Summer Reading Challenge 2024
challenge, AdventureBeginsatYourLibrary , celebrates the joy of reading and learning. Registration begins Saturday, June 1, and the challenge will end on Saturday, August 10. Everyone is invited to our Summer Reading Challenge Kickoff Celebration on Monday, June 3. See the back page of this newsletter for details.
How it Works
Kids must read for 6 hours total in 30-minute increments with or without an adult. Adults and teens must read 5 books and can win small prizes for each book read by checking in at the Adult Information Desk. All participants who complete the Summer Reading Challenge will be entered into the Grand Prize Drawing for a chance to win one of the following prizes:
Kids: Grades Pre-K–5
Digital Camera for Kids
Remote Control Robot
Glowing Marble Run with Elevator
DIY STEAM Fort-Building Kit
Adults & Teens: Grade 6 & Up
Adults : Enjoy Brookfield Gift Card, Brookfield Zoo Gift Basket, or Maker Studio Supplies Gift Basket
Teens : Galloping Ghost Gift Card, Indoor Electric S’mores Maker, Taylor Swift Gift Basket, or Book Nook Kit
Participants can track their progress in the Beanstack app or on a physical log sheet available for pickup at the Library or the Library’s stall at the Farmers Market each Saturday. Register through the Beanstack app, in-person at the Library or the Farmers Market, over the phone by calling 708-485-6917, or online at www.lsfbrookfieldlibrary.org/readingclub.
Cicadas Invade!
Two broods converge in Illinois for the first time since 1803
Count on the Library to get the burning questions about cicadas answered. We have adult and youth events about the invasion of Brood XIII in the Chicago area, and Brood XIX that will emerge downstate. Learn where both broods will overlap.
The Buzz on Cicadas
Monday, May 6, 7 p.m.
Learn everything there is to know about cicadas, including their impact on the ecosystem, then dive into their astonishing world that bustles right beneath our feet. This presentation will be led by Brookfield resident, Conservation Commissioner, and Forest Preserve Steward ,Wyatt Widmer.
Cicada Party
Monday, May 13, 4 p.m.
The cicadas are coming! Kids in grades K-5, join us for themed snacks, art, and facts.
Between the Bookends: May & June 2024
Table of Contents: Youth Classes & Events: 2—3 Teen Classes & Events: 7 Adult Classes & Events: 4-5 Just for Seniors: 5 Book Clubs & Movies: 6 Maker Studio Classes: 7
Youth Classes & Events
Summer Storytimes
Join us for a wide variety of early literacy classes this summer! Storytime will take place from June 1– June 27.
Registrationencouraged
Book Babies
Mondays, 10:30 a.m.
Birthto24monthswithcaregiver
Storytime Stars
Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.
Meeting at Ehlert Park
Ages2—3withcaregiver
Tuesday Tales
Tuesdays, 6 p.m.
Ages2-7withcaregiver
Stories Galore
Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.
Allageswithcaregiver
Summer Reading Kickoff Celebration!
Monday, June 3, 6 p.m.
Come celebrate the start of our Summer Reading Program! There will be treats, cr afts, and a live reptile show. Allages
Special Events
Library Passport Adventure
June 1– August 31
Find out where your library card can take you! Visit area libraries for the opportunity to win an extra summer reading badge.
Parent Reading Night
Thursday, May 30, 6 p.m.
Fairytale Storytime
Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.
Allageswithcaregiver
Early Literacy
Sustainable Storytime
Tuesday, May 7, 10:30 a.m.
Celebrate International Composting Awareness Week with an eco-themed storytime.
Let’s Dance!
Thursday, May 9, 10:30 a.m.
Get your groove on in the Meeting Room with our very own kid-friendly playlist.
Storytime Special
Tuesday, May 14, 10:30 a.m.
Tuesday, May 21, 10:30 a.m. Join us for a special storytime session.
