Lists

Magic | Realism | More

Whether the author uses a pan-ethnic term such as Latino or Hispanic to describe their identity, or by their family's Hispanic origin group, the rich history of literary tradition (often, but not always, with hints of the fantastic) shines brightly in all of these stories.

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• Adults
• Teens

Free to Read: Picture Books

We celebrate the freedom to read by highlighting books that have been banned, censored, or challenged in schools and libraries across the country.

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• Kids

Free to Read: Chapter Books for Kids

We celebrate the freedom to read by highlighting books that have been banned, censored, or challenged in schools and libraries across the country.

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• Kids

Free to Read: Books for Kids in Middle School

We celebrate the freedom to read by highlighting books that have been banned, censored, or challenged in schools and libraries across the country.

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• Teens
• Kids

Kingdom of Dragons

Where are the dragons? Our list of suggested books and movies has something for dragon enthusiasts (or dragonologists) of all ages.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Movies & TV
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Great Family Read-Alouds: Shorter Stories to Share

Even when the kids are older and ready for chapter books, reading aloud together is still a great way to share stories--whether it's at the end of the day, on vacation, on a rainy day, on a snowy day, whenever! These titles are long enough to enjoy in one sitting or a few sittings for families with kids in early elementary grades.

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• Kids

Great Family Read-Alouds: Longer Stories to Share

Even when the kids are older and ready for chapter books, reading aloud together is still a great way to share stories--whether it's at the end of the day, on vacation, on a rainy day, on a snowy day, whenever! These titles are long enough to enjoy for more than a few sittings for families with kids in elementary school and beyond.

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• Kids

Tickets Please! Travel the World through Stories

Who says you need to be on a plane, train, boat, or car to travel? From Mystery to Sci-Fi to Memoir, visit places all across the world through these books.

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• Summertime Selections
• Journeys and Travels

Perspectives on Disability

Some disabilities are visible, others less apparent—but all are underrepresented in media and popular culture despite one in five people in the United States living with a disability. We have created a list of fiction, nonfiction, and film that are all representative of what it is like to live with various disabilities.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Social Justice
• Health & Wellness
• Sharing and Caring

Family Audiobooks

These audiobooks for families with kids in grades 4-8 are perfect for listening on a road trip, or a cold winter night, or bedtime, or whenever. These titles are available as CDs, downloadable audiobooks, or preloaded audiobooks.

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• Kids
• Summer Reading 2021
• Audiobooks

Family Audiobooks for Younger Kids

If your child or children are ready to listen to a chapter book, see the titles in this list. These are in a number of formats: CD, downloadable audiobook, or preloaded audiobook--so they are perfect for long road trips! For the preschool crowd, we have a "Books with CDs" picture book section in the library. These books have an accompanying CD that can be played in cars that still have a CD player.

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• Kids
• Summer Reading 2021
• Audiobooks

Interactive Adventures

These books allow you to control the story. Will you survive until the end? Explore different pathways through each story, and see how your choices change the ending. You can always go back and make a different decision. Recommended by Eli O.

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• Teens
• Kids
• Summer Reading 2021

Alfred Hitchcock Movies: A Top 10 List

Recommended by Cecilia Cygnar. This is my last list for the library, so I'm finally making the one I have been building up to for 17 years. Listed in order of my preference, this is a swan song for my colleagues and patrons in honor of my favorite director.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Movie Musicals of the 21st Century

These fun "new classics" musicals are one sure way to get your toes tapping. Recommended by Cecilia Cygnar.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

I Like Big Bugs and I Cannot Lie

To commemorate this summer's Brood X Cicada invasion, we've put together a list of our favorite media featuring big bugs.

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• Adults
• Kids
• Movies & TV
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Pride Films to Watch for Pride Month

Here are some of my own picks to help celebrate Pride Month! Recommended by Cecilia Cygnar.

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• Adults
• LGBTQ+
• Movies & TV

Beginner's Guide to Audiobooks: Staff Favorites

Library staff share their favorite audiobook titles.

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• Adults
• Audiobooks

Black Liberation

A celebration of emancipation, Black liberation, and empowerment for kids and their grown-ups in honor of Juneteenth. This is a joyful holiday celebrated each June 19 to commemorate the date in 1865 when Galveston, Texas became the last place in the country to learn that enslaved people were free.

