Read, Rest & Retreat with Brookfield Reads
As the election looms ahead, many people find themselves stressed out and overwhelmed by the constant barrage of news coverage. This fall, we invite you to participate in a reading initiative like no other—one that focuses on reading and self-care as a means of escaping the media chaos and bringing peace and balance back into our lives. Join us for silent reading nights, nature outings, and other relaxing activities. See the complete line-up of events, and learn more about the featured books at www.lsfbrookfieldlibrary.org/brookfieldreads.
Special Events
Silent Reading Nights
Friday, September 13, 6:15 p.m.
Friday, October 11, 6:15 p.m.
Birding 101 in the Oak Savanna
Sunday, September 15, 10:30 a.m.
Gong Immersion Meditation
Wednesday, October 2, 7 p.m.
Mindful Morning Storytime
Tuesday, October 15, 10:30 a.m.
Forest Therapy Walk
Thursday, October 17, 10:30 a.m.
Mental Health Resources for Parents of Kids and Teens
Monday, October 21, 6:30 p.m.
Self-Care for Teens: Aromatherapy Stress Balls
Wednesday, October 23, 4 p.m.
Brookfield Reads Discussion: Wintering:ThePower ofRest andRetreatinDifficultTimes
Wednesday, October 30, 7 p.m.
Join the Fight Against Censorship September 22-28
At a time when book bans and restrictions are on the rise in classrooms and libraries across the country, supporting the right to read and the freedom found in books is more important than ever. This Banned Books Week, Library partners will be
handing out banned books at the Prairie Ave. Train Station every morning and evening from Monday, September 23 to Friday, September 27. We invite Brookfielders and everyone who opposes censorship to stop by and pick up a free copy of a banned book.
Youth Classes & Events
Tuesday, September 3—Tuesday, October 1
Chill us to the bone with your original supershort story or poem (15 sentences or less). Submit your entries online or at the YS Desk for a prize and the opportunity to read your story live at the Library.
Fall Storytimes
Join us for a wide variety of early literacy classes this Fall! Storytimes will take place from September 9 – October 17. 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
Scan this code to register and upload your story submission!
Spooky Story Contest Reading Friday, October 25, 4:30 p.m. Hear the winners and participants of the Spooky Story Contest read their creations.
Grades 3-5:
Coding for Kids
Saturday, September 14, 1 p.m. Saturday, October 12, 1 p.m.
Learn new skills about cybersecurity and computer science.
Banned Book Bracelets
Monday, September 23, 4:30 p.m.
Celebrate Banned Books Week and make beaded bracelets.
Creepy Book Club: ThisAppearing
Houseby Ally Malineko Monday, October 28, 4:30 p.m.
Spooky Dance Party
Thursday, October 31, 10:30 a.m.
Calling all ghouls and ghosts! Wear your costumes and come dance with us at a Halloween-themed dance party.
Art Flix: Movie and Craft Monday, October 14, 2 p.m.
Join us downstairs for painting and a showing of Spirit:Stallionofthe Cimarron(PG). Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.
Bluey Party
Thursday, September 26, 4:30 p.m.
Play dance mode, keepy uppy, the claw, and celebrate all things Bluey.
All Ages
Legotastic
Saturday
Saturday, September 7, 10 a.m.
Saturday, October 5, 10 a.m.
Build as far as your imagination will take you in this fun drop-in event.
Take & Make Friday Crafts Fridays in September & October, All Day
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.
Early Literacy
Let’s Dance!
Friday, September 6, 10:30 a.m.
Wiggle around at a dance party in our downstairs Meeting Room.
Camp Singalong
Thursday, September 19, 4:30 p.m.
Did you know that singing builds literacy skills? Join us for an outdoor musical adventure on the Library Plaza.
Baby and Me Playtime
Friday, September 27, 10:30 a.m.
Connect with other babies and their caregivers in the Library Classroom.
Grades K-5
Slime Club: Autumn Slime
Friday, September 13, 4:30 p.m.
Friday, September 20, 4:30 p.m. Join us to make cool slime.
Spooky Craft Night
Monday, October 21, 6:30 p.m.
Drop by the Classroom for some spooky crafting.
