Serving Bartonville, Kingston Mines, Mapleton, Norwood, and all of the Illini Bluffs and Limestone High School Districts
March and April 2018
Board Meetings
Monday, March 19, 7:00 p.m.
Monday, April 16, 7:00 p.m.
The Public is Welcome


Library Closings
Saturday, March 31
Library Hours
Monday-Thursday:  9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Friday:  9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Saturday:  9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

  Sunday:  Closed
LET THERE BE (BETTER) LIGHT, & MORE BESIDES
 
In the last newsletter, I noted that we were about finished with west-wall repairs. Done! We also took a low bench attached to that wall and raised it; now it’s a counter, with chairs to match. Sit at the counter, pretend to be working (while watching the birds, squirrels, and other critters), or simply stare into the woods. Nature therapy….
 
Next comes the (better) light, downstairs, 1995 addition. If you’ve seen the LED lighting upstairs, you’ll    see the same light downstairs. Lighting in the hallway and big meeting room will be much brighter. Can lights and ancient fluorescent bulbs—gone. 
 
After basic technology, we move on to more exotic items. Highly likely: The library will get a 3D printer, financed by the Library Friends. Work remains to be done in deciding how we may use such a machine. We’ve collected ideas from other libraries, and are gearing up for amazing activities.
 
Next up—Google Street View. Do a Google search on the library and you’ll find us, along with an online tour of APL. Another local director tells me that more people find his library via a Google search than by way of the library’s website. Another library has sold the public on its meeting rooms, with photos on the Internet. Classify this as “in the works.”
 
Come spring, we plan to practice “crowdfunding” to raise money to refurbish our study rooms, which are ever-increasingly in use. We’ll rip out counters, put in real tables, purchase nice chairs, deal with drywall, and add a touch of new paint—maybe even new carpet. The crowdfunding website of choice remains to be seen. We’d gladly receive donations for this project in advance, if you are so moved. And—we look forward to crowdfunding for the first time.
 
In the “To Be Continued” Department, with referendum funds we want to paint portions of the library, perhaps tearing off old, peeling vinyl wallpaper as we go. Youth Services definitely needs a coat of paint or three, but it’s not the only part of your APL that’s scuffed and dinged.
 
Finally, to leave behind wallpaper, paint, and bricks and mortar, APL will experiment with its first Spanish-language story time. The intended audience is preschoolers. We own many bilingual, English-Spanish children’s books; these new story times may lead to a larger collection of bi-lingual books. The current collection is well-used. Who knows? Stick around—it’s never dull at your public library.

John Richmond, Director
FRIENDS OF THE ALPHA PARK LIBRARY
The Friends continue to raise money through their ongoing book sale and, now ‘n’ then, special fundraisers. They BUY great things (3D printer—see the Director’s column) which the library’s budget can’t handle.  Meetings are open to all.  
Days: Tuesdays, March 13 and April 10. Time: 10:30 a.m.
Winter Storytimes are held in six-week sessions throughout the year. Sessions may include books, fingerplays, crafts, songs and games. Children should be the appropriate ages at the first class of each session.

 Book Babies
Wednesdays, 10:00 to 10:30 a.m., March 21, 28 and April 4, 11, 18, 25
Parents/caregivers with babies ages 12-24 months are invited to the library for activities. 
Songs, creative time, and group play

Toddlertime
Tuesdays, 10:00 to 10:30 a.m., March 20, 27 and April 3, 10, 17, 24
Storytime for 2-year-olds with an adult

Bookworms
Tuesdays, 10:30 to 11:00 a.m., March 20, 27 and April 3, 10, 17, 24
Wednesdays, 1:00 to 1:30 p.m., March 21, 28 and April 4, 11, 18, 25
Storytime for ages 3 to 6
Thursday Tales
Thursdays, 10:00 to 10:30 a.m., March 22, 29 and April 5, 12, 19, 26
Storytime for 2- and 3-year-olds with an adult
Stories on the Steps
Thursday evenings, 6:30 to 7:00 p.m., March 22, 29 and April 5, 12, 19, 26
Evening storytime for ages 3 to 8
ABC Amigos!
Fridays, March 2, 23 and April 6, 20, 10:30 a.m.

