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Adult Programs
Persons with disabilities can arrange for special assistance by calling (847) 923-3347 two weeks prior to the program. Register at the central library Information/Magazines Desk (847) 923-3347 for all adult programs. Register for all adult excursions and other programs with fees in person or pay by credit card via telephone. Fees are non-refundable and are due at the time of registration. Trip refunds, less a $3 service fee, are furnished only when someone is found to take your place.
Discussion Groups
Coffee and Current Events
2nd Monday of every month 10 a.m.-Noon Conference Room
Come and share your views on world and community events, and listen to the thoughts of others. Refreshments will be served.
Writers Group
1st and 3rd Saturday of every month 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Rasmussen South
Members share knowledge and constructive critiques. Please bring a page of your writing to the meetings.
Special Programs
Globe Trekking! Adult Summer Reading Program
Sign-up begins June 1 and runs through Aug. 31
Whether you're an armchair traveler or travel with your books, plan for a summer filled with great reads. Each participant in the reading program must read eight (8) titles by the end of August. Everyone is eligible to participate in the reading program and receive a gift for completing the reading requirements. However, only STDL patrons are eligible for the grand prize drawing at the program's end. Sign-up begins June 1 at the central library Readers' Advisory Desk or at the branch libraries. For more information, call (847) 923-3189.
Silence is Not Golden
Wednesday, June 4 7-8 p.m. Hoffman Estates Branch
Gradual loss of hearing in the aging process can be a source of frustration for both the patient and his family. Join Dr. Garrett Losh, board cetrtified otolaryngologist, and learn about the new modalities that can aid in the hearing process.
America’s Boating Course
Friday, June 6 6-10 p.m. Adult Classroom
Saturday, June 7 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Adult Classroom
This two day course will be presented by the Coast Guard Auxiliary and is for all boaters and PWC operators, as well as family and friends who accompany them. Many insurance companies offer a discount for taking this introductory course. Please call Ken Dole at (630) 655-5267 to register. Fee: $35 for supplies.
Home Health Care
Monday, June 9 7:30-9 p.m. Rasmussen South
Learn about free Medicare Benefits for Home Health Care. Semeria Wilson of Home Health Resource will discuss available services.
Genealogy Group
Tuesday, June 10 7:30-9:30 p.m. Adult Classroom
During this informal gathering, participants can work within breakout groups focusing on common genealogical topics. Groups will be formed for the following nationalities: Polish, Czech, German, Irish, British, Italian and Scandinavian, as well as Colonial American. Additionally, there will be a beginners group and troubleshooting group, as well as access to a computer with Internet. The room will open at approximately 7 p.m. Tony Kierna, the STDL genealogist, will begin the meeting at 7:30 p.m. For more information, contact Tony Kierna at (847) 923-3390.
Hat and Coat!
Wednesday, June 11 7:30-9 p.m. Rasmussen South
Photojournalist Jerry Tomaselli will share his memories and dramatic photos gathered throughout his 35 years as an award-winning Chicago news photographer.
The “Gotta Write” AuthorFest
Saturday, June 14 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Rasmussen Rooms / Adult Classroom
For the fourth year, authors from all over the Chicagoland and surrounding areas will lead panel discussions on writing and publishing. Copies of the authors’ works will be available for purchase and signing throughout the day. A complete list of discussion topics and panel participants will be available at the Readers' Advisory Desk and branch libraries. For more information, please call Susan Gibberman at (847) 923-3339.
Cancer and Genes
Monday, June 16 7:30-9 p.m. Rasmussen South
Tina Marie Bauman, manager of High Risk Genetics at Alexian Brothers Hospital, will discuss how the cancer gene is detected and how it may be passed from generation to generation. To register, call AlexianConnects at (866) 253-9426.
The Getty Villa
Wednesday, June 18 7:30-9 p.m. Rasmussen South
View the beautiful slides of The Getty Villa: Paradise on the Pacific in this presentation by Art Excursion's Michelle Paluch-Mishur. The lecture will feature stunning images of Getty Villa architecture and gardens as well as highlights of its collections.
Immigration Seminar
Thursday, June 19 7:30-9 p.m. Rasmussen South
Attorney Gerald Cipolla will share his expertise in all immigration matters for individuals, families and businesses. Marriage and family based applications, employment immigration applications, naturalization, asylum and deportation matters will be discussed.
Meals on a Budget
Monday, June 23 7:30-9 p.m. Rasmussen South
Looking for ways to cut your food costs? Chef Lou Buchenot will demonstrate how to prepare several additional meals from one main entree. Tasting and recipes included.
