The Library Times
September and October 2018
Serving Bartonville, Kingston Mines, Mapleton, Norwood, and all of the Illini Bluffs and Limestone High School Districts 
Monday, September 17, 7:00 p.m.
Monday, October 15, 7:00 p.m.

The Public is Welcome

Library Closings
Monday, September 3

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
PROJECT NEXT GENERATION & ITS GRANTS
 
The “next generation” is a broad term. It doesn’t require me to think in terms of letters (Gen X) or numbers (Millennials) or even explosives (Baby Boom ers—one of which I am). The “next generation” allows for potentially amazing possibilities, and may even cover a multitude of sins—but we’re not here to think about theology. I’m writing for a library .
 
Speaking of which (the library), Sara Bell, Youth Services Librarian, has been awarded a “Project Next Generation” grant from the Illinois State Library.  Dollars: $21,935! I will quote from the State Library, to provide a broad overview of what PNG grants are about:
 
Project Next Generation (PNG) offers grant funding to public libraries for…educational, "after-school" programs that not only provide access to computers, software and various technology devices, but also hire mentors who are crucial to helping students develop self-confidence and pride in their newly acquired skills.
 
As I am one of those older people from an earlier generation, I will simply tell you that this grant involves teenagers, drones, virtual reality glasses, local history, and, as part of the history, Illinois veterans. I wouldn’t presume to explain it to readers of this newsletter, but I am sure that Sara will be able to enlighten all of us.  Meanwhile, please be impressed that YOUR library staff received a $21,935 grant, and offer Sara thanks!  In a time of stagnant-to-shrinking funding, the receipt of such a large grant is an officially wonderful thing.
 
On a smaller scale, we have spent almost all of a $1,800 “Back to Books” grant (again, from the State Library, derived from Federal funding), purchasing titles in psychology, self-help, spirituality, travel, and the people and animals that inhabit some of the more exotic places to which people travel. Psychology and spirituality have to do with inward travel…and all those things relate to the Summer Reading program just ended, Reading Takes You Everywhere.
 
Back on the west side of the library, the Friends’ patio, with engraved bricks given in honor or memory of various people, is finished—and looks great. The Friends will be selling bricks for engraving later in the year, too, as there are blank pavers remaining. The sign for the step-by-step reading path is installed, also, and it looks terrific. Many people have passed my office on their way to survey the patio/garden/reading area. One man looked in at me and gave me the thumbs-up sign. He was all smiles. If he is happy, then so am I. Much gratitude goes to the Friends, with their patio, footpath and sign, and “cutest pet” contest fundraiser.
 
Finally, by the time you read this, the next two capital projects—new lighting, 1985 portion of the building, and painting throughout the library—should be underway. We are grateful for all that we have been able to do with the $800,000 of public funding received through our successful referendum.
 
Thank you all for supporting your public library!
 
John Richmond, Director

Fall 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/caregivers with babies ages 12-24 months are invited to the library for activities. Songs, creative time, and group play.
Wednesdays, 10 - 10:30 a.m.
September 12, 19, 26 and October 3, 10, 17


Toddlertime
Storytime for 2-year-olds with an adult. 
Tuesdays, 10 - 10:30 a.m.
September 11, 18, 25 and October 2, 9, 16


Bookworms
Storytime for ages 3 to 6 moving towards independence.  
Tuesdays, 10:30 - 11 a.m.
September 11, 18, 25 and October 2, 9, 16
Wednesdays, 1 - 1:30 p.m.
September 12, 19, 26 and October 3, 10, 17


Thursday Tales
Storytime for 2- and 3-year-olds with an adult.
Thursdays, 10 - 10:30 a.m.
September 13, 20, 27 and October 4, 11, 18


Stories on the Steps
Evening storytime for ages 3 to 8.
Thursdays, 6:30 - 7 p.m.
September 13, 20, 27 and October 4, 11, 18


Make-It/Take-it
Saturday, September 15, 10 - 2 p.m.
Saturday, October 20, 10 - 2 p.m.

