ECRWSS

WINTER NEWSLETTER 2017-18

december january february

Spreading Our Wings With SWAN (System Wide Automated Network) Exciting news! The Library is joining SWAN! Beginning in May, we’ll be part of a larger consortium of libraries in northern Illinois, expanding from 12 libraries to 97! The catalog will be getting bigger and your card will work at any of the participating locations. When placing holds, you’ll be able to select “Pick Up Anywhere” to pick up materials at a library closer to work or home. The staff at Messenger have been getting ready to join SWAN. As spring gets closer, bookmarks will be available, as well as instructive videos online. Your experience will be familiar. SWAN uses the same catalog that the Messenger Library currently provides. For more information about the consortium, check out www.swanlibraries.net .

WINTER READING: Hibernate @ Your Library • December 3 - February 28For adults and children of all ages. Make your way to the Library for Winter Reading fun. Read, listen, or watch to earnand win prizes. Visit our website and our online calendar for more details at messengerpl.org for related programs.

Holiday Open House Sunday, December 3 • 1:30-4:00 p.m.The Library Board & Staff invite everyone to join usfor holiday entertainment and family fun! Come enjoy live music and a visit from Santa, plus conversation withthe Library Board, Staff and friends. Sign up for WinterReading, too! Don’t forget to bring a camera!

North Aurora Mothers ClubOperation Christmas Giving TreePick up a gift tag at the Library for one of the five sponsored

families in need. Return the gifts to the User Services Desk beforeDecember 18th to ensure timely delivery to the families for theholiday season. For further information, visit our website or theNorth Aurora Mothers Club website nammothersclub.org.

STUFFED ANIMAL SLEEPOVERAll ages. Aimed at ages 2-8. Please register each child attending.Have you ever wondered about what happens at the Library when it’s closed?We will share our secret world with your stuffed animal friends at our Stuffed Animal Sleepover.

Drop-off : Thursday, January 4 • 4:00-5:00 p.m. Pick-up: Friday, January 5 • 10:00-11:00 a.m.Drop off your stuffed animal and enjoy a goodnight storytime before you tuck in your friend for the night.Come back to pick up your stuffed animal and enjoy a slideshow of their adventures plus a keepsake memento.

Data Breach Prevention Saturday, December 16 • 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.Presented by the Illinois State Attorney General’s Office and State Representative Linda Chapa LaVia.With data breaches occurring at a vast rate, consumers are always looking to see how we can protect our information.With the holiday season around the corner, online shopping has become a life-saver. In this presentation the AttorneyGeneral’s staff will highlight a variety of tips to help us stay safe online and in stores. Further information is availableby contacting the Office of State Representative Linda Chapa LaVia at (630) 270-1848.

¡GRATIS!

Smartphone Photography Monday, December 11 • 7:00-8:30 p.m.For adults. Grab your cell phone, and get ready to crop it like it’s hot! Cell phone photography will teach you how touse your cell phone’s camera to its fullest potential, whether it’s for selfies or for fun. Learn tips and tricks, and howto edit your pictures like pro with just your phone. Space is limited, so register early.

The Golden Age of Radio Monday, December 18 • 7:00-8:00 p.m.For adults. In the days before television, radio was the primary source of entertainment for most Americans,offering the nation’s top comedic and dramatic talents, utilizing their talents to create a “theatre of the mind”.Join Those Were the Days host and radio historian, Steve Darnall, for a look back at the shows and stars fromthe “Golden Age”. Featuring sound clips from Jack Benny, Bob Hope and many others! Registration required.

Coal Swamps, Coral Reefs & Continental Glaciers:A Look At Prairie State GeologyMonday, January 8 • 7:00-8:30 p.m.For adults. A geologist’s travelogue of Illinois, based on the Ray Wiggers’ popular book Geology Underfoot in Illinois.Unjustly branded as a flat and boring place, Illinois is in fact full of scenic and scientifically significant locales thatteach us much about our planet’s history.

Basic ComputingMonday, January 29 • 6:30-8:30 p.m.For adults. Join us for a beginner’s class onusing a personal computer and the Internet.Space is very limited, so register early.

Women of World War II:On the Front Lines & On the Homefront

Thursday, February 22 • 7:00-8:30 p.m.For adults. During World War II American women took on many new roles, both in the military and

as civilians. Learn more about the Clubmobile program and all the ways in which American womenhelped win the war! Please register to assure your space in this program.

Anti-Valentine’s Day PartyMonday, February 12 • 7:00-8:30 p.m.For adults. Join librarians Nancy and Laura for a tongue-in-cheek celebration, where we will make duct tape roses, have snacks, and listen to music.All are welcome, not just singletons! Space is very limited, so please register.

PROGRAMS FOR ADULTSPlease stop in, call, or check our online calendar for more information and registration for adult programs.

