Winter Children's Programs

Are you sticking around town during winter break? We've got some fun options for you and your kids! First, we will be offering Lego Workshops on Thursday, December 27th. At 10:00 am there will be one for kids ages 3 to 6 and at 11:30 am we'll offer one for ages 7 to 12. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED so please let us know asap if you plan to attend!

Next, on Friday the 28th we'll be offering a comedy and illusion magic show at 11:00 am with a repeat at 1:00 pm. Magician The Great Scott will offer some truly thrilling magical feats! Registration is not required for this program.

Finally, we've got some great storytimes the first week of January. We'll have a pajama storytime on Thursday, January 3rd at 7:00 pm. Bring a blanket or stuffed animal friend! You'll also want to celebrate the release of the Hobbit movie by attending our Saturday, January 5th Hobbit book discussion. This program takes place at 11:00 am, is for children grades 3 to 6 (with parent or caregiver) and requires a reservation.

Holiday Hours

Photo used under Creative Commons from chris.corwin

The library will be closing at 1:00 on December 24th and will remain closed on December 25th. We will also be closing at 1:00 on December 31st and will remain closed on January 1st, 2013. Please remember that the library is always open to renew books, place holds, check out ebooks and more at our website and through our app!

Special Guest at Monday Night at the Movies!

On Monday, December 17th, we will be screening Mulberry Child, a documentary based on Jian Ping’s moving memoir about difficulties faced by her family during China’s Cultural Revolution as well as the 2008 return to China by Jian and her daughter, Lisa. We will be welcoming Jian to the 7:00 showing where she will introduce the film and participate in a question and answer session afterward. We will also be showing this film at 1:00 and Ms. Ping will answer questions following this showing. All of our Monday at the Movies screenings take place at the Women's Library Club, 325 Tudor Ct.

Technology Petting Zoo

Looking for the perfect gift this holiday season? On Saturday, December 15th, join friendly Geek Squad agents in exploring the key technologies behind today’s hottest mobile gadgets. The distinguishing features of tablets, e-readers, and smartphones will be discussed. Participants can experience firsthand how devices function and feel during the “petting zoo” portion of the event. Participants are encouraged to bring in their own devices to ask questions and get advice from Geek Squad experts on how to best utilize them. The demo will be at 10:00 and the Petting Zoo will begin at 11:00.

Finding Your Way Through the Medicare Maze

Are you confused by Medicare? Do you think “the donut” is just something that goes with coffee? When to apply for Medicare and which supplemental coverages to select involve a series of critical decisions. Adam Stock, CFP and principal of The Next Level Planning Group, returns on Thursday, December 13th at 7:30 to lead you through the Medicare maze. In this session you'll learn when to apply for Medicare, what happens if you don’t apply on time, about each of the different parts of Medicare and what they cover, and tips to help you save thousands of dollars on health care costs.

New Excerpts Now Available!

We've got a bounty of wonderful programming in our new edition of Excerpts! We'll be looking at Georgia O'Keeffe, improving our memory, finding our way through the medicare maze, gazing upon Chicago's architecture and celebrating the Chinese New Year. We're also hosting a special guest at one of our Monday at the Movies programs! Plus, there's information about our always popular Winter Reading program as well as our usual book groups, film programs, technology sessions and children's events. You'll be getting your new copy of Excerpts in your house's mailbox soon but right now you can access it online!

MacBook Now Available for Students

The Children’s Department now has one MacBook available for in-library use by Glencoe junior high students.  Simply bring your Glencoe Public Library card to the Children’s Desk and sign up to use the MacBook while you are in the library.  Don’t forget to bring your flash drive to save your work!

Meet Our New App in Person!

You've probably heard that we've got a great new app available for your iPhone, iPad or other mobile device. If you'd like to see everything that this app has to offer be sure to attend our November 27th Technology Tuesday program, which will be happening at its usual 1:00 time, with a repeat at 7:00 on the same day. We'll demo the BookLook functionality, show you how you can check your account and answer any other questions that you may have about the app!

Thanksgiving Hours

We will be closing at 5:00 on Wednesday the 21st and will remain closed on Thursday the 22nd. We will reopen to our normal hours on Friday the 23rd. Of course we remain open at our website and our app 24 hours a day, anywhere you are! Have a great Thanksgiving!!!

Monday at the Movies Change

The movie that we'll be showing at our next Monday at the Movies, which takes place on November 19th at 1:00 and 7:00, has been changed from what was originally listed in Excerpts. We will screening Herb and Dorothy, about a postal worker and a librarian who amass a collection of modern art so extensive that it comes to be coveted by museums around the country. The film presents the unlikely story of the Vogels, who began collecting art in the 1960s. Ultimately, the couple, who came to befriend many of the artists they collected, squeezed over 4000 works of art worth millions of dollars into their cramped Manhattan apartment. It's 87 minutes long and is not rated.

Design Your Own Comic!

There's still time for kids to sign up to design their own comic with artist Christine Thornton. On November 17th at 2:00 kids can come and learn about cartoon comics and superheroes. Next, they'll invent and draw their own main character, complete with nemesis and sidekick. Registration is required so please sign up as soon as possible!

Glencoe's Uptown

Architect and fifth generation Glencoe resident Scott Javore returns to the library on Sunday, November 18th at 2pm for another great local history program, this time focusing on Glencoe's Uptown. Javore will discuss the interesting history and architecture of our uptown (it’s not “downtown”) and revisit retail establishments that helped support the lives of residents. Our local history programs are always a hit so if you haven't seen one yet make sure you come on over!

We're making a list!

We've updated how we send out email notifications so this is a great chance for you to make sure that you're receiving all the email newsletters that you'd like to see! Right now we offer:

• Library News (items that appear on our homepage)
• Staff Picks (recommended reading from library staff)
• Flick Picks (weekly newsletters with the hottest new DVD releases)

For those of you who REALLY can't get enough of the library you can also subscribe to be notified two days before every event that occurs at the library. To sign up for all the library notifications that you desire click here or contact the library!

