Associate Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement.

Disclaimer(s)

Illinois Libraries Present Virtual Program

After you register (using the registration link above), you will receive an email with a specific Zoom link to join the event.

By registering, you agree to library policy and understand that no conduct is permitted that may reasonably be expected to create a disturbance or otherwise interfere with the safe use and enjoyment of the library and program by others. All times are listed in Central time.

This event is made possible by Illinois Libraries Present, a statewide collaboration among 200+ public libraries—including Oak Park Public Library—offering premier events for participating member libraries of all sizes and budgets. Funded in part by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a Department of the Office for the Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).

Illinois Libraries Present is committed to inclusion and accessibility. To request accommodations, please email illinoislibrariespresent@gmail.com.

No Gods No Monsters Book Cover

Otherworldly Reads Book Discussion: "No Gods, No Monsters"

Thursday, May 9, 2024 at 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Small Meeting Room at Main Library
Program Type:
Authors & Books
Age Group:
Adults, Older Adults
Otherworldly Reads:

In Otherworldly Reads, you can enjoy a bimonthly book discussion where we alternate between science fiction and fantasy literature. Learn more about library-led book discussio...

Event Details:

Cadwell Turnbull's No Gods, No Monsters is the first book in the Convergence Saga series. One October morning, Laina gets the news that her brother was shot and killed by...

Register now
Required
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Small Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Authors & Books
Required
Seats Remaining: 30

Otherworldly Reads

In Otherworldly Reads, you can enjoy a bimonthly book discussion where we alternate between science fiction and fantasy literature. Learn more about library-led book discussions »

Event Details:

Cadwell Turnbull's No Gods, No Monsters&n

Open notebook with pens

VIRTUAL: Writers' Word Feast

Friday, May 10, 2024 at 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Virtual Program at Virtual
Program Type:
Arts & Culture, Authors & Books
Age Group:
High School, Adults, Older Adults
Writers' Word Feast:

Bring your words and words yet to be written to this writers' group for writers of all types and genre. Each writer will get a chance to read their story, poem, or novel chapter an...

Register now
Required
Virtual Event
Library Branch: Virtual
Room: Virtual Program
Age Group: High School, Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Arts & Culture, Authors & Books
Required
Seats Remaining: Unlimited

Writers' Word Feast

Bring your words and words yet to be written to this writers' group for writers of all types and genre. Each writer will get a chance to read their story, poem, or novel chapter and receive feedback from the group. Then we will spend some time writing!

Disclaimer(s)

Virtual Program

After you register (below), you will receive an email with a specific Zoom link to join the event.

By registering, you agree to library policy and understand that no conduct is permitted that may reasonably be expected to create a disturbance or otherwise interfere with the safe use and enjoyment of the library and program by others. All times are listed in Central time.

Book cover

Author Talk: 'The Takeout 25 Effect: Mobilizing Community for Positive Change'

Monday, May 13, 2024 at 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Veterans Room at Main Library
Program Type:
Authors & Books
Age Group:
Adults, Older Adults
Event Details:

The Takeout 25 Effect is an inspiring account of a community-driven initiative with lasting impact. Formed in Chicago’s western suburbs during the global pandemic, Takeout 25 aimed...

Register now
Required
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Veterans Room
Age Group: Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Authors & Books
Required
Seats Remaining: 100
Event Details:

The Takeout 25 Effect is an inspiring account of a community-driven initiative with lasting impact.

Family Lore

Latine Author Book Cafe: "Family Lore"

Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Small Meeting Room at Main Library
Program Type:
Arts & Culture, Authors & Books, Equity & Anti-Racism
Age Group:
Adults, Older Adults
Latine Author Book Cafe:

Join us on the second Tuesday of each month as we discuss works written by Latine authors.* Spanish language copies will be made available when possible. Learn more about libr...

Event Details:

NATIONAL BESTSELLER A GOOD MORNING AMERICA BOOK CLUB PICK! Winner of the NAACP Image Award, Outstanding Literary Work, Fiction Shortlisted for The Center for Fic...