Join us for a special family reading night including an author visit by Theresa Parilla, play stations, and literacy tips.
Ninja Storytime
Friday, May 17, 10:15 a.m.
Friday, June 14, 10:15 a.m.
MeetingatNinjaSquadGym
7918W26thSt,NorthRiverside
Roll, balance, and play like a ninja in this special storytime with a Ninja Squad Coach.
Baby & Me Playtime
Friday, May 24, 10:30 a.m.
Friday, June 21, 10:30 a.m.
Connect with other babies and their caregivers in our classroom.
Storytime Picnic
Thursday, June 20, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a nature-themed storytime under the sun and a picnic on the grass.
ZAP! Storytime at the Zoo
Tuesday, June 11, 10:30 a.m.
Stop by the Brookfield Zoo for a special underwater-themed storytime.
Allageswithcaregiver
Pollinator Storyti me at the Zoo
Wednesday, June 19, 10:30 a.m.
Join us for a pollinator-themed storytime at the Brookfield Zoo.
Allageswithcaregiver
Minecraft Engineering: Dinosaur Safari
Saturday, June 22, 1 p.m.
Enjoy a Minecraft dinosaur safari adventure. GradesK-5
Grades 3-5:
Coding For Kids
Saturday, May 11, 1:30 p.m.
Saturday, June 8, 1:30 p.m.
Kids aged 9 to 12 can learn about computer science, cybersecurity, and how to be safe online in this coding class taught by an RBHS Robotics Club team member. Designed for Grades 3-5, this fun and informative class meets monthly and is taught in both English and Spanish.
Register for classes and events online at www.lsfbr ookfieldlibrary.org, by phone at 708-485-6917, in person at the Library, or with the LSF Brookfield Library app.
Walk-ins welcome, where applicable. All events held at the Library unless otherwise specified.
Grades K-5
Paper Airplane Flight Test
Monday, May 6, 4:30 p.m.
Celebrate National Paper Airplane Day by crafting epic airplanes at the library.
Comic Creation Club
Wednesday, May 8, 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, June 12, 4:30 p.m.
Draw, color, and create comic strips.
Cicada Party
Monday, May 13, 4 p.m.
The cicadas are coming!
Join us for themed snacks, art, and facts.
Taylor Swift Craft Night
Tuesday, May 14, 4:30 p.m.
Stop by for a Taylor Swift-themed night filled with friendship bracelet making, music, and snacks.
Zumba for Kids
Wednesday, May 15, 4 p.m.
Wednesday, June 5, 4 p.m.
Join this dance party full of fitness fun!
Art Adventure
Fridays at 4 p.m.
May 10, 24
June 7, 21
Painting and drawing and sculpting, oh my! Let’s explore our imaginations and see what we can create.
All Ages
Take & Make Friday Crafts
Fridays in May & June
Stop by the Youth Services desk and pick up a free craft kit for kids every Friday.
Caring for Backyard Pollinators
Thursday, May 16, 4:30 p.m.
Come and make feeders, houses, and watering holes for butterflies, bees, and birds!
Slime Club: Bug Slime
Friday, May 17, 4:30 p.m.
Friday, May 31, 4:30 p.m.
Join us every other month to make slime!
Bubble Party
Monday, May 20, 4:30 p.m.
Join us for a bubble-tastic party!
3D Design Club – Kids’ Edition
Tuesday, May 21, 4 p.m.
Tuesday, June 18, 4 p.m.
Explore your creativity and learn how to create 3D designs with Tinkercad.
Chalk the Walk
Tuesday, May 28, 4:30 p.m.
Monday, June 24, 4:30 p.m.
Join us for an afternoon of sidewalk chalk and music.
Yoga for Kids
Wednesday, May 29, 4 p.m.
Wednesday, June 26, 4 p.m.
Join yoga instructor Marianne Mohrhusen for some afternoon relaxation.
Legotastic Saturday
Saturday, May 4, 10 a.m.
