January 2015

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events, and happenings at Bloomingdale Public Library.




Snowflake Serenades



Winter Reading - Snuggle Up and Read!





Book Discussion News


Historical Book Discussion

The Searchers: The Making of an American Legend by Glenn Frankel
Tuesday, January 6
10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

The Historical Book Group meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 10:00 a.m. Books are selected on topics of American history from pre-Revolutionary War to current time including biographies, history books, historical fiction and classics. Copies of the selections are available at the Circulation Desk. Newcomers are always welcome!


Monday Night Page Turners

We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves by Karen Joy Fowler
Monday, January 19
7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

The Monday Night Page Turners book discussion group meets on the third Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m., except August and December. The group reads contemporary and classic fiction and nonfiction. Copies of the selections are available at the Circulation Desk. Newcomers are always welcome!


Bloomingdale Mystery Mavens

Blue Monday by Nicci French
Wednesday, January 28
7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Join fellow mystery fans for an illuminating discussion of mysteries at the Bloomingdale Mystery Mavens book group. The Mystery Mavens meet on the fourth Wednesday of every month except June, August, and December. Copies of book selections are available at the circulation desk one month before the discussion. Newcomers are always welcome!


Adult Programs


All programs are free and open to everyone.
Please register at the Reference Desk, by phone at (630) 924-2730, or online through the Library's calendar, unless noted otherwise.

New Year, New You: Eyes on the Prize: Achieve the Goals You Set

Tuesday, January 6
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Register

Start the New Year off right! Career strategies coach, speaker, and author Jerilyn Willin will help you move toward the life/career outcomes you desire. You will learn how to develop SMART goals; take steps toward them every day; get out of your own way; and develop an easy-to-remember road map of strategies. Join us for a fun and educational evening.

Games for Grownups

Thursday, January 8
2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Join us for an afternoon of cards, board games and even video games. The library provides the refreshments and a great selection of games to try. There is no registration needed for this free program. Come alone or bring a friend!


Resume Writing Workshop

Monday, January 12
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Register

Back by popular demand! Bob Schlacks, former human resources executive, will present a lively and interactive resume workshop that will address common resume problems. Attendees are welcome to bring copies of their resume for one-on-one help.


New Year, New You: Commit to Get Fit: Find the Secret to Your Own True and Everlasting Weight Loss

Tuesday, January 13
7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Register

Pro Health activist, Certified Wellness Coach, Motivational & Lifestyle writer and speaker, Laura Dion-Jones presents her motivational program aimed at helping individuals overcome common fitness hurdles and reach the best shape of their lives. Highlighting key components of her own 150-pound weight loss success, Laura's high-energy program teaches the basics of daily walking, meditation, positive mindset, and finding the right diet for lifelong change. Copies of her book will be available for purchase and signing following the program.



English Conversation Group

Wednesday, January 14
9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

This drop-in conversation group meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month and is designed to give adult English-as-a-second language learners practice speaking English in an informal, relaxed atmosphere. Individuals are welcome to attend whenever they can. All adult English learners are welcome. Registration is not necessary for this free program held in the Library Conference Room.

Contact Julie Keating for more information at 630-924-2733.


Interviewing Skills Workshop

Monday, January 19
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Register

Start the New Year off right! Put your best foot forward at your next interview after attending this workshop with former human resources executive Bob Schlacks. Learn what to do before, during, and after the interview and prepare for the most commonly asked questions.



Downloadable Resources

Wednesday, January 20
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

We’ll have a librarian available to get you started using e-books, audiobooks, and digital magazines. See the Adult Reference Desk to schedule a 30-minute appointment.



Movie Matinee
Wednesday, January 21
1:00-3:00 p.m.
Register

If I Stay
Starring Chloe Moretz, Lauren Lee Smith, and Jamie Blackley
PG-13, 106 minutes

We'll supply the popcorn! Come enjoy these new releases at BPL's Movie Matinee and enter for a chance to win a copy of that day's movie on DVD. Movie giveaway will be held following the conclusion of the movie and you must be present to win.


Genealogy Club

Thursday, January 22
6:30 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.

Genealogy Club meets on the fourth Thursday of the month, except in December. Certified genealogist, Leslie Drewitz, provides internet and archival genealogy instruction and research support. Members share ideas, receive help with research questions and brick wall dilemmas, and share genealogy finds. Contact Leslie Drewitz for more information at (630) 924-2765.


