Start the Week Story Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Monday, May 12th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
This story time will feature books, songs, and activities aimed at children 18 months – 4 years. Older and younger siblings are welcome to attend, but please be aware they may find activities too simple or too difficult. For additional information please contact Stormy at stormye@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3310.
Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, May 12th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Teen-Held Reading And Social Hangout. Youth in grades 9-12 meet with their peers on the second Monday of the month to discuss books and graphic novels from different genres. We’re reading American Born Chinese for May to honor Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month. Reserve a print copy at the library. Registration is not required. Space is limited to the first 10 attendees. For more information, please contact Jesus at juanb@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2450.
Friends of the Library Meeting
Time: 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, May 12th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
The public is invited to attend and observe the monthly meetings of the Friends of the DeKalb Public Library. This non-profit volunteer organization raises funds to support library programs and purchase library books and materials. Meetings are held on the second Monday of the month at 5:00 p.m. Meetings are used to plan the biannual used book sales, discuss various issues, and consider funding requests made by library staff. This meeting is open to teens and adults. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact the Friends at friends@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1030.
3D Basics for Model Railroading
Time: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Monday, May 12th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
Are you a model railroader or an aspiring model railroader? Interested in creating your own 3D models for your layout? In this program, you’ll learn how to create, scale, and print a 3D model of a house that you can add to your layout using the 3D modeling software Tinkercad. Some prior experience with using our 3D printing software is appreciated but not required. This program is for teens and adults and is first come, first served. For more information, please contact Jack Watson at jackw@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.
Book Babies
Time: 9:15 – 9:45 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, May 13th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Books are for everyone, even our littlest library patrons! Our Book Babies program is aimed at children ages 0-36 months, although older children are welcome to attend. We will sing lots of simple and interactive songs, do finger plays and rhymes, practice sign language, and read an easy book. All of these activities are great for babies’ developing brains. We hope this program gives you lots of fun ways to play with your baby during the program and at home! For more information, please contact Laura at lauraw@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Time: 9:15 – 9:45 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, May 13th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
We are excited to be offering preschool story times at the library! Aimed especially at our 3–5-year-old friends, these story times feature books, songs, and activities especially to help those growing preschool brains! Reading, singing, talking, and counting are great literacy and math activities that will help prepare kids for Kindergarten. Preschool story times are offered at the same time as our Book Babies program. Feel free to drop off your preschool child at the Preschool story time and attend Book Babies right next door with your younger one(s). For more information, please contact John at johna@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
DeKalb Township Informational Booth
Time: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, May 13th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Main Lobby
The DeKalb Township Supervisor’s office provides financial assistance to qualifying residents through two financial programs. General assistance provides temporary, needs-based assistance to individuals who are not eligible for any other state or federal assistance programs and are underemployed/unemployed or have applied for SSDI/SSI and are unable to work due to a disability. DeKalb Township also offers many free services including Notary Public, Fax Services, free access to computers and printers, etc. Please visit www.dekalbtownship.org to access their Community Resource Guide, to view Township activities, and to view other available community resources and events taking place in DeKalb. This informational booth will contain brochures related to the Supervisor’s Office Services; General and Emergency Applications and information; Employment Specialist information; and listing of upcoming Township events. This booth is free and intended for adults. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Samantha at samanthah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.
Craft Corner: Ant Hill Adventure
Time: 9:45 – 10:15 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, May 13th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Children’s Department
At Craft Corner this week, craft your very own ant hill! Using paper, glue, and crayons, design and build an ant hill while learning about ants and their habitats. This craft is intended for children. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Amanda at amandah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3301.
Book Babies
Time: 10:15 – 10:45 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, May 13th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Books are for everyone, even our littlest library patrons! Our Book Babies program is aimed at children ages 0-36 months, although older children are welcome to attend. We will sing lots of simple and interactive songs, do finger plays and rhymes, practice sign language, and read an easy book. All of these activities are great for babies’ developing brains. We hope this program gives you lots of fun ways to play with your baby during the program and at home! For more information, please contact Laura at lauraw@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Preschool Story Time
Time: 10:15 – 10:45 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, May 13th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
We are excited to be offering preschool story times at the library! Aimed especially at our 3–5-year-old friends, these story times feature books, songs, and activities especially to help those growing preschool brains! Reading, singing, talking, and counting are great literacy and math activities that will help prepare kids for Kindergarten. Preschool story times are offered at the same time as our Book Babies program. Feel free to drop off your preschool child at the Preschool story time and attend Book Babies right next door with your younger one(s). For more information, please contact John at johna@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Craft Corner: Ant Hill Adventure
Time: 10:45 – 11:15 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, May 13th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
At Craft Corner this week, craft your very own ant hill! Using paper, glue, and crayons, design and build an ant hill while learning about ants and their habitats. This craft is intended for children. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Amanda at amandah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3301.
