Join us as we dig in for the first full season of the Maze Branch Sensory Garden. Launched last fall with local families who have kids with disabilities, the garden is completely accessible and offers programs through summer and fall. “We have a wide range of supports so anyone can come in and be comfortable … Read more
In honor of Teen Tech Week, March 3-9, explore all of the digital resources and services your public library has to offer! Teen tech titles Digital tools & programs for makers Explore your creativity with the help of technology at the library, including a 3D printer, laser cutter, scan/copy/print station, and an oversized copier … Read more
Challenging young people to challenge themselves. Educating our students outside the box. Helping them develop their own compass to navigate their way through the world. That’s what the Youth Social Justice Conference at the Main Library on Saturday, March 16, 10 am-3pm, is all about. A day of learning, exchanging ideas, growth All are invited … Read more
As an 18-month grant-funded initiative to empower youth for college and career builds to a finish at the Main Library, those involved are calling it a “community catalyst” for the way it’s sparking opportunities, strengthening relationships, and energizing young people, families, and those who work with young people. “To catalyze something means you can walk … Read more
“Some people have a tendency of underestimating young people,” said Middle School Librarian Jose Cruz. “When sometimes it’s that we’re not providing them with something that is interesting for them, so you won’t see the results.” That hasn’t been the case for the Living History Project, a grant-funded initiative that’s formed a tight-knit group of … Read more
The first time Chicago police officer Tim Crawford observed a peace circle, he was skeptical. But after a while, “I started to see—hold on—this works,” he said. “Especially with people who experience trauma on a regular basis. You’ve got to have a place to vent, to speak your truth.” Crawford (pictured far right) works with … Read more
On Wednesday, November 28, come listen to young people present what they’ve learned about civil and human rights at the Main Library, from 6:30 to 8 pm. The teens who will be speaking have been preparing for the event since May, as part of their involvement in The Living History Project. It’s a grant-funded initiative … Read more
UPDATE: This summer’s Forum Theatre Experience at the Oak Park Public Library empowers area youth, offering creative exploration around ways you and others can intervene in—and potentially reduce—bullying. To learn more about the Forum Theatre Experience, watch these videos. Notice the background? It’s a mural also being created by Teen Summer Volunteers. Stay tuned for the … Read more
Visit a Chicago-area museum The Museum Adventure Pass program provides special offers and discounts to library cardholders at unique cultural destinations throughout the Chicago area. Participating destinations include beautiful outdoor spaces such as Brookfield Zoo, Cantigny Park, and Chicago Botanic Garden, historical facilities such as Oak Park’s Pleasant Home Foundation and Naper Settlement, and kid-centric … Read more
Opting for a staycation this spring break? Join us for events and activities at your library while school is out for Oak Park Elementary School District 97 March 26-31. Browse all Kids & Families events » American Girl Mystery EventMonday, March 26, 2–3:30 pm, Dole Branch. Decipher the clues and interact with Multicultural Collection artifacts … Read more