Space is limited. Registration is required. Registration starts on the first of each month preceding a program date.

Smart Driver Safety Wednesday & Thursday, January 17 & 18 • 12:30-4:30p.m. (8-hour course, 2 sessions) For adults. Refresh your driving skills, learn to adjust to age-related changes, and find out how to operate vehicles more safely in today’s increasingly challenging driving environment. This classroom style program is 4 hours each day, and both sessions must be completed to qualify for your insurance carrier’s discount. Cost: $20 (AARP Members: $15). Cash or check made out to AARP, due on first day of class. AARP members please bring membership number on first day of class. Pleasearrive 15 minutes early for registration. Class size is very limited; participants must register in advance through the Library.

Inglés Conversacional para Hispanohablantes!Conversational English for Spanish Speakers

Meets every 1st & 3rd Monday • 7:00-8:00p.m. (Please note! No meeting on January 1st) Mondays: December 4 & 18, January 15, February 5 & 19 • 7:00-8:00p.m.

lunes: diciembre 4 & 18, enero 15, febrero 5 & 19 • 7:00-8:00pm.Le damos la bienvenida para que vegan a nuestro grupo y para mejorar sus habilidades de hablar Inglés.Por favor, regístrese con anticipación @ messengerpl.org o por teléfono. Se proporcionarán bebidas.

Para adultos y adolescentes de 16 o más. We welcome you to come to our group and improve your English speaking skills.

Please register in advance, online or call (639) 896-0240. Refreshments will be served.

ECRWSS

WINTER NEWSLETTER 2017-18

december january february

Morning Coffee Break & A Book Meets 4th Tuesday of the month Starts promptly 10:30-11:30 a.m.

December 19: Winter Storms by Elin Hilderbrand

January 23: The Nest by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney

February 27: When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

Messenger Evening Book Discussion Group Meets 1st Thursday of the month Starts promptly 7:00-8:30 p.m.

December 7: The Christmas List by Richard Paul Evans

January 4: A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

February 1: The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

BOOK DISCUSSION GROUPS FOR ADULTSLove to read and discuss books? Join one of the Library’s book groups, and enjoy lively discussions offiction and non-fiction titles. Copies of the books will be available at the Checkout Desk. For adults.

MONTHLY GROUPS FOR ADULTSArt Club for Grownups2nd Saturday of the monthstarts promptly at 10:00 a.m.-12:00 noonFor adults and teens over 13 (with registered adult).Looking for a fun, artistic opportunity? Look no further!Art Club programs provide an opportunity for adultsto explore their artistic spirit. Each month we explorea different art medium. Beginners welcome!Advance registration required, space is very limited.All materials will be provided.

December 9: Holiday Decoupage OrnamentsCreate a one-of-a-kind holiday ornament while exploringdecoupage techniques. Bring family photos and creativity;we will supply ornaments, mod podge, decorative paper,vintage images and more.

January 13: Bohemian Dream CatcherWe’re busting out our stash of yarn, beads, ribbon andother embellishments for this unique DIY dream catcher project. No experience necessary, all supplies included.

February 10: Watercolor Valentine’s Day CardsExplore creative watercolor techniques while creating Valentines for your loved ones. We will supply watercolors, watercolor pencils, paper and instruction.

Cinema SundaysMeets 3rd Sunday of the month • 2:00-4:00 p.m.Enjoy popcorn, good company, and some of Hollywood’s greatest hits.

December 17: White Christmas

January 21: My Man Godfrey

February 18: La La Land

Games for Grownupsat Raimondos Pizza & Pub Meets 4th Monday of the month • 6:30-8:30 p.m.(Please note! No meeting on December 25th)For adults. Beginners welcome. Welcome to the world ofboard games! Join us as we play games such as Ticket to Rideand King of Tokyo. A different game will be featured each month,or we’ll host open gaming.

We meet at Raimondo’s Pizza & Pub, 1033 Kilbery Lane,North Aurora. They’ll be offering 15% off all food and drink.

Fox Valley Writers Group Meets Tuesdays, every 2 weeks (check online calendar for dates) 7:00-8:30 p.m.For adults. Share positive, constructive feedback with otherwriters of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. Plus get somewriting done. Contact: foxvalleywriters@gmail.com.

ASL Conversations Meets 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month • 7:00-8:00 p.m. (Please note! No meeting on December 27th)For adults. Drop-in to practice your American Sign Language skills. This is an informal group. You don’t need to come every week.Beginners are welcome, but no instructor will be present.

Genealogy GroupMeets 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month • 2:00-4:00 p.m.For adults. Get together with other genealogy enthusiasts.Get started with your family history research, share yourexciting finds, explore new resources, and discuss topicsof interest. Beginners are always welcome.

