Between the Bookends: March & April 2024

New Library App Available Now!

The LSF Brookfield Library App

Using the Library is about to get even easier with the new, all-inclusive LSF Brookfield Library app.

After downloading the app, members can login with their library card and instantly:

 Reserve Meeting Rooms, Study Rooms, the Editing Studio, and Maker Equipment

 Register for Library classes & events

 Search the SWAN catalog

 Manage holds, checkouts, and renewals

 Check out digital library materials 24/7 from Hoopla, Libby, and Boundless

Register for Classes & Events

1. Login with your library card number and PIN, then tap Home .

2. In the Upcoming Events section on the app home screen, tap See all >

3. Use the search bar or filter by Event Type, Age Range, Date Range, or Time Range to find the desired class or event, then tap Register.

4. Fill-in the required fields and tap Next .

5. Tap Confirm registration

Ready, Set, Library!

This National Library Week, race to discover the possibilities at the Library by trying a new digital resource, checking out a Hot Picks title, or attending a featured class or event.

Reserve Rooms & Equipment

1. Login with your library card number and PIN, then tap Home .

2. In the Reserve a Room section on the app home screen, tap See all > and select the correct Booking Type from the drop-down menu.

3. Select the preferred reservation date from the top of the screen. Scroll to the desired room or equipment in the list of available spaces and tap Reserve .

4. Select a start time and end time then tap Reserve now.

5. Fill-in the required fields and tap Confirm Registration

Download the App for Apple & Android

1. Visit www.lsfbrookfieldlibrary.org/ lsf-brookfield-app.

2. Search “LSF Brookfield Library” in the Apple App store or Google Play store.

To learn more, contact the Library at 708-485-6917.

 Solar Eclipse Watch Party —April 8

 Ready, Set, Library! Miniature Books Craft —April 8

 Genealogy Resources at Your Library —April 9

 Teen Make It: Friendship Bracelets —April 10

 Medicare Seminar —April 11

Youth Classes & Events

Spring Storytimes

Join us for a wide variety of early literacy classes this spring! Storytimes take place:

Monday, March 4 -Thursday, April 18. Registrationencouraged

Book Babies

Mondays, 10:30 a.m.

Birthto24monthswithcaregiver

Storytime Stars

Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.

Ages2—3withcaregiver

Tuesday Tales

Tuesdays, 6 p.m.

Ages2-7withcaregiver

Stories Galore

Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.

Allageswithcaregiver

Fairytale Storytime

Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.

Allageswithcaregiver

All Ages

Legotastic Saturday

Saturday, March 2, 10 a.m.

Saturday, April 6, 10 a.m. Build as far as your imagination will take you in this fun drop-in event.

Spring Finger Painting

Monday, April 22, 6 p.m.

Let’s create some seasonal, colorful creations to celebrate spring.

Take & Make Friday Crafts

Fridays in March & April

Stop by the Youth Services desk every Friday and take a free craft kit to make at home.

New Sensory Support Kits coming to the Library in April for Autism Acceptance Month

Starting in April, Library members can check out a Sensory Support Kit from Youth Services for in-Library use and to take home. Developed for Autism Acceptance Month, these kits include thoughtful tools to help autistic children relieve stress, improve communication, and actively engage all senses in play. These kits are designed for children of all ages.

NEW! Homeschool Connect

Friday, March 29, 10 a.m.

Friday, April 26, 10 a.m. Connect with other homeschool families at the Library. Share resources, socialize, and play games in our Classroom.

Grades 3-5:

EncryptHer

Saturday, March 9, 1 p.m.

Saturday, April 13, 1 p.m. Learn about cybersecurity, computer science, and how to be safe online. Presented in both English and Spanish by a bilingual instructor.

TD3 Minecraft Engineering: The Big Bad Wolf

Saturday, April 20, 1 p.m. Join us for a fun and engaging Minecraft adventure. Laptops are available for checkout, but participants are encouraged to bring their own devices.

Early Literacy

Musical Storytime with Anderson Music Studio

Saturday, March 9, 3 p.m.