Hola amigos! Recent research finds children who learn a second language by three years old have increased cognitive benefits. Come play and learn some Spanish during this fun storyhour with guest instructor Caitlin Streeky. Best for ages 3-7, but all are welcome.
Money Smart Storytime
Saturday, April 28, 10:00 a.m.

In conjunction with Money Smart Week, join us for a very special storytime. In this hour long program we will have songs, stories, crafts, and giveaways that will teach us fun lessons about money skills. This program is most appropriate for children ages Kindergarten through 3 rd grade and will feature a special guest.
Construction Club
Tuesday, March 27, 3:30 to 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, April 24, 3:30 to 5:00 p.m.

Attention architects! Builders can now join us MONTHLY for a building challenge and free design time. Materials will be provided. No registration required. Come by and join the fun!
Make-It/Take-it
Saturday, March 24, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 21, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Children ages 4 through grade 4, along with their parent or caregiver, are invited to make a craft in the Youth Services Department anytime between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
  Comic Art Club
Monday, March 12, 6:00 p.m.
Monday April 9, 6:00 p.m.

Do you like to draw? Do you like manga or graphic novels? Come join us! Kids 10 and up are invited to enjoy snacks, draw, and socialize. All materials and supplies provided.
All About Drones
Wednesday, April 25, 6:00 p.m.

Guest speaker Dean Poignant of Sky Ag will discuss everything about drones including selecting and purchasing, regulations, safety, and photography. To cap it all off, he will also have an exciting demonstration. If you have been interested in learning more about this fun hobby, this is your chance!
Teen Board
Thursday, March 1, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 5, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Teen Board members must be in 7th through 12th grades and have a library card. Show up or call Youth Services at 697-3822, ext. 14, for more information.
Zombie Prom
Thursday, April 12, 6:30 p.m.

Students ages 12 to 18 are invited to come to the library for an undead prom spectacular. We will be having a fun night of face paint, games, snacks, and music. Come dressed in your most frightful dress or costume and enjoy the festivities. Call Sara for more details, 697-3822, ext. 13.
Teen DIY: Cord Tacos
Monday, April 23, 6:00 p.m.

Students ages 12 to 18 are invited to learn how to make their very own taco cord organizers. We will demonstrate how to make the organizer, how to decorate it, and how to use it. At the end of the program, all the teens will have their very own to take home. Call the Information Desk if you have questions, 697-3822, ext. 13.
Manga Club
Thursday, March 1, 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, April 5, 6:00 p.m.

Enjoy manga and anime? Join this new and exciting program for teens 12 and up. We will share snacks, talk about the manga we have read, and finish it all off with an episode of anime. Each month we will have a different theme.
Teen Throwback Thursday: T.V.
Thursday, March 8, 7:00 p.m.

We will bring back some of your favorite television programs from your childhood. Snacks will be provided. Bring a drink and have some fun.
Computer Basics
Thursday, March 8, 10:00 a.m.
In one hour, you will learn some of the basic skills you will need to operate a computer. Ideal for those who need to learn the very basics, the class will cover how to use a mouse and keyboard, how to navigate a computer, and how to open and use programs. Registration is required. Call the Information Desk for more details, 697-3822, ext. 13.
 
Tablet Basics
Thursday, March 22, 10:00 a.m.
In this free class, we will discuss the basics of using your tablet. We will talk about the different kinds of tablets, how to add and remove apps, and go over the basic terminology and settings. This class is perfect for the beginner or someone who received a new tablet over the holidays. Call the Information Desk to register, 697-3822, ext. 13.
 
iPad Basics                          
Thursday, April 5, 7:00 p.m.
In this introductory class, you will get to know your iPad a little better. We will explore the basics including how to change settings, discover useful apps, and how to interact with the device. This hands-on class is a great way to learn some of the numerous features that the iPad has to offer. Registration is required. Call the Information Desk for more details, 697-3822, ext. 13.
 