Register now
Required
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Small Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Arts & Culture, Authors & Books, Equity & Anti-Racism
Required
Seats Remaining: 26

Latine Author Book Cafe

Join us on the second Tuesday of each month as we discuss works written by Latine authors.* Spanish language copies will be made available when possible. Learn more about library-led book discussions »

*After discussion with community members and staff, the library changed its usage from “Latinx” to “Latine.” Latine is a term created by LGBTQIA+ Spanish speakers. This term uses the letter "e" to illustrate gender inclusivity within existing Spanish pronunciation rules. It is a more inclusive term that acknowledges the gender and language diversity of the community.

Event Details:

NATIONAL BESTSELLER

A GOOD MORNING AMERICA BOOK CLUB PICK!

Winner of the NAACP Image Award, Outstanding Literary Work, Fiction

Legends & Lattes Bookcover

Words on Wednesday: "Legends & Lattes"

Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Small Meeting Room at Main Library
Program Type:
Authors & Books
Age Group:
Adults, Older Adults
Words on Wednesday:

Expect stimulating conversation about fiction and nonfiction titles selected by Adult Services Librarians. Learn more about library-led book discussions »

Event Details:

The much-beloved BookTok sensation from Travis Baldree, Legends & Lattes is a novel of high fantasy and low stakes. Come take a load off at Viv's cafe, the first and only coffe...

Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Small Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Authors & Books

Words on Wednesday

Expect stimulating conversation about fiction and nonfiction titles selected by Adult Services Librarians. Learn more about library-led book discussions »

Event Details:

The much-beloved BookTok sensation from Travis Baldree,

Jor-El

VIRTUAL: Author Talk: Self-Care for Black Men With Jor-El Caraballo

Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at 6:30pm - 7:45pm
Virtual Program at Virtual
Program Type:
Authors & Books, Equity & Anti-Racism, Health & Wellness
Age Group:
Adults, Older Adults
Event Details:

Oak Park Public Library presents Jor-El Caraballo in conversation on his book, Self-Care for Black Men: 100 Ways to Heal and Liberate. A self-care guidebook full of activ...

Register now
Required
Virtual Event
Library Branch: Virtual
Room: Virtual Program
Age Group: Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Authors & Books, Equity & Anti-Racism, Health & Wellness
Required
Seats Remaining: Unlimited
Event Details:

Oak Park Public Library presents Jor-El Caraballo in conversation on his book, Self-Care for Black Men: 1

Disclaimer(s)

Virtual Program

After you register (below), you will receive an email with a specific Zoom link to join the event.

By registering, you agree to library policy and understand that no conduct is permitted that may reasonably be expected to create a disturbance or otherwise interfere with the safe use and enjoyment of the library and program by others. All times are listed in Central time.

Idea Box: Jewish American Heritage Month

All Day 5/16 - 5/31
Idea Box at Main Library
Program Type:
Arts & Culture, Authors & Books, Equity & Anti-Racism, Kids & Families, Multicultural
Age Group:
Babies & Toddlers, Preschool, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Adults, Older Adults
Event Details:

This May, local Jewish community members and organizations join together to curate the Idea Box in celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month. The space will feature realia, pho...

Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Idea Box
Age Group: Babies & Toddlers, Preschool, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Arts & Culture, Authors & Books, Equity & Anti-Racism, Kids & Families, Multicultural
Event Details:

This May, local Jewish community members and organizations join together to curate the Idea Box in celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month.

Jewish American Heritage Month Celebration

Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Veterans Room at Main Library
Program Type:
Arts & Culture, Authors & Books, Equity & Anti-Racism, Multicultural
Age Group:
Babies & Toddlers, Preschool, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Adults, Older Adults
Event Details:

Join local Jewish community members, and organizations in the Oak Park Public Library to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month. The Veterans Room will feature history, biographi...

Register now
Required
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Veterans Room
Age Group: Babies & Toddlers, Preschool, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Arts & Culture, Authors & Books, Equity & Anti-Racism, Multicultural
Required
Seats Remaining: 150
Event Details:

Join local Jewish community members, and organizations in the Oak Park Public Library to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month. The Veterans Room will feature history, biographies, food, games, culture, and much more.