3D Design Club – Kids’ Edition
Tuesday, September 17, 4 p.m.
Tuesday, October 22, 4 p.m.
Learn how to make fun designs in Tinkercad.
Zumba for Kids
Wednesday, September 25, 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, October 23, 4:30 p.m.
A dance party full of fitness fun!
Spooktacular Storytime
Thursday,
October 24, 10:30 a.m.
Join us for a not-so-scary Halloween-themed storytime. Costumes encouraged!
Sensory Playtime
Wednesday, October 30, 10:30 a.m.
Join us for a spooky-themed sensory playtime in the Classroom.
Ninja Storytime at the Ninja Squad Gym
Friday, September 20, 11 a.m.
Friday, October 18, 11 a.m.
Jump, balance, roll, and play with a real Ninja Squad Coach at the Ninja Squad Gym, located at 7918 W 26th St, North Riverside.
Brookfield Reads Brookfield Reads
Nature Storytime at Meet the Creek Saturday, September 21 at 12:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.
Enjoy a Nature Storytime at Kiwanis Park and stop by the Brookfield Conservation Commission’s annual Meet the Creek event.
Mental Health Resources for Parents of Kids and Teens
Monday, October 21, 6:30 p.m.
NAMI and The Loft share resources with parents to better support the mental health of kids and teens. Childcare will be provided for participating adults.
Comic Creation Club
Wednesday, September 18, 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, October 9, 4:30 p.m. Draw, color, and create your own comic strips.
READ to the Dogs
Tuesday, September 24, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, October 29, 7 p.m.
Practice your reading skills with dogs from the Hinsdale Humane Society.
Geek Lab: Ghost Rockets
Friday, October 4, 4:30 p.m. Friday, October 11, 4:30 p.m.
Let’s get wacky with a fun experiment.
Leaf Walk Storytime
Wednesday, October 9, 10:30 a.m.
Celebrate the beginning of fall with a special outdoor storytime at Kiwanis Park.
Mindful Morning Storytime
Tuesday, October 15, 10:30 a.m.
Brookfield Reads special! Join us for a mindful morning storytime.
Yoga for Kids
Thursday, September 12, 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, October 9, 4:30 p.m.
Join Ms. Marianne for after-school yoga.
Green Thumb Club: Bird Friendly Gardens
Thursday, October 10, 4 p.m.
Learn about bird-friendly gardens and take some seeds home to plant.
Adult Classes & Events
Brookfield Reads Brookfield Reads Read, Rest & Retreat
Brookfield Reads Discussion: Wintering:ThePowerofRest andRetreatinDifficultTimes
Wednesday, October 30, 7 p.m.
Birding 101 in the Oak Savanna
Sunday, September 15, 10:30 a.m.
Learn about birding at a nature walk with local birder and photographer Evan West.
Take and Make: Self-Care Fidgets
Friday, October 25, 5 p.m. on Facebook
*SuppliesavailablestartingFriday,October11
Self-Care for Adults
Our discussion book highlights the parallels between winter and hardships like an illness or job loss. Wintering is a way to embrace hard times by modeling how animals and humans in the past and present survive the winter.
Silent Reading Nights
Friday, September 13, 6:15 p.m. Friday, October 11, 6:15 p.m.
A peaceful night of reading after-hours at the Library. Tea and cookies provided.
The National Park Services in Our Region
Monday, September 9, 7 p.m.
Explore National Monuments, Historic Landmarks, and more with Illinois Humanities Road Scholar Dr. Moline.
German-American Genealogy
Tuesday, September 10, 4 p.m.
Explore German immigration to Cincinnati & northern Kentucky with Dan Jungclas, The Ancestry Guy.
Local Author Visit: Charles Cosgrove TheyBothReachedfortheGun
Thursday, September 12, 7 p.m.
Brookfield native and local author Charles Cosgrove presents his book TheyBoth ReachedfortheGun. Learn about the criminal case that inspired the musical Chicago .
Gong Immersion Meditation
Wednesday, October 2, 7 p.m.
Relax into the sound and resonance of an expertly played Paiste Symphonic Gong. Chairs provided, or bring a yoga mat/blanket.