Saturday, June 1, 10 a.m.
Build as far as your imagination will take you in this fun drop-in event.
Art in the Park
Thursday, May 23, 4 p.m. Come paint with us at Ehlert Park! All materials will be provided.
Tie Dye Adventure Backpacks
Monday, June 10, 4 p.m.
Join us at Kiwanis Park to make the ultimate adventure backpack.
Kiwanis Scavenger Hunt
Thursday, June 20, 4 p.m.
Join us at Kiwanis Park for a scavenger hunt.
Geek Lab: Water Fireworks
Friday, June 14, 4:30 p.m.
Friday, June 28, 4:30 p.m.
Join us every other month for a cool experiment!
Green Thumb Club
Thursday, June 27, 4:30 p.m.
Learn about the plants and insects in the library’s Pollinator Garden.
Homeschool Connect
Friday, May 31, 10 a.m.
Friday, June 28, 10 a.m.
Connect with other homeschool families, share resources and play games in our Classroom. Walk-ins and new friends welcome!
The Buzz on Cicadas
Monday, May 6, 7 p.m.
Adult Classes & Events
Explore the surprising world of Cicadas and get your questions on this rare dual emergence answered. Presented by Brookfield Conservation Commissioner and Forest Preserve Steward Wyatt Widmer.
Compost, Nature’s Climate Champion!
Tuesday, May 7, 7 p.m.
Explore how composting can benefit both your garden and the environment. Presented by the Brookfield Conservation Commission in honor of International Composting Awareness Week.
True Crime Club
Sick & Corrupt: The True Crimes at Edgewater Hospital
Wednesday, May 15, 7 p.m.
Learn about the horrible crimes committed within the walls of Edgewater Hospital before it closed for good with Todd and Stephanie Ganz, the hosts of the podcast IfTheWallsCouldTalk.
What Happened in Delphi, Indiana: A True Crime Podcast Discussion
Wednesday, June 19, 7 p.m.
Listen to a true crime podcast at home, then join us at the Library to discuss the 2017 Delphi murders. Before the event, please listen to the free podcast Downthe Hill:TheDelphiMurders . Scan the QR Code for ways to listen.
Library Passport Adventure
June 1– August 31
Find out where your library card can take you! Visit area libraries for the opportunity to win a prize basket.
Be an Herbal Gourmet
Monday, June 10, 7 p.m. Learn how to use herbs to make your cooking more delicious and enjoyable.
What?! That’s in Illinois?
Our Illinois State Park System
Wednesday, June 12, 7 p.m.
Learn about the diversity of our state, as seasoned traveler Celeste Brown recounts her adventures with wildlife and GPS on her travels to 101 of Illinois's 150 state parks.
Citizens Utility Board
Electric Vehicle Buyers’ Handbook
Monday, June 24, 7 p.m.
Discover how the Citizen’s Utility Board EV Buyers’ Handbook can help you be a better -informed electric vehicle shopper. Join us on Zoom or in person at the Library.
Live Music on the Plaza:
Katie Kostner
Saturday, June 1, 1:30 p.m.
Back by popular demand, awardwinning local singer Katie Kostner will perform a variety of hit songs on the Library’s Plaza.
Navigating Employment and Benefits for Folks with Disabilities
Thursday, May 9, 6:30 p.m.
Join us for a special workshop designed to navigate the employment landscape and understand the benefits individuals with disabilities are entitled to.
Resume Success 101
Tuesday, May 14, 6 p.m.
Career Services staff from Triton College share proven strategies to help you craft a winning resume.
Resume Review with Triton College
Wednesday, May 15, 5-7 p.m.
Drop in to the Library for a one-on-one resume consultation with the Career Services team at Triton College.
Job Resources at Your Library
Thursday, May 16, 7 p.m.
A librarian from the Adult Services team will review free resources for resumes, cover letters, interviews, skills training, and more available to library cardholders.