Snowflake Serenade Concert Series: Bel Sonore Chamber Ensemble

Tuesday, January 27
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Register

Formed in New York City and now based in Chicago, the Bel Sonore Chamber Ensemble of flute, oboe, bassoon, and soprano voice performs a lovely repertoire ranging from Bach to Duke Ellington. Bel Sonore’s creativity and incredible selection of classical and popular music makes their performance truly extraordinary. Please join us for this impressive concert!



English Conversation Group

Wednesday, January 28
9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

This drop-in conversation group meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month and is designed to give adult English-as-a-second language learners practice speaking English in an informal, relaxed atmosphere. Individuals are welcome to attend whenever they can. All adult English learners are welcome. Registration is not necessary for this free program held in the Library Conference Room.

Contact Julie Keating for more information at 630-924-2733.


Cookbook Dish-cussion!

Wednesday, January 28
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Register

Love to cook? Share recipes? Browse through cookbooks? Looking for new ideas for the holidays? Join us for a presentation about wonderful new cook books available at the Bloomingdale Public Library just in time for the holiday season. Explore new ideas, hear about tried and true recipes, and bring your own recipes to share as well.


Thunder of Freedom

Monday, February 2
7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Register

The world’s eyes were on Mississippi during the summer of 1964 when civil rights activists launched an ambitious African American voter registration project and were met with violent resistance from white supremacists. Sue Sojourner’s memoir, Thunder of Freedom, written in collaboration with Cheryl Reitan presents a fascinating portrait of the civil rights movement in one of the most active and broad-based community organizing operations in the South. Join Cheryl for a moving discussion and photo presentation about the struggles, stories, and spirit of the movement that brought about great change in that time and place.

Eastland Disaster

Tuesday, February 3
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Register

Come share the history and life stories of Chicago’s greatest tragedy, as we observe the 100th anniversary of the Eastland Disaster. The SS Eastland was a passenger ship based in Chicago. On July 24, 1915 before the Eastland cast off its lines from the wharf area near the Clark Street Bridge, it rolled into the Chicago River with over 2,500 passengers and crew members on board. In just minutes, 844 people lost their lives, including 22 entire families. This centennial commemoration will include a compelling first-hand narrative delivered by descendants of a survivor, a video interview of ABC’s Ron Magers interviewing several survivors, and dozens of photographs. This program is co-sponsored by the Bloomingdale Historical Society.


Computer Classes


Please call Computer Services at 630-924-2767 to register or sign up online here

Stop by our new lab to continue work on projects or just explore all the possibilities with our digital media equipment. Macbooks, iPads, audio and video recording equipment, and more are provided.

Digital Media Lab: Open Use
Monday January 5th, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Stop by our new lab to continue work on projects or just explore all the possibilities with our digital media equipment. Macbooks, iPads, audio and video recording equipment, and more are provided.

Excel 1
Monday January 5th, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Instructor: Sean

This class will cover the basic concepts creating and using spreadsheets. Formatting, designing, and sorting spreadsheets will be discussed along with the first steps towards creating formulas and using functions.

Getting Started: Word Processing
Tuesday January 6th, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Ken

This class will be aimed at those with little or no experience using Microsoft Word or any word processors. Topics such as creating and saving files, formatting, and editing documents will be covered. There will be time available for questions and specific problems students have encountered.

Basic Home Networking
Thursday January 8th, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Instructor: Chris

A beginners class intended for those interested in connecting more than one computer in their home. Helpful for anyone who’s confused about the difference between DSL and Cable, wondering what all those confusing acronyms mean (PPPoE, DNS, TCP/IP), or just wants both their computers to be able to use one printer. Learn what these things mean, and how they impact a home network.

Digital Media Lab: Adobe Design Studio
Monday January 12th, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Get an introduction to the extensive tools provided in the Adobe Design Studio. Use programs like Acrobat, InDesign, and Photoshop to create professional level publications, edit photographs, or update your website. A brief tour of the resources will be provided followed by extensive open use time.

Getting Started: Word Processing 2
Tuesday January 13th, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Instructor: Ken

This class will cover how to use many of the more advanced options available. Lecture will include using outlines, adding images, and other formatting/design topics.

Online Job Hunting
Thursday January 15th, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Instructor: Ken

In this class students will learn how to use Microsoft Word to create sharp, easily read and understood résumés. They will also learn how to create accounts on and perform searches with job finding sites online like LinkedIn, Hotjobs and Monster.

Digital Media Lab: iPad Astronomy
Monday January 19th, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

If you enjoy astronomy; but the sky is cloudy, an iPad can serve as an exciting alternative. We will explore the universe using a variety of the latest apps and viewing techniques. Our Digital Media Lab will allow you to see through the clouds.

