Start the Week Story Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Monday, February 16
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
eBooks 101
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, February 16
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
With so many online resources, how can you know which best suit your reading and entertainment needs? This presentation will give an overview of Hoopla, Libby (Overdrive), PressReader, and Biblioboard. For more information, please contact Emily at emilyk@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.
Bedtime Stories
Time: 5:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, February 16
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.
Suspense Book Club: September House
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, February 16
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Looking for your next suspenseful thriller? Join us every third Monday for stories of suspense. Light refreshments will be provided during the discussion. Books are available in Adult Services. No registration is required. This book club is intended for adults. For additional information, please contact Leah at leahh@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 2112.
Tarot & Romance: Love is in the Cards
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, February 16
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
Curious about what the cards say about love? Whether you’re a skeptic, a romantic, or just tarot-curious, this program invites you to explore the fascinating connection between tarot and personal relationships. With the help of local tarot reader, Annie Hex, discover romantic archetypes, learn about iconic cards, and find out how tarot can spark reflection and conversation between you and those you love the most. This program is free to attend. Registration is not required. This program is intended for adults. For additional information about Annie Hex, visit anniehex.com. For additional information about this program, please contact Amy at amyf@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 6108.
Book Babies
Time: 9:15 – 9:45 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, February 17
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, February 17
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.
Informational Booth: Health Department
Time: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, February 17
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Main Lobby
Join DeKalb County Health Department staff to learn about the services provided right here in DeKalb County. Staff will have general information about programs including WIC, immunizations, and healthcare enrollment for special enrollment periods. Every month, we will highlight new program services and focus on nationally recognized observances including nutrition month, poison prevention month, National public health week, and more! Stop by to ask staff questions about the programs and services we offer. This informational booth is free and open to all. 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, February 17
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, February 17
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, February 17
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, February 17
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.
Teacher in the Library
Time: 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, February 17
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.
Planning for College: The Financial Aid Process
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, February 17
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Zimmerman Meeting Room
Are you interested in attending college but overwhelmed by the application process, financial aid, and scholarships? The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) is here to help! ISAC will be presenting free programs about the college process and the services they provide. No registration is required, but space is limited and is first come, first served. Light snacks and water will be provided. These programs are intended for high school students and their parents or guardians. For additional information, please contact Steven at stevenm@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 3400.
Weird, Wild, and Wonderful Book Club
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, February 17
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Do you have a taste for the strange? A curiosity for the bizarre? Do you find yourself drawn to books that are a little… off? Welcome to a one-of-a-kind reading adventure where we explore the weirdest, wildest, and most wonderful stories ever written. And we choose them ourselves! From mind-bending fiction to peculiar non-fiction, nothing is too strange for us to read. We choose every book together two months in advance. This book club is intended for adults. No registration is required. Books are available in the Adult Services department one month in advance. 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, February 18
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, February 18
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.
Classic Musical Sing-Along: West Side Story
Time: 3:30 – 6:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, February 18
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
Get ready to sing your heart out! Join us for an afternoon of timeless tunes and big-screen nostalgia as we watch a beloved classic musical with lyrics included on-screen so everyone can join in. Whether you know every word or just love the magic of old Hollywood, this lively sing-along is the perfect way to celebrate the golden age of film with friends, family, and fellow movie lovers. Registration is not required. This program is open to all. Popcorn will be provided. For additional information, please contact Amy at amyf@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 6108.
Art Attack: Sunset Weavings
Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, February 18
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
This Wednesday, we will create vibrant sunset-inspired weavings using warm, blended colors and simple weaving techniques. Explore pattern, texture, and color as you design a glowing sunset scene. 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.
ESL Pronunciation Practice
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, February 18
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Learning English can be difficult, and pronouncing the words correctly is a real challenge. In this six-week workshop you’ll learn to pronounce consonant and consonant blend sounds, practice hearing and saying the 20 vowel sounds of English, and learn how to pronounce common prefixes and suffixes. This program is for adults. Registration is required. For more information or to register, please contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2100.
PS5 Sports Tournament
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, February 18
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.