Library closed; log in at oppl.org

All Day
Main Library, Maze Branch Library, Dole Branch Library, Virtual, Offsite

Scheduled library closing See all closings » Review regular library hours by location » Unexpected, emergency closings are posted on this website and at the Eme...

Closing
Branches:
Main Library, Maze Branch Library, Dole Branch Library, Virtual, Offsite
Description:

Scheduled library closing

The Overstory Book Cover

Earth Lounge: An Environmental Book Discussion: "The Overstory"

Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Small Meeting Room at Main Library
Program Type:
Authors & Books, Sustainability
Age Group:
Adults, Older Adults
Event Details:

Explore the curiosities and complexities of nature, environmentalism, and sustainability through fiction and nonfiction literature in the Earth Lounge Environmental Book Discussion...

Register now
Required
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Small Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Authors & Books, Sustainability
Required
Seats Remaining: 25
Event Details:

Explore the curiosities and complexities of nature, environmentalism, and sustainability through fiction and nonfiction literature in the Earth Lounge Environmental Book Discussion Group, held on Wednesdays in the later half of the month ever

JR

Author Visit: "Ringmaster:" A Conversation With Abraham Josephine Riesman

Thursday, May 30, 2024 at 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Veterans Room at Main Library
Program Type:
Authors & Books
Age Group:
Adults, Older Adults
Event Details:

Join us for a lively evening with Oak Park native and New York Times bestselling author, Abraham Josephine Riseman and moderated by Michael Allen Rose. They’ll discuss Ri...

Register now
Required
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Veterans Room
Age Group: Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Authors & Books
Required
Seats Remaining: 77
Event Details:

Join us for a lively evening with Oak Park native and New York Times bestselling author, Abraham Josephine Riseman and moderated by Michael Allen Rose. They’ll discuss Riseman's book,

Temple Grandin headshot

VIRTUAL: Illinois Libraries Present: The Hidden Gifts of Visual Thinkers With Dr. Temple Grandin

Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Virtual Program at Virtual
Program Type:
Arts & Culture, Authors & Books
Age Group:
High School, Adults, Older Adults
Event Details:

Join us on Zoom for a special event with Dr. Grandin, one of the world’s most accomplished and well-known adults with autism. Dr. Grandin has been at the forefront of research and ...

Virtual Event
Library Branch: Virtual
Room: Virtual Program
Age Group: High School, Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Arts & Culture, Authors & Books
Event Details:

Join us on Zoom for a special event with Dr. Grandin, one of the world’s most accomplished and well-known adults with autism. Dr.

Disclaimer(s)

Illinois Libraries Present Virtual Program

After you register (using the registration link above), you will receive an email with a specific Zoom link to join the event.

By registering, you agree to library policy and understand that no conduct is permitted that may reasonably be expected to create a disturbance or otherwise interfere with the safe use and enjoyment of the library and program by others. All times are listed in Central time.

This event is made possible by Illinois Libraries Present, a statewide collaboration among 200+ public libraries—including Oak Park Public Library—offering premier events for participating member libraries of all sizes and budgets. Funded in part by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a Department of the Office for the Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).

Illinois Libraries Present is committed to inclusion and accessibility. To request accommodations, please email illinoislibrariespresent@gmail.com.

Creative Studio logo

Digital Zines & Chapbooks: A Self-Publishing Workshop

Thursday, June 13, 2024 at 11:00am - 12:30pm
Creative Studio at Main Library
Program Type:
Arts & Culture, Authors & Books, Digital Learning, Equity & Anti-Racism
Age Group:
Middle School, High School, Adults, Older Adults
Event Details:

Do you have something to say, but don't know how to say it? Have you ever wanted to make your own book to let people see your creativity, or digest your thoughts? This workshop wil...

Register now
Required
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Creative Studio
Age Group: Middle School, High School, Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Arts & Culture, Authors & Books, Digital Learning, Equity & Anti-Racism
Required
Seats Remaining: 9
Event Details:

Do you have something to say, but don't know how to say it? Have you ever wanted to make your own book to let people see your creativity, or digest your thoughts?

