Start the Week Story Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Monday, October 6
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.
Photo Editing: Spooky Effects
Time: 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, October 6
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
Alter portraits with spooky effects and tools in the free online photo editor SumoPaint. Explore a variety of ways to turn an ordinary photo into a nightmarish visual, just in time for Halloween! All materials will be provided. This program is intended for teens and adults. It is first come, first served as space is limited. For additional information, please contact Patrick at patrickc@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2115.
Board Game Night
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Monday, October 6
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Enjoy an evening of casual conversation over classic board games, including chess, checkers, Scrabble, Pictionary, Jenga, Monopoly, and more. Play something familiar or learn something new! Games will be provided, though attendees are welcome to bring their own. No registration is required. This program is intended for adults. For additional information, please contact Emily at emilyb@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.
Spine Crackers Graphic Novel Book Club: Witches of Brooklyn
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, October 6
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Love comics, adventure, and awesome artwork? Join the Spine Crackers Graphic Novel Book Club just for tweens! Each month, we’ll read a cool graphic novel full of exciting stories and unforgettable characters—then meet to chat about the book. Pick up the book in the youth services department and drop in on the meet up date. Perfect for ages 8-12 who enjoy reading with a splash of art! No registration required. For additional information, please contact Jen at jenniferm@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Book Babies
Time: 9:15 – 9:45 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, October 7
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, October 7
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.
Time: 9:45 – 10:15 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, October 7
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
After story time, young children can get creative and make a simple craft that ties into the week’s theme! This program features a different project every week and plenty of opportunity for little hands to explore, imagine, and create. 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, October 7
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, October 7
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.
Time: 10:45 – 11:15 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, October 7
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
After story time, young children can get creative and make a simple craft that ties into the week’s theme! This program features a different project every week and plenty of opportunity for little hands to explore, imagine, and create. For additional information, please contact Amanda at amandah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3301.
Medicare Basics for 2026
Time: 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, October 7
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
October is a great time to start thinking about Medicare for 2026. Enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7. Financial specialist Jeorge Holmes will guide you through your options and teach you more about the program. Learn who’s eligible, the four parts of Medicare, Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage, Part D prescription drug coverage, and saving money with Medigap. This workshop is intended for adults. No registration is required. For more information, please contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2100.
Teacher in the Library
Time: 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, October 7
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 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, October 7
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
Improve your knowledge of English and become more comfortable speaking in everyday situations. Practice basic English grammar concepts in conversation, learning how to ask and answer questions, expanding your vocabulary, and learning to understand the sounds of spoken English. This class is intended for adult participants at a low intermediate level of speaking English or higher, but all are welcome to attend. This program requires registration. There will be limited seats for unregistered patrons. For more information or to register, please contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2100.
Books to Movies Film Series: Me and Earl and the Dying Girl
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, October 7
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Teen Room
Whether you’ve read the book or not, enjoy free popcorn, drinks, and a movie adapted from a teen book on the first and third Tuesday nights of the month! This program is intended for students in grades 6-12. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Steven at stevenm@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3400.
All Ages Story Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, October 8
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
Time: 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, October 8
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
After story time, young children can get creative and make a simple craft that ties into the week’s theme! This program features a different project every week and plenty of opportunity for little hands to explore, imagine, and create. For additional information, please contact Amanda at amandah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3301.
Genealogy for Beginners: Finding Missing Vital Records
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, October 8
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Vital records can be hard to find; especially those before the 1900s. Some of them perished in fires. Others were destroyed due to organizations making room for new records. However, we can find some of the information traditionally listed in vital records in unconventional places. We’ll look at how to access some of these digitized records and talk about where to go to find other records on paper and microfilm. Please feel free to bring your own laptop to follow along with us. This program is free and does not require registration. It is intended for adults. For more information, please contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2100.
Time: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, October 8
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Let us know which books, games, programs, and services you want at your library. Develop interpersonal skills, earn volunteer hours, contribute to your community, and have fun, too! Snacks will be provided. This group is intended for teens in grades 6-12. This program is first come, first served as space is limited. For additional information, please contact Steven at stevenm@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 3400.
Pokémon Club
Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, October 8
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity 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. This month we will feature Gimmighoul. 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.
