Meet-and-Greet with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Time: 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.
Date: Monday, September 8
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, September 8
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.
Tween/Teen Chess Club
Time: 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Date: Monday, September 8
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.
Friends of the Library Meeting
Time: 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, September 8
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
The public is invited to attend and observe the monthly meetings of the Friends of the DeKalb Public Library. This non-profit volunteer organization raises funds to support library programs and purchase library books and materials. Meetings are held on the second Monday of the month at 5:00 p.m. Meetings are used to plan the biannual used book sales, discuss various issues, and consider funding requests made by library staff. This meeting is open to teens and adults. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact the Friends at friends@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1030.
Spine Crackers Graphic Novel Book Club: Leon the Extraordinary
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, September 8
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. 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.
Romance Book Club: Secretly Yours
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Monday, September 8
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Prepare for swoon-worthy reads and lively conversations with fellow romance lovers! We meet each month to discuss our latest romantic read– sharing thoughts, feelings, and favorite moments along the way. From steamy westerns and eerie sci-fi love stories to sweeping historical romances, our carefully chosen selections span the full spectrum of the genre. Whether you’re a longtime romance reader or just starting to explore, you’ll find your perfect match here! Books are available in Adult Services. No registration is required. This book club is intended for adults. For additional information, please contact Amy at amyf@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.
Book Babies
Time: 9:15 – 9:45 a.m.
Date: Tuesday, September 9
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, September 9
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, September 9
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, September 9
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, September 9
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, September 9
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.
Senior Book Club: We’re All Damaged
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, September 9
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
Meet with us the second Tuesday of every month for a book club just for seniors. We will be discussing We’re All Damaged: A Novel by Matthew Norman. If you’re all too familiar with the experience of living a near-perfect life until something happens… author Matthew Norman may have written a novel with you in mind. We’re All Damaged begins after Andy Carter has lost his job, ruined his best friend’s wedding, and moved from his nice, safe Midwestern existence into a tiny apartment in New York City that he shares with an angry cat named Jeter. And then Daisy enters his life – a most unlikely person to befriend – and she claims she is the only person who can help Andy be happy again. Andy Carter needs a second chance at life. Can Daisy be the person to help him get that? Books will be available in the Adult Services Department. Some large print copies may be attainable. This book club is intended for adults. No registration is required. For additional information, please contact Kathy at kathyh@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2110.
Grief Support Group
Time: 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, September 9
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Bilder Family Meeting Room
Join others going through grief and loss and receive support in a safe and confidential setting with facilitation from the Family Service Agency of DeKalb County. In this ongoing grief support group, you will have the opportunity to share your experiences with grief, receive insight from peers and the facilitator on the grieving process, and learn more about grief. This group is open to adults experiencing grief from any loss, no matter where they are on this journey. This grief support group does not replace other mental health services. If you need individual counseling or other mental health services, call 211 to find support in your area. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need immediate attention for a non-life-threatening mental health need, please call 988. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911. This support group is free and intended for adults. No registration is required. For additional information about this program. please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, September 9
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.
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, September 9
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
Every second Tuesday evening, visit the Youth Department and participate in a craft, game, or activity related to what you’re learning in school! In September, learn about the movement of the earth with an Edible Plate Tectonics activity. (4th grade) This is a drop-in event, and no registration is required. Content is specific to the grade level listed, but all Elementary students are welcome to attend. For more information, please contact Theresa at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350 or at theresaw@dkpl.org.
iCrow Middle School Nights
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, September 9
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Teen Room
Every second Tuesday, come to the Teen Room and participate in a craft, game, or activity related to what you’re learning in middle school! In September, enjoy a preview and learn about some of the countries featured in our 8 Countries in 1 day program (6th and 7th grade). This drop-in event is intended for grades 6-8 and no registration is required. Content is specific to the grade level listed, but all middle school students are welcome to attend. For more information, please contact Steven at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3400 or at stevenm@dkpl.org.
Weird, Wild, and Wonderful Book Club: Paperbacks from Hell
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Tuesday, September 9
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! From mind-bending fiction to peculiar non-fiction, nothing is too strange for us to read. In September we’ll discuss Paperbacks from Hell: The Twisted History of ‘70s and ‘80s Horror Fiction by Grady Hendrix. This book club is intended for adults. No registration is required. 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, September 10
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, September 10
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.
