New Lenox Library Guide: Spring 2023

guide

March, April, and May 2023

Welcome to the new New Lenox Library!

Test the new Vega catalog • March Madness Book Tournament • Maker Day is back!

Starting March 1, the elevator will not be available for an estimated 3 weeks. The second floor will only be accessible by stairs. If you cannot use the stairs, you are welcome to use the children’s computers during this time. Staff can access materials for you. A copier is now available downstairs in the lobby. For those of you who rely on the elevator, we know it’s not the same as being able to spend time upstairs—and we apologize for the inconvenience. We hope to see you upstairs again as soon as possible.

Library

March 3 Staff Development Day

April 9 Easter Sunday

May 28 Sunday before Mem. Day

May 29 Memorial Day

Last chapter of lobby renovations

The Studio is open, Patron Services is settling in, and the book sale and conference rooms are getting their finishing touches. You’ll see contractors continuing to work on other maintenance projects. We love being able to make sure this beautiful building gets the care it deserves!

Starting March 1, the elevator will not be available for an estimated 3 weeks. The second floor will only be accessible by stairs. If you cannot use the stairs, you are welcome to use the children’s computers during this time. Staff can access materials for you. A copier is now available downstairs in the lobby. For those of you who rely on the elevator, we know it’s not the same as being able to spend time upstairs—and we apologize for the inconvenience. We hope to see you upstairs again as soon as possible.

Thank you so much for your patience and support during this huge project. We’ll announce when the elevator is back up, and when we’re ready to take book donations again.

In-person and virtual community service hours available for teens

newlenoxlibrary.org/volunteer to apply today!

From sorting books to getting crafts ready for storytime, tasks tackled by our volunteers help to further the mission of the Library. Help is needed with all kinds of jobs, some simple and some more technical.

Call the Library at 815-485-2605

Pop-Up Programs & Challenges

While we plan most of our programs months in advance, programs might pop up as a surprise! Stay up to date by signing up for eNews, downloading the Beanstack app, or following us on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

The library happily accepts teen volunteers in 7th–12th Grade as well as adult volunteers. During the summer, teens going into 7th Grade can start volunteering! Court-ordered community service is not accepted.

Summer Learning Challenge

We’re prepping for Summer Learning Challenge! If you’re interested in volunteering during the summer, let us know in your application.

Virtual Volunteering for Teens

Our virtual Volunteens program offers at least one opportunity per quarter. From March 2–30, teens can make

new at the library

Goodbye Encore, hello Vega: the Library gets a new catalog search later this year

bookmarks for pediatric patients, veterans and seniors. Go to page 14 for details, visit newlenoxlibrary.org/ volunteens, or ask staff at the Adult & Teen Service Desk upstairs.

Teen Advisory Group (TAG)

Teens can be an active voice in the Library by participating in and running a variety of Library services and events. TAG emphasizes volunteering and developing leadership skills. Regular meeting attendance is needed for service hours. We’re also starting to offer drop-in volunteer days, so keep an eye on our calendar!

We’re proud of how this dedicated, engaged group has developed TAG since its start in September 2021. Go to page 14 for group meetings and TAG-presented programs, and visit newlenoxlibrary.org/teens/tag.

To try it out, go to newlenoxlibrary.org/vega

!

New Lenox Library belongs to a group of libraries called PrairieCat. We all share a catalog and can borrow each other’s items. We are excited to share that our catalog is getting a new look and some new features.

The new catalog is called Vega, and it’s currently in development. We’re ready to publicly release a test version of the catalog, and we’d love for you to try it out! A word of warning: this is a test, so it’s still in development. You won’t be able to pay fees through Vega yet. PrairieCat is also still integrating ebooks into the list. We’re not switching away from the current catalog, Encore, until Vega is ready.

If you save your reading history, we strongly recommend logging into the Vega catalog and opting into reading history there, too. Encore reading history will not be transferred. A step-by-step guide is on page 5.

• Simplify Your Search: The new catalog rolls up formats and editions into one search result. Physical books, large print books, and audiobooks are all displayed in one result together.

• Series Lists: When searching for a title that is part of a series, the new catalog shows more titles in the series! Just select the title to see the series list.

• Read-a-Likes: Once you select a title, scroll down for recommendations, related topics, and reader reviews.

• Browse by Reading Level: After selecting a juvenile book title, scroll down to view the reading level. Select "Browse by Reading Level" to search by Lexile measure, Accelerated Reader, or age/grade range.

Vega Catalog Quick Tips

• Log in first, using your library card number.

• Your PIN number is the last 4 digits of your library barcode unless you have changed it.

• PrairieCat will search all libraries unless you choose a specific library location.

• If you are at a public computer in a library, don’t forget to log out before you leave the computer.

Searching in Vega

Enter search terms such as a book title, an author, or a particular subject. The Search Results page displays items that match your search terms. After your original search, the search button (magnifying glass icon) moves to the top right of the screen.

You must log in to access all the features that the catalog offers. When you log in and perform a search, the Search Results page and the Resource page list availability at your home library first. The catalog lists availability at other locations after the home location.

Refine the Results (Narrow Your Results)

• Select filters from the Refine Results panel such as Format, Age Group, Language, Locations, etc.

• After selecting a filter, select Apply

• Select Reset Filters to clear the filters.

• Select the lock icon to retain those filters in your next search.

Find the Item

Once you find the item you would like, select the Library Location to view the Call Number.

Save the Search

On the Search Results Page, select Save Search. You can save up to 100 searches. Saved searches remain in your account until you delete them.

Explore the Search

If you select a title or an author, the catalog displays information about the resource and related items, contributors, and topics that you can also explore.

To try out the new Vega catalog, go to newlenoxlibrary.org/vega.

Placing holds in Vega

If your library does not own a title or it is not currently available, you have the ability to place a hold on the title and receive it from another library.