Introduction to Microsoft Excel
Monday, April 16, 7:00 p.m.
During this class, we will cover the basic functions of Microsoft Excel including columns, cells, and formatting. Ideal for beginners or those who just want to brush up on their knowledge. This class is free, but registration is required. Call the Information Desk at 697-3822, ext.13, to sign-up.

Gmail Basics
Thursday, April 19, 10:00 a.m.
In this introductory class, you will learn how to create and operate a Google email account. We will discuss the basic elements of Gmail, how to send and reply to emails, and how to organize your inbox. This class is perfect for the beginner or those who are interested in switching to Google email. Registration is required. Call the Information Desk for more details, 697-3822, ext. 13.
 
Introduction to Microsoft Publisher       
Monday, April 30, 7:00 p.m.
In this class you will learn how to create flyers and other exciting documents in Microsoft Publisher. We will talk about the important tools and elements, how to create and access your Publisher documents, and how to edit and add content to your projects. Call the Information Desk at 697-3822, ext. 13, to sign-up.
2018 Reading Challenge
February 15 to December 31, 2018
In 2018, let’s get out of our comfort zone with the 2018 reading challenge. Stop by the Information Desk to pick up your challenge form. Return your completed form to the Reference Desk by 12/31/2018 to win a prize. All participants who complete the challenge will also be entered for the Grand Prize drawing of a $50 Kroger gift card.
DIY: Bath Bombs!
Wednesday, March 28, 7:00 p.m.

Come to the Alpha Park Library for a free class on how to make your very own bath bomb. We will go through all the steps and have the supplies available to make your own. Registration is required for this program as spots are limited. Call the Information Desk to sign-up, 697-3822, ext. 13.
Cookbook Club
1st Monday of Every Month, 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
 
Come join the Cookbook Club and share delicious recipes made by other library members. Bring a copy of your favorite recipe, and a sample if you wish, to the Cookbook Club and share it with the group. All adults are welcome to attend. Register for this program by calling the library at 697-3822, ext. 13.
 
March 5: Irish Food
April 2: Easter Recipes
History of the Peoria State Hospital
Thursday, March 29, 7:00 p.m.

Join Gary Lisman, author of Bittersweet Memories, as he discusses the history of the Peoria State Hospital. Gary will separate fact from fiction by providing an in-depth look into the building of the hospital grounds, Dr. Zeller’s career, and general hospital life. If you’ve heard stories about the Peoria State Hospital, then you’ll want to hear how it all began and learn the fascinating details behind this once cutting-edge institution. Please register at the Information Desk, 697-3822, ext. 13.
Dieting and Nutrition Seminar by Curves
Monday, March 26, 6:30 p.m.

If you’ve ever “dieted” in the past, you’ve probably heard the word metabolism. Do we really know what our metabolism is, what it determines, and if we can change it?

In this presentation, Kim Martin, the owner of Curves in Peoria, will discuss metabolism and give us the knowledge that will make us feel empowered in our health choices.. Kim has over 20 years of experience and is certified in nutrition, exercise kinesiology, and behavior management.
This is a free program, but registration is required. Call the Information Desk at 697-3822, ext. 13, to sign-up.
Book Discussion
2nd Thursday of Every Month, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
 
March 8: H is for Hawk by Helen MacDonald

April 12: Fates and Furies by Lauren Groff
 
Copies of the books are available for check out one month before the discussion. Please let us know if you prefer a sound recording or large print edition of the book and we’ll try our best to get it.
AARP Senior Safe Driving Class
Wednesday, April 25 and Thursday, April 26 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
 
The AARP Smart Driver Course is designed especially for drivers age 50 and older. Attending this class may entitle you to an insurance discount. Contact your insurance company for details. This is a two day class and you must attend both days. Registration required. Contact the Information Desk at 697-3822, ext. 13 to register or for more details. Payment is taken on first day of class.

$15 for AARP Members; $20 for Non AARP Members