Puzzle Race
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, February 18
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Test your puzzle speed in a timed competition! Teams of 2-3 people will each be given the same 300-piece jigsaw puzzle. The team that completes their puzzle first, or gets closest within 55 minutes, will be the winner. Please arrive with your team at 6:50 p.m. to check in, as this program will begin promptly at 7:00 p.m. The first, second, and third place winners will receive a puzzle prize. Attendees will be entered into a drawing for a $25.00 gift card for Barb City Bagels. Open to all ages but make sure at least one adult is on your team. Registration is required. Please sign up each person on your team to reserve their spot. This program is sponsored by The Friends of the Library, Robin’s Nest Bookshoppe, and Barb City Bagels. For more information, please contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114.
Play Group for Children with Special Needs
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Thursday, February 19
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, February 19
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
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. We’ll have coffee and chat about topics such as birthdays or vacations, and enjoy arts and crafts, music, or a presentation. There will also be free resources about healthy aging, living well with Dementia, and caregiver support to take home. Memory Café 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.
Sit & Be Fit
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Date: Thursday, February 19
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Join us for Sit & Be Fit, a fun and inclusive fitness class where you can get a workout from the comfort and safety of a chair! This program is all about getting some exercise in a supportive and completely judgment-free environment. We’ll guide you through easy-to-follow, seated fitness routines designed to get your heart pumping and your spirits high. No experience is needed, just a willingness to have a good time. Come in breathable clothing, find a seat, and let’s move together! This program is intended for adults of all abilities. For additional information, please contact Amy at amyf@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 6108.
Teacher in the Library
Time: 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Date: Thursday, February 19
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.
Bookworm Barbs: Sacajawea, Her True Story
Time: 4:00 – 4:45 p.m.
Date: Thursday, February 19
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Sacajawea was an ordinary Shoshone girl who became an important part of American history. Her quick thinking, cultural knowledge, and bravery were part of the Lewis and Clark expedition’s success. But what parts of her story are true? Sacajawea: Her True Story is our Bookworm Barbs book for February. Bookworm Barbs is our book club for students in K-2. We read shorter chapter books with lots of pictures. Older first and second grade students may be able to read on their own, but the books also make a nice family read aloud, too. This month, we read the true story of an American explorer and interpreter. It’s part of our 2026 celebration, America 250. 2026 is the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, so throughout the year we’ll occasionally have book selections that honor the rich history of our country. Bookworm Barbs is a book party! Not only will we talk about the book, we’ll enjoy a snack and do a craft, too. Pick up a copy of the book at the Children’s Department Desk while supplies last. Please register at dkpl.org, as space is limited. For additional information or help with registration, please contact Laura at lauraw@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Open Paint
Time: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, February 19
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. Additionally, we have bookmarks and coasters with a patriotic theme. This program is intended for teens and adults. No registration is required. It is part of the America 250 initiative; celebrating our nation throughout the year. For more information, please contact Anna at annas@dkpl.org or (815)756-9568 ext. 2851.
BARB Book Club: Phoebe the Spy
Time: 5:00 – 5:45 p.m.
Date: Thursday, February 19
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Phoebe, a young African-American girl, is living in New York City during the American Revolution. Her father, a tavern owner, hears talk that someone might be trying to kill George Washington. To help foil the plot, Phoebe goes undercover at General Washington’s house. But can one girl help save the president? Based on a true story, Phoebe the Spy is our BARB book club book this month. BARB (Books Are Really Brilliant) book club is for students in grades 3-5. At our meeting, we talk about the book, but that’s not all! We’ll also play a game and eat a fun snack inspired by the book. This book is part of our 2026 celebration, America 250. 2026 is the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, so throughout the year we’ll occasionally have book selections that honor the rich history of our country. Pick up a copy of Phoebe the Spy and a free bookmark at the Children’s Department desk while supplies last. Registration at dkpl.org is required to attend this book club, as space is limited. For additional information or help with registration, please contact Laura at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350 or at lauraw@dkpl.org.
