The Library Times

January and February 2019

Serving Bartonville, Kingston Mines, Mapleton, Norwood, and all of the Illini Bluffs and Limestone High School Districts

Board Meetings Tuesday, January 22, 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 19, 7:00 p.m. The Public is Welcome Library Closings Tuesday, January 1 Monday, January 21 Monday, February 18

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

THE ELEMENT OF SURPRISE Recently, I waited at home for a service person. When he came, we got to talking library, school, and other things. He told me about learning the Dewey Decimal system of classifying [usually non-fiction] books. He was in junior high, was sent to the library as a “time out,” and the librarian put his brain (and hands—he shelved books) to work. He said, “But I’ve forgotten everything now.” I didn’t say, “But it would come back to you, like riding a bicycle.” Meanwhile, who would expect to discuss Dewey with a repairman? There’s that element…. Reminds me that in Libraryland, we sometimes assume things we shouldn’t. People have asked me what the difference between fiction and non-fiction is. “Fiction—is that the made-up stuff?” Um. Yes, except that when I’m reading a novel (fiction), the storyline may seem real to me. And now that folks appear to distinguish between “real news” and “fake news,” I think I might not have a clear answer to all questions. Real? Made-up? What? Anyway, those questions that I think everyone knows the answer to can still surprise me. Another thing: in the fiscal year that began on July 1, the number of visitors in the library is down over last year by 12.36%. In August alone, bodies in the library dropped 17.39% over August, 2017. I am, in fact, surprised by these numbers. There is a national trend showing fewer people visiting library buildings, but the average is not as high as ours. Perhaps it’s time for a survey. What are we not doing? Is there something we’re doing wrong? Or is this actually a problem in the universe, over which I lack control? (Lots of those, alas. Problems, I mean.) Then again, leisure reading is down in the U.S. That’s real news, and unsurprising. One 66-year-old’s opinion: I can stare at my cell phone all day, or I can read a book and set my imagination free. Which is generally less dangerous than, say, crossing a street against a red light while my eyes are riveted to my phone. I guess I’m a dinosaur, and I guess there’s no element of surprise in that. I say, “I guess,” because the older I get, I wonder how much I really know.  Then again , by the time you read this, I am 99% sure that we will have received word of a payout of money due from a unit of local government. Not a huge amount, but anything that helps bolster the library’s fiscal situation, for the long or short term, is a fine thing. This is under “element of surprise” because, sometimes, I thought we might never see these dollars. (Never say “never.”) Whenever the moment comes for me to move along, I want to see the library’s reserve funds larger, not smaller, than they have been. I want this surprise to happen, 100%. Happy 2019. May it bring us many happy surprises, for you and for us at the library!   John Richmond, Director

Tech Play Days Friday, January 4, 1—4 p.m. Saturday, February 16, 1—4 p.m. We are opening the locks! Drop in and try out some of our latest equipment including 360* cameras, virtual reality headsets, and gaming computers. Our staff will be on hand to help you explore the items.

Winter Reading Challenge January 1—February 14   Spend this winter expanding your reading horizons! Pick up a book bingo sheet at the library or online. When you complete the goal on the sheet, return it for a great prize. Open to all ages!

2019 Reading Challenge Ends December 31, 2019   I n 2019, we challenge you to complete our Alphabet Soup reading challenge! Work your way through the alphabet by selecting books that begin with a specific letter. Complete all 26 letters and return the form to the Information Desk before 12/31/2019 to win a prize. All participants will also be entered for the Grand Prize drawing to win one of two $25 gift cards! Contact the Information Desk at (309) 697-3822 x13 for more details.

Harry Potter Book Night Thursday, January 31, 7—8:30 p.m. Harry Potter Book Night is a worldwide celebration created by Bloomsbury, the publisher of Harry Potter . We will join worldwide wizard fans to celebrate all things HP along with this year’s theme of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry . Get ready to attend classes—there will be a quiz! We will also make a wand, get sorted, and enjoy delicious treats. For all ages.