• Log in to your account. Your default PIN number is the last four digits of your library card number.

• Search for the title and select the format you want from the rollup tab.

• Select the Place Hold button.

• Confirm pickup location. The pickup location will automatically default to your library; however, you may choose a different pickup location.

• A Request Successful message will appear when the hold is placed.

• You will be contacted when your item is ready for pickup.

Renewing items in Vega

Items may be renewed as long as your account is in good standing, there are no holds on the material, or you haven’t already exceeded the renewal limit. Check with library staff for specific renewal periods.

In the catalog

• Log in to your account.

• Select My Bookshelf, then the Checkouts tab.

• Select the Renew button next to the item you want to renew.

• You will receive a message telling you on the screen if the renewal is successful or not.

By phone

Call the Library at 815-485-2605 during open hours, and we’ll be happy to renew your items for you if possible. You can also use PrairieCat’s Phone Renewal System by calling 1-888-542-7259. To use this System, you will need your library barcode number and the library barcode of the item you want to renew.

My Bookshelf in Vega

Log in to view your account information, saved lists, checkouts, holds, fines, and fees. You can save search queries to My Bookshelf for later use. You can create and edit lists to organize your Bookmarked items. And, you can opt in to view and save your reading history.

Checkouts

View the items currently checked out and their due dates.

Holds

View the items you have on hold and if they are available for pickup. You can also cancel holds or freeze holds.

Fines & Fees

View any money owed and make payments online. This is not currently active as of March 1, 2023.

Profile

View your account information such as address, expiration date, etc.

Reading History in Vega

The Library doesn’t automatically track all of the items you’ve ever checked out; you need to opt-in to do so.

Do you save your reading history in the Encore catalog? It won’t transfer to Vega, so make sure you opt-in to Vega’s Reading History now.

About Reading History

• Reading history retains information on the titles you have checked out and returned.

• You may sort by checkout date, title, or author.

• Reading History does not include eMaterials.

• You cannot remove individual items from your Reading History.

To opt in to Reading History

• Log in with your library card number and PIN.

• Select My Bookshelf from the footer menu bar and then select Profile

• Select Keep Reading History.

To opt out of Reading History

• Select My Bookshelf, then Profile.

• Uncheck Keep Reading History.

• WARNING: Opting out will delete all record of your checkouts. Once deleted, this cannot be restored.

To try out the new Vega catalog, go to newlenoxlibrary.org/vega.

Celebrate National Library Week with us!

Staff Picks with Adult & Teen Services

Audiobooks with Annette

We’ll be hosting all-ages drop-in craft booths, demonstrations, and workshops on Saturday, April 29!

Plus: New Entrance/Lobby Ribbon Cutting with the New Lenox Chamber of Commerce

Learn from 4H, Girl Scouts, Math Magic, Peaceful Pottery, Painting with Tracie, Will County Master Gardeners and Naturals, Lincoln-Way Robotics Club, Board & Brush, and more!

Keep an eye out for website, social media, email, and in-library announcements.

The School for Good Mothers by Jessamine Chan. Because of one poor judgement, a host of government officials will now determine if Frida is a candidate fora Big Brother-like institution that measures the success or failure of a mother’s devotion.

When No One is Watching: A Thriller by Alyssa Cole. Sydney’s neighborhood is changing, and the neighbors she’s known all her life are disappearing. Her interest in the neighborhood’s history envelops her in paranoia and fear. Her neighbors may not have moved to the suburbs after all. Is the push to revitalize the community deadly?

The Good Sister by Sally Hepworth. Fern has a carefully structured life and disrupting her routine can be... dangerous. Her mission to help her sister will shake the foundations of the life she has carefully built for herself and stir up dark secrets from the past.

My Travels With Mrs. Kennedy by Clint Hill. The #1 New York Times bestselling authors of Mrs. Kennedy and Me reveal never-before-told stories of Secret Service Agent Clint Hill’s travels with Jacqueline Kennedy through Europe, Asia, and South America.

Like A Rolling Stone: A Memoir by Jann Wenner. Rolling Stone founder, coeditor, and publisher Jann Wenner offers a touchingly honest and wonderfully deep memoir from the beating heart of classic rock and roll.

Let Love Rule by Lenny Kravitz. Let Love Rule is a work of deep reflection.

Lenny Kravitz looks back at his life with candor, self-scrutiny, and humor. It’s the story of a wildly creative kid who, despite tough struggles at school and extreme tension at home, finds salvation in music.

Young Adult with Melissa

One of Us is Next by Karen McManus. A ton of copycat gossip apps have popped up since Simon died, but in the year since the Bayview four were cleared of his shocking death, no one’s been able to fill the gossip void quite like he could. The problem is no one has the facts Until now.

Cinder and Glass by Melissa de la Cruz. Prince Louis chooses Cendrillon, her stepsisters, and 22 others to vie for his heart in a The Bachelor–style competition, but Cendrillon’s feelings for Louis’s illegitimate half brother, Auguste, make concentrating on it difficult. Miss Peregrine’s Museum of Wonders by Ransom Riggs. Everything you need to know about the peculiar world, written by Miss Peregrine herself. A gloriously rich and utterly delightful handbook perfect for longtime fans and new readers alike.

Fiction with Monica & Juliana

The Liminal Zone by Junji Ito. One of horror’s greatest talents, Junji Ito beckons readers to join him in an experience of ultimate terror with four transcendently terrifying tales.

The Lying Life of Adults by Elena Ferrante. Giovanna’s face has changed: it’s turning into the face of an ugly, spiteful adolescent. But is she seeing things as they really are? Where must she look to find her true reflection and a life she can claim as her own?

