|
November and December 2017
|
|
|
Serving Bartonville, Kingston Mines, Mapleton, Norwood, and all of the Illini Bluffs and Limestone High School Districts.
|
|
|
Board Meetings
Monday, November 20, 7:00 p.m.
Monday, December 18, 7:00 p.m.
The Public is Welcome
Library Closings
Wednesday, November 22 at 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, November 23
Friday, November 24
Thursday, December 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Monday, December 25
Tuesday, December 26
|
|
|
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
|
|
|
A LITTLE OF THIS… A LITTLE OF THAT
In the What-Just-Happened-and-What’s-Next Dept., we have finished re-roofing the ‘95 building, replaced heating/cooling units, and rebuilt the public parking lot. We gained seven parking spaces, including a mandatory third space for the handicapped. Next up, as I write this in October, comes the interior west wall, a 1985 heating/cooling unit, and lighting on the first floor. Referendum funding, for which we remain grateful, goes quickly, so we will prioritize carefully.
Meanwhile, we await the arrival of 15 new chairs for the second floor meeting/story hour room. They will be lightweight and easily moved. These chairs replace old, tired seating, and will come to us courtesy of the Friends of the Library. Earlier, the Friends bought new office chairs for the folks at the Checkout Desk.
In the Dept. of Finance, we do not expect to receive our customary grant from the state. Also, the Corporate Personal Property Replacement Tax is down, so funding between December and June may be challenging. Which is one reason why we value the support of the Friends of the Library so highly. And why I feel compelled to remind the world that all donations to the library are tax-deductible, and we are among the most grateful people you’ll ever meet. But I’m not twisting arms.
Jumping back to the parking lot: We have received compliments on how spiffy the lot looks, along with regrets about the missing islands and trees. The board and staff
do
understand the loss of all things growing. The trees were discussed, as part of planning, for over four years. In my 16 years as director, two trees died and two more were dying. In the winter, plowing snow was difficult, sometimes causing the loss of parking spaces as snow had to be pushed to the side. Traffic flow around the islands became problematic after the parking lot entrance was relocated. And, while I would be
delighted
if people would use the north lot, the only time people have used it consistently was just a few weeks ago, when we temporarily opened the staff entrance for public use. People will park illegally on the Garfield extension before they will occupy the north lot! So. We lament
the loss of greenery, while appreciating the clean, newly-striped south parking lot.
In the Department of Some Things Never Change (Much), a staff member recently told a story about a grandfather, whose grandson had never been a reader—until he discovered the Hardy Boys books. Then he proceeded to read the entire series—58 books, in all. We don’t own all of them, but we filled gaps via loans from other libraries. Joe and Frank Hardy first appeared in 1927, the year my father was born, and I read and traded the books with grade school friends. The traditionalist in me thinks it’s
swell
—perhaps even
keen
—that the old is still new to new readers. And that APL could help that young man read ALL the Hardy Boys Books.
As ever, thanks for supporting
your
library, where the old and new live happily side-by-side!
John Richmond, Director
|
|
|
Holiday 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., November 8, 15, 22, 29 and December 6, 13
Parents/caregivers with babies ages 12-24 months are invited to the library for activities.
Songs, creative time, and group play
Toddlertime
Storytime for 2-year-olds with an adult.
Tuesdays, 10:00 to 10:30 a.m., November 7, 14, 21, 28 and December 5, 12
Bookworms
Storytime for ages 3 to 6.
Tuesdays, 10:30 to 11:00 a.m., November 7, 14, 21, 28 and December 5, 12
Wednesdays, 1:00 to 1:30 p.m., November 8, 15, 22, 29 and December 6, 13
Thursday Tales
Storytime for 2- and 3-year-olds with an adult.
Thursdays, 10:00 to 10:30 a.m., November 9, 16, 30 and December 7, 14
Stories on the Steps
Evening storytime for ages 3 to 8.
Thursday evenings, 6:30 to 7:00 p.m., November 9, 16, 30 and December 7, 14
|
|
|
Winter Reading Challenge: All Ages
December 1 to February 14
Spend this winter expanding your reading horizons! Pick up a book bingo sheet at the library, or print one from our website. When you get a Book Bingo, return it to the library for a great prize!
|
|
|
Week of Wonder
November 10 to November 17
Wonder
,
by R.J. Palacio tells the story of Augie’s first experience in public school, joining fifth grade after many years at home dealing with medical issues. In celebration of the movie release and of the book’s theme to #choosekind, you can create a Kindness Rock to send out into the world. You can also participate in the display telling us how you can #choosekind in our community.
|
|
|
Saturday, December 9, 10:00 a.m.
Design your own winter wonderland! A limited number of gingerbread houses will be available for decorating. Participants may bring their own materials to add to the scene, but that is not required. Registration for this event is required. $5 is due at time of registration to help cover the cost of materials. Call Sara for more details, 697-3822, ext. 14.
|
|
 |
|
Construction Club
Tuesday, November 28, 3:30 to 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, December 12, 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, November 11, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Saturday, December 2, 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.
|
|
|
|
|
Wee Ones Christmas Party
Tuesday, December 19, 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Children six and under and their caregivers are invited to join their friends at the library for a special Christmas storytime including stories, songs, snacks and a holiday craft.
|
|
|
Family Reading Night
Thursday, November 16, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Join us for a special family storytime as we join in with other readers across the state of Illinois to celebrate the magic of reading on Family Reading Night.
|
|
|
Teen Board
Thursday, November 2, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, December 7, 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.
|
|
|
|
Comic Art Club
Monday, November 13, 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.