Job Prep Fair
Saturday, May 18, 12-4 p.m.
Improve your career readiness at this open house event. Update your LinkedIn profile with a free, professional headshot with local photographer, Matt Nikkila. Consult local organizations on interview tips and resume resources, or sit down with a librarian to discuss how to start a LinkedIn profile, access free career resources, and find jobs online.
Register for classes and events online at www.lsfbrookfieldlibrary.org, by phone at 708-485-6917, in person at the Library, or with the LSF Brookfield Library app.
Walk-ins welcome, where applicable. All events held at the Library unless otherwise specified.
The Many Lives of Kal Penn
Tuesday, May 7, 7 p.m. on Zoom
Enjoy this Zoom interview with actor, writer, and producer, Kal Penn. Known for starring roles in Harold& Kumar , House , and TheNamesake , Penn will discuss his life on and off the big screen.
WatchathomeviaZoomonly.
Gong Meditation
Friday, May 3, 1:30 p.m.
Relax into the sound and resonance of an expertly played Paiste Symphonic Gong.
Using Technology to Stay Connected
Wednesday, May 22, 10:15 a.m.
Discover how to stay safe and connected on your computers and cell phones with the Brookfield Aging Well team.
Genealogy Club
Tips, Tricks and Little-Known Sources of Family History
Tuesday, May 7, 4 p.m.
Learn some tricks to get over your genealogy research walls. Presented by author, historian, and lecturer Raymond Johnson.
Sharing Projects
Tuesday, June 4, 4 p.m.
Share your current project and any research tips with the group. Walk-ins and new faces welcome.
The Hidden Gifts of Visual Thinkers with Dr. Temple Grandin
Tuesday, June 4, 7 p.m. on Zoom
Join us over Zoom and meet Dr. Grandin, the author of VisualThinking:TheHidden GiftsofPeopleWhoThinkinPictures, Patterns,andAbstractions . Dr. Grandin is a long-time researcher of and activist for autism and neurodiversity.
WatchathomeviaZoomonly.
For Seniors
Sponsored by the Age Options Grant
Medicare Seminar
Thursday, June 6, 6:30 p.m.
Explore the ins and outs of Medicare and its various plans.
Should I Stay or Should I Go?
Friday, June 14, 1:30 p.m.
Learn the pros and cons of aging at home or transitioning to a senior living community.
Chair Yoga
Mondays at 11 a.m. on Zoom
May 6, 13, 20
June 3 ,10, 17, 24
Learn the basics of yoga without getting down on the floor.
Chair Zumba
Fridays at 1:30 p.m.
May 10, 17, 31
June 7, 21, 28
Improve strength and energy while seated in this fun fitness class.
Cards & Coffee
Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.
May 7, 21
June 4, 18
Enjoy card games, board games, and coffee. New faces welcome!
Brain Bootcamp
Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.
May 14, 28
June 11, 25
Give your brain a workout with brain teasers, trivia, word games, and more.
Hump Day Stretch
Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m.
May 1, 15
June 5, 19
Refresh your body with a simple set of stretches in this 45-minute class.
Walk & Talk
Tuesdays at 9 a.m.
May 7, 14, 21, 28
June 4, 11, 18, 25
Meet at the Salt Creek Trail in the TwentySixth Street Woods, at 26th Street and Harrison Avenue, LaGrange Park, Grove #2.
Hook & Needle Guild
Wednesdays at 2 p.m.
May 1, 15, 29
June 5, 9
Knitters, crochet enthusiasts, embroidery gurus, and quilting masters of all levels are invited to our bi-monthly meetings. New faces welcome; tea will be served.
Book Clubs & Film Discussions
@ the Library
Film Discussion Series
View and discuss critically acclaimed foreign and independent films.
TheEarthisBlueasanOrange (Ukraine)
Tuesday, May 14, 6:30 p.m.