Dogs of Summer by Andrea Abreu. Braiding prose poetry with bachata lyrics and the gritty humor of Canary dialect, Dogs of Summer is a story of exquisite yearning, a brutal picture of girlhood and a love song written for the vital community it portrays.

The Bird Tattoo by Dunya Mikhail. Helen is a young Yazidi woman, living with her family in a mountain village. One day she finds a local bird caught in a trap, freeing it just as

Non-Fiction with Monica & Juliana

Novelist as a Vocation by Haruki Murakami. Murakami shares with readers his thoughts on the role of the novel in our society; his own origins as a writer; and his musings on the sparks of creativity that inspire other writers, artists, and musicians.

Musical Tables: Poems by Billy Collins. Collins writes about his trademark themes of nature, animals, poetry, mortality, absurdity, and love—all in a handful of lines. One of our greatest poets channeling his unique voice into a new phase of his exceptional career.

A Book of Days by Patti Smith. With over 365 photographs taking you through a single year, A Book of Days is a new way to experience the expansive mind of the visionary poet, writer, and performer. A timeless offering for deeply uncertain times, an inspirational map of an artist’s life.

the trapper, Elias, returns. Helen and Elias fall deeply in love, marry and start a family. The village has seemed to stand apart from time, protected by the mountains and too small to attract much political notice. But their happy existence is shattered when Elias goes missing—and life is never the same again.

Things We Found When the Water Went Down by Tegan Nia Swanson. A Nordic eco-noir shot through with magical realism, Things We Found When the Water Went Down examines power, identity, and myth in a story that asks us to explore what it means to heal—or not— after violence..

What Meets the Eye: A Mystery by Alex Kenna. Kate Myles was a promising detective until an accident and opioid addiction destroyed her career. Struggling to rebuild her life, Kate decides to try her hand at private detective work—but gets more than she bargained for when she takes on the case of a celebrated painter found dead in a downtown loft.

Storytimes at the Library

Mondays

Movers & Shakers

Ages 6–23 months with a caregiver

10:30–11 AM

Storytime Room

Books, songs, rhymes, and bounces for on-the-move babies with a caregiver. Siblings are welcome.

date registration starts

March 6 Registration starts Feb. 27

March 20 Registration starts March 13

March 27 Registration starts March 20

April 3 Registration starts March 27

April 10 Registration starts April 3

April 17 Registration starts April 10

April 24 Registration starts April 17

Tuesdays

Wacky Rascals

Ages 4-6

10:30–11 AM

Storytime Room

Fresh Pasta at Home: 10 Doughs, 20 Shapes, 100+ Recipes, With or Without a Machine by America’s Test Kitchen. Turn homemade pasta into your new favorite kitchen hobby with foolproof methods and 100-plus recipes that make it totally achievable.

Remainders of the Day: A Bookshop Diary by Shaun Bythell. The Bookshop in Wigtown is a bookworm’s idyll—with thousands of books across nearly a mile of shelves, a real log fire, and Captain, the bookshop cat. You’d think after twenty years, owner Shaun Bythell would be used to the customers by now.

The Swedish Art of Aging Exuberantly: Life Wisdom from Someone Who Will Probably Die Before You by Margareta Magnusson. A gentle and welcome reminder that, no matter your age, there are always fresh discoveries ahead, and pleasures both new and familiar to be encountered every day.

Tuesdays, con’t.

Pajama Time

Ages 3–8 with a caregiver

7–7:30 PM

Storytime Room

Throw on your jammies for a family slumber party! Grab your favorite stuffed animal and cuddle up for bedtime stories and a simple craft. No children younger than 3 years, please.

date registration starts

March 7 Registration starts Feb. 28

March 21 Registration starts March 14

March 28 Registration starts March 21

April 4 Registration starts March 28

April 11 Registration starts April 4

April 18 Registration starts April 11

April 25 Registration starts April 18

Wednesdays

Music Makers

Birth–6 years with a caregiver

10:30–11 AM

Get wacky with songs and silly stories, then wrap it all up with some creative mischief. Dress for mess.

date registration starts

March 7 Registration starts Feb. 28

March 21 Registration starts March 14

March 28 Registration starts March 21

April 4 Registration starts March 28

April 11 Registration starts April 4

April 18 Registration starts April 11

April 25 Registration starts April 18

Thursdays

Wee Readers

Ages 2–3 years with a caregiver

10:30–11 AM

Storytime Room

Get ready for super stories, spectacular songs, and silly rhymes.

date registration starts

March 9 Registration starts March 2

March 23 Registration starts March 16

March 30 Registration starts March 23

April 6 Registration starts March 30

April 13 Registration starts April 6

April 20 Registration starts April 13

April 27 Registration starts April 20

Saturdays

Mother Goose Tales

Birth–36 months with a caregiver

10:30–11 AM

Storytime Room

Storytime Room

Listen to stories and explore music while we dance around and sing songs.

date registration starts

March 8 Registration starts March 1

March 22 Registration starts March 15

March 29 Registration starts March 22

April 5 Registration starts March 29

April 12 Registration starts April 5

April 19 Registration starts April 12

April 26 Registration starts April 19

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, Summer Learning Challenge, Winter Reading Challenge, Review to Win, and soon, Awards Books Challenges are available in Beanstack! See the back cover for details or join our how-to program on page 18.

Spend the morning with Mother Goose and her goslings. Curl up for classic rhymes, songs, stories, and puppet time.

date registration starts

March 4 Registration starts Feb. 25

April 1 Registration starts March 25

Kids Programs at the Library

Spring Activities

Catch a Leprechaun! Hunt

All Ages

March 1–17

Youth Services Department

Find the leprechauns hidden around Youth Services and get a piece of gold!

LEGO MAY-nia

All Ages Youth Services Makerspace

Kids DIY Video Programs

LEGO

MAY-NIA!

Drop by the Makerspace for fun weekly LEGO challenges.