Ask A Librarian!You can always schedule a one-on-one session with a reference librarian for assistance with your genealogy, research,

software, technology or downloadable eBook questions. Please call in advance to check for librarian availability.For adults ages 18 and up. Children and teens, please contact the Youth Services Department.

WINTER STORYTIMESJanuary 9 - February 15

Lapsit Storytime 0-24 months (with caregiver) Tuesdays 10:00-10:30a.m. Registration Required

Read & Play Baby 0-24 months (with caregiver) Thursdays 10:00-11:00 a.m. No Registration

Toddler Time 18 months-3 years Wednesdays 10:45-11:15a.m. Registration Required (with caregiver)

Preschool Pals 3-6 years Wednesdays 10:00-10:30a.m. Registration Required

Sensory PlaytimeMondays: December 4, February 19 • 10:00-11:00 a.m.Babies -Preschool and caregivers. Come enjoy a varietyof sensory play experiences and stations with your little ones. Stations are designed to stimulate your child’s mind throughsensory play, discovery, and gross motor activities.Registration for each child attending is requested.

Family Storytime + Craft Mondays: December 11, January 22, February 12 • 6:30-7:15 p.m.All ages. Join us for stories and a craft aimed at ages 3-6.Please register each child attending.

Snowy Day Storytime & CraftWednesday, December 13 • 10:00-11:00 a.m.All ages, aimed at ages 2-5. Join us for a storytimefilled with books about snow and a craft.Please register each child attending.

Messy HandsThursdays: December 21, January 18, February 15 • 6:30-7:15 p.m.All ages, aimed at ages 2-5 and families.“It’s the process, not the product.”Enjoy stories followed by a variety of hands-onart experiences and sensory activities.Dress to get messy! Registration required.

DIY GiftsWednesday, December 13 • 6:30-7:30 p.m.Grades 3-5. Need a gift for a family member or friend?No fear! Come to the library and create awesome gifts.You won’t want to give them away. Registration required.

Ninja Origami Master Saturday, January 13 • 2:00-3:00 p.m.Grades 3-8. Want to learn the secrets of anorigami master? Come to the library and learnhow to create a variety of amazing ninja starpatterns to impress your friends.Registration required.

Juggling Funny Stories!Saturday, January 27 • 2:00 p.m.All ages and families. Enjoy an interactive performancewith Chris Fascione that combines comedy, mime,juggling, and (of course) storytelling!Register each child attending. Please, no strollers!

Roller Girl PartySaturday, February 3 • 2:00-3:00 p.m.All ages, aimed at grades 3-8 and families.Have you read Roller Girl yet? Stop by the library for crafts and games celebrating this award winning book. Registration required.

Babies-Preschool and caregivers. Read 1,000 books with your children before kindergarten!Reading together every day encourages learning, healthy brain development, and family bonding.Any child who has not yet entered kindergarten and has a Messenger Public Library cardcan participate. Visit Youth Services for more info and to receive your first book tracker.You can also participate and track progress online via our website!

Page-In-TrainingGrades 4 -6. Join a new volunteer program! Volunteering will involve straightening the books in your assigned section, picking up the play space, and other simple tasks. To qualify, students must complete an application and commit to volunteering aminimum of 2 times/month, for approximately 15 minutes, at your convenience.

BABIES & PRESCHOOL

KIDS & FAMILIES

Registration begins Monday, November 20. Registration required for all programs, unless noted. Please register atmessengerpl.org, (630) 801-4340, or in person. For drop-in programs, register online for a reminder email or text.

Thursdays: December 14, January 11, February 8 6:30-7:30 p.m.All ages. Build a creation to display at the Library!Register online if you’d like a reminder via email or text.

Caudill Book Club Mondays • 6:30-7:30 p.m. December 18: The Seventh Most Important Thing by Shelley Pearsall

January 15: Full Cicada Moon by Marilyn Hilton

February 19: Listen, Slowly by Thanhha Lai

Grades 4-8. Enjoy snacks and conversation about eachmonth’s book. The first five to register at the Librarywill receive a free copy of the book.Registration opens at the previous book discussion.

Curious KidsTuesdays: December 19, January 16 & February 20 4:00-4:45 p.m.Kindergarten-Grade 3. Explore art, nature, and science withstories and activities. Dress to get messy! Registration required.

Homeschool FunFridays: December 29, January 26 & February 23 10:00-11:00 a.m.All ages and families. Drop in to meet local homeschool families,learn about library resources and research, and enjoy activities or crafts. Registration required.

Homework HelpTuesdays when SD129 has school • 6:00-8:00 p.m.Kindergarten-Grade 5. Teen volunteers help students withhomework, read together, or practice flash cards. No registration is necessary, but you may register online for a reminder email or text.