Senior Book Club: A Woman Among Wolves
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, May 13th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Meet with us the second Tuesday of every month for a book club just for seniors. We will be discussing A Woman Among Wolves: My Journey through Forty Years of Wolf Recovery by Diane Boyd. Independent, adventurous, and brave, wolf-biologist Diane Boyd was not afraid to eschew human company to achieve her dream job of learning about the natural re-introduction of wolves to a remote section of northwest Montana years before Canadian wolves were moved into Yellowstone National Park in that iconic wildlife experiment. With her two dog companions she set about to follow one lone female wolf, Kishinena, who made her way down from Canada to pioneer a colony of her own in the state of Montana. Books will be available in the Adult Services department. Also available in Libby and Hoopla in audio & eBook form. We will obtain as many large print and audio copies as possible. This book club is intended for adults. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Kathy at kathyh@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2110.
Grief Support Group
Time: 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, May 13th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
Join others going through grief and loss and receive support in a safe and confidential setting with the facilitation from Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Lee Scott. In this ongoing grief support group, you will have the opportunity to share your experiences with grief, receive insight from peers and the facilitator on the grieving process, and learn more about grief. This group is open to adults experiencing grief from any loss, no matter where they are on this journey. This grief support group does not replace other mental health services. If you need individual counseling or other mental health services, you can contact the facilitator at (815) 397-3691 or call 211 to find support in your area. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need immediate attention for a non-life-threatening mental health need, please call 988. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911. This support group is free and intended for adults. No registration is required. To reach Licensed Clinical Social Worker Lee Scott, call (630) 557-9895. For additional information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.
Teacher in the Library
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, May 13th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, YS Study Rooms
Teacher in the Library is a free program designed to assist 3rd-6th grade students with homework help in any subject area. Parents or guardians are required to stay in the library during the session. Ms. Ager will attach a small, pre-printed note to each homework assignment letting the teacher know about the library assistance. Parents sign up in advance for a half-hour session either in person at the Youth Services desk or by calling (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350. Ms. Ager, our new ‘Teacher in the Library’ is the media specialist at Huntley Middle School. For more information, please contact Theresa at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350 or at theresaw@dkpl.org.
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, May 13th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
The short story has long been a vital part of literature and has inspired generations of writers to create written masterpieces using only a few pages. These authors have proven that some very powerful stories can fit into a relatively small space. During this program, we will look at some popular examples of the writing genre and explore creative ideas using structural analysis, vocabulary words and writing prompts. This program is free and intended for teens and adults. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Tom at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150 or thomask@dkpl.org.
All Ages Story Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, May 14th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Join us for an all-ages story time! We’ll be reading books, singing songs, blowing bubbles, and having loads of literary fun. This program is intended for children ages 0-5, although older siblings are welcome to attend if they’d like. For more information, please contact John at johna@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Craft Corner: Ant Hill Adventure
Time: 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, May 14th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Children’s Department
At Craft Corner this week, craft your very own ant hill! Using paper, glue, and crayons, design and build an ant hill while learning about ants and their habitats. This craft is intended for children. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Amanda at amandah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3301.
Pokémon Club
Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, May 14th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Each month, we will feature a different Pokémon in our “Pokémon Spotlight”. During Pokémon Club, you will discover how to be a Pokémon trainer! You will learn interesting things about your Pokémon, learn about different moves, and the evolutions. After training, stay for a colorful Pokémon craft and fun activity. In May we’ll talk about Oddish! This club is intended for ages 5-13. No registration is required. For more information, please contact Stormy at stormye@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, May 14th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Teen Room
Create a decorative piece of wall art using colorful string and nails! Choose from simple designs like a heart, star, flower, or your first initial. All supplies will be provided and no art experience is necessary. This program is intended for grades 6-12. No registration is required, but this program is first come, first served as supplies are limited. For additional information, please contact Jennifer at jenniferk@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3401.
3D Printing: Articulated & ‘Flexi’ Designs
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, May 14th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
You might be familiar with the popular 3D designs that bend and move right from the print bed. Interested in designing your own? Join us to explore how you can bring these charming designs to life. This program is intermediate level and recommended for people who already have Tinkercad experience. Depending on number of attendees and available time, your prints might be made after the program. If they are, you will receive an email or phone call when you can come pick them up. Space is limited and on a first come, first served basis. The program is open to teens and adults. For additional information, please contact Pen Novus at penn@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.
Library Board Meeting
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, May 14th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
This is the monthly meeting of the Board of Trustees. This meeting is open to the public. For additional information, please contact the library at (815) 756-9568 or reference@dkpl.org.
Play Group for Children with Special Needs
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Thursday, May 15th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Experience the freedom of a relaxed atmosphere, where there’s no need to stifle excitement or confine movement during this less structured play group. Tailored for children with special needs aged 0-5 years, this program is designed for families to engage with and meet other families without the pressure of keeping children quiet or in one place. Toys such as cars, puzzles, magna-tiles, books, and stepping stones will be incorporated, and every child may engage in activities that cater to their unique interests and abilities. While aimed at children aged 0-5, children of all ages are welcome. This program is free and open to all. Registration is not required. Parents must be present. For more information, please contact Theresa at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350 or at theresaw@dkpl.org.
Memory Café
Time: 10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
Date: Thursday, May 15th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Memory Cafés provide a safe place for those experiencing memory loss and their care partners to socialize and have fun with others in similar situations. During these informal gatherings, guests are invited to settle in with coffee, or tea, and snacks to hear about a featured free resource. Then it’s time for a “get to know you” question and singalong with a familiar song. Next, we’ll enjoy a presentation, play games, do crafts, or share photo cards to spark memories and conversation. Then we’ll close the program with another short singalong. At each Café there will be a table with free resources and giveaways, along with books to check out, and a brain-stimulating “to go” activity to take home. In May, we’ll explore tools which a gardener uses, get our hands dirty by finding the bugs in the garden, and put together our favorite garden using magnetic pieces and see where our memories take us. This program is sponsored by Care Patrol and Off the Leash Coffee Company. First time attendees please email Susan at susang@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114 and give names of care partner and guest.
Healthy Aging with Home Instead
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, May 15th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Zimmerman Meeting Room
This spring, put your health first! Home Instead will be leading three workshops on a variety of topics related to healthy aging. In May we’ll celebrate the benefits of art with a painting workshop. Home Instead DeKalb is a locally owned and operated franchise that serves DeKalb, Lee, Ogle, and parts of Kane Counties. Home Instead has been serving these counties since 2009, and since 2019 has been under the leadership of Rob and Al Mondi, a father-son team hoping to continue serving the local senior community and allowing their clients to age in place at home. These programs are free and intended for adults and seniors. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.
Time: 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, May 15th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
See your ideas made into fun peel away stickers for you and your friends! Adorn packages and envelopes or make useful labels. This workshop introduces the Cricut Design Space and Cutting Machine to new and interested users. This event is first come, first served and space is limited. It is intended for teens and adults. For additional information, please contact Anna at annas@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.
Teacher in the Library
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, May 15th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Youth Study Rooms
Teacher in the Library is a free program designed to assist 3rd-6th grade students with homework help in any subject area. Parents or guardians are required to stay in the library during the session. Ms. Ager will attach a small, pre-printed note to each homework assignment letting the teacher know about the library assistance. Parents sign up in advance for a half-hour session either in person at the Youth Services desk or by calling (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350. Ms. Ager, our new ‘Teacher in the Library’ is the media specialist at Huntley Middle School. For more information, please contact Theresa at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350 or at theresaw@dkpl.org.
Filmmaking Basics
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, May 15th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Zimmerman Meeting Room
Dreaming of a life in cinema? Learn the basics of filmmaking as we analyze shorts from the beginning of cinema to present day. Explore filmmaking techniques, learn about pre-production planning, and avoid production day traps and post-production woes. This program is intended for teens and adults. It is first come, first served as space is limited. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Patrick at patrickc@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2115.
Shake Out the Wiggles
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Friday, May 16th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Dolly Parton Imagination Library Kick-Off
Time: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Date: Saturday, May 17th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Main Lobby
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is coming to the DeKalb County, and we’re celebrating in style! Bring your little ones (ages 0-4) for a fun-filled event featuring a brief welcome followed by cupcakes, crafts, dancing, and storytelling. You can also take your picture with a Dolly Parton life-sized cardboard cutout! Parents can register their children on the spot to receive free books every month through this incredible early literacy program. Don’t miss this chance to encourage a lifelong love of reading and celebrate books together with friends and neighbors! Thank you to the Friends of the DeKalb Public Library, Lehan’s, BASICS DeKalb County, Altrusa International DeKalb County IL, and the DeKalb County Community Foundation, for sponsoring The Dolly Parton Imagination Library in DeKalb County. For additional information, please contact Theresa at theresaw@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Where Have All the Flowers Gone, the Ballad of Pete Seeger
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, May 17th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
We all remember Pete Seeger; the lanky troubadour playing his long neck, 5-string banjo and leading the world in some of our favorite folk songs. Well, Pete’s no longer here on earth, but his spirit, his commitment to a better world, and most importantly his great songs live on. This is award-winning singer/songwriter Barry Cloyd’s newest ‘edu-tainment’ program. Learn what it’s like to hitchhike across this great country with only a banjo and a song. Get to know how Seeger earned his place in musical history with iconic songs such as “If I Had A Hammer”, “Turn, Turn, Turn”, “The Sinking of the Reuben James”, and of course, “Where Have All the Flowers Gone”. This event is free and open to all. No registration is required. This program is sponsored by Gretchen and Charles Moore. For additional information, please contact Samantha at samanthah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.
Introduction to Programming: C#
Time: 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Date: Sunday, May 18th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Zimmerman Meeting Room
Have you ever wanted to learn how to code? In this program, we will introduce you to the world of computer programming by teaching you the basics of the C# language, a popular choice for building apps, games, and more. This program is intended for beginners – no experience necessary! Laptops will be provided. Space is limited and on a first come, first served basis. No registration is required. Intended for teens and adults. For additional information, please contact Emily at emilyb@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.
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