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• Kids
• Social Justice

Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom and Remembrance

Juneteenth, also known as Black Independence Day, Jubilee Day, or Emancipation Day for Black Americans, is a holiday that commemorates the day the last enslaved people were emancipated in the United States with the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas on June 19, 1865 . This was two and a half years after slavery was abolished more broadly in the United States through the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, and six months before the 13th Amendment made slavery unconstitutional in December 1865 . It is a day to celebrate freedom and to remember the genocide of enslaved African Americans.

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• Adults
• Social Justice

Stories of Experience

How people celebrate Pride is as varied as the experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals themselves. This list shares an array of perspectives, yet it is still only a small selection of the LGBTQIA+ experience.

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• Adults
• LGBTQ+
• Social Justice
• Biography & Memoir

Stories That Reflect

We love fiction because it holds a mirror to humanity, and each mirror reflects something different. The titles spotlighted here are as varied in what and how they reflect as the authors who wrote the books.

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• Adults
• LGBTQ+

Songs of Existence

Our in-house audiophiles have curated a list of music that evokes the drama, heartache, struggle, liberation, and beauty of queer lives.

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• Adults
• LGBTQ+
• Music

Resistance, Liberation, and Joy

Too often, we hear about trans experiences rooted in trauma, shame, and fear. It's important that those stories exist, but we argue it's equally (if not more) important that trans stories rooted in joy also exist. Trans people, as well as people of other genders, need to see that the trans community is a beautiful community "that has resistance, liberation, joy, and magic at its core" (Cosmopolitan UK).

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• Adults
• LGBTQ+
• Movies & TV

Danger, Romance, Space, Magic, and Lesbian Librarians Saving the Day

This list features stories with everything the title says, told through a queer lens.

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• Adults
• LGBTQ+

Pride Movies

Staff share some favorites that you can watch to celebrate Pride Month.

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• Adults
• LGBTQ+
• Movies & TV

Adventures in Storytelling (for Kids)

The greatest adventure is the one you write! These books will get you started.

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• Kids
• Summer Reading 2021

Adventures for a Rainy Day (for Kids)

Turn a rainy day into an indoor adventure with these books.

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• Kids
• Summer Reading 2021
• Just Fun Stuff

Adventures for Your Senses (for Kids)

Sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing--these books are designed to take you on a sensory adventure.

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• Kids
• Summer Reading 2021

Adventures for Your Imagination (for Kids)

Books to help you dare to dream.

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• Kids
• Summer Reading 2021

Outdoor Adventures for Kids

Whether you want to read about the great outdoors or go outside and get your hands dirty, these books will get you started.

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• Kids
• Summer Reading 2021
• The Natural World

Classic Period Movies

With the announcement of the second Downton Abbey movie coming this holiday season, as well as the continued popularity of the Bridgerton Netflix series, here are some classic historical costume flicks that might keep you entertained while waiting.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Pride Books for Younger Kids

Books featuring LGBTQ+ characters, topics, and themes for babies-grade 2.

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• Kids
• LGBTQ+
• Families & Relationships

Pride Books for Grades 3-8

Books featuring LGBTQ+ characters, topics, and themes for kids in grades 3-8.

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• Teens
• Kids
• LGBTQ+
• Families & Relationships

Best Books and Movies of 1971

1971 is my birth year. That would be, let's see...well, it's several decades ago now. I've been thinking a lot about that year, 1971. Richard Nixon was president, the war in Vietnam was still raging, Starbucks opened its first store, and both Missy Elliot and Winona Ryder were born, so I'm in good company. What follows is a smattering of some of the books and films first published or released in that tumultuous year, some 50 years ago.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Reading, Libraries, and Books

Escape into the World of Video Games

Ly, Neil, Penny, and Perry recommend games--in this list, you'll find titles from a variety of genres, from puzzles to story-rich, character-driven games. If you are new to video games, here are some definitions of gaming terms used on this list:

• Platformer: These games heavily feature platforms. To progress, players have to jump between them and avoid obstacles. Super Mario is a popular example of a platform-type game.
• Rhythm: These games use music to enhance the game. Players have to time button presses to the beat of the music playing (sometimes to simulate playing musical instruments). Popular examples include Dance Dance Revolution and Guitar Hero.
• Sandbox: This type of game lets players build their own world to interact with. A popular example is Minecraft.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Just Fun Stuff

Book Chat with Library Staff, Part Six

Becca and Allyson lead regular sessions during which staff learn about what everyone is reading or watching. Enjoy some of our latest recommendations.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks

Book Chat with Library Staff, Part Five

Library staff members joined Allyson and Becca to bring you what they have been reading, listening to, and enjoying recently.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks

Careers in Gaming

The experiential learning team is exploring games this summer, and all that research made us aware of jobs and even college scholarship opportunities in gaming. This list helps you explore current careers in gaming and Esports. What will the future bring? Recommended by Erica.

