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To celebrate National Library Week in April, we brought you the Gratitude Graffiti project: an interactive and creative method for engaging communities. Black foam core posters were placed around the building with metallic markers--acquired with the help of funding from MB Financial Bank--and assortment of other graffiti supplies, as well as treats for patrons who participated. We asked simply for expressions of gratitude.

Overwhelmingly, patrons were thrilled to have the opportunity to share their appreciation for the library and what it adds to their lives:

• A mother and her daughter who had participated in Rise & Shine Storytime came to the Youth Sevices desk to report that her daughter was so excited to participate and show her love for the library that she wrote her first letter ever on the board: an H.
• Patrons studying and working on the second floor were happy to take a break to doodle and express their gratitude for a welcoming, free space to do their work.
• Many seniors who came for a movie screening asked if they could think about their contributions during the film and add them to the board afterward so they could accurately capture their appreciation.
• Young adults in the Neutral Zone program discussed the concept of expressing gratitude, and the teens in attendance shared with one another both what they appreciate about the library and other things for which they are grateful.
• A teen attending the James Klise author event contributed to the board: “That I can always find a book that can relate to me.” She emphasized that, as a biracial girl, she can’t always expect to find characters who look like her or everyday stories that she relates to—but she has always been able to find them here at the library.

Here are just a few of the many pieces of Gratitude Graffiti we received. Thanks to everyone who contributed. You have our gratitude!

"I love the books and the gaming but I really love the computer lab!"

"The staff are encouraging and very kind"

"Thanks for movies!"

"The library makes retirement a joy!"

"Skokie Library was a second home my son when he was in school thank you!"

"The library is my sanctuary"

"I love learning new crafts at the library. You help me soar!!!"

"I love the bookmobile. The staff is wonderful. My kids grew up visiting the bookmobile - <3 it!"

"I love that our voices are heard here"

"I love the library because all my friends and books are here!"