My Goodness My Guinness! Art Treasures of London's Kenwood House

This fall, the Milwaukee Art Museum hosts a special exhibition from the world-famous collection of Kenwood House, London. Included in the collection are works by Rembrandt, Van Dyck, and Gainsborough, among others. Art historian Dr. Michelle Mishur returns to the library on Thursday, November 8 at 7:00 to discuss the significance of the collection at Kenwood House as it was amassed by Edward Cecil Guinness, 1st Earl of Iveagh and heir to the world's most successful brewery. Dr. Mishur is always a hit so be sure to be here!

Meet the New Library App!

We're excited to offer you a brand new app that's makes it easy for you to access your library from your iPhone, iPod or other smartphone or tablet! The new library app will enable you with one tap to:

• Learn about library news, hours and special events
• Browse the library's catalog and place holds
• Check your library's account and renew materials
• Use the "BookLook" feature to scan the ISBN barcode of a book while visiting a bookstore and then place a hold
• ...and much more!!!

Depending on your particular device you can download this free app from the Apple App store or the Android Google Play market by searching for Glencoe Public Library. If you want more details and a demo you should attend our special November 27th Technology Tuesday, at 1:00 and 7:00. We can't wait to make the library available to you whenever you need it and wherever you are!

Kids Will Love Our New Early Literacy Station

The next time you visit the children's section of the library you'll want to check out a colorful new addition to our computer section. The AWE Early Literacy Station is a fun way for kids ages 2 to 8 to learn math, science, reading and much more! Featuring familiar characters and brands such as Dora and Diego, Sesame Street and Jumpstart, the Early Literacy Station offers over 60 programs and games for your kids to explore. It's also made just for kids, meaning that it's not only fun but also easy to use, with a touchscreen and a colorful keyboard! Come check it out!

Social Security: When and How to Take it

When and how you take Social Security may seem like a straightforward decision. It is not. The wrong decision can cost you tens of thousands of dollars. Even if you’ve made a decision, you may still be able to receive more money. Adam Stock, CFP and principal of The Next Level Planning Group, returns on Monday, October 29th at 7:30 to present this popular program.

Sign Up For Our Reached Book Discussion!

The wait for the last book in Allyson Braithwait Condie's Matched trilogy is finally here and we're going to celebrate by having a book group discussion and pizza party on Wednesday, November 14th at 4:00pm. Please make sure to sign up at the Readers' Services desk by October 29th in order to be guaranteed a copy of Reached, which we will hand out at the book group. This program is for 6th to 12th graders only.

Classical Music Concert

Please join us for another wonderful afternoon concert on Sunday, October 28, 2012 at 5:00 pm! This concert will feature the Guadagnini String Quartet (David Taylor and Nisanne Howell (Violins); Rami Solomonov (Viola) and Gary Stucka (Cello)). The program is as follows:

Mozart: String Quartet No. 20, K.499 in D
Allegretto; Menuetto; Adagio; Allegro                 
Dvorak: String Quartet No. 12 in F, Op. 96  “American”
Allegro ma non troppo; Lento; Molto vivace; Finale  (Vivace ma non troppo)

The Library will close at 4:00 pm and will reopen at 4:30 for concert seating.  Admission is free. As always, this concert is being brought to you by the Friends of the Glencoe Public Library.

Dealing With Seasonal Allergies, Asthma and Food Allergies

Board Certified Adult & Pediatric Allergist Dr. Kimberly Ricaurte returns on Monday, October 22nd at 7:30 pm to talk about the subject that's on everyone's mind (as well as in their nose and lungs): allergies. Hear about the most current research and management options for seasonal allergies, asthma, and food allergies, including exciting new treatment protocols for even the most severe food allergies.

Refuge: Stories of the Selfhelp Home

Refuge: Stories of the Selfhelp Home is a documentary about the last generation of Holocaust survivors in Chicago and we will screen it on Sunday, October 21st at 3:00pm. Through historical narrative, archival footage, and personal testimony, the film explores the lives of six Chicagoans against the context of the Nazi cataclysm and tells the story of a community that has given refuge to more than 1,000 central European Jewish refugees and survivors. It premiered in June at the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie. Glencoe resident and Refuge editor Ruth Epstein will introduce the hour-long film and answer questions afterward. You can view the trailer here.

Two Special Kids Storytimes!

Hola! Would your kids enjoy a new twist in storytime? Come to the library on Wednesday, October 17th at 10:30 to enjoy Spanish Language Storytime! Language Stars will host interactive storytelling with one of their native-speaking Spanish teachers. There will be another Spanish Language Storytime on November 13th as well.

Then, if your kids are looking for a storytime that's a little scary you'll want to bring them to our Saturday, October 20th at 11:00 Halloween Storytime and Craft Fun event. There will be spine-tingling tales that the whole family will enjoy and then they can make a spooky craft to take home.  Dress in costume, if you like! Both events are for all ages with parent or caregiver.

Fines for Food Begins

Square up with the library and help someone who needs a square meal at the same time! All library fines collected October 15 - 28 will be donated by the library to the New Trier Township Pantry. You may pay your fines at the checkout desk or online. Payments for lost materials are not included in the Fines for Food event.

Friends Book Sale is Coming Up

It's time for the fall edition of the Friends of the Library book sale. We've been collecting quality donated books, CDs, DVDs and more and now we're ready to let you at them! The dates for the book sale are as follows:

Saturday, October 13th - 9 to 5
Sunday, October 14th - 1 to 5 (everything half price)
Monday, October 15th - 9 to 12 ($3 per bag sale)

There's still time to gain entry to the Friends' preview on Friday the 12th at 6pm by simply joining the Friends of the Library. The Friends are an invaluable resource for providing quality programming and resources and we thank them and we thank you for supporting them!