Getting Started: Your Files
Tuesday January 20th, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Instructor: Sean

Every time a picture is taken, a letter is written, or a song is purchased on your computer a file goes somewhere. Learn all about where these files are, how to find them, copying, deleting, and restoring them. A great class for anyone with a lot of personal information or pictures they’re worried about losing or moving to a new computer.

Digital Media Lab: Open Use
Monday January 26th, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Stop by our new lab to continue work on projects or just explore all the possibilities with our digital media equipment. MacBooks, iPads, audio and video recording equipment, and more are provided.

Excel 2
Monday January 26th, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Instructor: Sean
This class covers more advanced topics in Excel such as formulas, graphs and linking between multiple worksheets.

Please call Computer Services at 630-924-2767 or sign up online here


Youth Services Programs


Craft Time (All Ages)

First Thursday of the month, 3:00-8:00 p.m.
Registration is Not Required.

Stop by the Youth Services department anytime between 3:00-8:00 p.m. to make a fun craft. We'll supply all the materials needed. There will be no Craft Time in January.

Family Game Days (Grades 1-6, Families welcome too)

Thursday: January 8
4:30 p.m.- 5:30 p.m.

Registration is Not Required

Hang out and have a blast with video games, board games, and snacks. Come by yourself, or bring friends and family! Children age 8 and under must be accompanied by a parent.

Lego Madness (Grades 1-6)

Mondays,January 5, February 2
6:00-7:00 p.m.

Registration is required.

Come challenge yourself and learn new techniques with the monthly theme, or stretch your imagination with free building. This program is provided through a generous donation from Salerno's Rosedale Funeral Chapel.


Storytime, Milk and Cookies at Panera( All Ages, Drop in)

Tuesday, January 13
9:30-10:15 a.m.

Registration is not required.

Location: Panera Bread, 370 W. Army Trail Road. Enjoy a special themed storytime with music and nibble on some yummy cookies and milk from Panera.


Lego Robotics( Grades 3-6)

Tuesday, January 13
4:30-5:30 p.m.

Registration is required.

Calling all LEGO fans! Build and program LEGO creations to move and make sounds with Education WeDo software in this fun, hands-on program. This program is provided through a generous donation from the Friends of the Bloomingdale Public Library.


Valentines for Veterans ( All Ages, Drop in)

Monday, December 15- Monday February 2

Registration is not required.

Children are invited to make Valentine cards for men and women serving in the military and for veterans in Hines Veteran’s Hospital. Art and card supplies will be available at the Youth Services Desk.


Doodle Bugs (Ages 2-3 and their caregivers)

Monday, January 5, 11-11:30 a.m.

Registration is required. Registration begins Monday, December 1.


This is a special art class just for toddlers and parents. Little fingers will experiment with painting, gluing, sticking and creating, while developing fine motor skills.


I Spy… ( Grades K-2)

Saturday, January 10
2:00-3:00 p.m.

Registration is required.

See what you can see… with look and find activities, a “hidden” treat, and a make-your-own I Spy page?

Focus on FUNdamentals ( Grades K-1)

Mondays, January 12- February 9
4:15-5:00 p.m.

Registration is required.

Join us for a fun twist to essential skills. We will focus on everyday skills that will prove essential to a successful school year—listening, following directions, and more. There will be no class on January 19. p>


Dinosauria( All Ages, Drop in)

Monday, January 19
2:00-2:45 p.m.

Registration is not required.

Enjoy the day off school with real-life Dinosaur Hunters and share in their discoveries. You will have an up close look with this fun and educational program about dinosaurs


A Starry Night (All Ages, Drop in)

Monday, January 26
6:30-8:30 p.m.

Registration is not required.

Join us to learn some of the basic science about modern telescopes and astronomy. Good weather or bad, we will offer you close-up and personal views of the Moon and planets from both outside and inside the library! Perfect for families.


ALOHA Math ( Grades 1-3)

Wednesday, January 28
4:15-5:00 p.m.

Registration is required.

This mental math program is a complete brain exercise for kids that also triggers their whole brain development .The program uses the abacus as a tool to train kids to do calculations mentally without the use of calculators or paper/pen. This program is hosted by ALOHA Math of Bloomingdale.


Dueler's Guild (Ages 9 and up)

Third Saturday of the month
1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Registration is not required.
Dueler's Guild

Your move! It’s time to duel! Calling all players of collectible games, ages nine and up! Join us for open play, a Yu-Gi-Oh! tournament, and snacks! Feel free to bring in other games, including Bakugan, Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, and other collectible card games. No registration required.