Forest Therapy Walk
Thursday, October 17, 10:30 a.m.
Relax on a walk in the Oak Savanna with certified Forest Therapy Guide Barb Cassidy.
Self-Care: Essential Oils
Monday, September 30, 6 p.m.
Create your own essential oils to take home.
*Registrationrequired
Nobody's Fool: Why We Get Taken In & What We Can Do About It
Thursday, September 19, 7 p.m. on Zoom
Professor Dan Simons, co-author of Nobody'sFool,shares how deception works, how to recognize it, and how to empower ourselves. Presented on Zoom in partnership with the League of Women Voters of Illinois.
Share Food, Share Love: An Acoustic Evening with Mark Dvorak
Monday, September 23, 7 p.m.
Enjoy an evening of live music by “Chicago's Official Troubadour" Mark Dvorak. Listeners are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items, toiletries, or to make a cash donation to the Share Food, Share Love Food Pantry.
Monday, October 28, 6:30 p.m.
Learn about self-care strategies with Isla Lopez from Pillars Community Health.
Mental Health Resources for Parents of Kids and Teens
Monday, October 21, 6:30 p.m.
NAMI and The Loft share resources with parents to better support the mental health of kids and teens. Childcare will be offered at the Spooky Craft Night event in the Classroom. All parents, caregivers, educators, and other interested participants are welcome to attend. There will be time for questions at the end of the presentation.
Navigating Employment & Benefits for Folks with Disabilities
Thursday, September 26, 6:30 p.m.
Learn to navigate the employment landscape and understand the benefits individuals with disabilities are entitled to.
Oaktoberfest Oak Symposium
Monday, October 7, 7 p.m.
Join the Brookfield Conservation Commission and Brookfield Native Plants Club to celebrate Oaktoberfest!
Dating Old Photographs: 1830s - 1900 Tuesday, October 8, 4 p.m.
Date and identify photographs from the 1830s– 1900 with longtime Genealogy Club member Patricia Reaves.
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.
True Crime Club
Season of Justice
Wednesday, September 18, 7 p.m.
Non-profit organization Season of Justice discusses their work assisting investigators in solving cold cases.
The Feather Thief
Wednesday, October 16, 7 p.m.
Discuss this true crime book about the 2009 heist at the British Museum of National History. Tea & coffee provided.
The Basics of Paranormal Investigating
Monday, October 14, 7 p.m.
Learn the basics of paranormal investigating from Quantum Paranormal Investigators.
Can You Afford to Retire?
Thursday, October 17, 7 p.m.
Financial expert Dr. Jim Flanagan will guide attendees through self-evaluation exercises that reveal their readiness for retirement.
Medicare Lunch & Learn
Thursday, September 12, 11:30 a.m.
Join us for a free lunch and learn about Medicare Supplement and Advantage plans, Part D coverage, and the Annual Enrollment Period. We will also discuss the common mistakes people make with Medicare. *Registrationrequired
Walk & Talk
Tuesdays at 9 a.m.
September 3, 10, 17, 24
October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Meet at the Salt Creek Trail parking lot at 26th Street and Harrison Avenue in LaGrange Park, Grove #2 West. New faces welcome!
Raise Your Voice with Jason Reynolds
Tuesday, October 22, 7 p.m. on Zoom
Welcome Jason Reynolds, #1 New York Times bestselling author, advocate, mentor, and 2020-2022 National Ambassador for Young People's Literature.
Being Imperfect with Erika Sanchez
Tuesday, October 8, 7 p.m. on Zoom
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Illinois Libraries Present and Erika Sánchez, award-winning author of IAm NotYourPerfectMexicanDaughter .
Clay Calaveras
Tuesday, September 17, 7 p.m.
Learn how to make tiny skulls or calaveras with fast-dry clay for Día de los Muertos.
Mexican Mirrors
Friday, September 27, 5 p.m. on Facebook
*SuppliesavailablestartingFriday,September13
For Seniors
Hump Day Stretch
Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m.
September 11, 25
October 9, 23
Refresh with a 45-minute stretch class.