Teen Art Club
Time: 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, October 8
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Teen Room
Draw, craft, or make-and-take and display your creativity at Teen Art Club! We’ll have new projects and art materials to try at every meeting. This program is intended for teens in grades 6-12. No registration is required but this program is first come, first served as supplies are limited. For additional information, please contact Jesus at juanb@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3401.
3D Design: Earrings
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, October 8
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
3D printing isn’t just for the toys and fidgets popular during our Open Labs. You can also create stunning, one-of-a-kind jewelry—best of all, there’s no need to be an expert! We’ll use the online program Tinkercad to design earrings with personal flair, then print them using our machines. For beginners, this program will introduce Tinkercad’s basic functions and inspire you to learn even more. For those who already have Tinkercad experience, there will be an opportunity to learn how to utilize SVGs in order to really bring your vision to life. 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. Intended for teens and adults. For additional information, please contact the Pen at penn@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.
Library Board Meeting
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, October 8
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.
Teen Bingo
Time: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, October 8
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Teen Room
Compete against your friends and make new pals during a fast-paced game of Bingo. There will be prizes! First come, first served as spots to participate are limited. This event is intended for teens in grades 6-12. For additional information, please contact Yoonek at yooneks@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2450.
Bilingual Play & Learn with 4-C
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Thursday, October 9
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
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 bilingual event is free and open to all on the 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.
Sit & Be Fit
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Date: Thursday, October 9
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Zimmerman Meeting Room
Join us at the library for a fun and accessible way to stay active with a gentle, seated exercise program designed for adults of all fitness levels! This series follows guided videos that focus on improving flexibility, balance, and circulation— all from the comfort of a chair. Whether you’re managing limited mobility or just looking for a way to stay moving, this program is a great way to prioritize your health. Each session features a seated workout led by a certified instructor on screen, with support and guidance provided by a library staff member in person. Enjoy a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where you can exercise at your own pace and connect with others in the community. No registration is required— just wear comfortable, breathable clothes, and bring your water bottle and willingness to have fun! This program is intended for adults. For additional information, please contact Amy at amyf@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.
Learn About Prairie State Legal Services
Time: 2:00 – 3:15 p.m.
Date: Thursday, October 9
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Zimmerman Meeting Room
Since 1977, the staff at Prairie State Legal Services (PSLS) have offered their time and expertise to vulnerable members of the community including the elderly and low-income families. Community Resource Specialist Carlos Orr will provide information about PSLS and what they can do for you. This free program is for information purposes only and does not offer legal advice. Registration is not required. It is intended for adults. For more information, please contact Leah at leahh@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 2112.
Teacher in the Library
Time: 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Date: Thursday, October 9
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.
Cricut Cutting: Halloween Candy Holders
Time: 5:00 – 6:30 p.m.
Date: Thursday, October 9
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
Let’s make Halloween treat holders! These seasonal party favors make unique, fun giveaways for family and friends. This event is first come, first served as space is limited. Laptops are provided for use in class. It is intended for teens and adults. For additional information, please contact Anna at annas@dkpl.org or the Tech Desk at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.
Coloring Club
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Thursday, October 9
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
Relax and unwind and enjoy creative freedom while coloring in coloring books or coloring pages or drawing your own coloring page. Coloring books, paper, colored pencils, markers, and gel pens will be provided. Space is limited and it is first come, first served. All ages are welcome. For more information, please contact Beth at elizabethh@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.
General Book Club: Crow Talk
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, October 9
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Crow Talk by Eileen Garvin will get us talking in October. Nationally bestselling author of The Music of Bees returns with a moving story of hope, healing, and unexpected friendship set amidst the wild natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Copies of the book will be available in the library one month before the program. The e-book and e-audiobook are available with the eReadIllinois Boundless app. The e-book is also available on the Libby by Overdrive app. This book club is intended for adults. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114.
Toddler Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Friday, October 10
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 18-36 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.
Midday Movie Classics: Magnificent Seven
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Date: Friday, October 10
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
Take a break from your day and join us for light refreshments as we watch the 1960 classic western The Magnificent Seven starring Yul Brenner, Steven McQueen and Charles Bronson. Seven gunfighters are hired by Mexican peasants to liberate their village from oppressive bandits. (2h 8m.) Stick around after the movie for a short video about Steve McQueen’s famous customized Winchester rifle called the Mare’s Leg which launched his television career in the 1950’s. This movie is intended for adults. It is unrated. No registration is required. For more information, please contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114.