Saturday, April 13, 3 p.m.

Stop by for a storytime featuring musicians from Anderson Music Studio.

Allageswithcaregiver

Baby & Me Playtime

Friday, March 15, 11 a.m.

Friday, April 19, 11 a.m.

Come hang out in the Classroom with other babies and their caregivers.

Birth-23monthswithcaregiver

Let’s Dance!

Friday, March 29, 10:30 a.m.

Monday, April 29, 10:30 a.m.

Let’s get our groove on with our very own kid-friendly playlist.

Allageswithcaregiver

Grades K-5

NEW! Comic Creation Club

Wednesday, March 13, 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 24, 4 p.m. Draw, color, and create your own comic strips.

Zumba for Kids

Wednesday, March 6, 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 11, 4 p.m.

Join this dance party full of fitness fun.

Slime Club: Shamrock Slime

Friday, March 8, 4:30 p.m.

Friday, March 22, 4:30 p.m.

Make Shamrock Slime for St. Patrick’s Day.

Ninja Storytime

Friday, April 12, 10:15 a.m.

Join a real Ninja Squad Coach! Hear a story, then jump, roll, balance, and play like a ninja. Ages2—5withcaregiver

Sensory Shenanigans

Wednesday, April 24, 10:30 a.m. Drop in to explore different sensory play stations and activities.

Allageswithcaregiver

Fairytale Tea Party

Tuesday, April 30, 4:30 p.m.

Attend this magical tea party featuring a

READ to the Dogs

Tuesday, March 26, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, April 30, 7 p.m.

Practice your reading skills with dogs from the Hinsdale Humane Society.

Art Adventure

Friday, March 29, 4:30 p.m.

Friday, April 19, 4:30 p.m.

Let’s explore our imaginations and see what we can create.

Geek Lab: Exploding Plastic Bags

Friday, April 5, 4:30 p.m.

Friday, April 26, 4:30 p.m.

This month, we’ll be making exploding plastic bags.

Earth Week Nature Prints

Thursday, April 25, 4:30 p.m.

Celebrate Earth Week with nature art.

Spring Break!

Cardboard City

Monday, March 25, 4:30 p.m.

Calling all budding architects! We are designing and building our own cardboard city.

GradesK-5

3D Design Club – Kids’ Edition

Tuesday, March 26, 4 p.m.

Tuesday, April 23, 4 p.m.

Explore your creativity and learn how to create 3D designs with Tinkercad. Laptops provided.

GradesK-5

Yoga for Kids

Wednesday, March 27, 4 p.m.

Wednesday, April 24, 4 p.m.

Learn basic yoga poses and calming techniques with Miss Marianne.

GradesK-5

Family Board Game Extravaganza

Thursday, March 28, 1:30 p.m.

Enjoy an afternoon of board games and music.

Allages

Green Thumb Club

Thursday, March 28, 4:30 p.m.

Meet fellow plant enthusiasts at the Green Thumb Club and get your hands in some soil.

GradesK-5

Adult Classes & Events

True Crime Club

Brookfield PD Investigates

Wednesday, March 20, 7 p.m.

Detectives from the Brookfield Police Department will walk through a police investigation from the initial 911 call to evidence collection and beyond.

KillersoftheFlowerMoon

Wednesday, April 17, 7 p.m.

Discuss this popular true crime book, which was recently adapted to the big screen. Copies available for pickup at the Library starting March 17.

Sustainability Solutions: International Goals to Local Actions

Thursday, March 7, 7 p.m.

RBHS senior Maiana Nelson shares her experience as a delegate at the UN Climate Conference in Dubai (COP28). She will discuss It’sOurFuture , a Chicago-area high school climate group, Zero Waste Schools program, and The EPA toolkit Food:Too GoodtoWaste- about smart shopping, storage and food prep. Brought to you by Brookfield Conservation Commission, LSF Brookfield Library, Riverside Brookfield Educational Foundation and It’sOurFuture.