The Cycling Sisters: Following the Underground Railroad
Wednesday, June 25 7:30-9 p.m. Rasmussen South
Evie Weber and Norma Witherbee, The Cycling Sisters, will retrace their 2100 mile bike trip that followed the slaves' route to freedom along the Underground Railroad. Their presentation will touch both the people they met and the places they visited.
Cooking with Organics: Whole Foods Market Palatine
Monday, June 30 7:30-9 p.m. Rasmussen South
Now is a great time to help the planet by going organic. Mark your calendar to experience Whole Foods Market's Culinary Team as they teach and demonstrate several easy, economical organic dishes. The menu includes Carrot Salad with Almond Butter Dressing, Capellini Pomodoro, Strawberries Romanoff and others. Samples and recipes will be provided.
Creating Eco-Gardens
Tuesday, July 8 7:30-9 p.m. Rasmussen South
In this slide presentation, Dennis Paige details the remarkable transformation of a sterile landscape into an unfolding range of colorful prairie, woodland, and wetland wildflowers, sedges and grasses. Learn how this occurred and what it means to you.
Genealogy Group
Tuesday, July 8 7:30-9:30 p.m. Adult Classroom
Guest speaker Dan Niemiec will present “Who Stole My Newspaper: Chicago Newspaper Research.” He will provide examples of using local Chicago newspaper resources to help with tracking down elusive ancestors. The room will open at approximately 7 p.m. so participants can review materials. Tony Kierna, STDL genealogist, will start the meeting at 7:30 p.m. with introductions and a brief review of genealogical matters. For further information, contact Tony Kierna at (847) 923-3390.
World War II Ships
Thursday, July 10 7:30-9 p.m. Rasmussen South
Learn the fascinating history of the Landing Ship LST-325, an amphibious ship designed to land troops and equipment directly on beachheads. Museum volunteer Pamela Nelson will describe the history of this unique ship from its launch during WWII to its current role as a floating museum that travels America's waterways in its mission to educate the public about its history.
A Tribute to Hal Foster
Monday, July 14 7:30- 9:00 pm Rasmussen South
Hear the life story of Hal Foster who began the Superhero craze in the 1930’s with the comic strip, Tarzan. He also created Prince Valiant which is still carried in 350 newspapers in the country. Sid Weiskirch will present this program in conjunction with the library’s special exhibit of his comic book collection.
Selling on eBay
Tuesday, July 15 7:30-9 p.m. Adult Classroom
Instructor Michael Madden will give instruction and share tips on how to sell items successfully on eBay.
From Farmers Market to Your Table
Monday, July 21 7:30-9 p.m. Rasmussen South
Turn your purchases from the local Farmers’ Markets into delicious family meals. Chef Lou Buchenot will demonstrate great ways to prepare many of these fresh items. Tasting and recipes included.
Conquering Clutter: An Organized Approach
Thursday, July 24 7:30-9 p.m. Rasmussen South
This seminar will discuss how to control clutter and organize your living spaces so you can reduce stress, save time and become more productive. Professional Organizer Randy Wickstrom of Purple Durple Organizers will teach you the process that will enable you to have a more organized life.
Summer Trips
Millenium Park/Chinatown
Tuesday, June 10 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Join a professional guide on a tour through Chicago's newest great attraction, considered to be a center for world-class art, music, architecture and design. Also, visit the Chicago Cultural Center to see the Tiffany dome and mosaics. Enjoy free time for shopping in Chinatown and a delicious lunch at the House of Fortune. Fee: $48 for fees, transportation and lunch.
White City Tour
Tuesday, June 17 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Begin with a slide presentation at the Chicago Cultural Center by Al Walavich before traveling to the original fairground of the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. Stop at Wooded Island, see the Statue of the Republic and other sites on this guided tour. Enjoy lunch at Orso's in Old Town followed by a visit to the Chicago History Museum. Fee: $51 which includes lunch, tour and transportation.
Chicago River Architectural Tour
Friday, June 20 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Enjoy a boat tour on the Chicago River and hear a guide telling the stories of the many new and old buildings. Following the boat trip, lunch at the elegant Lawry's the Prime Rib. Fee: $70 for ticket, lunch and transportation.
Nunsense
Thursday, June 26 5:15-11:15 p.m. Lincolnshire/Marriott
You don't want to miss this comedy classic full of laughter, righteous songs and rosary-swinging dance numbers. Fee: $70 to cover dinner, gratuity, theater ticket and transportation.