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 Parents and caregivers with babies aged 9—24 months are invited to the library for songs, books, and group play.   Wednesdays, 10 — 10:30 a.m. January 23, 30 and February 6, 13, 20, 27 Toddlertime Storytime for 2-year-olds with an adult.  Tuesdays, 10 — 10:30 a.m. January 22, 29 and February 5, 12, 19, 26 Bookworms Storytime for ages 3 to 6.   Tuesdays, 10:30 — 11 a.m. January 22, 29 and February 5, 12, 19, 26 Wednesdays, 1 — 1:30 p.m. January 23, 30 and February 6, 13, 20, 27 Thursday Tales Storytime for 2- and 3-year-olds with an adult. Thursdays, 10 — 10:30 a.m. January 24, 31 and February 7, 14, 21, 28 Stories on the Steps Evening storytime for ages 3 to 8. Thursdays, 6:30 — 7 p.m. January 24 and February 7, 14, 21, 28

Make a Thank You Card January 2 — 11 Were you a good girl or boy who received lots of special treats this season? Make a thank you card to show your appreciation. Various art supplies will be provided; drop in and make a thank you card for that special person.

Stuffy Sleepover Wednesday, January 9, 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. You’ll want to wear your jammies to this special evening storytime! Bring your bravest stuffed friend to sleepover at the library. After sleepy stories, milk and cookies, and crafts together, you’ll say goodbye to your stuffies and tuck them in! For ages 3—10. Space is limited. Register at sara@alphapark.org or (309) 697-3822 x14.

T-Rex Tea Party Saturday, January 12, 10:30 a.m. Oh-la-la….RAWR! You’ve never been to a party like this! Join us for dinosaur stories, songs, play, and of course...tea!

Make a Valentine Card February 4 — 14   Drop in and design a Valentine for someone you love! Supplies will be provided.

Make-It/Take-it Saturday, January 19, 10 — 2 p.m. Saturday, February 9, 10 — 2 p.m. Children ages 4 through 4th grade along with their parent or caregiver are invited to make a special holiday craft in the Youth Services Department anytime between 10:00 and 2:00 p.m. Parental assistance required. In January, we will make a snowman craft. In February, we will make a Valentine’s Day creation. Construction Club Tuesday, January 29, 3:30 — 5 p.m. Tuesday, February 26, 3:30 — 5 p.m.   Attention architects! Third through sixth grade students can join their friends at the library for a building challenge and free design time. Materials will be provided. Registration is not required; come by and join the fun.

Home School Book Club Monday, January 28, 2 p.m. Monday, February 25, 2 p.m.   Missing the camaraderie of summer reading club with your friends? Never fear—book club is here. Join us once a month at Alpha Park Public Library for a youth book club. Each month we invite you to join us as we examine a favorite book, have a snack and do a fun activity to go with the book. Best for kids in 2—6 grade. January : Dogman by Dav Pilkey February : Zoey and Sassafras: Caterflies and Ice by Asia Citro

Teen Board Thursday, January 3, 7:30 — 8:30 p.m. Thursday, February 7, 7:30 — 8:30 p.m. Teen Board members must be going into grades 7 through 12. Meetings are held each month from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. New members always welcome. Show up or call Youth Services at (309) 697-3822 x14 for more information.

Teen Mental Health Support Series Monday, January 14, 7—8:30 p.m. Monday, February 11, 7—8:30 p.m.   Teens, join us for a new, monthly series investigating mental health topics as they apply to teens. We will meet with a professional who will share tips and resources and then have time for discussion and questions. In January, we’ll examine eating disorders and in February our topic will be teen dating violence.

Babysitter Training Friday, January 4, 10—3:30 p.m.   This training course is endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Students will cover safety, first aid, ages, and stages as well as best babysitting practices. $8 fee required with registration. Contact Sara: sara@alphapark.org or (309) 697-3822 x14 for more information.

Anti-Valentine Movie Thursday, February 21, 6:30—8:30 p.m.   Shake off the lovey-doveys of February with a teens-only, scary movie night. Snacks provided, bring your own drink.

