Meet-and-Greet with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Time: 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Date: Monday, November 3
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Main Lobby
Meet the staff from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and find out about the resources they offer including upcoming events and programs in English and Spanish. This booth is free and open to all. No registration is required. For more information, please contact Leah at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2112 or at leahh@dkpl.org.
Start the Week Story Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Monday, November 3
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.
Bedtime Stories
Time: 5:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, November 3
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Children’s Department
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.
Whiskey 101 with Whiskey Acres
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, November 3
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Join us for a spirited evening featuring DeKalb’s own Whiskey Acres Distilling Company! Explore the rich history and art of crafting whiskey, from grain to glass. The experts from Whiskey Acres will take you on a journey through their process, from the cornfields they farm right here in DeKalb to the final product they feature at their distillery. Learn what makes their farm-to-bottle approach unique and discover the passion behind their award-winning spirits. You’ll learn the difference between bourbon, rye, and single malt, and get an inside look at how Whiskey Acres creates the unique characteristics that make each of their whiskeys special. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned enthusiast, this program offers a perfect introduction to the world of whiskey and the incredible story of Whiskey Acres. Cheers! Registration is not required. This program is intended for adults. Must be 21 or older to attend. For additional information, please contact Amy at amyf@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.
Multicultural Crafts and History
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, November 3
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Children’s Department
Discover the vibrant traditions of different cultures through hands-on crafts and engaging history lessons in this fun and educational program for children! Led by the sisters of Kappa Phi Lambda, a multicultural sorority at NIU, each session explores a new culture, blending creativity with meaningful learning. Kids will create unique crafts while gaining a deeper appreciation for the world’s diverse heritage. Increase your fine motor skills with paper weaving as we explore how this has been used across many different ancient civilizations from South America to East Asia to North Africa. These programs are open to children of all ages. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Theresa at theresaw@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Spine Crackers Graphic Novel Book Club: Giants Beware
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, November 3
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.
Metalworking: Byzantine Chainmaille
Time: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Date: Monday, November 3
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
Learn the art and technique of the Byzantine Chainmaille pattern in this instructor-led program introducing students to historical chainmaille techniques! This program is intended for teens and adults and is first come, first served, as supplies are limited. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Patrick at patrickc@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2115.
Book Babies
Time: 9:15 – 9:45 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, November 4
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, November 4
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.
Epilepsy Advocacy Network Informational Booth
Time: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, November 4
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Main Lobby
Epilepsy Advocacy Network works to optimize the life of individuals with epilepsy and seizure disorders by promoting community education and awareness, self-advocacy and empowerment, and help for all individuals to gain access to proper care. EAN will be in the library’s main lobby providing information on all their free services for community education, service coordination, support groups both in person and online, and seizure first aid/response material. This informational booth is intended for adults. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Samantha at samanthah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.
Time: 9:45 – 10:15 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, November 4
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, November 4
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, November 4
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, November 4
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.
Preparing for Long-Term Care
Time: 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, November 4
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
It’s important to plan appropriately for long term care as part of your long-term plan. We’ll talk about how long-term care protects your retirement savings, provides access to better quality care, prevents a burden on family members, covers any stage of aging, and gives you peace of mind and planning power. If you have questions about long-term care, this is an opportunity to get answers. This program is free and intended for adults. No registration is required. For more information, please contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9586 ext. 2100.
JOY Volunteers: Thanksgiving Centerpieces for Nursing Homes
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, November 4
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Volunteer to help create Thanksgiving centerpieces that will be given to area nursing homes. Help our local seniors feel festive during the holiday! 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 drop-in program is for all ages, but children under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 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, November 4
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: The Giver
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, November 4
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.
Genealogy for Beginners: Starting Your Journey
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, November 4
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Genealogy is a fun hobby, but it can be intimidating to get started. How do I create my family tree? How do I get started searching? Do I need to go places to research, or can I research at home with my computer? We’ll address these questions and more. If you wish, you may bring your laptop and follow along. 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.
All Ages Story Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, November 5
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.
Searching the Library Catalog 101
Time: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, November 5
Place: Zimmerman Meeting Room
Learn how to effectively search the Prairie Cat catalog in this informative workshop! Laptops will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own device to search alongside the demonstration. Laptops are limited to first come, first served. This program is intended for adults, but teens are welcome. No registration is necessary. For more information, please contact Emily at emilyk@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.
Craft Corner
Time: 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, November 5
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.
Art Attack: Cotton Ball Painting
Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, November 5
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
This Wednesday, we will use cotton balls and paint to dab vibrant colors onto tree designs, creating textured art while exploring fun, brush-free techniques. This program is first come, first served as supplies are limited. For additional information, please contact Amanda at amandah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3301.
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, November 5
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
Discover the features and functions of Cricut Design Space software, where you can prepare designs and control your Cricut. We’ll cover essential techniques, as well as the specific tools for cutting heat press vinyl. This workshop is perfect for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the creative possibilities of both Cricut and using a heat press. No prior experience is required, though a basic understanding of design principles will be helpful. 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 at penn@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.
PS5 Sports Tournament
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, November 5
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Teen Room
Test your PS5 skills against your peers in this exciting gaming tournament! PS5 games played during tournaments include College Football 26, Madden26, NBA 2K26 and EAFC26. We also have games available to play on PS4, XBoxOne and Nintendo Switch. 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. This event is intended for teens in grades 6-12. It is sponsored by Vinny’s Pizza in DeKalb. For more information, please contact Steven Marshall at stevenm@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 3400.