Mondays Mad Scientist Lab

1st–4th Grade

4:30–5:15 PM, Storytime Room

Do you love hands-on activities? Join us to make all kinds of cool predictions and do exciting (and sometimes messy) experiments.

March 27: Rainbow Wonders

Registration starts March 13 (Hint: sign up for March’s TinkerCAD Challenge, too! We’ll test our wands!)

April 24: Egg Drop Challenge

Registration starts April 10

Tuesdays

Geek Out! Graphic Novel Club

4th–8th Grade

March 14, 6–6:45 PM, Storytime Room

Geek out over graphic novels, talk about this month’s book, have a snack, and make geeked out art. Pick up books at the Patron Services desk.

March 14: Peapod Farm Stepping Stones by Whitney Cogar

Registration starts February 14

Wednesdays

Art Attack!

4th–8th Grade

Wednesdays, 6–6:45 PM

Storytime Room

Your imagination mixes with art in this art program just for tweens.

March 1: Leprechaun Gnomes

Registration starts February 14

April 5: Bubble Buddies

Registration starts March 22

Biography Bunch

Ages 6–10

4:30–5:15 PM

Storytime Room

Join us for a story and fun activity as we embark on a journey of discovery to uncover the lives of some of the most fascinating people in history.

March 15: Trombone Shorty Plays It Loud!

Registration starts March 1

April 19: Elliot Michener and His Freedom Flowers

Registration starts April 5

Thursdays LEGO Club

1st–5th Grade

4:30–5:15 PM

Storytime Room

We supply the bricks and you bring your imagination!

date registration starts

March 23 Registration starts March 9

April 27 Registration starts April 13

DIY bags with supplies for these programs can be picked up at the Youth Services desk. Registrants will be emailed when bags are ready.

Registration is required only if you need a supply bag. Videos are posted on YouTube and our website and can be viewed by everyone.

Mondays Art Club

1st–4th Grade

Video posted on YouTube & Facebook at 4:30 PM

Create some awesome art with a step-by-step video to help you create a masterpiece. Registration required for art supply bag.

March 20: Zazzy Zebra

Registration starts March 6

April 17: Word Art

Registration starts April 3

Wednesdays

Cooking with Kyra

Ages 4–10

Requires caregiver supervision

Video posted on YouTube & Facebook at 4:30 PM

Hear a story and follow along with Ms. Kyra’s video to make a simple snack.

Registration required for ingredient supply bag.

March 8: Leprechaun Cocoa Bombs

Registration starts March 1

Bags must be picked up by 6 PM, March 10

April 12: “Dirt & Worms” Pudding

Dessert

Registration starts April 5

Bags must be picked up by 6 PM, April 14

Using The Studio Welcome to The Studio

Your creative space for making and sharing

Make

Scan photos, slides, negatives

Sew,

Digitize tapes, vinyl albums

Take photos and make videos

Make

Draw and animate

home movies

Design print, websites, apps

badges!

Spring 2023 New Lenox Library Guide

Using The Studio

Behavior Expectations

We have loved seeing everyone in The Studio since it opened in January! The Studio is an extension of the Digital Media Lab that started upstairs, and our behavior expectations remain the same.

The Studio is designed primarily for tweens, teens, and adults to work on crafting and technology skills. Children aged 13 and under must have parent or adult guardian supervision while in The Studio. The Studio is not an appropriate play area for young children. (Youth Services is perfect for that!)

Create original creative projects in The Studio. The front Workshop room is always open. Bring in your projects and hang out! Freebie Cabinets, coloring sheets, and maker-themed puzzles are available. Save your memories by converting family videos, photographs, and music in the Digital Media Lab room, which is open to all PrairieCat library card holders by appointment (with orientation).

We have equipment for 3D printing, paper and vinyl cutting, sewing, knitting and crocheting, button making, and sublimation printing. There’s even a free yarn, fabric, and craft tool swap. Come in and create today!

In the Digital Media Lab, you can create music and video, learn how to build websites, draw digital illustrations, or make animations and games. We have photography studio equipment for photography and video projects.

Who can use the Digital Media Lab room?

All New Lenox and PrairieCat card holders and their guests (at least one card holder must be present). Teens in 7th Grade and up can use the DML with guardian permission, and kids in 6th Grade or younger can be the guest of an adult.

Businesses, too!

New Lenox businesses: ask us about a business library card to take advantage of the Digital Media Lab.

Take the Orientation & Make an Appointment

Patrons who wish to use the Digital Media Lab must complete a short orientation and sign a Lab Policy Agreement. Make an appointment or take your orientation in person by contacting Studio Coordinator Samantha Sliwa at studio@newlenoxlibrary.org or 815-485-2605 ext. 127. You can also do this online at newlenoxlibrary.org/studio!

Furniture can be easily moved to accommodate your needs; there will be no riding or any type of horseplaying on the chairs and tables.

This is a great space for art projects. Makers are responsible for cleaning their own messes, and must return items to their locations after use. Don’t want to lug your stuff back and forth? We even have lockers to store your projects in between visits!

The Studio cannot be reserved for private gatherings. Visitors cannot ask other community members to leave for their personal reasons. This is a community space, and as such, everyone is welcome to use the area for their projects. Programs and outreach events held by the Library are the exception; The Studio will only be available to registrants at that time.

The main Workshop room remains open at all Library hours, even when Studio staff is not present. Only Studio staff can assist you with the Digital Media Lab or items in the cabinets. Non-Studio staff are not trained to use Studio equipment and will not be able to assist you. If you need assistance, please request an appointment at newlenoxlibrary.org/studio

If any Library staff observe unacceptable behavior, they will ask the visitors to leave The Studio.