Ruth E. Carter: Interweaving Tradition and Imagination Through Costume Design

Wednesday, March 20, 7 p.m.

Meet Ruth E. Carter, two-time Academy Award-winning costume designer and the first Black person to win an Academy Award in Best Costume Design for the film BlackPanther . Her work has also been featured in MalcolmX , Amistad , and Selma WatchathomeviaZoomonly.

Freshen Your Rooms With What You Have

Monday, March 4, 7 p.m.

Get tips for improving the function and beauty of your rooms from staging expert GraceAnn Simoni. Learn about furniture placement, lighting, art, and accessories.

Elizabeth Cady Stanton Portrayal

Monday, March 11, 7 p.m.

Watch Laura Keyes portray 19th century women’s rights leader Elizabeth Cady Stanton on Zoom for this informative and inspiring presentation. Hear from Mrs. Stanton in 1866, when the Civil War was over, but the battle for Women’s Suffrage was just beginning.

WatchathomeviaZoomorattheLibrary.

Detox Your Mind Through Meditation

Monday, March 25, 6:30 p.m.

Long-time meditator Umesh Bhatia shares how to implement a simple yet powerful meditation technique that can improve mental and physical well-being.

From Broadway to the Big Screen

Monday, April 1, 7 p.m.

Speaker Ian Tiele presents great musicals that started on Broadway before graduating to the big screen, such as HelloDolly,Fiddleron theRoof,Oliver,Grease,and the Rocky HorrorPictureShow

Solar Eclipse Watch Party

Monday, April 8, 12:30 p.m.

Join us to watch live streams of the solar eclipse. Eclipse viewing glasses will be available at the event.

Eco-Friendly Clear the Clutter

Monday, April 22, 7 p.m.

Getting organized and going green go handin-hand. Recognize and eliminate clutter, and explore green solutions for clearing it from your home. Save time, money, and the planet while regaining control of your home.

ESL Conversation Practice

Practica Tu Inglès Conversacional

Saturday, March 2, 11 a.m.

Saturday, April 13, 11 a.m.

Practice your conversational English in a relaxed group setting. Everyone is welcome. Practica tu inglès conversacional en un ambiente grupal relajado e informal. Todos son bienvenidos.

The Hidden Gifts of Visual Thinkers with Dr. Temple Grandin

Wednesday, April 3, 7 p.m.

Join us over Zoom for a special event with Dr. Grandin, the author of Visual Thinking:TheHiddenGiftsofPeople WhoThinkinPictures,Patterns,and Abstractions . Dr. Grandin has been at the forefront of research and activism for autism and neurodiversity for decades. WatchathomeviaZoomonly.

Walk-ins welcome, where applicable. All events held at the Library unless otherwise specified.

Medicare Seminar

Thursday, April 11, 6:30 p.m.

Learn about Medicare and Medicare Insurance plans. Review Medicare Part A, Part B, Supplement Plan, Part D Drug Plans, and Medicare Advantage Plans. Learn how to select Medicare options, when to enroll, and how to avoid penalties. Presented by Brookfield resident Courtenay Erb.

Entering the Blue Zones: How to Increase Your Chances of Living

Vibrantly into Your 90s and Beyond

Monday, April 29, 7 p.m.

Travel with nurse Joan Davis to the Blue Zones to find secrets to living longer with better health. Follow in the footsteps of National Geographic adventurer Dan Buettner, best-selling author of TheBlue Zone:LessonsforLivingLonger .

Genealogy Club

Unusual Places to Find Births & Naturalizations

Tuesday, March 5, 4 p.m.

Widen your search for births and naturalizations from a variety of underutilized resources such as military rosters, consulate applications, voter registrations, cancelled passports, folk art frakturs, and much more. Presented by Debra Dudek, a librarian, historian, and certified genealogist.

Building History Resources

at Your Library

Tuesday, April 9, 4 p.m.

Discover the history of Brookfield’s buildings and institutions at the Library. Using a study of St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church as a lens, we will explore Library resources such as publications, newspapers, yearbooks, and reference books.