Glencoe's Gasoline Alley

The Glencoe Historical Society will be hosting another wonderful local history event on October 14th at 2:00 when the tell the story of Glencoe's Gasoline Alley. Gasoline Alley, the longest tale ever told in comics, was a sweet, often poignant, story-driven, daily comic strip created by former Glencoe resident Frank King. Members of the Glencoe Historical Society will remind you or introduce you to the world of Walt Wallet and his foundling son Skeezix, and will share how our own community contributed to the strip’s success.

Special Children's Author Event!

We've got a special virtual visit from author Rob Buyea on October 13 at 2:00! Rob is the author of Because of Mr. Terupt and Mr. Terupt Falls Again and he will be joining us on Skype to discuss his books. Registration is required so please contact us soon to sign up for this unique event! It is open to all ages with parent or caregiver.

Also, don't forget that our regular storytimes - Preschool Pals (Thursdays at 4:15), Tales for Tots (Thursdays at 10:30) and Book Babies (Fridays at 10:30) - start up next week. Registration is not required so make sure you put them in your calendar!

Two New Databases

We've now offering two useful new databases for you to try. First, if you're planning a vacation you'll want to take a look at AtoZ World Travel. This online travel guide offers information on restaurants, lodging, weather and other travel essentials in 200 locations around the world. You will need to login with your library card number on the site. Also available now is Credo Reference, a collection of online reference books on art, history, science and more. These databases and more are all available 24 hours a day from your home computer!

Meet Local Author Holly Rozner

We've got a very special author event on Tuesday, October 2nd at 7:30pm as Glencoe novelist Holly Rozner will be here to talk about Trade Secrets, the first novel to explain what really happened during the crash of 1987 and subsequent FBI investigations into trading infractions at the Chicago exchanges. Ms.Rozner traded S&P options at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange for 22 years and is now president of Money Smart, Inc.

Mindful Grandparenting Series

Are you interested in meeting with others to talk about how to become a more mindful grandparent? Grandparents and parents of adult children are invited to a three-part discussion series to share ideas and concerns.You are welcome to join us for one, two, or all three of the discussions, which will be facilitated by Joan Merlo, L.C.S.W., a psychotherapist with Family Services of Glencoe. This series builds on a related and well-attended meeting in May.

Tuesday, October 2, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. – Parenting Our Adult Children: Understanding Intergenerational Wishes and Differences
Tuesday, October 9, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. – Living Our Legacy: Creating Traditions, Sharing our Stories, and Relating Our Family History
Tuesday, October 16, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. – Role Modeling How to Age Well:  Staying Resilient in Body, Mind, and Spirit

Books on the Chopping Block

Banned Books Week this year runs from September 30th - October 6th. and as in previous years we will be observing it with a program performed by City Lit Theater Company. Books on the Chopping Block is a staged reading of excerpts from the top ten most frequently challenged books of 2011. It takes place on Saturday, September 30th at 2:00 and is intended for adults though children from grade 6 and up are welcome!

Also be sure to come by the library during Banned Books Week to view displays of banned books and to pick up a flyer listing titles of banned and challenged books, many of which may surprise you! Banned Books Week is sponsored by the American Booksellers Association, the American Booksellers Foundation for Free Expression, the American Library Association, the Association of American Publishers, the American Society of Journalists and Authors and the National Association of College Stores. For more information on Banned Books Week, click here.

Stories and Harvesting at Glencoe Community Garden

Photo used under Creative Commons from wharman

It's officially Autumn! Come celebrate with stories and harvesting on Saturday, September 29th at 11:00am at the Glencoe Community Garden where a librarian will lead the kids in an autumn-themed storytime. Following storytime, everyone will work together to help harvest fall vegetables. The Glencoe Community Garden is located east of the Metra line along Green Bay Road just north of Shelton Park on Harbor Street. If the weather is inclement, this will be held at the library.

Writing Your College Essay - Corrected Date

The essay is the only part of a college application that's completely in the student's control. Come to the library on Sunday, September 23rd at 2:00pm to learn the best tips on writing your college essay from Hanna Stotland, a college admissions expert who has advised applicants for over a decade. She will cover getting started, subjects to avoid and how to stand out from the crowd. Both students and parents are welcome.

Writing Your College Essay

The essay is the only part of a college application that's completely in the student's control. Come to the library on Sunday, September 23rd at 2:00pm to learn the best tips on writing your college essay from Hanna Stotland, a college admissions expert who has advised applicants for over a decade. She will cover getting started, subjects to avoid and how to stand out from the crowd. Both students and parents are welcome.

Library Closed on Friday

We will be closed on Friday the 14th for a staff development day. We will reopen on Saturday the 15th. Also, please remember that we are now open on Sundays from 1 to 5 and that we are ALWAYS open online.

Pajama and Yoga Storytimes!!!

You'll want to get the kids dressed up in their finest pajamas for our Pajamarama Storytime on September 13th at 7pm. It's for all ages, with parent or caregiver. Bring a blanket or stuffed animal! And if you'd like something a little more vigorous we still have openings for our September 15th Storybook Yoga sessions at 10:15 (ages 3-4) and 11:00 (ages 5-7). These require signup so make sure you let us know that you're coming!

What is "Rotten in the State of Denmark"?

Rabbi Herbert Bronstein brings his Shakespeare expertise to the Glencoe Library on Monday, September 10th at 7:00pm to discuss the question of why Hamlet was so slow to revenge the murder of his father. This program is part of the From Page to Stage program and is being presented in conjunction with the Writers' Theatre staging of the classic tragedy.

Become a Library Trustee!

Help keep the library moving forward by becoming a library trustee! The Glencoe Caucus is seeking candidates for the Glencoe Public Library Board of Trustees. There will be four 4-year terms open for residents who would begin serving in May, 2013. Primary responsibilities of Library Trustees include creating written policies to govern library operations and programs; establishing and overseeing the annual budget, maintaining physical facilities; working with staff to evaluate the effectiveness of library operations, services and programs; employing an Executive Director; and promoting awareness of the library’s activities and services to the community.