The Studio Programs

Intro to 3D Printing & TinkerCAD

Thursday, March 9, 6–7 PM Thursday, April 20, 6–7 PM Teens, Adults, and Kids 4th Grade & Up (Under 13 with a caregiver)

The Studio

Learn the ins and outs of our library’s 3D printing process: creating or finding something to print, how to submit your files, and picking up your finished design. Sam will also go over TinkerCAD basics: learn how to make your own keychain design! This is a great way to start participating in our monthly TinkerCAD 3D Printing Challenges.

Cosplay, Anime, and Art Club Teens (7th–12th Grade)

The Studio

Saturday, March 4 Saturday, April 8 Saturday, May 6 12:30–3:30 PM

Bring your cosplay, art ideas, and love for anime! Work with and meet likeminded peers to work on projects while geeking out about favorite shows, manga, games, and more.

Experienced makers may teach a short skill to start, then host an open lab to work on projects. Bring a project with, or create one out of the materials we have here.

New Lenox community members run Fiber Arts Club & New Life for Old Bags which meet at the Library once or twice every month. Check out meeting dates and details on page 19!

TinkerCAD 3D Printing Challenges

Kids, Teens & Adults (4th Grade & Up)

Virtual & in The Studio Video posted on YouTube & Facebook at 10 AM on the first day of the month

Create your design in TinkerCAD, then submit it to the Library for a free print in the color of your choice!

Challenges are online, on-demand and at your own pace. Videos are posted at 10 AM on the first day of the month.

Our YouTube channel has a playlist with all of our TinkerCAD Challenges.

Registration is required to access the TinkerCAD classroom. Registration for each Challenge opens at the first of the month.

Crafting with the Cameo

Adults

The Studio

We’ll use the Digital Media Lab’s Silhouette Cameo to make a paper, vinyl, or heat transfer project.

March 20–23: Personalize a Plant Pot with Vinyl and Paint

Choose a custom decal for your plant pot, and paint in the Studio or at home. Register on the day you wish to come in to make your bag, and indicate a time between 10 AM and 5 PM. Only one pot per person registered. Registration starts February 20.

May 1–4: Heat Transfer on Canvas

Create a beautiful sign, and paint it in the Studio or at home. Register on the day you wish to come in to make your canvas, and indicate a time between 10 AM and 5 PM. Only one canvas per person registered. Registration starts April 1.

March: Bubble Wands

• Virtual Challenge runs March 1–31

• In-Person Drop-In Day is on Sunday, March 12, from 1–5 PM

March will be both live and virtual as Miss Sam teams up with Miss Liz’s Mad Science Lab, when we’ll test our wands! If you can’t make the drop-in day but need in-person help, email Sam at studio@newlenoxlibrary.org for a oneon-one appointment.

April: Fidget Spinners with Codeblocks

Virtual Challenge runs April 1–30 Video tutorial & TinkerCAD classroom

May: Shoelace Charms

Virtual Challenge runs May 1–31 Video tutorial & TinkerCAD classroom

Sublimation Printing

Adults

The Studio

We’ll use the Digital Media Lab’s SawGrass500 to create a design in their CreativeStudio, print it, and heat transfer onto an item.

April 10–13: Felt Air Fresheners

Print a custom image onto a hanging air freshener! Bring in images from your phone or on a flash drive. Register on the day you wish to come in to make your bag, and indicate a time between 10 AM and 5 PM. One air freshener per person registered. Registration starts March 10.

May 14–18: Mason Jar Tumbler

Design a custom Mason Jar Tumbler with the SawGrass500 and the Cricut Mugpress. Register on the day you wish to come in to make your jar, and indicate a time between 10 AM and 5 PM. Only one mug per person registered. Registration starts April 1.

Teen Programs

Virtual Volunteens: Bookmarkz for Kidz

7th–12th Grade

March 2–March 30

Online, Teen Scene

Chicago-based Cardz for Kidz distributes homemade cards and bookmarks to pediatric patients. Visit the Teen Scene to pick up bookmark sheets, or download the template and use materials from home. This is an opportunity to earn service hours. For more information about virtual volunteering for teens, visit newlenoxlibrary.org/volunteens.

Registration not required.

Volunteen Drop-In Night

7th–12th Grade

Thursday, March 2, 5:30–7:30 PM

Teen Scene

Join us for an evening of “hearts” and crafts as we make bookmarks to cheer up children and teens in the hospital. The library will provide supplies to create and decorate your bookmarks as you socialize with other teen volunteers in person. This is an opportunity to earn service hours. Registration is encouraged and starts February 2.

Oreo Tasting

7th–12th Grade

Friday, March 10, 4–5 PM

Teen Scene

Now is your chance to try all of the Oreo flavors you could ever dream of! We’ll have them all—well, most of them at least! Taste and rate an array of various flavors. Pop in any time between 4 and 5 PM. Registration is encouraged and starts February 10.

Is your access to a teen program affected by the elevator being down?

Let us know. We’ll find an alternative!

Currently Reading Presented by Teen Advisory Group (TAG)

7th–12th Grade

Thursday, March 23, 6–7 PM

Thursday, April 27, 6–7 PM

Thursday, May 25, 6–7 PM

Teen Scene

Looking for a fun, informal, place to discuss what you’re currently reading or listening to? Join this teen-led group where we talk about books, share ideas, and get inspiration for new reads. We also eat snacks and play games!

Mobile Escape Room

7th–12th Grade

Saturday, March 25, 1 PM & 2 PM Library Parking Lot

We will be hosting the “Battle for Justopolous” Super Hero Escape Room right here at the Library! In this escape room experience, participants are Super Heroes working together as a team to solve exciting puzzles and riddles in order to capture four SuperVillains. Sign up for 1 session only: 1 PM or 2 PM. Each session lasts a half hour. Registration is required and starts February 25.