Open notebook with pens

VIRTUAL: Writers' Word Feast

Friday, June 14, 2024 at 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Virtual Program at Virtual
Program Type:
Arts & Culture, Authors & Books
Age Group:
High School, Adults, Older Adults
Writers' Word Feast:

Bring your words and words yet to be written to this writers' group for writers of all types and genre. Each writer will get a chance to read their story, poem, or novel chapter an...

Register now
Required
Virtual Event
Library Branch: Virtual
Room: Virtual Program
Age Group: High School, Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Arts & Culture, Authors & Books
Required
Seats Remaining: Unlimited

Writers' Word Feast

Bring your words and words yet to be written to this writers' group for writers of all types and genre. Each writer will get a chance to read their story, poem, or novel chapter and receive feedback from the group. Then we will spend some time writing!

Disclaimer(s)

Virtual Program

After you register (below), you will receive an email with a specific Zoom link to join the event.

By registering, you agree to library policy and understand that no conduct is permitted that may reasonably be expected to create a disturbance or otherwise interfere with the safe use and enjoyment of the library and program by others. All times are listed in Central time.

Raquel MacKay Story and Craft

Saturday, June 15, 2024 at 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Storytime Room at Main Library
Program Type:
Authors & Books, Kids & Families, Storytimes
Age Group:
Preschool
Event Details:

"I Hear a Búho" is a rhyming story with text in both English and Spanish, which encompasses language, the parent-child bond, nature, and the benefit of being still and listening. I...

Register now
Required
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Storytime Room
Age Group: Preschool
Program Type: Authors & Books, Kids & Families, Storytimes
Required
Seats Remaining: Unlimited
Event Details:

"I Hear a Búho" is a rhyming story with text in both English and Spanish, which encompasses language, the parent-child bond, nature, and the benefit of being still and listening.

Disclaimer(s)

Masks Encouraged

Masks for everyone age 2+ are encouraged while attending this program.

Gloria Monaghan

Author Visit: Gloria Monaghan & "Cormorant on the Strand"

Saturday, June 15, 2024 at 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Small Meeting Room at Main Library
Program Type:
Authors & Books
Age Group:
Adults, Older Adults
Event Details:

Join us to hear from author Gloria Monaghan as she discusses her title Cormorant on the Strand. About the author Gloria Monaghan is a Professor at Wentworth University. She has...

Register now
Required
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Small Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Authors & Books
Required
Seats Remaining: 27
Event Details:

Join us to hear from author Gloria Monaghan as she discusses her title

Idea Box: Pride

Idea Box: LGBTQ+ Pride Month

All Day 6/16 - 6/30
Idea Box at Main Library
Program Type:
Arts & Culture, Authors & Books, Equity & Anti-Racism
Age Group:
Babies & Toddlers, Preschool, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Adults, Older Adults
Event Details:

Happy Pride! View a special display honoring Pride month in the Idea Box. Checkout our flags and learn what each on means, we'll also have book recommendations that celebrate ...

Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Idea Box
Age Group: Babies & Toddlers, Preschool, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Arts & Culture, Authors & Books, Equity & Anti-Racism
Event Details:

Happy Pride! View a special display honoring Pride month in the Idea Box. Checkout our flags and learn what each on means, we'll also have book recommendations that celebrate LGBTQ+ history.

Love on the Page

Love on the Page Book Discussion: "Fangirl Down"

Monday, June 17, 2024 at 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Small Meeting Room at Main Library
Program Type:
Authors & Books
Age Group:
Adults, Older Adults
Love on the Page Book Discussion:

Join us as we meet every other month to discuss romance books and subgenres—like romantic fantasy, historical romance, contemporary romance, and more. Learn more about library-led ...

Event Details:

This month we will be discussing Fangirl Down by Tessa Bailey A super sexy sports rom-com about a bad boy professional athlete who falls for his biggest fan... Wells Whi...