3D Modeling a Skeleton
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Date: Friday, October 10
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
In the land of the dead, skeletons wear clothes. Utilizing the free computer modeling software Blender, patrons will create a clothed skeleton figure whilst familiarizing themselves with the general mechanics of the program via a guided lesson. This program is open to teens and adults. It is first come, first served as space and access to software is limited. For additional information, please contact Isaac at isaacl@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.
Financial Foundations for Ages 18 to 40
Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Friday, October 10
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Zimmerman Meeting Room
If you’re aged 18 and older, it’s never too early, or too late, to start planning and saving for the future. Thrivent Financial Associate Ezekiel Scott, FIC will show you how you can start saving in this unpredictable economy. This is a free event. No registration is required. It is intended for adults. For more information, please contact Leah at leahh@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2112.
Hygge ‘HOO-gah’ Happiness
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, October 11
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Enjoy an immersive experience, lit by candlelight, focusing on intentional happiness and community with Scandinavian-inspired arts and crafts, meditative coloring, peaceful music, a crackling fireplace, and hot beverages (bring your own mug, if desired.) You’ll gain some tips to create “hygge,” and choose from a selection of library books to bring home which inspire joy and relaxation. Our Hygge events are sponsored by the Friends of the Library. A special limited edition Hygge tea blend will be provided by downtown DeKalb’s Thyme ‘N Again Apothecary. Local honey for our tea provided by Big Red’s Heavenly Honey. In October, we’ll paint papier-mâché masks, do folk art with stickers, and make a spooky candle decoration. This program is intended for adults. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is not required. First come, first served while supplies last. For more information, please contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114.
Time: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, October 11
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
A new adventure begins! Join us for the first session of an ongoing Dungeons & Dragons 5e campaign. This adventure is intended for both veterans and beginners. Together we’ll weave an epic tale of adventure and excitement, with plenty of laughs along the way. Experienced players can bring their own level 2 character to start with, or for those who are new to the game, our Game Master will happily help with character creation and guidance on how to play. This program is intended for adults. No registration is required. For more information, please contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2100.
Blindness Experience with NIU Visual Disabilities Program
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, October 11
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Step into new ways of seeing! The Blindness Experience is a hands-on program designed for school-age children. Children will have the opportunity to rotate through five interactive stations where they can try out human guide techniques while blindfolded, have their own name put into braille—or a friend’s or pet’s name, and complete a braille coloring worksheet. Participants will also explore tools commonly used by people who are blind or have low vision. Additionally, information will be shared at one of the stations about guide dogs and their important role as partners in independence. This program is a fun and educational way to learn about blindness and low vision during White Cane Awareness Month that takes place in the U.S. every October. Drop by to enjoy this free event presented by faculty and students from the Northern Illinois University Visual Disabilities Program. This program is for school-age children. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Theresa at theresaw@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Gambling: The Dazzling Art of the Con
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, October 11
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Gambling generates more revenue than spectator sports, theme parks, cruise ships and recorded music combined. Las Vegas casinos bring in an average of 5 billion dollars of revenue in a year. With all that money flying around it might occur to someone to cheat. It has, they do, and John P. Hopkins will show you some of the ways that it’s done. John presents a fascinating and often hysterical look at crooked card games, dice hustles, pickpockets, prop bets, and con games. He will give you an inside peek at these scams with actual demonstrations. Through John, you will meet advantage players, dips, and con artists such as George Devil (who worked the Mississippi River boats for over forty years), Elijah Skaggs, “Titanic Thompson” and Madame Mustache. See the dazzling art of the “advantage” card player and the ace pick pocket. Get an inside look at some of the classic swindles such as “3 Card Monte”, “The Old Army Game” and “Short-Change Routines.” Find out the secrets of rigged carnival games and learn the truth behind the phrases, “You can’t cheat an honest man” and “There’s no such thing as a free lunch!” 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.
Tabletop Paint and Play
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, October 11
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
Meet and visit with fellow enthusiasts of tabletop games, miniature painting, science fiction, fantasy! Bring unpainted models, try painting leftovers, play games, or just chat about your favorite games. This free program is open to teens and adults, but children are welcome with an adult. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact the tech desk at techdesk@dkpl.org at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.
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