Children ages 4 through 4th grade, along with their parent or caregiver, are invited to make a craft in the Youth Services Department anytime between 10:00 and 2:00 p.m. In September, we will make sand pictures. In October, we will make a Halloween creation.
 
Construction Club
Tuesday, September 25, 3:30 - 5 p.m. Tuesday, October 30, 3:30 - 5 p.m.

 
Attention architects! 3rd to 6th grade students can join their friends at the library for a building challenge and some free design time. Materials will be provided. Registration is not required.
 

Wee Ones Halloween Party
Tuesday, October 30, 10 - 11 a.m.

Children six and under and their caregivers are invited to join their friends at the library for a special Halloween-themed storyhour. We will provide stories, snacks, and a craft. Kids, wear your costume for the costume parade!
 
**We are looking for teens interested in committing to a year-long technology club. We will be using cutting-edge equipment, including virtual reality. If you are 12 to 17 years old and interested in being considered for this group, please contact Sara (309) 697-3822 x14 or sara@alphapark.org.**
Teen Board
Thursday, September 6, 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 4, 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Teen Board members must be going into 7 th through 12 th grades. Show up or call Youth Services at (309) 697-3822 x14 for more information.
Teen Intro to 3D Printing
Thursday, September 13, 7:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Come get introduced to our new 3D printer! We will set you up with an account and teach you the basics so that you will be able to use the 3D printer in the future. Registration required, call (309) 697-3822 x14 to sign up.
Horror Movie Night
Monday, October 29, 6 p.m.

Looking to get in the Halloween spirit? Then swing by the library for a movie night! We will watch a horror movie and eat treats. This program is free and open to all teens 12 and up.
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 3D Printing                                                                              
Wednesday, September 12, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
OR
Thursday, October 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.

Microsoft Word Basics           
Wednesday, September 26, 2 - 3 p.m.
This one hour, hands on class will teach you the various skills necessary to write letters, type a resume, or create signs. Perfect for beginners or those needing a refresher course. Seating is limited to 8; please register at the Information Desk by calling (309) 697-3822 x13.

Basic iPad Class
Thursday, September 27, 7 - 8:30 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 x13 to register.
Peoria County Adult Community Programs
We’ve partnered with Peoria County Administration to bring informational adult programs to our patrons. A variety of educational programs will be available to the public beginning in September. All programs are free! Registration is required. Please register by calling (309) 672-6918.

Join the Electoral Process
Thursday, September 13, at 6 p.m.
Instructor : Elizabeth Gannon, Peoria County Board of Election Commissioners
Peoria County's Elections Commission needs qualified, reliable men and women to serve as election judges for this year's general election. Election judges are very important to the democratic electoral process because they administer voting procedures at each polling location on Election Day and ensure all individuals who have the right to vote can do so in a secure environment. Election Commission staff will explain the qualifications, responsibilities, technological skills, and compensation for election judges during this workshop.

Are You Prepared?
Monday, September 24, at 6 p.m.
Instructor : Jason Marks, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator
We do not know when or where the next disaster will strike, but we do know we want to be able to keep ourselves and our family safe when it does. During this workshop, Peoria County's emergency management experts will explain how to plan for and protect your family's safety by developing a family emergency plan, identifying points of contact, and creating an emergency preparedness kit before disaster strikes again.

Personal Safety - Don't Become a Victim
Monday, October 15, at 6 p.m.
Instructor : Aimee Shinall, Peoria County Sheriff’s Office Victim Services Coordinator
The Peoria County Sheriff's Victims Services Coordinator will provide valuable information to help keep you and your family safe. She will explain how people can protect themselves against identity theft and how to avoid falling victim to common scams. She will explain how to recognize, avoid, and escape abusive behaviors. People attending this workshop will also learn how to protect themselves and their property from residential burglary. These are just a few of the items covered during this great workshop intended for anyone who does not want to become a victim.

