Start the Week Story Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Monday, March 31st
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.
Book Babies
Time: 9:15 – 9:45 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, April 1st
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: 9:15 – 9:45 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, April 1st
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
We are excited to be offering preschool story times at the library! Aimed especially at our 3–5-year-old friends, these story times feature books, songs, and activities especially to help those growing preschool brains! Reading, singing, talking, and counting are great literacy and math activities that will help prepare kids for Kindergarten. Preschool story times are offered at the same time as our Book Babies program. Feel free to drop off your preschool child at the Preschool story time and attend Book Babies right next door with your younger one(s). For more information, please contact John at johna@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Craft Corner: Slithering Snake
Time: 9:45 – 10:15 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, April 1st
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Children’s Department
At Craft Corner this week, have a s-s-super time making a fun and wiggly snake! Create your own slithery friend using a simple technique that gives it a playful bounce. This craft is intended for children. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Amanda at amandah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3301.
Book Babies
Time: 10:15 – 10:45 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, April 1st
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, April 1st
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
We are excited to be offering preschool story times at the library! Aimed especially at our 3–5-year-old friends, these story times feature books, songs, and activities especially to help those growing preschool brains! Reading, singing, talking, and counting are great literacy and math activities that will help prepare kids for Kindergarten. Preschool story times are offered at the same time as our Book Babies program. Feel free to drop off your preschool child at the Preschool story time and attend Book Babies right next door with your younger one(s). For more information, please contact John at johna@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.
Craft Corner: Slithering Snake
Time: 10:45 – 11:15 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, April 1st
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
At Craft Corner this week, have a s-s-super time making a fun and wiggly snake! Create your own slithery friend using a simple technique that gives it a playful bounce. This craft is intended for children. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Amanda at amandah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3301.
Teacher in the Library
Time: 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, April 1st
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.
Conversations about Migration: The Case of the Golden Venture
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, April 1st
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
The Golden Venture cargo ship carrying 286 Chinese males ran aground outside New York in 1993. The asylum seekers were taken into detention. Although most were released and/or deported at various times, one group was imprisoned in York County, Pennsylvania, until 1997. These men began to make folded paper sculptures using traditional Chinese techniques. Eventually, 10,000 of the sculptures were exhibited and sold to raise funds for the men. This case remains an important story concerning immigrant detention and deportation, as well as about the spirit that remains strong among those in captivity. We will use it as a springboard for discussion. This program is free and is open to the public. Group size is limited. Before coming, participants are asked to learn something about the 1993 Golden Venture ship and the paper sculptures. To register and obtain a list of possible sources, please contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2100. Co-Sponsored by Arts in Action, DeKalb County History Center, DeKalb Migrant Aid, and DeKalb Public Library.
All Ages Story Time
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, April 2nd
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: Slithering Snake
Time: 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, April 2nd
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Children’s Department
At Craft Corner this week, have a s-s-super time making a fun and wiggly snake! Create your own slithery friend using a simple technique that gives it a playful bounce. This craft is intended for children. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Amanda at amandah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3301.
Tween/Teen Chess Club
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, April 2nd
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced, come to Chess Club to learn and be challenged! Snacks will be provided. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the DeKalb Public Library and is intended for youth ages 9-18. No registration is required. For more information, please contact Steven at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3400 or at stevenm@dkpl.org.
Art Attack: Perler Beads
Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, April 2nd
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
This Wednesday, we will be using perler beads to design and construct anything your imagination desires. From colorful keychains to intricate patterns, the possibilities are endless. This program is first come, first served as supplies are limited. For children ages 8 and up. For more information, please contact Amanda at amandah@dkpl.org or (815)-756-9568 ext. 3301.
Intermediate Perler Bead Designs: Transforming an Image
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, April 2nd
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
For those who already enjoy using Perler beads to create fun projects, here’s an opportunity to learn how to turn an image into a fuse bead design! Though the images used must be simplified, there’s nothing basic about how cool the end result will be. We will be using a website called Kandipad to make the designs, and 309 Creative’s supply of beads to turn it into reality. This program is intermediate level and intended for those who already have experience using Perler beads. 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.
PS4 Sports Tournament
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, April 2nd
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 25, NBA 2K25 and EAFC25. We also have games available to play on 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. 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.
Safe Passage Informational Booth
Time: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Date: Thursday, April 3rd
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.
Teacher in the Library
Time: 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, April 3rd
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.
Paint & Sip
Time: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, April 3rd
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
Enjoy ‘me time’ with a warm beverage and a creative project. Paint something for yourself or a loved one! Relax and be inspired on this meditative journey to make whatever comes into your mind or spirit. Not feeling it? We have painting kits that you can use. All materials are provided to paint a canvas. No instructions necessary. All ages are welcome. No registration is required. For more information, please contact Anna at annas@dkpl.org or (815)756-9568 ext. 2851.
Le Baratin: French Conversation
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, April 3rd
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.
Diamond Painting
Time: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Thursday, April 3rd
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Relax and make a diamond painting using provided supplies! This program is first come, first served as space is limited. Intended for teens and adults. For additional information, please contact the tech desk at techdesk@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.
Plant Adopt or Swap
Time: 7:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Thursday, April 3rd
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room
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 britta@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2100.
Shake Out the Wiggles
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Friday, April 4th
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.
3D Modeling: Blender Bunnies
Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Date: Friday, April 4th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
What comes to mind when you think about Easter besides eggs and chicks? Bunnies, of course! Utilizing the free computer modeling software Blender, patrons will create a bunny while 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.
Anime & Manga Club
Time: 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.
Date: Friday, April 4th
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.
AARP Tax-Aide
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Date: Saturday, April 5th
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 8 through April 12. 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.
Sewing Machine Maintenance
Time: 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Date: Sunday, April 6th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
If you’ve acquired a sewing machine, new or old, you may be wondering how to use its basic functions. Or maybe you have a sewing machine sitting around, needing to be dusted off and refurbished. Bring your sewing machine to this open workshop where you will be guided on how to clean, service, and learn some basic functions for your personal machine. This workshop is intended for tabletop sewing machines that can be easily transported. Please bring all parts, cords, and the manual along with your sewing machine. Space is limited, but you may service your machine and are welcome to leave the open workshop when finished. This workshop is intended for adults. If you are missing your sewing machine manual, there will be contact cards you can fill out so an Adult Reference Specialist may assist you in finding a PDF if it is available. For more information, please contact Emily at emilyk@dkpl.org or the Adult Reference Desk (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.
Paint & Play: Flames of Orion – The Ruins of Sumar
Time: 2:00 – 4:30 p.m.
Date: Sunday, April 6th
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
Tabletop Paint & Play is a drop-in social program intended to foster discussion and exchange ideas about how to make physical games using the tools of the library’s makerspace. This month we return to the Orion Sector and the game Flames of Orion where you are invited play an encounter set in the ruins of the planet Sumar, which holds many mysteries and ancient objects. If painting is more your style, please feel free to paint or take home some miniatures printed from the makerspace. This free program is open to all ages. 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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