The Library Board regularly meets on the third Wednesday of the month at 7:30pm in the Hammond Room of the Library. Application forms for Library Trustee are available at the Reference Desk in the library and at the Caucus website.

Library Closed Labor Day and New Sunday Hours

The library will be closed on Monday, September 3rd in celebration of Labor Day. We will reopen on Tuesday, September 4th. We will also reopen on Sundays from 1:00 to 5:00 beginning September 9th.

New Excerpts Available Online

We're set to have one of our busiest autumns ever as you can see in our new edition of Excerpts. There are activities for kids, teens, parents and grandparents, with local history programs, programs on art, literature and theater, help getting into college or collecting social security and much more! Plus, we've got got updated information on all of our book groups, movie screenings, and technology classes, plus dates for our book sale and our fall concert. You'll be getting Excerpts in the mail soon but if you're anxious to see it you can visit it online!

Pardon our dust!

As recent visitors will have noted, the library is using this quieter time in August to make some important facility improvements.  We appreciate your accommodation as we re-carpet most of the first floor, stairways, mezzanine, and meeting room.   The carpet crew is doing much of the work on Sundays when the library is closed, however, we will have to temporarily close some areas, one at a time. The YA/Media Room will be closed on August 20th and the Reference Room the following day in order to move the furniture and materials to carpet those areas. The Hammond Meeting Room was not reserved for use on August 27, so it will be closed for carpeting that day.

After almost 20 years, it is also time to replace the burgundy wall coverings and a new color has been selected to go with the new carpet.  Removal of the old fabric has already taken place during closed hours and the new green fabric will be installed on closed Sundays, August 12 and 19.

Thank you for helping us expedite this work which should be completed by Labor Day.  We are excited about the library’s fresh new look and hope that you will be, too. 

Teen Movie Night: The Hunger Games

Get together with your friends at the library on Monday, August 20th at 6:00pm for a free showing of The Hunger Games! We'll provide the space and the popcorn and Katniss will provide the thrills! This program is for 6th - 12th graders only. The film is rated PG-13 and is 142 minutes long.

From Page to Stage Kickoff

This year’s From Page to Stage event will begin with a kickoff program and reception at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 23, on the second floor of the Woman’s Library Club. This fall, five North Shore public libraries will present a series of programs related to the Writers’ Theatre production of Shakespeare’s Hamlet.  Always a highlight among the From Page to Stage programs, this year’s kick-off will feature members of the Writers’ Theatre production.  Coffee, dessert and more good conversation will follow the presentation.

Kids Pizza Party

Our Children's Summer Reading Club is wrapping up and we're ready to party! Everyone who participated in the Reading Is So Delicious! summer reading club is invited to a pizza party on Saturday, August 4th at 12:00 noon to celebrate the end of another successful summer of reading. Join us at the library's backyard for pizza and fun!

The Making of Downton Abbey: Setting the Scene

The soap opera began hundreds of years before Edith wrote her letter to the Turkish ambassador! Yet the aristocratic way of life that had evolved at places like Downton Abbey was nearly over by the time we first meet the Crawleys in 1912. Join Landscape Historian Barbara Geiger on Thursday, August 2nd at 7:00pm for a slide lecture about the English landscape designers, land ownership patterns, and inheritance laws that produced great estates like Downton, and why radical changes were inevitable. Ms. Geiger specializes in 19th and early 20th century places and teaches architecture at the Illinois Institute of Technology.

August 1st Talking Pictures Program Cancelled

We regret that we need to cancel the August 1st Talking Pictures showing of After the Wedding. We are going to try to reschedule the movie at some point in the future.

Clark Weber's Rock and Roll Radio

Remember when rock and roll was clean and the Chicago River was dirty? If you do then you'll want to be at the library on Tuesday, July 24th at 7:30pm for Clark Weber's Rock and Roll Radio. Clark was a very familiar voice in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s as a program director and disc jockey for WLS radio in Chicago. Enjoy some of his stories about the music you loved and the people who made it at this entertaining program on the heyday of Top 40 radio.

Advances in Food Allergies

Would you like to know how to tell if your child is developing a food allergy? Are you looking for the latest information on advances in the treatment and even possible cure of food allergies? Join us on Tuesday, July 24th at 9:30am when Dr. Kimberly Ricaurte, Board Certified Allergist whose Winnetka practice specializes in children's allergies, will discuss symptoms, common triggers, new diagnosis modalities, and how to monitor food allergies over time. Bring your questions as Dr. Ricaurte will discuss your individual concerns after her presentation.

New Source for Ebooks: Freading!

We know that you love having ebooks available for you from the library so we've got a new way to get them! It's called Freading and it's available now from the library website. You can have multiple ebooks checked out for two weeks at a time and you can renew them for another two weeks if necessary.

 Freading ebooks work with computers, iPad, iPhone, Nook and more. Unfortunately they will not work with most Kindles. Set up an appointment with a librarian or attend our July 17th Technology Tuesday program at 1:00 for more information! My Media Mall is still available so you now have two places to look for ebooks!

Great New Online Resources for Kids!

We have some great new ways for your children to be entertained and educated online. You might already be familiar with the name Muzzy because of their DVDs and software. Now, Muzzy Online offers a fun way for your child to learn French, Italian, German or Spanish through interactive learning games and activities. Next, TumbleBook Library offers interactive online books to read along with, as well as videos and games. Finally, PowerKIDS offers two databases to get your kids loving science: Earth and Space Science and Life Science.

Best of all, you don't have to be in the library to use these databases! Simply access our children's page and dive in at any time of day!

Library Closed on July 4th

The library will be closed on Wednesday July 4th in honor of Independence Day and will reopen on Thursday July 5th. The website and catalog are always open for renewing, placing holds, downloading ebooks and audiobooks and accessing databases. Keep an eye out for the Friends of the Library who will be marching in the parade to celebrate their 50th anniversary! For more information on all of Glencoe's 4th of July activities click here. Have a safe and fun 4th of July!