To cope with the daily trauma of living in a war-zone, Anna and her children are making a film together about their life in the most surreal surroundings.
TheBarbarianInvasions (Canada, France)
Tuesday, June 11, 6:30 p.m.
A dying man is reunited with old friends, former lovers, his ex-wife, and his estranged son.
Movies with Marty
Join film enthusiast Marty Blank for a screening of his favorite movies.
The Bacon Grabbers Present: Laurel & Hardy’s TheBullfighters Sunday, May 5, 1 p.m.
Mark Yurkiw and The Bacon Grabbers present this Laurel & Hardy classic.
ToHaveandHaveNot Saturday, June 22, 1 p.m.
A WWII American expat helps a French Resistance leader and his beautiful wife Martinique while romancing a singer.
Books & Brews Book Club
MeetsatSebastian’sAle& WhiskeyHouse
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.
CrazyRichAsians by Kevin Kwan
Thursday, May 30, 7 p.m.
AnxiousPeople by Fredrik Backman
Thursday, June 27, 7 p.m.
Books & Bites
Cookbook Club
MeetsattheLibrary
Please bring a recipe prepared from the cookbook selection for the month.
TheHomeCookRecipestoKnow
byHeartby Alex Guarnaschelli
Tuesday, May 21, 12 p.m.
TastyLatest andGreatest: EverythingYou WanttoCook
RightNow
Tuesday, June 18, 12 p.m.
Copiesofallbookclubselections areavailableattheLibrary.Contact Adult&TeenServicestolearn moreaboutaspecificbookclub.
Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Book Club
MeetsattheLibrary
TheMereWife by Maria Dahvana
Headley
Wednesday, May 1, 7 p.m.
NinePrincesinAmber by Roger Zelazny
Wednesday, June 5, 7 p.m.
Non-Fiction
Book Club
MeetsontheLibraryPlaza, weatherpermitting.
TheLandofHope& Fear:Israel'sBattlefor ItsInnerSoul
by Isabel Kershner
Thursday, May 9, 7 p.m.
LandsofLostBorders:
AJourneyontheSilk
Roadby Kate Harris
Thursday, June 13, 7 p.m.
Girls Night Out
Book Club
MeetsattheLibrary andonZoom
TheHennaArtist by Alka Joshi
Monday, May 20, 7 p.m.
LoveandRuin by Paula McLain
Monday, June 17, 7 p.m.
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.
Drop-In Crafts: Mother’s Day Cards
Monday, May 6, 6 p.m.
Craft personalized cards for Mother’s Day.
Junk Journaling: Summer Solstice
Monday, May 20, 6 p.m.
Celebrate the Summer Solstice with this mixed media crafts session.
Clawless Cats Cradle
Thursday, May 23, 6:30 p.m.
Partner up to make string figures with yarn.
Take & Make: May Flowers
Friday, May 24, 5 p.m. on Facebook
Grab a kit starting May 10. The how-to video goes live on Facebook on May 24.
Maker Magic
Wednesday, June 19, 3-5 p.m.
Make adventure crafts with the whole family.
SAT & ACT Success
Thursday, May 16, 7 p.m. on Zoom
Join us on Zoom to learn key differences between the SAT and ACT, keys to achieving one's highest score, and how the SAT/ACT can impact merit aid and scholarships.
Creating a Compelling College Application
Tuesday, May 21, 6 p.m. on Zoom
Explore the college application process, including admissions trends, essays, teacher recommendations, and how to increase chances for admission.
Finals Study Hall
Monday, May 20, 3-5 p.m.
Tuesday, May 21, 3-5 p.m.
Wednesday, May 22, 3-5 p.m.
Come to the Library to get ready for your final exams. Need a mental break? Enjoy snacks and stress relief crafts.
Nature’s Beauty: Summer Cornflowers
Saturday, June 22, 2 p.m.
Try a new fabric applique technique and use the heat press to create beautiful flower art.