Protect Yourself with Self Defense Techniques
Wednesday, October 24, at 6 p.m.
Instructor : Lt. Joe Hartwig, Peoria County Sheriff’s Office
Learn how to protect yourself if attacked. Peoria County Sheriff's personnel will describe and demonstrate self-defense techniques that may save your life. Participants will have an opportunity to practice self-defense techniques in a controlled environment.
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.

September 3: Labor Day - No Meeting
October 1: Fall Cooking with Essential Oils - Guest Speaker Cynthia Garst
Peoria State Hospital Cemetery Walk
Saturday, September 22, 9:30 a.m.

Gary Lisman, author of Bittersweet Memories, will begin at the library with a brief overview of the state hospital cemeteries. He will then lead a guided tour on hospital grounds. Good footwear & a mode of transportation from the library to the state hospital are essential. This program is free and open to the public, but registration is limited. Register at the Information Desk, (309) 697-3822 x13.
 

2018 Reading Challenge
Ends December 31, 2018
 
There’s still time to snag the 2018 Reading Challenge worksheet at the library and complete it before December 31! Participants only need to complete 30 of the 40 challenges and then return the form to the Information Desk to receive a prize. All participants who complete the challenge will also be entered for a Grand Prize drawing of a $50 Kroger gift card! Contact the Information Desk at (309) 697-3822 x13 for more details.
What is Disc Golf?
Saturday, September 15, 2 p.m.

Ever wondered about the game of disc golf? Learn the basics! Free and open to all ages. Door prizes, too! This meeting will take place at the Alpha Park Pavilion with a description and rules of the game, Q&A, and a demonstration. Then, weather permitting, the group may try their hand on the course. Call the Information Desk to register, (309) 697-3822 x13.   
Play A Round - Disc Golf
Saturday, September 29, 10 a.m.

Free! One round of 9 holes. Bring your own discs. The library does have two sets available for check out. Prizes for the winners. Meet at the pavilions in Alpha Park. Beginners welcome, open to all ages. Teams of 4 will begin at each basket. Sign up as a team or join a team that day. Call the Information Desk to register (309) 697-3822 x13.
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.
Disc "Frisbee" Golf Available for
Check Out

Get outside this summer and play a round of Frisbee Golf! Alpha Park has a new course, there's a small course at Limestone High School, and there are many more around the area. Try before you buy -- The library has two sets of discs available for check out for 3 weeks. 
Harry Potter Case Raffle
October 1 - 31

A collectible trunk-like box containing all seven hardcover editions of Harry Potter will be raffled off. The raffle will run throughout the month of October: $1 for each ticket or 6 for $5. Winner will be drawn November 1. Call the Information Desk at (309) 697-3822 x13 for more details.
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.  

September 13: Lucky Boy by Shanthi Sekaran
October 11: No Meeting

Peoria Riverfront Museum Pass
 
Alpha Park Library patrons with a valid library card may check out a pass to the Peoria Riverfront Museum! We have one pass available on a first come basis. Call the library at (309) 697-3822 x10 for more details.
World Book Online

World Book Online is a free resource to our patrons. It offers an encyclopedia, dictionary, atlas, homework help, study aids, and curriculum guides. Contact the Information Desk at (309) 697-3822 x13 for password details.
Patios, Pets, and More from the Friends of the Alpha Park Library

The Friends of the Library have been busy , underwriting the costs of Summer Reading Club prizes and, on a BIG scale, selling bricks for the patio on the library’s west side. AND having the west-side footpath sign installed. AND producing a “Cutest Pet” fundraiser. In seven years, the Friends have generated at least $20,000 in revenue, with proceeds benefiting the library. All this, with a core group of seven to ten folks who meet on the second Tuesday of every month, plus a small but faithful handful of volunteers who maintain the ongoing book sale…and more!

The next Friends meetings will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, September 11, and Tuesday, October 9. All are welcome. Questions? Call Amber Hopwood, president, at (309) 697-3097. 

A shout-out, too, to Alex Vlachos, of Brandenberg Landscaping, who did such fine work—at a reasonable price—on the patio!