Register now
Required
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Small Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Authors & Books
Required
Seats Remaining: 25

Love on the Page Book Discussion

Join us as we meet every other month to discuss romance books and subgenres—like romantic fantasy, historical romance, contemporary romance, and more. Learn more about library-led book discussions »

Event Details:

This month we will be discussing Fangirl Down&nbsp

Library closed; log in at oppl.org

All Day
Main Library, Maze Branch Library, Dole Branch Library, Virtual, Offsite

Scheduled library closing See all closings » Review regular library hours by location » Unexpected, emergency closings are posted on this website and at the Eme...

Closing
Branches:
Main Library, Maze Branch Library, Dole Branch Library, Virtual, Offsite
Description:

Scheduled library closing

Crime & coffee icon featuring a travel coffee cup with the shadow of a hand holding a knife behind

Crime & Coffee: The Icepick Surgeon: Murder, Fraud, Sabotage, Piracy, and other Dastardly Deeds Perpetrated in the Name of Science by Sam Kean

Saturday, June 22, 2024 at 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Scoville Room at Main Library
Program Type:
Arts & Culture, Authors & Books
Age Group:
Adults, Older Adults
Crime & Coffee:

Talk history and crime with fellow true crime lovers over a hot cup of coffee. Each month, participants will be presented with a true-crime case to discuss as a group. Expect ...

Register now
Required
Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Scoville Room
Age Group: Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Arts & Culture, Authors & Books
Required
Seats Remaining: Unlimited

Crime & Coffee

Talk history and crime with fellow true crime lovers over a hot cup of coffee. Each month, participants will be presented with a true-crime case to discuss as a group. Expect multiple points of access to each case, from books, ebooks, and audiobooks to true crime podcasts, documentaries, and more. Then join library staff for coffee and snacks as we discuss the details. Whether you like to read, listen, or watch—or all of the above!—there's an option for everyone. Learn more about library-led book discussions »

Enchantment Cover

Words on Wednesday: "Enchantment"

Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Small Meeting Room at Main Library
Program Type:
Authors & Books
Age Group:
Adults, Older Adults
Event Details:

From the New York Times bestselling author of Wintering comes Enchantment: Awakening Wonder in an Anxious Age. Many of us feel trapped in a grind of constant change: rolling news c...

Library Branch: Main Library
Room: Small Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Authors & Books
Event Details:

From the New York Times bestselling author of Wintering comes

Library closed; log in at oppl.org

All Day
Main Library, Maze Branch Library, Dole Branch Library, Virtual, Offsite

Scheduled library closing See all closings » Review regular library hours by location » Unexpected, emergency closings are posted on this website and at the Eme...

Closing
Branches:
Main Library, Maze Branch Library, Dole Branch Library, Virtual, Offsite
Description:

Scheduled library closing

Friends of the Oak Park Public Library logo alongside a graphic of a book

Annual Book Fair

Friday, July 12, 2024 at 9:00am - 5:30pm
Main Library
Program Type:
Arts & Culture, Authors & Books, Friends Board, Sustainability
Age Group:
Babies & Toddlers, Preschool, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Adults, Older Adults
Friends of the Oak Park Public Library:

As a separate 501c3 nonprofit organization, the Friends of the Oak Park Public Library have raised funds and built valuable bridges between the library and community since 1948. Le...

Event Details:

The Friends of the Oak Park Public Library Book Fair returns to the Main Library. Underground garage parking (with the first two hours free) and elevator access are avail...

Library Branch: Main Library
Age Group: Babies & Toddlers, Preschool, Elementary School, Middle School, High School, Adults, Older Adults
Program Type: Arts & Culture, Authors & Books, Friends Board, Sustainability

Friends of the Oak Park Public Library

As a separate 501c3 nonprofit organization, the Friends of the Oak Park Public Library have raised funds and built valuable bridges between the library and community since 1948. Learn more, join the Friends at oppl.org/friends »

Event Details:

The Friends of the Oak Park Public Library Book Fair returns to the Main Library. Underground garage parking (with the first two hours free) and elevator access are available. Hours are: