December has started at the DeKalb Public Library, and there’s a whole host of events for you to enjoy! Don’t miss out on the first week’s events below!
Social Work Office Hours
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, December 4th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Adult Study Room
In partnership with University of Michigan, a social work intern will be on site at the library to offer confidential consultations and referrals to resources in the community. Sessions may include making phone calls and conducting basic internet searches to assist our patrons in accessing the appropriate resources and finding out how to obtain them. The student intern’s services do not provide medical advice, counseling, or psychiatric care. Areas of referral include housing, food, signing up for benefits, accessing mental health care, childcare, job help, and more. A mobile “mini-pantry” of nonperishable food items and personal care items like toiletries and menstrual products will be available for free during these open office hours. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Hayley at hayleyd@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1211.
Sound Studio Introduction and Training
Time: 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, December 4th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Sound Studio
Explore podcasting, music creation, video production, and more! After a brief training, attendees will be able to begin hands-on experience with multimedia programs. Once training is complete you will be authorized to book the Sound Studio for private or 1-on-1 sessions at your convenience. This introductory training class is open to ages 12 and up. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Anthony at anthonys@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2115.
Knit & Crochet Circle
Time: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Monday, December 4th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Zimmerman Meeting Room
Whether you’re a veteran yarn worker or someone who wants to learn the craft, everyone is welcome! Bring a project to work on, or simply show up and learn. Enjoy time together with fellow crafters as we exchange patterns and ideas. This free program is intended for teens and adults. No registration is required. For more information, please contact Colleen at cowzroc@gmail.com.
Spine Crackers Book Club: Marshmallow & Jordan
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, December 4th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Join the Spine Crackers Book Club to discuss Marshmallow & Jordan by Alina Chau. This book club is intended for students in grades 3-6. No registration is required. Any questions can be directed to Jen at jenniferm@dkpl.org or the youth department at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Book Babies
Time: 9:30 – 10:00 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, December 5th
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 0-18 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 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: 9:30 – 10:00 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, December 5th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Children’s Department
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 specially to help those growing preschool brains! Reading, singing, talking, and counting are great literacy and math activities that will help prepare kids for kindergarten. Tuesday preschool story times at 10:30 a.m. 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: Polar Bear Puppet
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, December 5th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
At Craft Corner this week, create an adorable polar bear puppet that you can use to entertain yourself and others. Have fun bringing your puppet to life and creating your own Arctic adventures! 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. 3350.
Community Coffee Talk
Time: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, December 5th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Need a little help waking up? Join us for some coffee and conversation every Wednesday morning. Regular coffee, decaf coffee, and tea will be available. This program is intended for adults. No registration is required. For more information, please contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9578 ext. 2100. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the DeKalb Public Library.
Grief Support Group
Time: 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, December 5th
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 a ProMedica Hospice Bereavement Coordinator. 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 support group is free. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Samantha at samanthah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.
Social Work Office Hours
Time: 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, December 5th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
In partnership with University of Michigan, a social work intern will be on site at the library to offer confidential consultations and referrals to resources in the community. Sessions may include making phone calls and conducting basic internet searches to assist our patrons in accessing the appropriate resources and finding out how to obtain them. The student intern’s services do not provide medical advice, counseling, or psychiatric care. Areas of referral include housing, food, signing up for benefits, accessing mental health care, childcare, job help, and more. A mobile “mini-pantry” of nonperishable food items and personal care items like toiletries and menstrual products will be available for free during these open office hours. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Hayley at hayleyd@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1211.
Anime-Manga Club for Teens
Time: 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, December 5th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
Join us to discuss anime and manga, play some games, and of course, watch anime! Teens and tweens are invited to join the Anime-Manga Club for veteran otaku or newbie weaboos. This program is intended for teens, ages 13-17. It is first come, first served as space is limited. For additional information, please contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3400.
Find Balance with Tai Chi
Time: 6:00 – 6:45 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, December 5th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Join us every first Tuesday of the month to learn about and practice Tai Chi. Tai Chi is one of the most beneficial exercises to increase immunity, flexibility, strength and reduce stress. This class will include step by step instructions taught by Erica Bough, 4th degree black belt in the Martial Arts and certified Tai Chi instructor. This program is free and does not require registration. Space is limited and spots are first come, first served. Intended for teens and adults. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. For more information, please contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2100.
All Ages Story Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, December 6th
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: Polar Bear Puppet
Time: 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, December 6th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
At Craft Corner this week, create an adorable polar bear puppet that you can use to entertain yourself and others. Have fun bringing your puppet to life and creating your own Arctic adventures! 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. 3350.
Art Attack: Festive Light Creations
Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, December 6th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Exercise your creativity with more complex crafts and art projects! In these programs, we will be using skills beyond the cutting, gluing, and coloring that we do during Craft Corner. All materials will be provided but will not be pre-prepped. This week, immerse yourself in the holiday spirit while crafting two delightful and luminous projects: a festive lights paper garland and chalk stencil art. This program is first come, first served as supplies are limited. For more information, please contact Amanda at amandah@dkpl.org or (815)-756-9568 ext. 3301.
Adult Chess Club
Time: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, December 6th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
Chess enthusiasts of all skill levels are invited to the Adult Chess Club. Whether you are an experienced player wanting to be challenged or a complete beginner looking for advice, come join us in playing one of the most iconic strategy games of all time. No prior experience necessary, chess sets are provided on a first come, first serve basis. This club is intended for adults only. If you have any questions, please contact Matthew at matthews@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.
Adult Coloring
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, December 6th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
A time to relax and unwind and enjoy creative freedom while coloring in adult coloring books! Coloring books, colored pencils, gel pens, and markers will be provided. This program is free and intended for adults. No registration is required. It is first come, first served while supplies last. For more information, please contact Beth at elizabethh@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 2110.
PS4 Sports Tournament
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, December 6th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Teen Room
Test your PS4 skills against your peers in this exciting gaming tournament! PS4 games played during tournaments include Madden 23, NBA2023, and MLB The Show: 2022. The winner will receive a candy prize. All players can enjoy pizza from Vinny’s. Sign up at the door to be included in the tournament, as only 16 spots are available. Intended for teens in grades 6-12. This event is sponsored by Vinny’s Pizza in DeKalb. For more information or help with registration, please contact YooNek Shaw at yooneks@dkpl.org, or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2450.
Play & Learn with 4-C
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Thursday, December 7th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity
Join 4-C in an opportunity to immerse children in language & music! Bond with your infant or toddler in this program that supports language development, early literacy, listening skills & concentration, and fine & gross motor skills through songs, rhymes, and parent-child interactions. This event is free and open to all on the 1st and 2nd Thursday of each month. It is intended for ages 0-5 and requires no registration. For more information, please contact Theresa at theresaw@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Cricut Cutting: Holiday Gift Tags
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.
Date: Thursday, December 7th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
This class introduces the Cricut Cutter to new and interested users. We will make unique, personalized Holiday Gift Tags, including Secret Santa hidden name pull-tabs in fun shapes. The event is first come, first served as space is limited. It is intended for teens and adults. For additional information, please contact the Tech Desk at techdesk@dkpl.org or 815-756-9568 ext. 2851.
English Conversation Club
Time: 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, December 7th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Are you looking for a relaxing way to practice speaking English? Come to English Conversation Club! Sip hot chocolate and have fun using English in a low-pressure environment. This group is open to speakers of all languages, and at all levels of English proficiency. It is intended for teens and adults, though children are welcome to attend with a parent or guardian. For more information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or call (815)-756-9568 ext. 1700.
Le Baratin: French Conversation
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, December 7th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Dr. Greg Ross, former coordinator of The Foreign Language Residence Program at Northern Illinois University would like to cordially invite you to Le Baratin. Come speak French with members of the surrounding francophone community and enjoy the convivial atmosphere of the library. Anyone who speaks French is welcomed! A Bientôt! This program is free and open to all; no registration is required. For additional information, please contact Samantha at samanthah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.
Cozy Woven Coaster
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Thursday, December 7th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Zimmerman Meeting Room
When you bundle up this winter with a hot beverage, make it extra cozy with woven coaster for your desk or nightstand! All supplies will be provided. A ruler and loom are yours to keep so you can make additional coasters for your home, or as gifts for your friends and family. This craft workshop is for ages 13 and up and is first come, first served as supplies are limited. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114.
Plant Adopt or Swap
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, December 7th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Looking to add a new plant or two to your home? Stop by our Plant Adopt or Swap Program, sponsored by Willrett Flower Company. Participants can bring in a plant or plant cutting and swap it for a new plant. If you don’t have any plants to swap, you can still stop by and adopt a new plant. There will be a designated plant swap area for those who would like to trade plants with other plant enthusiasts. There will also be a designated plant adoption area for plants that are available for anyone to take. Houseplants of all kinds are welcome, but please only bring pots that you are willing to part with. This is a perfect opportunity to divide those overgrown houseplants and share tips with other plant lovers. No registration is required for this program. It is intended for adults. For additional information, please contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2100.