Teen DIY: Fluid Painting Tuesday, January 15, 6:30 p.m. Sign up for a night of fluid painting! You’ll make runny paint consistencies and then spread them out over a canvas to create unique fluid mixtures. Space is limited! Registration is required. Contact Information at (309) 697-3822 x13 for more details.  Teen DIY: Tissue Paper Votive Thursday, February 28, 6:30 p.m. C ome and create your own tissue paper votive! Design a votive candle holder with tissue paper of your choice (while supplies last). Registration is not required. Contact Youth Services at (309) 697-3822 x14 for more details.

Book a Librarian! Call the Information Desk at (309) 697-3822 x13 to set up a time to get help with your device or learn how to download free eBooks or audiobooks from the library. It’s free and we’re way more patient than your kids!  Introduction to Facebook Friday, February 8, 10—11 a.m. This class will give you an introduction to this widely used social networking service where you’ll learn how to: set up an account, edit, select privacy settings, find and add friends, and more! Prerequisites: Must have working email and be comfortable using a keyboard and the Internet. Please register at (309) 697-3822 x13. Introduction to 3D Printing Monday, February 25, 6:30 —7:30 p.m. Learn how to use our new 3D printer! Take this class and you’ll be ready to set an appointment to print your own object. We will demonstrate how to print an object and provide instruction on the various functions of the printer. This free class is limited to 10 and registration is required. Contact the Information Desk at (309) 697-3822 x13 for more details.

Yoga Wednesday, January 23, 6—7 p.m.   Join us as certified instructor Marysue Baker leads this session. Free and open to all adults! Participants must bring their own mat. Registration is required. Please contact the Information Desk at (309) 697-3822 x13 to sign up.

Seed Starting Monday, January 28, 6:30—7:30 p.m.   Look at ways to make seed starting easier and more rewarding! Taught by Master Gardener, Karl Stach. Please register for this free class by calling (309) 697-3822 x13.

Adult DIY: Fluid Painting Wednesday, February 13, 7 p.m.   Join us for a night of fluid painting! You’ll make runny paint consistencies and then spread them out over a canvas to create unique fluid mixtures. Free and open to adults. Space is limited! Registration is required. Contact the Information Desk at (309) 697-3822 x13 for more details.

Valentine's Bingo Monday, February 4, 2:30—3:30 p.m.   Bring your friends or plan to meet new ones! Snacks and prizes make this the “Heart-iest” bingo game ever! Free and open to all adults. Please register by calling (309) 697-3822 x13.

Cookbook Club 1st Monday of Every Month, 7 — 8 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. January 7: Breakfast Recipes February 4: Pudding, Mousses, & Custards

Ladies Night Out—DIY Spa Night Friday, January 25, 6—8:30 p.m. You’re invited to a Spa-Tastic Party! Come learn how to create your own bath bombs and cucumber eye gel and how to practice mindfulness every day. Tickets are $10 each and include indulgent treats like pizza, chips, and dessert. We’ll also add a hearty salad to balance it out! Grab a friend and prepare to be pampered! Door prizes included. Registration is limited to 35 and payment is due upon registration. Stop by the Information Desk to register or for more details.

BUNCO Thursday, February 28, 7—8:30 p.m.   Bring your friends and plan to meet new ones! Enjoy a night full of BUNCO and snacks. FREE and open to the public. Space is limited and registration is required. Call (309) 697-3822 x13 to register and receive more information.

66 Day Habit Challenge February 1 — April 7 Pick a habit and stick to it for 66 days! Keep it simple so you can repeat it every day. We’ll give you a tracker form so you can mark the days you meet your habit(s). Choose as many habits as you wish and turn in your completed form by April 12. Everyone who turns in a completed form will be placed in a drawing to win gift cards. Pick up your habit tracker any time after January 15 at the Information Desk and begin tracking on February 1. Contact (309) 697-3822 x13 for more details! 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 (309) 697-3822 x24.

Book Discussion 2nd Thursday of Every Month, 2:30 — 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. January 10: Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng February 14: Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate

Friends of the Alpha Park Library Since 2011, the Friends of the Alpha Park Library have raised approximately $20,000, helping APL purchase much-needed items, both great and small, from Summer Reading prizes to the spiffy Information/Reference desk. Come join this terrific group for their first two meetings of 2019, on Jan. 8 and Feb. 12 at 10:30 a.m. (Those would be the second Tuesdays of each month.) All are welcome!

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