Chair Zumba

Fridays at 1:30 p.m.

March 1, 8, 22; April 5, 19, 26

For Seniors

Hump Day Stretch

Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. or 2:30 p.m.

March 13, 27; April 10, 24

Improve your strength and energy while seated in this fun fitness class.

Chair Yoga (Virtual)

Mondays at 11 a.m.

March 4, 11, 18, 25

April 1, 8, 22, 29

Learn the basics of yoga without getting down on the floor.

Brain Bootcamp

Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.

March 5, 19

April 2, 16, 30

Give your brain a workout with brain teasers, trivia, word games, and more.

Hook & Needle Guild

Wednesdays at 2 p.m.

March 6, 20

April 3, 17

Knitters, crochet enthusiasts, embroidery gurus, and quilting masters of all levels are invited to our bi-monthly meetings. Tea will be served.

Cards & Coffee

Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.

March 12, 26

April 9, 23

Enjoy card games, board games, and coffee.

Device Drop-In

Mondays at 11 a.m.

March 4, 18; April 1, 15, 29

Have questions about your phone, tablet, or laptop computer? Need help with social media or library apps? Drop-in to the Maker Studio and get help from a librarian. No appointment necessary.

Join us for this midweek 45-minute stretch class. Refresh your body with a simple set of stretches and exercises set to music.

Walk & Talk

Tuesdays at 9 a.m.

April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Join us weekly for a stroll and a chat. Meet at the Salt Creek Trail in the Twenty-Sixth Street Woods, at 26th Street and Harrison Avenue, LaGrange Park, Grove #2. Register to be notified if start locations change.

Positive Aging

Thursday, March 14, 1 p.m.

Learn more about the language we use when we talk about ourselves or others regarding the aging process. Explore ways we can improve our life with better vocabulary.

Intro to Senior Medicare Patrol

Thursday, April 4, 1 p.m.

The Illinois Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) program at AgeOptions empowers consumers to prevent healthcare fraud. This program helps people with Medicare to Prevent, Detect, and Report Medicare fraud and abuse. In this session ,we’ll dive into the most common Medicare fraud scams and how to prevent, detect, and report them.

Book Clubs & Film Discussions

@ the Library

Film Discussion Series

View and discuss critically acclaimed foreign and independent films.

OSS 117: Lost in Rio (France)

Tuesday, March 12, 6:30 p.m.

A satirical spoof of 60’s era spy movies.

Land of Mine (Denmark)

Tuesday, April 9, 6:30 p.m.

A Danish post-World War II drama.

Movies with Marty

Join film enthusiast Marty Blank for a screening of his favorite movies.

The Banshees of Inisherin

Sunday, March 17, 1 p.m.

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with this critically acclaimed film starring Brendan Gleeson and Colin Farrell.

Jazz Movie: All Night Long

Saturday, April 6, 2 p.m.

In honor of Jazz Appreciation Month, jazz enthusiasts Marty Blank and Ian Tiele present AllNightLong starring Patrick McGoohan ,with music by Dave Brubeck, Johnny Dankworth, Charles Mingus, Tubby Hayes, and The Chico Hamilton Quartet.

Books & Brews Book Club

For Adults 21 and older. Discuss books, socialize, and enjoy a fine brew at different local establishments. Participants are responsible for their own opinions, as well as any food or drink costs.

TheMaidby Nita Prose

Thursday, March 28, 7 p.m.

AtBuckleDownBrewingon47thStreet

I’mGladMyMomDied

by Jennette McCurdy

Thursday, April 25, 7 p.m.

AtJoe’sSaloonon47thStreet

Books & Bites

Cookbook Club

Meets at the Library. Please bring a recipe prepared from the cookbook selection for the month.

TheTasteofHome100Family Meals:BringtheFamilyBack totheDinnerTable

Tuesday, March 19, 12 p.m.

SmittenKitchenKeepers: NewClassicsforYourForeverFiles by Deb Perelman

Tuesday, April 16, 12 p.m.