Chair Yoga
Mondays at 11 a.m. on Zoom
September 9, 16, 23, 30
October 7, 21, 28
Enjoy yoga without getting on the floor. PresentedviaZoom;homeviewingonly
Device Drop-In
Mondays at 11 a.m.
September 9, 23
October 7, 21
Need help with your phone, tablet, or laptop? Drop-in to get help from a librarian.
Uses of Corn in Mexican Cuisine: Esquite
Thursday, October 10, 6:30 p.m.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by learning how to prepare a traditional dish from Mexico called Esquite (Corn in a cup). Samples will be provided.
*Registration required
Brain Bootcamp
Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.
September 3, 17
October 1, 15, 29
Stay mentally fit with trivia and more.
Chair Zumba
Fridays at 1:30 p.m.
September 6, 20, 27
October 4, 18, 25
Improve strength and energy while seated in this fun fitness class.
Cards & Conversation
Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.
September 10, 24
October 8, 22
Play games while socializing.
Sponsored by the Age Options Grant
Book Clubs & Film Discussions
@ the Library
Film Discussion Series
View and discuss critically acclaimed foreign and independent films.
Greenfingers(UK)
Tuesday,
September 10, 6:30 p.m.
A prisoner competes in a national gardening competition.
EO(Poland)
Tuesday,
October 8, 6:30 p.m.
A donkey bravely endures different owners in Europe.
Movies with Marty
Join film enthusiast Marty Blank for a screening of his favorite movies.
TheDuke
Saturday, September 21, 1 p.m.
Based on a true story of a 60-year-old pensioner who demands reform by holding a priceless painting for ransom.
TheBodySnatcherand TheReturnofDoctorX
Saturday, October 19, 1 p.m.
A Halloween double feature starring Boris Karloff, Bela Lugosi, and Humphrey Bogart.
Books
& Bites
Cookbook Club
MeetsattheLibrary
Calling all cooks and bakers! In this club, each attendee follows a recipe in the cookbook and brings a dish to share. Show off your culinary skills and bring your appetite.
HalfBakedHarvest SuperSimple by Tieghan Gerard
Tuesday, September 17, 12 p.m.
BarefootContessa BacktoBasics by Ina Garten
Tuesday, October 15, 12 p.m.
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.
TheHandmaid’sTale by Margaret Atwood
Thursday, September 26, 7 p.m.
MeetsatJoe’sSaloon on47thSt.
TheKeeperof EnchantedRooms by Charlie Holmberg
Thursday, October 31, 7 p.m.
MeetsattheLibrary.
Costumesencouraged; spookymocktailsprovided.
Copiesofallbookclubselections areavailableattheLibrary.Contact Adult&TeenServicestolearn moreaboutaspecificbookclub.
Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Book Club
MeetsattheLibrary
MindofMyMind by Octavia E. Butler
Wednesday, September 4, 7 p.m.
Fatherland by Robert Harris
Wednesday, October 2, 7 p.m.
Non-Fiction
Book Club
MeetsontheLibraryPlaza, weatherpermitting.
TheNaziConspiracy by Brad Meltzer and Josh Mensch
Thursday, September 12, 7 p.m.
TheHiddenPower ofF*ckingUp by The Try Guys
Thursday, October 10, 7 p.m. atSebastian’sAleHouse
Girls Night Out
Book Club
MeetsattheLibrary andonZoom
FindMeinHavana by Serena Burdick
Monday, September 16 , 7 p.m.
MurderattheBreakers by Alyssa Maxwell
Monday, October 21, 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.
Find Yourself: Navigating With Maps
Thursday, September 12, 7 p.m.
Learn how to navigate using maps, globes, and compasses.
Hook & Needle Guild
Wednesdays at 2 p.m.
September, 4, 18
October 2, 16, 30
Knit, crochet , embroider, and quilt with us.
Cricut 101: Custom T-Shirts
Monday, September 16, 6 p.m.
Bring your own shirt and use Cricut Design Space to create something unique.
*Registrationrequired
Adult Sunday Crafternoons
Sundays, 1-4 p.m.
September 22
October 6 & 20
Enjoy an afternoon of peaceful crafting.
Intro to the Glowforge
Tuesday, September 24, 7 p.m.
Learn about the Library’s precision laser-cutter and engraving machine.