Photo used under Creative Commons from cameraslayer.

Water Your Mind and Read

Join a librarian in the beautiful Glencoe Community Garden (located east of the Metra line along Green Bay Road, just north of Shelton Park on Harbor Street) on Saturday, June 30th at 2:00pm for Water Your Mind and Read, a special garden-themed storytime the whole family will enjoy.  In the case of inclement weather, the program will meet in the Hammond Room at the library. This program is for all ages, with parent or caregiver.

Explore Millennium Park

Described by The New York Times as “the crown jewel of a city that takes pride in public spaces,” Millennium Park has been a captivating and controversial destination since its opening in 2004. Come Explore Millennium Park at the library on June 25th at 7:30 with Hy Speck, a 12-year architectural docent who will discuss the artists, philanthropists, and “movers and shakers” who created this 24.5-acre center for art, music, architecture, and landscape design.

Subscribe to Flick Picks

You love taking movies out from the library so we've decided to offer a blog and newsletter devoted to all the newest and best DVDs that the library has to offer. Flick Picks is the new blog which will offer new releases, undiscovered gems and recommended view-a-likes. It's written by library staff specifically with our patrons in mind. You can also subscribe to receive our Flick Picks newsletter by email. Take a look at the Flick Picks blog right now!

Closed Sundays in the Summer

We will be closed Sundays beginning June 10th and running through Labor Day. We will reopen on Sundays on September 9th. Don't forget that our website is open every day, 24 hours, for placing holds, renewing books, accessing databases and much more. Plus, we know you'll find lots of other great stuff to do on Sundays in Glencoe!

Summer Reading Club Is Here!

This summer we invite you to explore some lesser known literary destinations in our adult Summer Reading Club: Off the Beaten Path.  Join us for our annual kickoff party complete with summertime treats on June 9th.  Sign up then or at your earliest convenience. You may also sign up by email but remember to stop by the Readers’ Services desk to pick up your sign-up prize!  After reading six books, the official program prize is yours. Remember to enter our drawings for weekly prizes. Once again, we’ll be giving out our popular free video rental coupons for every book read, while two grand prizes will be awarded at the close of the program.

Children ages pre-K through 5th grade can sign up for their own Summer Reading Club starting June 8th. Reading is So Delicious! is the theme and kids will earn a prize for every 100 minutes of reading. Come consult with one of our children's librarians who will make sure that the kids pick only the tastiest books!

Exploring Food Science With Kerri Ringel

PROGRAM IS FULL! Local Pre-K enrichment teacher Kerri Ringel will be exploring food science with the young ones on June 12th, through fact and fiction as well as hands-on activities.  Space and materials are limited, so registration for each separate session is required. Children ages 4-6 will meet at 4:15 and ages 7-10 will meet at 5:30.

Latin American Artists of the 20th Century

Art historian Jeff Mishur returns on June 11 at 7:00 pm for a lecture on a selection of twentieth century Latin American artists including Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, José Clemente Orozco, and Frida Kahlo. This slide lecture will examine the relationship these artists had with a 1920s cultural and educational reform movement in Mexico known as "Indigenismo" or "Mexicanidad." Promoted especially by José Vasconcelos, Minister of Education, this movement emphasized Mexico's folk traditions and precolumbian roots.

Book Sale

The Friends of the Glencoe Public Library's next book sale is right around the corner, taking place June 9th through June 11th. Hours are as follows:

Saturday, June 9th: 9 to 5
Sunday, June 10th: 1 to 5, Everything Half Price
Monday June 11th: 9 to 12, Bag Sale – $3/bag

There is a Friday night preview for members of the Friends as well, and there is still time to become a Friend! All proceeds from the book sale go directly to library programming, resources and services.

Children's Program Change: The Truly Remarkable Loon!

We are excited to announce a change in the children’s programming lineup.  The originally scheduled summer reading kick-off program “Recipe for Success” will be replaced by the Truly Remarkable Loon’s program “Read Books and Juggle Everything Else.”  This family-friendly juggling and comedy show will entertain children of all ages—and their parents, too! Come to the Library on Friday, June 8 at 1:30 pm for a loony and fun-filled show!

Study Break Lounge

Looking to take a break while studying for finals?  Stop by our legendary Study Break Lounge for FREE snacks and socializing. The Lounge is located on the mezzanine level of the library in the Hammond Room or in the YA/Media Room on the first floor. Check with library staff for the Lounge location. This year, due to overwhelming demand, we will remain open an extra Sunday so you can fit in as much studying as you need! Hours are:

Saturday, June 2nd: 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, June 3rd: 1:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Monday through Wendesday, June 4th, 5th and 6th: 10:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, June 7th: 10:00 a.m.-noon

Also be sure to sign up for YA Summer Reading Club, which begins on Wednesday, June 30th. We've made some exciting changes this year that we think you'll enjoy!

Louder Than a Bomb!

Warm up for Wordplaygrounds or just enjoy an amazing film on Wednesday, June 6 at 6:30 pm when the library will screen Louder Than a Bomb. This exhilarating, award-winning documentary follows four teams of young poets as they prepare for the world’s largest youth poetry slam, which draws more than 600 teenagers from over 60 Chicago area schools. Roger Ebert named Louder Than a Bomb one of the ten best documentaries of 2011. The library’s event features an introduction by Glencoe’s own Bob Boone, whose writing program Young Chicago Authors sponsors Louder Than a Bomb.

And once you've been inspired don't forget to sign up for Wordplaygrounds by June 11th! Wordplaygrounds is a four-week writing workshop for students ages 13 to 18, led by New Trier English teacher John O'Connor. It will meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30 from June 19th through July 12th. The focus will be on poetry, though short story writing will be encouraged as well. Last summer the program was a big hit so make sure you get signed up before it sells out!

Our Excerpts Newsletter is Redesigned!