Copiesofallbookclubselections areavailableattheLibrary.Contact Adult&TeenServicestolearn moreaboutaspecificbookclub.

Sci-Fi & Fantasy Book Club

MeetsattheLibrary

SeaofTranquility by Emily St. John Mandel

Wednesday, March 6, 7 p.m.

AlteredCarbonby Richard K. Morgan

Wednesday, April 3, 7 p.m.

Non-Fiction Book Club

MeetsatPaisansonGrandBlvd AMostBeautifulThing:TheTrue StoryofAmerica'sFirstAll-BlackHigh SchoolRowingTeam by Arshay Cooper

Thursday, March 14, 7 p.m.

TheWager:ATaleofShipwreck, MutinyandMurder by David Grann

Thursday, April 11, 7 p.m.

Girls Night Out Book Club

MeetsattheLibraryandonZoom EnchantressofNumbers by Jennifer Chiaverini

Monday, March 18, 7 p.m.

ByHerOwnDesignby Piper Huguley

Monday, April 15, 7 p.m.

Teen Spring Break!

Spring Break: Games Galore

Monday, March 25, 2 p.m.

Join us for snacks, board games, giant Jenga, and more.

Spring Break: Movie Matinee

Tuesday, March 26, 2 p.m.

Enjoy a movie with popcorn and snacks. Choose from a selection of movies, the one with the most votes wins.

Spring Break: Teen Crafternoon

Wednesday, March 27, 2 p.m. Get creative with a variety of crafts in the Maker Studio.

Spring Break: TAG Pizza Party

Thursday, March 28, 3 p.m.

Are you a teen who wants to be more involved in the Library? Stop by Teen Advisory Group for a pizza party.

Maker Studio Classes

Maker classes are open to all ages; youth under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Register for classes and events at www.lsfbrookfieldlibrary.org,by phone at (708) 485-6917 x 130, or with the LSF Brookfield Library app.

Spring Bling Pendant Necklace

Saturday, March 9

Two Sessions: 2:30 p.m. or 4 p.m.

Make a Spring Bling necklace with beads and charms.

Library Book Shaker Cards

Monday, March 11

Two Sessions: 6 p.m. or 7:30 p.m.

Make a shaker card with a clear window filled with small items that move when you shake it.

Pi Day Pi-Line Art

Tuesday, March 12, 7 p.m.

Celebrate Pi Day by creating your own pi-line (skyline) art using this mathematical constant.

Take & Make:

Pot of Gold Hanging Mobiles

Friday, March 15, 5 p.m.

Grab a kit starting March 1. The how-to video launches March 15 on our Facebook page.

Spring Wall Art

Saturday, March 16

Two Sessions: 2:30 p.m. or 4 p.m.

Make a wood wall hanging with spring motif.

Intro to the HP Printer

Tuesday, March 19, 7 p.m.

Come see the features of our new HP DesignJet, large format, 24-inch wide printer.

Ready, Set, Library! Miniature Books

Monday, April 8

Two Sessions: 6 p.m. or 7:30 p.m.

Make a handcrafted miniature book of your favorite title or an original design.

Spring Flower Pot Power

Saturday, April 13

Two Sessions: 2:30 p.m. or 4 p.m.

Get a head start on spring planting and embellish a small flower pot.

Glowforge Basics

Tuesday, April 16, 7 p.m.

Meet the Glowforge: laser marker, engraver, and precision cutter. See its features in action with our live demonstrations.

Teen & Young Adult

Teen Knitting for Beginners

Get Your Game On

Friday, March 22, 6:15 p.m.

Friday, April 19, 6:15 p.m.

After-hours gaming of all kinds and pizza. Youth under 8 must be accompanied by a caregiver. Participants must register and arrive on time, as doors close after start time.

Gamers’ Paradise

Friday, March 29, 2 p.m.

Friday, April 26, 4 p.m.

Take some time to unwind on these Friday afternoons by playing some games with friends or making new ones.

Wednesday, March 13, 4 p.m.

Join us to make your own headband. No skills needed. Beginners welcome.