Take & Make: Paper Straw Garland
Friday, June 28, 5 p.m. on Facebook
Grab a kit starting June 14. The how-to video goes live on Facebook on June 28.
3D Print & Design Club
Thursday, May 2, 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, June 6, 6:30 p.m.
Learn about 3D Printing and design.
Maker Studio 101
Tuesday, May 7, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, June 4, 7 p.m.
Complete your Maker Studio orientation by attending this introductory class.
Intro to the HP Printer
Tuesday, May 14, 7 p.m.
Try out our new 24-inch wide printer.
Intro to Podcasting
Tuesday, May 21, 7 p.m.
Want to host your own podcast? Learn how to get started using the Editing Studio.
Father’s Day Grill Cook Aprons
Monday, June 10, 6 p.m.
Create a unique gift for this Father’s Day.
Intro to YouTube
Tuesday, June 18, 7 p.m.
Learn the basics of this video platform.
Intro to Hand Tools
Thursday, June 20, 6:30 p.m.
Learn the basics of common hand tools for household repair like drills and screws.
Teen & Young Adult
Teen Craft: Diamond Dot Art
Wednesday, May 1, 4 p.m.
Enjoy a paint-by-numbers craft with sequins.
Beginners Chinese Calligraphy
Wednesday, May 8, 4 p.m.
Learn about the ancient art of Chinese calligraphy and practice Chinese characters.
Teen Tie-Dye on the Lawn
Wednesday, June 5, 3 p.m.
Create your own tie-dye masterpiece for summer outside on the Library Plaza.
Itadakimasu!
Let’s Build a Bento Saturday, June 8, 1 p.m.
Learn the rules of bento-making. Each participant receives a bento box, chopsticks, and food. Items may contain or come into contact with wheat, eggs, nuts, and milk.
Rainbow Bookmarks
Wednesday, June 12, 3 p.m.
Make rainbow bookmarks to take home in this fun and free craft class for summer.
Get Your Game On
Friday, May 17, 6:15 p.m.
Friday, June 21, 6:15 p.m.
After-hours gaming of all kinds and pizza. Register now! Doors close after start time.
Gamers Paradise
Friday, May 31, 4 p.m.
Friday, June 28, 4 p.m.
Play games with friends or make new ones.
Teen D &D
Fridays at 4:30 p.m.
May 10, 24
June 7, 21
Jump into our DD campaign!
Teen Advisory Group
Wednesday, May 29, 4 p.m.
Thursday, June 27, 3 p.m.
Manic Mondays
Mondays in June & July, 3 p.m.
Enjoy outrageous versions of popular games.
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
Sunday closings begin Sunday, May 26
Closed Memorial Day, Monday, May 27
Mini Book Nook Prices
May - 10 ¢ Fire Sale!
Everything in the Friends + Foundation Book Nook will be available to purchase for only 10 cents during May.
June:
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
Look for us every Saturday at the Brookfield Farmers Market.
Library Trustees
Adam Burghgraef, President Linda Kampschroeder, Vice-President
Carol Vaughan Kissane, Secretary Edgar Mihelic, Treasurer
Jennifer Paliatka Mitzi Norton Michelle Parker
Celebrate the start of Summer Reading with ice cream, popcorn, crafts, games, and a live reptile show by Dave DiNaso’s Traveling World of Reptiles. All ages are welcome to attend and to sign up for our Summer Reading Challenge for a chance to win prizes.
Summer Lunches Are Back!
The Library and the Greater Chicago Food Depository have partnered to bring back the Summer Lunches initiative. Starting Monday, June 10, the Library will offer free lunches Monday through Friday between 12 and 1 p.m. to anyone aged 18 and under. The nutritious lunches typically consist of a sandwich, fruit, and milk, and those participating in the program can choose to eat their lunch in the Classroom or outside on the Library Plaza. No lunches will be served on July 4 due to the holiday. This initiative will run until August 16.
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