Abe Lincoln Book Club Wednesdays • 7:00-8:00 p.m.

December 6: The Wrath and the Dawn by Renée Ahdieh

January 3: These Shallow Graves by Jennifer Donnelly

February 7: March: Book One by John Lewis

Grades 8-12. Enjoy snacks and conversation about each month’s book. The first five to register at the Librarywill receive a free copy of the book.Registration opens at the previous book discussion.

Teen HangoutWednesdays: December 27, January 31 & February 28 • 6:30-8:00 p.m.Grades 6 -12. Come to the Library and hang out withyour friends. We’ll have the Wii U out to play games,craft supplies, or you can simply chill.Register for a reminder email or text.

Book Hedgies Wednesday, January 17 • 6:30-8:00 p.m. Grades 6 -12. Come to the library and makeyour own hedgehog out of recycled books and dress them up tolook like your favorite fictional character! Registration required.

DIY Paper Flowers-Parent & Teen Art Saturday, February 10 • 2:00-3:00 p.m.Grades 5 -12 with parent /caregiver. Need a day for some parent/teen bonding? Come to the library and work together to create beautiful DIY paper flowers, perfect to enjoy yourselves or give to someone special. Registration required.

Teen Trivia Night Wednesday, February 21 • 7:00-8:00 p.m. Grades 6 -12. Think you know a lot of randominformation? Know a lot about Harry Potter, Marvel, Lord ofthe Rings, or Hamilton? Show off your knowledge and help leadyour team to victory (and a sweet prize). Registration required.

COLLEGE PREPAll About ScholarshipsWednesday, January 24 • 7:00 p.m.All ages, especially grades 11-12. An introductionto applying for scholarships, including the basics ofan application with tips from successful applicantsand reputable sources of information. Presented bya trained ISACorps member. Registration required.

ACT/PSAT/SAT Turbo Test Sunday, February 4 • 2:00 p.m.Grades 9-12. Turbo Tests give you a full score more quicklyand can serve as a predictive guide to studying for the test!If you can’t attend this program, ask Youth Services staff for details.Registration required, please indicate whether you will bring your own device or reserve one of our laptops.

Teen Volunteers Students in grades 6 -12 are welcome to volunteer at the Library! Help with programs, tutor, or share your library suggestions at Teen Hangout each month. Applications are available online or at the Youth Services Desk.

KIDS & FAMILIES

TWEENS & TEENS

ECRWSS

WINTER NEWSLETTER 2017-18

december january february

library hoursMonday-Thursday9:00a.m.-9:00p.m.

Friday-Saturday9:00a.m.-5:00p.m.

Sunday1:00-5:00p.m.

board of trusteesMarguerite Treest, PresidentDr. Mary Beth Hutches, Vice-PresidentCorinn A. Sparks, SecretaryTanya Berley, TreasurerJames R. HicksDominick LeoMary Steed

library closingsChristmas Eve

Sunday, December 24

ChristmasMonday, December 25

New Year’s EveSunday, December 31

New Year’s DayMonday, January 1

libraryadministrator

G. Kevin Davis

MESSENGER PUBLIC LIBRARY UPDATE

Illinois Primary Election Registration & Early Voting Information 2018 Primary Election: Tuesday, March 20, 2018

Request Vote by Mail Ballot: Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Last Day to Register to Vote: Tuesday, February 20, 2018

Staff members of the Messenger Public Library are able to register voters until Tuesday, February 20, 2018.

EARLY VOTING PERIOD GRACE PERIOD VOTER REGISTRATION(ONLY at the Kane County Elections Main Office) (ONLY at the Kane County Elections Main Office)

Starts: Thursday, February 8, 2018 Starts: Wednesday, February 21, 2018

Ends: Monday, March 19, 2018 Ends: Tuesday March 20, 2018

For more information and a sample ballot, visit the Kane County Elections website: kanecountyelections.org

Library Trustee Dominick Leo Appointed. On September 14, the Library Board of Trustees appointed North Aurora resident Dominick J. Leo to fill the unexpired seat open due to the resignation of Justin Kline. Kline had served on the Board since April of 2011. During his tenure, he was instrumental in advising the Library staff on an upgrade to a new phone system and updating the Library’s website.Kline tendered his resignation effective September 1st due to the fact that he has relocated out of the Village of North Aurora. Newly appointed trustee Leo is no stranger to serving the Library or the Village of North Aurora. He has previously served oneterm as a Trustee on the Library Board and was reappointed by the Board in the past due to resignations of Board members.Leo has assisted the Board and Administration as a Community Advisor for several recent facility and renovation projects.

In the spring of 2019 there will be three Trustee seats to be filled by election during the April 2019 Consolidated Election.For further information about serving on the Board or running for a Board seat please contact the Library Administrator, Kevin Davis, at director@messengerpl.org.