The Poetry of Gwendolyn Brooks
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Thursday, February 19
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Zimmerman Meeting Room
For many decades, Gwendolyn Brooks has been known and remembered as being one of the strongest and most decorated poets in the history of Chicago. She was the first African American woman inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 1976, and the first African American winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1950 for her book, Annie Allen. She was appointed lifelong Poet Laureate of Illinois in 1968, the U.S. Poet Laureate from 1985 to 1986, winner of the Robert Frost Medal in 1989 and winner of the National Medal of Arts in 1995. From her early years growing up in the Bronzeville neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago to her being awarded the Order of Lincoln in 1997 and the Academy of American Poets Fellowship for distinguished poetic achievement in 1999 until her death on December 3, 2000, aged 83, we will discuss the many milestones of her life’s achievements and her endearing contributions to the field of poetry. This program is free and intended for teens and adults. No registration is required. This event is part of the America 250 initiative; celebrating our nation throughout the year. For additional information, please contact Tom at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150 or thomask@dkpl.org.
Shake Out the Wiggles
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Friday, February 20
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Bring your little ones to “Shake the Wiggles Out” with song, rhythm, and dance with Miss Stormy. We will sing songs and dance out our wiggles! This event is free. No registration is required. Intended for pre-K children. For additional information, please contact Stormy at stormye@dkpl.org or at (815)756-9568 ext. 3350.
Air Hockey Tournament
Time: 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Date: Friday, February 20
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Teen Room
Challenge your friends, enjoy snacks, and show off your skills on the Teen Room’s air hockey table to win prizes in a monthly air hockey tournament! This program is for grades 6-12. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Steven at stevenm@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3400.
Anime & Manga Club
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.
Date: Friday, February 20
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, grades 6-12. 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.
AARP Tax-Aide
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Date: Saturday, February 21
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Main Lobby
The free AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program will again be available at the DeKalb Public Library and is for people with low to moderate incomes. AARP Foundation Tax -Aide volunteers will be available by appointment most Saturdays from February 7 through April 11, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Be sure to bring a photo ID and all necessary tax documents, as well as last year’s return forms. For a complete list of important documents to bring click here. Please sign up for an appointment by contacting Frances at (815) 991-9418. For more information, please contact the reference desk at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150 or at reference@dkpl.org.
Time: 11:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, February 21
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Noelle of Bare Soul Healing leads this free sound healing session designed to ease the nervous system and quiet the mind. Soothing vibrations from therapeutic instruments such as crystal singing bowls, Koshi chimes, drums and more create a peaceful space for grounding, relaxation, and renewal. This session will pay special attention to the heart chakra, in honor of Valentine’s Day. Please bring a yoga mat or towel if you wish. A limited number of chairs will also be available. Due to the nature of this event, we will be closing the doors when the program begins at 11:00 a.m., so please arrive on time if you wish to be admitted. This event does not require registration. It is first come, first served, and there is a limit of 50 participants. It is limited to ages 12 and up. Noelle is a healing practitioner in Sycamore and has a passion for sharing the benefits of sound healing with the public. Bare Soul Healing is a nature-rooted practice integrating sound healing, yoga, meditation, astrology, and other methods dedicated to supporting emotional well-being and inner peace. For additional information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.
Community Listening Session
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, February 21
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
The DeKalb Public Library is beginning a strategic planning process to help decide its direction and priorities for the next several years. Your voice is important. Sharing your thoughts, experiences, and ideas will help us understand what’s working, what can be improved, and where we should focus our efforts. Light refreshments will be provided. All ages are welcome. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Emily at emilyf@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1000.
Patriotic Music BINGO
Time: 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, February 21
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
Join us for some festive rounds of Patriotic Music BINGO! Instead of numbers, each Bingo square features the title of a well-known American tune. As the host calls out the song names, players mark their cards and race to complete a winning pattern. From timeless classics to upbeat favorites, it’s a great way to celebrate American music, enjoy friendly competition, and bring the community together. Small prizes and big smiles guaranteed! This program is free to attend. Registration is not required. It is open to all ages. This event is part of the America 250 initiative; celebrating our nation throughout the year. For additional information, please contact Amy at amyf@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 6108.
High School Book Club
Time: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Date: Saturday, February 21
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Vote on the next book to become a pop culture hit! Join us for a chance to help determine the winner of the 2026 Lincoln Award. Previous award winners include The Hunger Games, The Fault in our Stars, and Maze Runner. Enjoy snacks while debating your favorites and earn volunteer hours for participating. This program is for grades 9-12. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Steven at stevenm@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3400.
Thank you!
Samantha Hathaway
Head of Public Relations and Events
(815) 756-9568 ext. 1701
DeKalb Public Library
309 Oak St.
DeKalb, IL 60115
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