Sit & Be Fit
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Date: Wednesday, September 10
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. 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.
Time: 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, September 10
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 talk about Wooper! 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.
Laser Crafting: Faux-Leather Bracelets
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, September 10
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 309 Creative
Discover the features and functions of LightBurn software, a powerful tool for designing and controlling your laser cutter. We’ll cover essential techniques for creating precise and intricate designs. Design a custom faux-leather bracelet! From choosing the right dimensions to incorporating graphics and patterns, you’ll gain hands-on experience in crafting a design that reflects your personal style. This workshop is perfect for hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the creative possibilities of laser cutting. No prior experience with laser cutting or LightBurn software 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 Novus at penn@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.
Library Board Meeting
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Wednesday, September 10
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.
Bilingual Play & Learn with 4-C
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Date: Thursday, September 11
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.
Coloring Club
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Date: Thursday, September 11
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: Endurance
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Date: Thursday, September 11
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Nancy D. Castle Collaboration Studio
In September we’ll discuss Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage by Alfred Lansing. The harrowing tale of British explorer Ernest Shackleton’s 1914 attempt to reach the South Pole, one of the greatest adventure stories of the modern age. In August 1914, polar explorer Ernest Shackleton boarded the Endurance became locked in an island of ice. Thus began the legendary ordeal of Shackleton and his crew of twenty-seven men. When their ship was finally crushed between two ice floes, they attempted a near-impossible journey over 850 miles of the South Atlantic’s heaviest seas to the closest outpost of civilization. In Endurance, the definitive account of Ernest Shackleton’s fateful trip, Alfred Lansing brilliantly narrates the harrowing and miraculous voyage that has defined heroism for the modern age. Copies of the book and book on CD will be available in the library one month before the program. The e-book is available with the eReadIllinois Boundless app. The e-audio is available on the Libby by Overdrive or hoopladigital apps. 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.
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, September 13
Place: DeKalb Public Library
Are you ready to travel the world from the comfort of your own library? Prepare for takeoff at our annual “8 Countries in 1 Day” event when we take you on a journey around the globe! Attend a Masquerade Ball in Italy, play Dinifri in Morocco, gobble down pineapple cake in Taiwan, and much more! Other countries included will be South Korea, Montenegro, Armenia, Myanmar, and India. Each country will have crafts, activities, and food. Stop by the welcome table to get your “luggage” and passport before your adventure begins. Visit every country, get your passport stamped, and enter for a chance to win one of many prizes. Bring canned food items to get additional raffle tickets. The library welcomes back the Northern Illinois University’s Center for Southeast Asian Studies and International Student Affairs as partners. Off the Leash Coffee Company will provide samples of coffees and chocolates from around the world at their kiosk in the lower level. Gather in the main lobby for big performances throughout the day! A big thanks goes out to our many sponsors who make this event possible: Friends of the DeKalb Public Library, Egg Haven, WNIJ, Banner Up, The Suter Company, Off the Leash Coffee Company, Kishwaukee-DeKalb Kiwanis Club, Old National Bank, Nestle Distribution Company, Integrated Store Systems, Inc., and China House. No registration is required to attend this free event. All are welcome! For more information, please contact Samantha at samanthah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.
Mammals of Montenegro with Burpee Museum of Natural History
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Date: Saturday, September 13
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Story & Activity Room
The mammals of Montenegro await! As part of Montenegro at the library’s 8 Countries in 1 Day event, the Burpee Museum of Natural History will bring the mammal fun. Observe mammal tracks, teeth, and skulls. Touch and feel different types of mammal skins and furs. Explore taxidermy mammals from Burpee’s collections. Learn about mammals and Montenegro in one fun event. Free and open to all. No registration required.
Multicultural Celebration with Aztec Dance
Time: 11:00 – 11:45 a.m.
Date: Saturday, September 13
Place: DeKalb Public Library, Main Lobby
Join us for a program exploring pre-Hispanic music, song, and dance with Xochitl-Quetzal Aztec Dance! Experience a vibrant educational performance honoring the heritage of the Indigenous people of ancient Mexico. This performance does not require registration. All ages are welcome. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. For additional information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.
Searching the Library Catalog 101
Time: 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Date: Sunday, September 14
Place: DeKalb Public Library, 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.
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