Cookie Decorating for Teens
Wednesday, September 11, 4 p.m.
Decorate cookies to share or eat.
Teen Craft: Mini Banned Books
Wednesday, September 25, 4 p.m.
Craft mini-books inspired by books banned past and present during Banned Books Week.
Remake Your Ramen for Teens
Wednesday, October 2, 4 p.m.
Make ramen and watch Pokémon.
Teen Make-It: Zombeanie
Wednesday, October 9, 4 p.m.
Banned Books Week Craft
Wednesday, September 25, 7 p.m.
Make a papercraft for Banned Books Week.
Intro to the Carvey
Tuesday, October 15, 7 p.m.
Explore the endless possibilities with this popular 3D carving machine.
Fall Pumpkin Wreath
Wednesday, October 16, 6 p.m.
Make a heartwarming Fall Pumpkin Wreath.
*Registrationrequired
Halloween Maker Masks
Tuesday, October 22, 7 p.m.
Get creative and make a fun mask for Halloween in this all-ages craft class.
Halloween Magnet Magic
Thursday, October 24, 7 p.m.
Learn about the mystery of magnetization and make your own Halloween magnets.
Drop-In Halloween Crafting
Wednesday, October 30, 5-8 p.m.
Drop-in and make Halloween crafts.
Teen & Young Adult
Teen Craft:
Clay Ghosts
Wednesday, October 16, 4 p.m.
Create mini ghosts with fast-dry clay.
Sew a beginner-friendly zombie beanie hat.
Self-Care for Teens:
Aromatherapy Stress Balls
Wednesday, October 23, 4 p.m.
Practice self-care with this DIY class.
Teen Advisory Group
Wednesday, September 18, 4 p.m.
Wednesday, October 30, 4 p.m.
Give feedback and earn service hours.
Self-Care: Essential Oils
Monday, September 30, 6 p.m.
Create your own essential oils to take home.
Maker Studio 101
Tuesday, September 3, 7 p.m.
Saturday, September 21, 3 p.m.
Tuesday, October 1, 7 p.m.
Complete your Maker Studio certification by attending this introductory class! We’ll cover procedures, reservations, machine operation, materials, and best practices.
3D Print & Design Club
Thursday, September 5, 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 3, 6:30 p.m.
Join us to learn and discuss all things 3D printing and design! Opentoallages(under12withanadult)
Teen D &D
Fridays at 4:30 p.m.
September 13, 27
October 11, 25
Jump into our D&D campaign!
Get Your Game On
Friday, September 20, 6:15 p.m.
Friday, October 18, 6:15 p.m.
Enjoy gaming and pizza after-hours. Allages;under8withadultcaregiver.
Gamers Paradise
Friday, September 27, 4 p.m.
Friday, October 25, 4 p.m.
Play games with friends or make new ones.
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
Mini Book Nook
Postal Customer
Brookfield, IL 60513
Library Trustees
Adam Burghgraef, President Linda Kampschroeder, Vice-President
Carol Vaughan Kissane, Secretary Edgar Mihelic, Treasurer
Jennifer Paliatka Michelle Parker Jennifer Perry
September is Library Card Sign-Up Month
Roll out and sign up for a Library card this September!
The Library joins the American Library Association (ALA) and Libraries nationwide in reminding parents, caregivers, and students that signing up for a Library card is the first step towards academic achievement and lifelong learning.
In celebration of Library Card Sign-Up Month, throughout September all new Library card holders will be entered into a raffle to win an Enjoy Brookfield gift card.
To get a Library card, bring in the following:
Proof of Brookfield residency
Current photo I.D.
Can’t wait for a physical card? Sign up online and get immediate access to our virtual collections and online resources. Get started at www.lsfbrookfieldlibrary.org .
Mobile Museum of Tolerance
Sunday, October 13—Wednesday, October 16
10 a.m.—6 p.m. | Library Parking Lot
The Mobile Museum of Tolerance is back by popular demand. This year, the Museum will be showcasing CombatHate:ADigitalMediaLiteracyWorkshop.Learn
how to stand up against hate online and create a positive social media presence. Stop by to see this free exhibit.