Spring Scavenger & Egg Hunt

7th–12th Grade

Friday, April 14, 4–5 PM

Teen Scene

Teen Advisory Group (TAG)

7th–12th Grade

Friday, April 21, 4–5 PM

Friday, May 19, 4–5 PM

Teen Scene

Discuss programming ideas, favorite reads, videogaming, and more! TAG is a great way to earn service hours and make a difference in your Library community! May will be our LAST meeting of the school year; join us for one last “hurrah” as we plan for Fall programs, talk about Summer goals, and just have fun! Contact Teen Services Specialist Melissa Leggero at mleggero@newlenoxlibrary.org for more information or to sign up.

Spring Finals Study Blitz

9th–12th Grade

Tuesday & Wednesday, May 23–24, 3–8 PM

Adult & Teen Services, Conference Room

Come in and spread out! We will have everything you need to make your study sessions successful! De-stress activities and refreshments will be available throughout the day. Don’t forget to grab a Finals Care Package at the Adult and Teen Services Desk while you’re here! No registration required.

After Hours in The Studio & Board Gaming Night

Adult & Teen Programs

March Madness

Adults & Teens

Starts on Monday, March 6 Online, Adult & Teen Services

It’s season two of March Madness at the Library! Vote each week for your favorite titles as a brand new crop of books in eight genre divisions battle it out for the title of March Madness Champion! Be sure to vote every Monday in March. Each time you vote, your name will be entered into a prize raffle to win a pair of Apple Airpod Pro Wireless Earbuds. Get a bonus prize entry when you fill out a bracket with your predictions before the tournament begins; plus ANYONE who correctly guesses their entire bracket will win a perfect bracket prize! Brackets are due no later than Sunday, March 5. The winning title will be announced Monday, April 3.

Trivia Night

Adults & Teens (9th Grade & Up)

Thursday, March 9, 6–8 PM

Thursday, May 11, 6–8 PM Beggars Pizza, 650 Maple St., New Lenox

Looking for something to do on a Thursday night? Look no more! Join us for a brain-busting evening at Beggars Pizza in New Lenox.

Printed brackets and voting forms can be picked and dropped off at the Adult & Teen Services desk.

You can also download a bracket, print it out, and bring it to the Library or email it to kcunningham@ newlenoxlibrary.org.

Digital voting will be available at newlenoxlibrary.org/marchmadness and through our social media pages.

Registration is not required, but by registering you will receive a reminder email when each new round of voting becomes available.

April is National Poetry Month

5th Annual Poetry Contest

Adults & Teens

Monday, March 13–Friday, April 14 Online

teen advisory group

This program combines your love of scavenger hunts with your passion for treats! Hop on over to the Library for our first ever teen egg hunt. Clues lead to filled plastic eggs located throughout the second floor. Finish early? Hang out in the Teen Scene, eat snacks, and make a fun Spring craft. Registration is encouraged and starts March 14.

7th–12th Grade

Friday, May 26, 7–9 PM

The Studio

Spend an evening after hours at the Library! The new Studio, including the Digital Media Lab room, will be open for some fun creative activities. We will also have lots of board games and snacks! Enjoy one last night out before the school year ends! Registration is required and starts April 26.

Enjoy pizza and drinks and answer questions on a multitude of topics. Form a powerhouse team or play by yourself for prizes!

Tables can accommodate teams of up to 6 players. Groups larger than 6 may need to split. One person should register your entire group.

Registration starts February 9 for March and April 11 for May.

Calling all poets! Join our month-long poetry contest highlighting your creativity. Submit a poem on any topic and in a style of your choosing.

All submissions will be published in our annual poetry journal. Prizes will be awarded to the top poems in these categories: 7th–9th Grades, 10 th–12th Grades, and Adults. For details, go to newlenoxlibrary.org/poetrycontest .

One poem per person can be entered. Entries accepted only within the United States. Prizes must be picked up in person and will not be mailed.

Poetry Café

Adults & Teens

Tuesday, May 2, 6 PM–7:30 PM Meeting Room AB

Wrap up and reflect on National Poetry Month with a poetry café! Come read your favorite poem, share an original work or just come and listen.

Please keep material appropriate for all ages and limited to 5 minutes. We will provide light refreshments and announce winners. Plus, pick up a copy of last year’s annual poetry booklet!

Registration is encouraged and starts April 2. Poetry performers are especially encouraged to register in advance.

Adult & Teen Programs

Job Searching & Career Coaching

Adults & Teens

Wednesday, March 22, 1:30–3:30 PM Library Parking Lot

ADDitude Adjustments

Adults & Teens

Monday, March 13, 6 PM

Video posted on YouTube & Facebook

Everyone struggles with motivation, focus, and organization—but ADHD/ ADD can make coping feel impossible.

Kick-off Neurodiversity Celebration

Week by learning about ADD-friendly life hacks, strategies, and apps from someone who lives it. Everyone can use these ideas to fight distractions and achieve your goals.

Spice Club: Lavender

Adults & Teens

Mobile Workforce Center is back on the road and ready to help! The New Lenox Library is partnering with the Workforce Services Division of Will County to bring you the Mobile Workforce Center. The Mobile Workforce Center offers a variety of services for job seekers, including computers with internet access for online applications and job searches, the ability to create/revise a resume and an online job board with listings from Will County businesses.

Sample kits available starting Monday, April 3

Pick up at Adult & Teen Services Desk while supplies last

Variety is the spice of life, so let’s try out a variety of spices! Every other month we will feature a different spice. Kits each include a sample of that month’s spice, recipes, cookbook recommendations, as well as some history and cultural context.

April’s spice is Lavender. Sample kits with spice tins and booklets will be available starting at 4 PM on Monday, April 3 while supplies last. Extra booklets will be available in the library, and printable PDFs will be available on the website.

