Middle schoolers, high schoolers, and their families may need extra support and someone to talk to during these stressful times. Below, find resources for mental health and learning—along with some ideas for ways to connect, have fun, and stay active while practicing safe physical distancing. Counselors, social workers, remote learning & more From Oak Park … Read more
There are so many ways to bring stories into your lives, and podcasts offer a great way to listen, learn, enjoy, and grow anytime, anywhere—at home and on-the-go! Kidcasts are podcasts created especially for kids, and we’ve gathered together a list of our favorites recommended by NPR, Kids Listen, and American Public Media for you … Read more
Need help managing stress and staying productive while working from home? New to working remotely? Looking for a new job? Get help navigating these challenges with courses from Lynda.com, available with your Oak Park library account. Explore courses specifically designed for teachers, small business owners, sales reps, leaders, and more. To get started: Learn how … Read more
Like so much else these days, our monthly library groups for writers, performers, language learners, and more are now meeting virtually. While all in-person programs are canceled through August, these online programs are drawing new participants as well as regulars. For example, Oak Parkers who joined the virtual French Conversation Hour in April met new … Read more
On this page we’re sharing what other organizations and people around the world are offering virtually, including lessons, classes, projects, and tours. We’ll update this page as we find out about new offerings, so please let us know if there’s something we should add. And remember: Your digital library has tons of resources to help … Read more
Miss visiting your public library? We sure do! Now you can put yourself inside the library virtually with custom Oak Park Public Library backgrounds for your next Zoom meeting! Watch the video below to learn how to upload your own virtual background in Zoom. Download library-themed backgrounds Right click on the image and choose “Save … Read more
We are living in uncertain times with a lot of fear and suffering. As library employees, we recognize this reality for ourselves, our households, our communities, and our world. And yet, even as library buildings are closed during the COVID-19 stay-at-home orders, we’re striving to connect, collaborate, and make a positive impact. Now more than … Read more
The library is partnering with Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies (CBITs), on a project to design new smartphone apps that help teens better understand and manage their emotions, stress, and anxiety. Teens ages 12-17 are invited to get involved in this research project. Virtual interviews (lasting about 1-1.5 hours) will be scheduled … Read more
Happy 50th anniversary, Earth Day! Held every year on April 22, this year’s theme is climate action. Looking for easy, fun, and meaningful ways to celebrate at home? Here are four suggestions! New! Need a card? Sign up for a digital-only account » Questions about PINs? Read more about resetting PINs » Need help? Have a question? Contact us » … Read more
Interested in learning how to do something new? How about trying a new hobby or craft? Creativebug offers fun, easy-to-follow video classes on baking, painting, sewing, knitting, crocheting, drawing, jewelry making, and more. New classes are released daily, and the site also features downloadable patterns, templates, and recipes. Choose from more than 1,000 award-winning art … Read more