This month's Excerpts not only contains three months worth of the type of top-notch activities that you expect from the library but the look and feel of the newsletter is new and improved as well! We've expanded from six to eight pages, increased the font size, improved the layout and increased overall readability. Inside the new edition of Excerpts you will find information about presentations covering everything from Latin American artists to American rock and rollers, with stopovers at Millennium Park and Downton Abbey. You'll also find out about our Summer Reading Club and all your favorite kids programs, book groups, movie screenings and technology classes. You'll receive a print copy of Excerpts in your mailbox very soon but in the meantime you can access Excerpts online.

Library Closed for Memorial Day

The Glencoe Public Library will be closed on Sunday, May 27th and Monday, May 28th in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. We will reopen on Tuesday, the 28th. Have a great holiday!

Stories, Songs and Slam Poems

Lean back, get comfortable and enjoy some sheer creativity at Stories, Songs and Slam Poems! On Tuesday, May 22 at 7:00pm poets John O'Connor and Jim Davis, short-story author Bob Boone, the New Trier Poetry Team, and even a guitarist or two will perform at this literary and musical celebration. This program is for older children and adults. If you're thinking about signing up for the library's Wordplaygrounds creative writing workshop for teenagers this summer the instructor will be glad to answer your questions after the performance.

Aging, "Sage-ing" and Leaving a Legacy

How can we live with more zest and purpose in life's second half? Come to the library on Tuesday May 22nd at 10:00am and learn all about Aging, "Sage-ing" and Leaving a Legacy. Join Joan Merlo, LCSW, a psychotherapist with Family Service of Glencoe for coffee and discussion on:

• Aging successfully
• Meeting challenges and maximizing opportunities in parenting adult children and grandparenting the younger generation
• Creating a personal legacy through journal writing, story telling, working on documenting your family history and photos, and initiating special traditions

Sponsored by Family Service of Glencoe in partnership with the Glencoe Public Library, this free program will meet in the library's Hammond Room. All are welcome!

Glencoe Day at the Chicago Botanic Garden

Did you know that the Glencoe Public Library is not the only library in town? The Chicago Botanic Garden has a lovely special library that is a delight to explore. On the afternoon of Sunday, May 20, everyone with a Glencoe library card is invited to attend Glencoe Day and get acquainted with the the Botanic Garden's Lenhardt Library. Of course, the rest of the garden will be open for your enjoyment as well!

From 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., visitors to the Lenhardt Library are invited to a gallery talk and library walk-through led by director Leora Siegel. You will have the opportunity to view and handle rare botanical books, browse the new “Rare Seeds” exhibit of rare books and works by contemporary artists, and learn about research opportunities online and in the library. A special children’s activity is planned as well.

Take the green trolley directly from the library to the Botanic Garden at 1:30 p.m. at no charge. The trolley will bring riders back to Glencoe at 4:30 p.m. (drop-off is at the train station). If you prefer to drive, free parking is offered from 12 noon to 5:00 p.m. for Glencoe Public Library card holders. Admission to the garden is always free. A 10% off discount at the Garden Shop and a $5 discount on Botanic Garden memberships will be available May 20 only.

Remember: you must have a Glencoe Public Library card to take advantage of this special event. If you do not have a card, be sure to obtain one at the Checkout Desk before May 20.

WHAAM!: An Exhibition Preview

As one of America's great Pop artists, Roy Lichtenstein produced some of the most iconic images of the 1960s. If you're a fan, you'll want to come to the library on May 17 at 7:00pm when Art Historian Jeff Mishur returns to present Whaam!: The Art of Roy Lichtenstein:  An Exhibition Preview. Jeff will discuss selections from Lichtenstein's career including a number of works that will be included in the retrospective at the Art Institute of Chicago, to be mounted from May 16 to September 3, 2012.  Mishur will also position Pop Art within the larger context of Post-World War II material culture.

Meet Our New Head of Children's Services

Parents, kids and everyone else will want to drop in sometime soon and say hi to our new Head of Children's Services, Renee Grassi! Renee comes to us from the Deerfield Public Library and was recently acknowledged as a library "mover and shaker" by Library Journal. You can read all about Renee's great work with special-needs children here. We're excited to welcome her aboard!

Flower Power!

Spring is here so it's time to harness flower power! Join Eliza Fournier of the Chicago Botanic Garden on May 1st at 1pm for an inspiring program on using perennials, annuals, and small shrubs to produce spectacular color and style in your garden. She will discuss the best performers for our area, some new and interesting selections that you may not have tried, and the use of ornamental grasses and late-season perennials to enhance your beds through early winter. Ms. Fournier is the manager of school and community gardening for the CBG and has appeared on WTTW’s “Chicago Tonight.”
Image courtesy of the Chicago Botanic Garden

Chicago's North Shore and Glencoe's Growth

Architecture buffs and local history buffs will not want to miss our upcoming program Chicago's North Shore: Its History and Influence on Glencoe's Growth. Glencoe architect Scott Javore returns with a program on the evolution of the North Shore and how it affected the development and architecture of Glencoe. He’ll discuss how Chicago’s growth in the 1860s and 1870s acted as a catalyst for suburban development, the early years of Glencoe’s history, and the evolution of Glencoe architecture from the 1850s through the 1920s. Join us on April 29th at 2:00pm for this compelling program.

Tonight's Program Canceled

Tonight's Retirement Income IQ program has been canceled due to illness. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Have You Run Out of Shelving Space?

Let the Friends of the Library help you!!! Please bring in your donations for the June 9-11 book sale by the end of May so that the Friends can restock their shelves before the sale begins. All of your donations are tax deductible. We appreciate your donations that make the book sales so successful!

What's Your Retirement Income IQ?

How much do you really know about preparing for retirement? Come to the library on Tuesday April 24th at 7:00 pm to take a Retirement Income IQ survey and get tips from Peter Wilmot, CFP, of MetLife’s Premier Wealth Group. This program is presented in conjunction with the Federal Reserve Bank’s Money Smart Week, a series of events designed to help consumers better manage their personal finances.