Seed Starter Kits

Adults & Teens

Starts Monday, March 20

Adult & Teen Services Desk

Spring is fast approaching, which means it’s almost gardening season! Stop by the Adult & Teen Services desk and pick up a seed starting kit for your vegetable or herb garden. It’ll be the perfect way to start your garden growing for the season. Take & Makes will be ready for pick up starting at 4pm on Monday evenings. While supplies last.

A Certified Professional Resume Writer and Certified Professional Career Coach will be available to assist you with any job-search questions you may have.

Drop-ins welcome. Registration not required. Resources will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Dates subject to change.

Also see Job Searching for People with Disabilities on page 18!

Printable Poetry Magnets

Adults & Teens

Monday, April 17 starting at 4 PM

Adult & Teen Services Desk

Kits include one blank printable magnet sheet, a sign to display your poems, and a little bag to hold the extra pieces. Create your own word list or download a pre-made list from our website! Don’t have a computer or printer at home?

Stop by the desk between 2:30–4:30 PM on Friday, April 21 for assistance.

Adult & Teen Book Clubs

Page to Screen Book Club

Adults & Teens

Wednesday, April 19, 6–7 PM

Live Discussion on Zoom

Join us every other month as we discuss books with recent or upcoming adaptations for the big and small screen. This new virtual book club features a variety of fiction, non-fiction, and graphic novel titles.

April’s selection is Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI by David Grann. Registration starts March 19.

Currently Reading Teen Book Club

Presented by Teen Advisory Group (TAG) See page 14 for more details!

New Lenox community members run a Fiction Book Club, a Mystery Book Club, and a Writers group every month. Details on page 19!

Adult Programs

Genealogy Club

Locating Your Union or Confederate Civil War Ancestors Adults

Tuesday, March 14, 6–7:45 PM

Live Presentation on Zoom

Jenny Warner will discuss various types of military records for the Civil War period and what tools are available for family research. Registration is required for the Zoom link and starts February 14.

Will the Real Sven Larsson Please Stand Up? Getting Started in Swedish Genealogy Adults

Tuesday, April 11, 6–7:45 PM Meeting Room B

Let’s get started in Swedish genealogy! Swedish last names that can be fluid and confusing. Swedish geography can trip up the uninitiated. You’ve got your swimsuit; what else is needed to cross the Atlantic with your research? What records are there once you crawl up onto the shore? Registration is encouraged and starts March 11.

Genealogy Day Adults

Little Free Seed Library

All Ages

Starts Monday, March 20

Adult & Teen Services Desk

The Little Free Seed Library is back in Adult & Teen Services! Come ROOT through our seed collection including herbs, leafy greens, flowers, vegetables & more. We also will accept donations of open seeds in original packaging. Please take what you need and LEAF the rest (no more than 2 at a time). While supplies last.

Take & Make: Vintage Trinket Tray

Adults & Teens

Monday, May 15 starting at 4 PM

Adult & Teen Services Desk

Need a special place for your jewelry or somewhere consistent for your keys to go? Make a trinket tray with this craft kit. Create a vintage inspired decoupage design on a wooden tray using various scrapbook vintage paper and accessories. While supplies last.

Saturday, March 25, 10 AM–3:30 PM Village Hall on the Commons

1 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox Sponsored by the Friends of the New Lenox Public Library

We’re excited to offer our first Genealogy Day at the Village Hall! Enjoy a day of programs and discussion on genealogy as well as a chance to win some raffle prizes and other goodies. Registration is required and starts February 14.

Comparing the Big Four: Ancestry, Family Search, FindMyPast & My Heritage Adults

Tuesday, May 9, 6–7:45 PM Meeting Room B

You may have heard of Ancestry.com before, but there are some other great databases available for genealogy research, each with its own merits! Discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of the “Big Four” databases: Ancestry, FamilySearch, FindMyPast, and MyHeritage.

Learn about these databases, their possible subscription costs, and how to access them. Access the library editions of Ancestry & Family Search anytime for free at the New Lenox Library. Registration is encouraged and starts April 9.

10:15–11:15 AM

More than Money & Land

Debra Dudek

11:30 AM–12:30 PM

Brick by Brick: Tracing Your Home’s History

Tina Beaird

1:15–2:15 PM

Navigating the Cook County Clerk of the Circuit Court Archives

Raymond W Johnson

2:30–3:30 PM

Explore the Land of Lincoln for Genealogy Records

Jenny Warner

Full descriptions of sessions can be found on our Event Calendar at newlenox.librarymarket.com

Adult Programs

Job Seeking & Finances

Protecting Your Piggy Bank with Weiss Financial Adults

Monday, April 3, 6–7 PM Conference Room (in Lobby)

Tom Kilkenny from Weiss Financial Ratings is here to help you learn to navigate your finances! Learn how to use this free resource with your New Lenox Library card.

Search the best-performing investments, get Medicare Supplement Insurance information, evaluate stocks and mutual funds, find financially secure banks, credit unions and insurance companies, and check out personal finance how-to guides to get you started in the right direction. Have fun searching in the Weiss Financial Ratings database, so you can start protecting your piggy bank!

Registration is encouraged and starts March 3.

Steps for Success: Job Searching for People with Disabilities Adults

Tuesday, April 25, 6–7:30 PM Meeting Room B

Are you or someone you know a job seeker with disabilities? Learn about different tools to find employment opportunities as well as advice for positive career outcomes with Garret Rosiek. Registration is encouraged and starts March 25.

Also see Job Searching & Career Coaching on page 16!

Seniors

The Leisurely Librarian Seniors

March 1–April 30

May 1–June 30

Elevators, Adult & Teen Services Areas

Introducing a new activity book just for adults! The Leisurely Librarian comes out every other month and features puzzles, reading recommendations, recipes, games and more.