Safe Passage Informational Booth
Time: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Date: Thursday, November 6
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Main Lobby
Safe Passage is DeKalb county’s only domestic violence and sexual assault crisis center. Safe Passage offers free and confidential services to survivors of interpersonal violence in DeKalb County. Safe Passage will be offering information on their multitude of services for survivors including medical advocacy, legal advocacy, counseling, emergency shelter, transitional housing, and more. There will be information on upcoming events, as well as ways to get involved. Join Safe Passage today and help our community be free from abuse. This booth 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.
Digital Literacy Programs: Computer and Internet Basics
Time: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Date: Thursday, November 6
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
This 8-part, biweekly program helps our 55+ patrons improve their digital literacy. Whether you attend all 8 programs or just one, we want you to feel more confident using technology by building practical skills to stay connected with friends, family, and community. Each session covers a couple topics. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own laptops and smartphones to use when applicable, but will also have access to library computers during the class. This program is intended for patrons 55+ and is first come, first served. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Patrick at patrickc@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2115.
Time: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, November 6
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
Unwind and be inspired to create whatever comes to mind or spirit. Everything is included to paint a canvas. If you would like to work on personal projects or miniatures, we’d love to have you. No instructions provided. This program is intended for adults. No registration is required. For more information, please contact Anna at annas@dkpl.org or (815)756-9568 ext. 2851.
Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Date: Friday, November 7
Place: DeKalb Public Library, lower level
The Friends of the DeKalb Public Library invite you to the Fall Book Sale! Visit the library’s lower level for an astonishing selection of great quality hardcovers and paperbacks — children’s and teen’s books, fiction, history, science, art, film, cookbooks, gardening, biographies, mysteries, science fiction, and more. There’s a wide selection of jigsaw puzzles, DVDs, audiobooks, and music CD’s. Come back on Sunday for the $5.00 a bag blowout sale. All proceeds are used for library books, materials, and programs. Donations of gently used books, puzzles, DVDs, and CDs are accepted year-round at the circulation desk; please, no textbooks, magazines, LPs, or videotapes. The sale opens each day when the library does and ends at 4:30 p.m., half an hour before the library closes. For additional information, contact the Friends at (815) 756-9568 ext.1030 or email friends@dkpl.org.
Anime & Manga Club
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.
Date: Friday, November 7
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Join us to discuss anime and manga, play games, and watch anime! Veteran otaku and newbie weaboos alike are welcome. This program is intended for teens, ages 13-17. It is first come, first served as space is limited. For additional information, please contact Hadley at hadleyo@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.
Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Date: Saturday, November 8
Place: DeKalb Public Library, lower level
The Friends of the DeKalb Public Library invite you to the Fall Book Sale! Visit the library’s lower level for an astonishing selection of great quality hardcovers and paperbacks — children’s and teen’s books, fiction, history, science, art, film, cookbooks, gardening, biographies, mysteries, science fiction, and more. There’s a wide selection of jigsaw puzzles, DVDs, audiobooks, and music CD’s. Come back on Sunday for the $5.00 a bag blowout sale. All proceeds are used for library books, materials, and programs. Donations of gently used books, puzzles, DVDs, and CDs are accepted year-round at the circulation desk; please, no textbooks, magazines, LPs, or videotapes. The sale opens each day when the library does and ends at 4:30 p.m., half an hour before the library closes. For additional information, contact the Friends at (815) 756-9568 ext.1030 or email friends@dkpl.org.
How to Train Your Dragon Event
Time: 1:00 – 4:30 p.m.
Date: Saturday, November 8
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Is your dragon unruly? Has it “accidently” burned down the out-house one too many times? Or maybe it “snacks” on the family livestock between meals? Well then, this program is for you! Visit the Youth Services department at 1:00 p.m. for Jr. Viking crafts and activities, followed by dragon training with Ms. Stormy and her dragon friend, Daydream. Then at 2:15 p.m., get cozy with the family and watch the new, live action movie, How to Train Your Dragon. Fresh, theater style popcorn will be served at the movie. Drinks will not be provided, so please make sure all beverages are covered to reduce spilling. Please arrive early as seating is limited. Chair seating will be limited due to space restrictions. Patrons may feel free to bring small blankets and pillows for floor seating. This program is intended for ages 4-12, but all ages are welcome. Younger children will need an adult to assist. For additional information please contact Stormy at stormye@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3310.
Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale
Time: 1:00 – 4:30 p.m.
Date: Sunday, November 9
Place: DeKalb Public Library, lower level
The Friends of the DeKalb Public Library invite you to the Fall Book Sale! Visit the library’s lower level for an astonishing selection of great quality hardcovers and paperbacks — children’s and teen’s books, fiction, history, science, art, film, cookbooks, gardening, biographies, mysteries, science fiction, and more. There’s a wide selection of jigsaw puzzles, DVDs, audiobooks, and music CD’s. Participate in our $5.00 a bag blowout sale. All proceeds are used for library books, materials, and programs. Donations of gently used books, puzzles, DVDs, and CDs are accepted year-round at the circulation desk; please, no textbooks, magazines, LPs, or videotapes. The sale opens each day when the library does and ends at 4:30 p.m., half an hour before the library closes. For additional information, contact the Friends at (815) 756-9568 ext.1030 or email friends@dkpl.org.
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