Teen Craft: Fairy House Planter

Wednesday, March 20, 4 p.m.

Create a magical fairy house. Supplies provided; bring any leaves, sticks, flowers, or other items you would like to add.

TAG: Teen Advisory Group

Thursday, April 25, 4 p.m.

Are you a teen who wants to be more involved in the Library? Join TAG - Teen Advisory Group.

Maker Studio 101

Tuesday, March 5, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, April 2, 7 p.m.

Complete your Maker Studio orientation by attending this introductory class. We'll cover procedures, reservations, machine operation, materials, and best practices.

3D Print & Design Club

Thursday, March 7, 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 4, 6:30 p.m.

Join us to learn and discuss all things 3D printing and design. Opentoallages(under12withanadult)

Take & Make: Shining Suncatchers

Friday, April 19, 5 p.m.

Grab a kit starting April 5. The how-to video launches April 19 on our Facebook page.

Intro to Photo Editing

Tuesday, April 23, 7 p.m.

Want to spruce up digital photos? Sign up to learn basic tips and tricks on how to enhance those moments using Windows.

Teen Make It: Friendship Bracelets

Wednesday, April 10, 4 p.m.

Bring a friend or meet new ones while creating personalized friendship bracelets.

Teen Craft: Bubble Paint Hydrangea

Wednesday, April 17, 4 p.m.

Learn how to make DIY bubble paint and use it to create a floral work of art.

Teen D & D

Fridays at 4:30 p.m.

March 8, 22; April 5, 19

Jump into our D&D campaign! New participants welcome.

3541 Park Avenue

Brookfield, IL 60513

www.lsfbrookfieldlibrary.org

(708) 485-6917

Get Help– Ask a Librarian

 By phone at (708) 485-6917

 Email reference@lsfbrookfieldlibrary.org

 Text (708) 248-8433

 Chat online at www.lsfbrookfieldlibrary.org

Library Hours

 Monday-Thursday: 10 a.m.—9 p.m.

 Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m.—6 p.m.

 Sunday: 11 a.m.—6 p.m. (Sept.-May)

Library Closings

Easter Sunday ................................................... March 31

Mini Book Nook Prices

For March & April:

Hardcover Books for Adults ....................................... $1.00

DVDs............................................................................................. $1.00

CDs ................................................................................................. 50 cents

Softcover/Paperbacks for Adults .......................... 50 cents

Items for Young Adults & Children ...................... 50 cents

Postal Customer

Brookfield, IL 60513

Library Trustees

Adam Burghgraef, President Linda Kampschroeder, Vice-President

Carol Vaughan Kissane, Secretary Edgar Mihelic, Treasurer

Jennifer Paliatka Mitzi Norton

Rep Rashid & Senator Cervantes: Mobile Office Hours

Thursday, March 28, 2 p.m.—7 p.m. in Meeting Room 1

Whatcanyourlegislatorsdoforyou?The offices of State Representative Abdelnasser

Rashid and State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes will be holding open office hours at the Library. Stop by to ask questions and get assistance relating to state benefits and resources like unemployment, Medicaid, rental assistance, and more. Information will be provided in both English and Spanish.

Rep Rashid & Senador Cervantes: Horario de oficina móvil

Jueves, 28 de marzo, 2 p.m.—7 p.m. en Meeting Room 1

¿Quépuedenhacersuslegisladoresporusted?Las oficinas del Representante Estatal Abdelnasser Rashid y del Senador Estatal Javier Loera Cervantes van a tener horarios de oficina abiertas en la Biblioteca. Pasan por aquí para hacer preguntas y obtener asistencia relacionada con beneficios y recursos estatales como desempleo, Medicaid, asistencia para rentar y más. La información se proporcionará tanto en inglés y español.

Brookfield Volunteer Fair

Sunday, April 21 , 1 p.m.—3 p.m. Looking to get involved in the community but don’t know where to start? Meet with local organizations to find your opportunity! Hosted by the Brookfield Parks and Recreation Commission, the fair will be held in the lower level of the Library on April 21.