Teen Tech Tutor Drop-In: Phone Basics

Seniors

Friday, March 17, 3:30–5:30 PM Meeting Room A

Learn to better navigate your personal devices and apps with our Teen Tech Volunteers. You can register for a time slot in advance or drop in to receive one-on-one assistance.

We’ll focus on smartphone use and navigation. Our staff and teen volunteers are here to help, but we cannot repair or troubleshoot damaged devices. Although we may not be able to answer every question or fix every problem, we will do our best to find solutions together.

Senior Coffee Breaks

Seniors

Thursday, May 4, 10:30 AM–12 PM Meeting Room AB

Take your mid-morning break at the library with discussion, socializing, and, of course, plenty of coffee! Each coffee break will have a short talk or activity to get us started. This month’s topic will be on health and wellness with Christine Rosandich. She will discuss the connection between nutrition and healthy brains and bodies.

House & Home Room Makeover: Redesign Your Space on a Budget Adults

Tuesday, May 23, 6–7:30 PM Meeting Room B

Learn to creatively transform any room in your home and save money by using what you already own! Give your home some TLC with a room makeover on a budget with Carla Gentle, Home Stager, Decorator & “Budget-Conscious”

Interior Stylist of Design Realign. Registration is encouraged and starts April 23.

Using the Library Beanstack & Snacks

Adults

Saturday, April 1, 10–11:30 AM & 12:30–2 PM

Wednesday, April 12, 10–11:30 AM

Tuesday, April 18, 6–7:30 PM

Saturday, May 13, 10–11:30 AM & 12:30–2 PM

Conference Room (in the Lobby)

The Summer Learning Challenge will be here soon! Is your account set up correctly? Do you need some brushingup on Beanstack? Did you know we have other Challenges, too?

Drop in to set up or clean up your Beanstack account, learn about our ongoing and special Challenges, and have some snacks and a chat!

Drop-in times coincide with many of our Storytimes! Bring your phone, or use one of our laptops. (We’ll also show you how to register early for the Summer Learning Challenge!)

Community-Led Groups

Books & Writing

Fiction Book Club

Community-Led Group Adults

Wednesdays from 6:30–7:30 pm

Conference Room (in the Lobby)

This member-run book club meets the second Wednesday of every month and reads a variety of titles. Come discuss, share and enjoy the experience of reading with a group! Call to reserve a copy of the book, or stop by Patron Services to pick up a copy. Registration encouraged, especially as we get used to our new conference room.

March 8

The Irishman’s Daughter

V.S. Alexander

April 12

Fahrenheit 451 Ray Bradbury

May 10

The Sentence Louise Erdrich

Crafts & Community

Fiber Arts Club

Community-Led Group

Adults & Teens

Thursdays, 6–7:30 pm:

March 2 & 16, April 6 & 20, May 4 & 18

Conference Room (in the Lobby)

Bring your projects and hang out in a relaxed social gathering. All ability levels welcome. Knit, crochet, loom, stitch, embroider, needlepoint, crossstitch, quilt, weave, felt, or macrame with us! Registration not required.

Mystery

Book Club

Community-Led Group Adults

Tuesdays from 1:30–2:30 pm

Conference Room (in the Lobby)

Join our long-running book club as they discuss a different mystery each month! Stop at the Patron Services Desk to pick up a copy of the book at any time. Registration is encouraged, especially as we get used to our new conference room.

March 21

The Secret, Book & Scone Society

Ellery Adams

April 18

The Cold Blue Blood David Handler

May 16

The Maid Nita Prose

New Life for Old Bags

Community-Led Group

Adults & Teens

Monday, March 27

Monday, April 24

Monday, May 22

6–7:30 pm

Conference Room (in the Lobby)

Join the local NLOB chapter as we make mats for the homeless from plastic grocery bags. We have plenty of plarn ready to crochet into mats, and crochet hooks are available, too.

Writers, We

Community-Led Group Adults

Wednesdays: March 1 & 15; April 5 & 19; May 3 & 17 6–7:45 pm

Hybrid: Zoom & the Group Study Room upstairs in the Library

Join local writers to discuss and workshop your writing. The group welcomes those new to the art as well as those with experience.

Bring your haunting horror, sappy romance, blood-pumping action, children’s lit, shining sci-fi, poetic pathos—all genres are welcome.

Writers, We (The New Lenox Writers’ Group) publishes an annual anthology of their themed submissions through Amazon.

Please contact Dawn at writerswe@ use.startmail.com for the link to join the meeting on Zoom. Registration required.

NLOB is a great opportunity for teens in 7th–12th Grade needing community service hours! No court-ordered community service accepted.

If you are bringing your own supplies, size Q hooks are recommended.

If you are interested in bringing a group, it is required you contact the Library, who will connect you with the community group leader. Registration is encouraged, especially as we get used to our new conference room.

Track your reading and participate in reading challenges on your mobile phone.

Track your reading and participate in reading challenges on your

Reading & Activity Challenges for all ages, all year ’round!

Available now: 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten

Coming soon: March Madness Book Tournament, Kids’ Award Books reading challenges

Throughout the year: Summer Learning Challenge, Winter Reading Challenge, Review to Win & more!

Want to learn how to use Beanstack?

Join Beanstack & Snacks (page 19)!

Hours

Looking

Read the Guide Online

Use this QR code to read this Guide online at newlenoxlibrary.org/guide on a mobile device.

Library Calendar & Program Registration

Use this QR code to go to our calendar at newlenox.librarymarket.com on a mobile device.

Library Website

Use this QR code to go to newlenoxlibrary.org on a mobile device.

• Monday–Thursday: 10 AM–8 PM

• Friday: 10 AM–6 PM

• Saturday: 10 AM–4 PM

• Sundays: 1–5 PM

Contact Us

• Call 815-485-2605

• Email info@newlenoxlibrary.org

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