Young Adult Programs


Teen programs are open to 7th graders and up
Teen Programs Calendar

Dueler's Guild

Yu-Gi-Oh! and Magic

3rd Saturday of the month
Saturday, January 17
1:00 - 4:30 p.m.

It’s time to duel! Calling all players of collectible card games, ages 9 and up! Join us for open play, a tournament, and snacks! Feel free to bring in other games, including Bakugan, Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, and other collectible card games. No registration required.


DIY Stickers and Decals for Teens examples
DIY Stickers and Decals for Teens

Monday, December 29
1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Registration limit: 8

Create custom vinyl stickers and decals for your room, phone, and more! Make stickers of your favorite quotes, logos, and more using the library’s Silhouette Cameo machine. Register at the Reference Desk, online, or by phone at (630) 924-2730.



STEM Workshop Series

Are you intrigued by science? Interested in robotics, video games, or engineering innovations? If so, register for our free STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) workshops for 7th -12th graders. Members from the Workshop 88 makerspace or library staff will conduct the workshops.


Raspberry Pi

Raspberry Pi Computers for Teens
Tuesday, December 30
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Registration limit: 12

Get a hands-on intro to computer science and programming with the Raspberry Pi, a tiny credit card sized computer. You'll load the operating system, explore the included programs, and set up Internet connectivity. Register at the Reference Desk, online, or by phone at (630) 924-2730.


Code Breaking & Cryptography for Teens

Code Breaking & Cryptography for Teens
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Registration limit: 15

Crack the code and reveal hidden secrets at our Code Breaking & Cryptography Workshop! Learn about ciphers, hidden messages, and decryption from Workshop 88 makerspace members. Great for fans of books like The Maze Runner, Gallagher Girls, Little Brother,, and Cryptonomicon! Register at the Reference Desk, online, or by phone at (630) 924-2730.


Arduino Music for Teens

Arduino Music for Teens
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Registration limit: 14
Create music using our Arduino microcontrollers! Register at the Reference Desk, online, or by phone at (630) 924-2730.


Teen Game Night

2nd Thursday of the month - January 8,
4th Thursday of the month - January 22
6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

joystick

Game on our big screens! Compete on our PS4, race in Mario Kart 8, battle in Super Smash Bros. for the Wii U, and more! A Yu-Gi-Oh! card tournament is held on the first Teen Game Night of the month. Tournaments are single duel, and no proxy cards are allowed during tournament play. No registration required.

While you're here, be sure to check out the library's collection of console video games, which includes games for the Playstation 3, Playstation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS, and Nintendo 3DS. Find a full list of policies and video games here!


Practice ACT Exam

Saturday, January 10
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Registration limit: 25 (A minimum of 15 students must register to hold the exam)

Prepare for the ACT with a free practice test! Are you taking the ACT in February or April? Then this practice exam is for you! A Kaplan representative will proctor the exam, which will last approximately 3.5 hours.

Students will receive test results at the ACT Test Strategies Workshop on Saturday, January 24. If you can’t attend the workshop, test results will be emailed to you at a later date.

Please eat before the exam and bring pencils and a calculator. Register at the Reference Desk, by phone at (630) 924-2730, or online.


Start Early, Start Smart How to Choose a Motivating College Major

Wednesday, January 21
7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Teens, it's never too early to start thinking about your future! A career professional will show you how to save time, energy, and money by using comprehensive assessment results to help you define your abilities and interests. Parents and teens are encouraged to attend together.

Register at the Reference Desk, by phone at (630) 924-2730, or online.


ACT Test Strategies Workshop

Saturday, January 24
10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Registration limit: 50

Learn how to score higher on the ACT using key strategies and a study plan for success. The format and content of the test are covered, including ways to take advantage of the test format to maximize efficiency. Various question types are also reviewed and answered. Parents and teens are encouraged to attend together.

Students who took the Practice ACT Exam on Saturday, January 10 will receive their scores during this workshop. If you can’t attend this workshop, test results will be emailed to you at a later date.

Register at the Reference Desk, by phone at (630) 924-2730, or online.


Anime Club Mascot
Anime Club

1st Thursday of the Month
NO CLUB ON JANUARY 1/NEW YEAR'S DAY, February 5, March 5
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Watch anime on the library’s big screen! Help plan new anime and manga events, suggest new anime to watch, bring in your decks to duel, and eat snacks. No registration required. Thank you to Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Viz for providing screening permission for our anime.


Crunchyroll