Taste of the Neighborhoods
Friday, June 27 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Join ethnic food guide Evelyn Thompson as she leads this unique tour to taste the delectable fare at a variety of ethnic restaurants. Visit Artopolis in Greektown, Ja Grill in Lincoln Park and Orso’s in Old Town. Fee: $55 for food and transportation.
LaSalle Canal Boat Tour
Tuesday, July 8 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Visit North Central Illinois’ LaSalle Canal Boat and the Lock 16 Visitor's Center in LaSalle, Il. See the exhibits describing the Illinois and Michigan Canal, a 96-mile hand dug waterway which connected the Illinois River with Lake Michigan. Enjoy a boat ride on a replica 1800's canal boat pulled by horses on the IM Canal and hear the story of how the Canal changed Illinois history as told by costumed guides. Lunch at historic Starved Rock Lodge. Fee: $65 for ticket, lunch and transportation.
Ten Chimneys Tour
Friday, July 25 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Tour the fabulous summer retreat of one the greatest acting teams in the history of American theatre, Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne. Docents share stories of the lives of this famous couple and their many guests as you are led through the estate. View the current special exhibit of the beautiful gowns and garments of Miss Fontanne. Box lunches will be served. Fee: $60 to cover transportation, admission and lunch.
Polish Chicago
Tuesday, July 29 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Learn about the Polish immigration to Chicago. Visit St. John Cantius Church which was built in 1893 and the Polish Museum of America. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Red Apple Restaurant. Fee: $49 to cover admissions, lunch and transportation.
Wisconsin State Fair
Saturday, Aug. 2 8:15 a.m.-7 p.m.
Enjoy a fun-filled day at the exciting Wisconsin State Fair. Visit the many exhibits and shows. Sample the famous cream puffs and other specialties. Fee: $32 for adults; $29 for children age 11 and younger to cover transportation and entry fee.
The Full Monty
Thursday, Aug. 14 5:15-11:15 p.m. Lincolnshire/Marriott
This heart-warming comedy is the story of six out of work and out of shape buddies who desperately need money. Follow their scheme to offer a show with something different. Fee: $70 to cover dinner, gratuity, ticket and transportation.
Pier Wisconsin
Tuesday, Aug. 19 7:45 a.m.-4:45 p.m.
Travel to the scenic Milwaukee lakeshore to visit the fabulous New Discovery Museum at Pier Wisconsin. You will see the Reiman Aquariums displaying the fish which call Lake Michigan home. See the recreated, three-masted 19th century Great Lakes schooner, the S/V Denis Sullivan. Enjoy an authentic German lunch at the Gasthaus Restaurant with its stain-glass windows and European murals. Fee: $70 for lunch and transportation.
Chicago Botanic Garden
Thursday, Aug. 21 3-9 p.m.
Explore the many wonders of this beautiful garden. The twilight tour includes an evening grand tour by tram, as well as dinner and music on the Esplanade. Fee: $48 for admission, dinner and transportation.
Greek Chicago
Friday, Aug. 22 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Guides Harold and Faye Peponis will give the history and heritage of Chicago’s Greek citizens, including immigration, customs and religion. Enjoy a guided tour of the Hellenic Museum and Cultural Center, visit Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Lunch at Pegasus Restaurant & Tavern. The day ends with a private tour of the Jane Addams Hull House Museum. Fee: $55 for admissions, lunch and transportation.
Audiovisual
Wednesday Night at the Movies
Wednesdays 7 p.m. Audiovisual Department
The central library offers free movies at the dates and times listed. Children age 8 and younger need to be accompanied by an adult. No registration required.
Thursday Afternoon at the Movies
Thursdays 2 p.m. Audiovisual Department
The central library offers free movies at the dates and times listed. Children age 8 and younger need to be accompanied by an adult. No registration required.
Saturday Afternoon at the Movies
Saturdays 2 p.m. Audiovisual Department
The central library offers free movies at the dates and times listed. Children age 8 and younger need to be accompanied by an adult. No registration required.
Branch Out to the Movies
Tuesdays 6:30 p.m. Hanover Park Branch Library
Wednesdays 4 p.m. Hanover Park Branch Library
Thursdays 6:30 p.m. Hoffman Estates Branch Library
Saturdays 2 p.m. Hanover Park Branch Library
Come and see free movies at the Hanover Park and Hoffman Estates branch libraries. A schedule of movies and their titles is available at the branch libraries. For more information call the Hanover Park Branch at (630) 372-7800 or the Hoffman Estates Branch at (847) 885-3511.