Who doesn’t love libraries? I recently became an Oak Park Public Library trustee to contribute to keeping our great local public resource relevant for everybody.
September is “Library Card Sign-up Month.” We would like to remind students, of all ages, that our community library is the place to discover free learning materials on every imaginable topic. It also offers convenient, free spaces to engage and connect, and a helpful and knowledgeable library staff who support education and learning.
Across the nation, today’s public libraries continue to engage with their communities, providing spaces to collaborate and learn new skills as well as access resources, such as ebooks, online homework help, and online databases, from anywhere at anytime.
I take the opportunity whenever I’m in another community to scope out the public library there. I learn a lot and come home both inspired by the important public library concept and impressed with our own library in Oak Park. Try it next time you’re on the road.
Our library is working now on space changes to improve the placement of materials and technology for better experiences and learning environments for everyone. Our library people are finding new ways to work with each other and our great community.
Our library has many hidden gems. For me, one is knowing that I have access to back issues of magazines. There was a time that my household subscribed to more than 40 periodicals. Those times are over, as we now have our library 24/7 to go to. I still love to have periodicals in hand, from “Fine Woodworking” to “Poetry” magazine (and not just the out-of-date copy of “People” in a doctor’s waiting room!).
For preschool-age children, the library offers early literacy story times to encourage school readiness. For older children and teens, the library leads programs to encourage hands-on learning. For older teens, the library has information and tools to help prepare for college and mentoring programs. There’s really something for everyone.
Do you know a neighbor or local educator without a library card? Tell them to get one today. They can stop in at any library location with a photo ID and proof of Oak Park residency or school employment. Find more details at oppl.org/welcome or visit us at 834 Lake St. (main), 845 Gunderson Ave. (Maze branch) or 255 Augusta St. (Dole branch).
Who doesn’t love public libraries?!
Theodore Foss
Oak Park Public Library trustee