Toddler Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Friday, December 8th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Toddlers are at a great age to have fun reading and learning together! Toddlers soak up information from the world around them, and we expand their learning by reading, singing, and talking together. Toddler Time will feature books, songs, and activities especially aimed at children 18 months-36 months. Of course, older and younger siblings are welcome to attend, but please be aware they may find activities too simple or difficult. For more information, please contact John at johna@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
DIY Workshop: Holiday Gnomes
Time: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Date: Friday, December 8th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Ready to get crafty? Patrons will be provided with all materials to create a plush gnome and decorate it to their own style! This program is first come, first served as materials will be limited. It is intended for adults. For additional information, please contact Grace at graces@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2110.
Read to Rover
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Date: Friday, December 8th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Children’s Department
Collie Emma loves to hear stories and spend time with kids! Emma, a Canine Good Citizen, will visit the library the listen to kids read. Children may register at the Youth Reference Desk for a 10-minute time slot to read to the dog. For more information or to register, please call (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350 or ask at the Youth Services Desk.
Illuminate Your Creativity: Candle Making 101
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Date: Friday, December 8th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
Prepare to embark on a journey that will ignite your imagination and illuminate your creativity! Welcome to the “Illuminate Your Creativity: Candle Making 101,” where you’ll discover the mesmerizing art of crafting your very own candles. You will have the chance to decorate the holder your candle will be poured in. Those interested in the process will get to learn how to melt the wax and add dye. All supplies will be provided. Depending on the number of attendees and available time, your candles may need additional time to finish curing. If they do, 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. Intended for adults. For additional information, please contact Pen Novus at penn@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.
JOY Volunteers: Decorate Christmas Cards
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Date: Friday, December 8th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Volunteer to help make holiday themed cards that will be donated to nursing homes and Meals on Wheels! This program is sponsored by JOY Volunteers. JOY, Jackson’s Outstanding Young Volunteers, is a youth-led volunteer group in DeKalb County. Registration is not required. This program is for ages 6-14. For more information, please contact Steven at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3400 or at stevenm@dkpl.org.
Visit with Santa’s Helper Elf
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 a.m.
Date: Saturday, December 9th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Meet Santa’s Helper Elf! Enjoy caroling and an interactive story with one of Santa’s elves. Then make holiday crafts, write and mail a letter to Santa, eat a candy cane, and more, while you wait your turn for a one-on-one visit with the Elf, and get a free Autographed Keepsake Photo of your little ones with the Elf, taken and printed on the spot! This program is free and open to all. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Theresa at theresaw@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Peppermint Salt Scrub Workshop
Time: 11:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Date: Saturday, December 9th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Zimmerman Meeting Room
There are a multitude of health benefits when it comes to using a salt scrub, including (but not limited to) exfoliating, detoxing, and giving skin a lovely glow. In this workshop, patrons will be able to make a fragrant salt scrub! This easy recipe is perfect for the holiday season. Patrons will be able to enjoy the salt scrub themselves or make a wonderful gift for a loved one. This program is first come, first served. There are a limited number of seats available. It is intended for adults. If you have any questions, please contact Grace at graces@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 2110.
Creative Gaming: 1,000 Blank White Cards
Time: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, December 9th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
What kind of game is 1000 Blank White Cards? Any game you want it to be! Instead of starting with premade cards and rules, 1000 Blank White Cards starts off with just that. It is up to the players to undergo a cycle of card-making and playtesting to create and refine a card game that is fun for all. This program is intended for adults and teens age 16+. All materials will be provided, and no registration is required. If you have any questions, please contact Matthew at matthews@dkpl.org or call (815)756-9568 ext. 2150.
Social Work Office Hours
Time: 1:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, December 9th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Adult Study Room
In partnership with University of Michigan, a social work intern will be on site at the library to offer confidential consultations and referrals to resources in the community. Sessions may include making phone calls and conducting basic internet searches to assist our patrons in accessing the appropriate resources and finding out how to obtain them. The student intern’s services do not provide medical advice, counseling, or psychiatric care. Areas of referral include housing, food, signing up for benefits, accessing mental health care, childcare, job help, and more. A mobile “mini-pantry” of nonperishable food items and personal care items like toiletries and menstrual products will be available for free during these open office hours. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Hayley at hayleyd@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1211.
Watercolor Art Workshop
Time: 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, December 9th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Zimmerman Meeting Room
In this informative art workshop, you will learn a variety of watercolor painting techniques and create a finished painting to take home. Feel free to bring an image to work from or paint from your imagination. All materials will be provided, and no prior experience is necessary! This program is intended for teens. It is first come, first served as supplies are limited. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Jennifer at jenniferk@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3401.
Sunday Cinema: Elf (PG)
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Date: Sunday, December 10th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Holiday spirit calls for holiday movies! Escape the chill in the air with warm popcorn and the warm glow of the screen. This week, our film will be Elf (PG). This event is free and open to all ages. No registration is required. It is sponsored by the Friends of the DeKalb Public Library. For additional information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.
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