The Orion Ensemble Returns

Join us for an afternoon concert and celebration of the Friends of the Library's 50th Anniversary on Sunday, April 15, 2012 at 5:00 pm. Performing will be the Orion Ensemble, which is celebrating its 19th season. John von Rhein of the Chicago Tribune calls Orion “one of Chicago’s most vibrant, versatile and distinctive ensembles.” The library will close at 4:00 and will reopen at 4:30 for concert seating. The concert is free. Thanks to the Friends of the Library for continuing to sponsor this and other great programs!

ORION ENSEMBLE ARTISTS
Kathy Pirtle, Clarinet
Florentina Ramniceanu, Violin
Judy Stone, Cello
Diana Schmück, Harpsichord

Virtuosic works by Vivaldi will be highlighted in Orion's April program. In addition, Scarlatti's showy harpsichord sonatas will be featured, and Orion's clarinetist will add a delightful Marcello transcription. The performers will have a little fun in the middle, playing Bach usually heard on each other's instruments before joining together for a wonderful trio sonata by Telemann.

Antonio Vivaldi  Sonata in C Major for Violin and Continuo
Benedetto Marcello  Sonata in G Major, arranged for Clarinet and Continuo
Johann S. Bach  2 Inventions, arranged for Violin and Cello
Johann S. Bach  Selected Dances, arranged for Clarinet
Dominico Scarlatti  2 Sonatas for Harpsichord
Georg P. Telemann  Trio Sonata in F Major                          
Antonio Vivaldi  Sonata in A Major for Violin and Continuo

Discovering Creative Writing Program

If you’ve always meant to give creative writing a try our Discovering Creative Writing program could be what you need to get those thoughts flowing and pencils moving. This seven-week series of classes will be led by Bob Boone, a Glencoe teacher, writer, and resident who has helped thousands of new writers find their creative sides. The program is for beginners and Glencoe residents will be given preference. Classes begin on April 12th so please register with the library by April 10th.

Library Closed for Easter Sunday

The library will be closed on Easter Sunday, April 8. We will reopen on Monday, April 9th.

Comiskey Park's Last World Series

Baseball season is upon us and hope springs eternal. In anticipation of a season of many wins, author and sports historian Charles Billington returns to the library on Thursday, April 5th at 7:00 to discuss Comiskey Park's Last World Series. The 1959 Chicago White Sox were the South Side’s first pennant winners in 40 years, but their success played in front of a tragic backdrop: one of Chicago’s first families locked in a bitter legal battle for control of a prized heirloom, the team itself. Charles will offer a film analysis of the 1959 World Series and discuss the legal and business history of the White Sox and the baseball industry during this golden era. Batterrrrrrrr up!

Spring Break Activities for the Kids

We've got a spring mix of activities to help the kids welcome the season. On Monday, March 26th, spring in to the library between 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. for Spring-In Craft! Kids can use our cut-outs, pens, and other materials to design springtime greeting cards, plant a paper garden, craft a colorful collage and more.

On Wednesday, March 28th, 10:30 a.m. your kids will be Laughing with the Animals as naturalist and storyteller David Stokes uses live animals and puppets and to get the kids acting a bit like an animal themselves! This program is for families with children ages 4 and up.

We will also host two special storytimes, on Tuesday, March 27th at  4:15 p.m. and Thursday, March 29th 10:30 a.m. Kids ages 3 and up will enjoy stories and songs and special performer Jon B., with his guitar, will sing, strum and read books.

Finally, if you're a fan of Chat & Chew you'll want to attend our Chat & Chew Re-do on Wednesday, March 28th at 6:00 p.m. We'll revisit one of our favorite Chat & Chew books: The Case of the Lost Boy. Whether the kids have read this book before or it’s new to them, they will enjoy discussion and activities with other kids in grades 2 – 3. Children may attend on their own or invite a special adult to join them. Please contact the Children’s Department to register and get a copy of the book BEFORE the program. 

We hope to see you this spring break!

Ancient Roman Mosaics

The Field Museum is currently hosting an exhibition of the amazing Lod Mosaic and on March 13th at 7:00 pm Dr. Michelle Paluch-Mishur will return to the library to present a slide lecture that explains Roman floor mosaic materials and processes. She also will discuss the major subjects Roman mosaicists depicted, including the animal themes seen in the Lod Mosaic and how these subjects relate to their specific residential or public setting. Dr. Paluch-Mishur's programs are always fascinating, even if you aren't familiar with the exhibit!

YAP book discussion

Young Adult Program (YAP) is a social and recreational program for adults with disabilities offering activities and speakers, vocational assistance, and emotional support. On Monday, March 12, YAP members invite you to join them at the library to discuss Rick Riordan’s best seller The Lightning Thief, a fantasy-adventure novel based on Greek mythology. The Lightning Thief has been adapted as an acclaimed graphic novel and is available as a novel, an audiobook and on DVD; copies the different formats will be available for checkout at the library. Participants are encouraged to read, watch or listen to this adventure tale, then join in the discussion. YAP is supported by New Trier Township, the Glencoe Park District and many others. For more information about YAP, please call (847) 835-3121.

Winter Reading is Coming to an End...

March 3rd will be our last day of Winter Reading Club, so make sure you come in and record your final books and pick up your prize. We had a great turnout this winter and we hope you had as much fun with the club as we did! We'll see you at our Summer Reading Club!

New Excerpts is Out!

One glance at our new issue of Excerpts will convince you that spring is on the way. We've got seasonal programming on baseball, flower planting and a special Glencoe Day at the Chicago Botanic Garden. You'll also get information about art, local history and creative writing programs as well as the usual suspects of book groups, films, technology classes and children's programming. You'll receive Excerpts in the mail later this month but you can also view it online now!