Monday, December 11, 6:00 to 7:30 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.
|
|
|
|
|
Manga Club
Thursday, November 2, 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, December 7, 6:00 to 7:30 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 DIY: Quotables
Thursday, November 30, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Students ages 12 to 18 are invited for a unique arts and crafts experience. Design your own t-shirt, pillow case, or other item with some fun quote ideas. Please bring your blank item (pre-washed) and creative ideas to this free program.
|
|
|
|
iPad Questions Class
Wednesday, November 8, 7:00 p.m.
Have questions about how to operate your iPad? Are you having trouble with certain apps and settings? Here is your chance to ask specific questions. Bring your iPad and we will work through all of your technical issues together. This class is free, but it is limited to 10 people. Contact the Information Desk and let us know what you are having trouble with, 697-3822, ext. 13.
Computer Maintenance Basics
Thursday, November 16, 10:00 a.m.
Want to learn how to take care of your computer? In this one-hour class, we will discuss how to properly take care of your laptop, desktop, or any computer that you have. We will discuss how to optimize your computer, check for updates, and the proper precautionary measures you can take to ensure your computer lasts as long as possible.
eBook Basics
Thursday, November 9, 10:00 a.m. or Thursday, December 14, 7:00 p.m.
In this class, we will discuss how to download eBooks and audiobooks free from your library. We will outline how to locate, download, and read your books – all from the comfort of your home. Registration is limited to allow for more one-on-one instruction. Call the Information Desk for more details, 697-3822, ext. 13.
Introduction to Facebook
Thursday, December 7, 2:00 p.m.
In this introductory class, we will discuss the steps needed to create and use a Facebook profile, send messages, and add photos and content to your profile. We will also talk about steps you can take to protect your privacy while using Facebook. Registration is required. Call the Information Desk for more details, 697-3822, ext. 13.
Basic iPad Class
Thursday, December 7, 7:00 p.m.
This class is designed to help you get to know your iPad better. The class will explore the basics including how to change your settings, learn how to interact with the device, and discover the world of apps. Bring your iPad and let us know what tricks you’ve found! FREE class. Registration required. Contact the Information Desk at 309-697-3822, ext. 13, to register.
Microsoft Word Basics
Monday, December 18, 7:00 p.m.
In this class, we will discuss the basics of Microsoft Word. We will cover all of the different tools you will need including how to print, save, and work with fonts. This class is perfect for the beginner or those who need a quick refresher. Registration is required, call the Information Desk at 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.
November 6: 3rd Anniversary Party
|
|
|
|
|
Cookbook Club Presents Chef Amanda Pyle
Monday, December 4, 7:00 p.m.
The Cookbook Club is excited to welcome back Chef Amanda Pyle, owner and operator of
The Cookery, Inc
. Chef Amanda will be discussing holiday leftovers and how to creatively use them after all of the family celebrations. Seating is limited. Register for this free program by calling the Information Desk, 697-3822, ext. 13.
|
|
|
|
|
Holiday Gift Wrapping Table
Monday, November 27 to Friday, December 22
Your library will have a gift wrapping station free for public use during the holidays. We will have wrapping paper, scissors, tape, and all of the essentials you will need to wrap your presents. The self-service wrapping station will be located by the Information Desk starting the Monday after Thanksgiving.
|
|
|
|
|
Book Discussion
2nd Thursday of Every Month, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
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.
|
|
|
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY COMMEMORATIVE BRICK SALE
The Friends of the Library are continuing to raise much needed funds for the library, and in the process, spruce up the outdoor space here at Alpha Park Public Library.
Earlier this year, the Friends of the Library began selling commemorative pavers, or bricks, for a patio near the bird feeder and butterfly garden on the west side of the library. At a low cost of $25, these bricks are the perfect way to memorialize your support of your library. All-in-all, the Friends have successfully sold just over 60 bricks memorializing patrons’ husbands, wives, children, and so forth. Going into the giving season, consider giving the gift of a commemorative brick to your favorite cousin, or aunt, or brother.
To get your very own brick, stop by the Circulation Desk to fill out the form. The sale will continue until the end of the year.
|
|
|
Friends of the Library Meeting
Tuesday, November 14, 10:30 a.m.
Calling all Friends of the Library! The Friends of the Library is a group that works closely with us at Alpha Park. They help fundraise, volunteer, and support the library in a number of different ways. Alpha Park Library would not be the same without the Friends. If you are interested in joining, please come to the next meeting.
|
|
|
APL Yarners and Needlers
Every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.
Come and smile awhile! The Yarners and Needlers meet every Tuesday to work on projects of all kinds including knitting, crocheting, embroidery, tatting, quilting, mending, and much more. This program is free and open to the public. Want more information? Give Marla a call at 697-3822, ext. 24.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