Used Book Sale

On Saturday, February 25th everybody's favorite used book sale returns to the Glencoe Public Library. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, the sale offers books, dvds, music and more at low prices. All proceeds benefit the library. And don't forget: if you become a Friend, you are invited to attend the Friday night preview!

Book sale hours:
Saturday, February 25,  9 to 5
Sunday, February 26,  1 to 5, Everything Half Price
Monday February 27,  9 to 12, Bag Sale – $3/BAG

My Weird School Party

On Monday February 20th at 10:30 come to the library to celebrate your favorite friends from the My Weird School series by Dan Gutman. Join other kids in games and activities focusing on the themes of this popular series. While no advance reading is required to attend the party, you might want to be familiar with the series before joining the fun. For children ages 7-9. Registration is required to ensure sufficient materials.

Fresh Ideas for Your Garden

Do you want to update your yard but don’t know how to begin? On Thursday, February 16th at 7:30 you can get some Fresh Ideas for Your Garden for the 2012 growing season with landscaping professional Phyllis Cheskin. She will discuss how to set your garden objectives and needs, the benefits of soil testing, new plants on the market, and tips on design, installation, and maintenance—whether you do it yourself or hire a contractor. A Glencoe resident, Ms. Cheskin is the proprietor of PGC Ideas, LLC, a landscape design and installation firm. She is familiar to many locals through her work at the Glencoe Park District’s greenhouse sale.

Oscar Preview

Do you have an opinion about this year's crop of Oscar nominees? Come to our Oscar Preview on Thursday, February 9th at 7:00 pm at the Women's Library Club where Chicago Tribune film critic Michael Phillips will lead a lively discussion of the 2012 Academy Award nominations and review the past year in film. Discover who's a contender...and who's not!

7 Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor

What tools do you have to assess the quality of your advisor’s work? How do you know what questions to ask as you begin to interview advisors?  Today there are many resources available to help you compare financial products. Unfortunately, the same is not true for financial advisors. On Tuesday, February 7th at 7:30 pm Adam Stock will share wisdom from his 12 years of experience and suggest 7 Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor. Adam Stock is a CFP and principal of The Next Level Planning Group, an affiliate of Lincoln Financial Advisors.

Elephant, Piggie and Valentines!

On Saturday, February 4th we've got some great activities for the kids! From 10:30 to 11:30 we'll be celebrating Mo Willems's Elephant and Piggie books with a party. Children ages 4 to 6 are welcome. Please register beforehand to ensure sufficient materials. Then, from 11:30 to 3:00, children 3 and up can drop by our Valentine's Day card shop with an adult caregiver. We supply the paper, cut-outs, glue, markers, and other "tools" and you supply the imagination at this do-it-yourself event.

Social Security Program Returns

When and how you take Social Security may seem like a straightforward decision but it is not.  The wrong decision may cost you tens of thousands of dollars.  Even if you’ve made a decision, you may still be able to receive more money.  On January 31st at 7:30 Adam Stock returns to the library will teach you the ins and outs of your Social Security: How and When to Take it to Maximize Your Benefits.  Adam Stock is a CFP and principal of The Next Level Planning Group, an affiliate of Lincoln Financial Advisors.

Open House for Special Needs Kids

Do you have a child with special needs? Are you wondering what library resources might be available for your family? Come visit the Glencoe Public Library and take a low-key tour with other families with special needs children at our January Open House. The library invites families to come to the library on January 29th at 12:00 noon (one hour before our official opening time) to learn more about what we offer to all children in Glencoe. There’s something for everyone at the library!

Meet Glencoe's Greenest Home

The new home on Washington Street perfectly complements its traditional neighborhood, but inside it’s anything but conventional. A significant lesson in sustainable design, the Slotnick residence is one of the state’s first LEED Platinum homes, possibly making it Glencoe's Greenest Home. On January 24th at 7:30 you'll be able to learn all about it from the architect, Nathan Kipnis, who also will provide an overview of green concepts that may be used in both new and renovation projects. Homeowners Natalie and Barry Slotnick will be present to speak about what it’s like to live in their green home. Mr.Kipnis is the principal of Kipnis Architecture + Planning, an Evanston firm that specializes in green and sustainable architectural practices.

Family Film: Inside Hana's Suitcase

Families with children ages 9 and up will want to join us on January 22 at 1:30 to see the film Inside Hana's Suitcase. This docu-drama moves from present day Tokyo to Thereisenstadt concentration camp, as it investigates the story of two children and the terrible events they endured because they happened to be born Jewish. Inside Hana's Suitcase focuses on a very difficult and painful experience in a powerful and hopeful way. After the movie (90 minutes), there will be time for discussion and refreshments.

Study Break Lounge

Can it really be that finals are lurking just around the corner? Luckily we'll be offering our Study Break Lounge so you can have the space (and snacks) that you need to keep you focused. The Lounge is located on the mezzanine level of the library in the Hammond Room or in the YA/Media Room on the first floor; check with library staff for the Lounge location. This winter, Study Break Lounge will run on the following dates:

Saturday the 14th from 10am to 4:30pm
Sunday the 15th from 1:30pm to 4:30pm
Monday the 16th from 10am to 8:30pm
Tuesday the 17th from 5pm to 8:30pm
Wednesday the 18th and Thursday the 19th from 10am to 8:30pm

Mask Making Workshop

Join us on Monday, January 16 for a mask making workshop, where master mask maker Jeff Semmerling will share his expertise and enthusiasm for masks and their creation. Using a variety of media each child will produce a mask that is a unique creation. The 10:00 session is for children ages 4-6 and the 11:30 session is for children ages 7-9. Registration is required to ensure sufficient materials.

Use Your Ereader at the Library!

Did you get an ereader such as a Nook or Kindle over the holidays? Or maybe your rich uncle slipped you an iPad? Give us a call to set up an appointment to learn how to download ebooks from the library. Or you can visit My Media Mall and give it a shot on your own. We're also offering a Technology Tuesday class covering ebooks and ereaders on January 17th at 1:00 if you'd like to have all your questions answered.