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• Teens
• Kids
• Just Fun Stuff

Stuck Together

If only forced proximity would always lead to love! In these romantic novels, it does. Content ranges from chaste to steamy.

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• Adults
• Romance
• Just Fun Stuff

Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Island Heritage (Preschoolers)

Great stories by and about our Asian American and Pacific Islander community.

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• Kids
• Global Perspectives

Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Island Heritage (Kindergarten-Grade 2)

Great stories by and about our Asian American and Pacific Islander community.

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• Kids
• Global Perspectives

Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Island Heritage (Grades 3-5)

Great stories by and about our Asian American and Pacific Islander community.

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• Kids
• Global Perspectives

Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Island Heritage (Grades 6-8)

Great stories by and about our Asian American and Pacific Islander community.

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• Kids
• Global Perspectives

Arbor Day Celebration in Illinois 2021

April 30, 2021 is the official date in IL for Arbor Day. Communities around the globe gather every year to celebrate trees and plant for a greener tomorrow. While most holidays celebrate something that has already happened and is worth remembering, Arbor Day represents a hope for the future. The simple act of planting a tree represents a belief that the tree will grow to provide us with clean air and water, cooling shade, habitat for wildlife, healthier communities, and endless natural beauty—all for a better tomorrow. My list explores resources available for us to celebrate and cherish the beauty and wonder that is a tree.

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• Adults
• Teens
• The Natural World

Small-Scale Creations

If, like me, you're fascinated by dioramas, model railroads, dollhouses, and all things miniature, then you'll love these books.

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• Adults
• Kids
• Just Fun Stuff

Masterpiece Theater: 50 Fantastic Years

Who remembers Upstairs, Downstairs or I, Claudius (with Sir Derek G. Jacobi as the stuttering emperor)? Since public TV viewers in the United States first began watching Masterpiece Theater back in 1971, the series has dazzled us with British-made literary adaptations, costume dramas, and the occasional comedy. Yes, Downton Abbey was universally watched and loved, season after season, but all of the Masterpiece productions have been wonderful. My list includes recent productions we have in the library collection, either as a disc or streaming. These selections have stood the test of time and are yours for the borrowing.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Enthralling Asian American Fiction

Favorite fiction titles written by Asian American authors. Some of these books will make you laugh, some cry, and all will captivate you until the end.

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• Adults
• Global Perspectives

Essential Nonfiction Exploring Asian Culture and Asian American Experiences

To celebrate Asian and Asian American heritage, we've put together a list of nonfiction books that explore Asian culture and Asian American experiences throughout history.

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• Adults
• Global Perspectives

Compelling Pacific Islander Stories

A collection of books and films encapsulating the rich culture and history of the Pacific Islander experience.

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• Adults
• Global Perspectives

Beyond Manga: The Asian American Experience in Graphic Novels

Many people still think of manga as a Japanese graphic novel when talking about graphic novels with Asian protagonists. Here we have curated several graphic novels written or illustrated by Asian American creators.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Comics & Graphic Novels

Asian Perspectives on Screen

In recent years, the entertainment industry seems to be moving a bit forward when it comes to Asian and Asian American films. In 2020, Parasite, a Korean movie, made it to the Oscars and won Best Picture. We’ve gathered a few of our favorite movies and TV shows produced, directed, or written by Asian and Asian American creators. Turn on your screen, sit back, and enjoy!

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Searching for Clues, Love, and Magic (and Zombies!?)

Here are some of our favorites by Asian American authors—from fun and fascinating mystery, to sweet and fiery romance, to action-filled and entrancing fantasy, all the way to bone-chilling horror.

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• Adults
• Teens

Sharon and Cecilia's 2021 Oscar Picks

Here are some Academy Award nominees you can check out from the library.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Sharon and Cecilia's 2021 Oscar Snubs

We think these movies were robbed of Academy Award nominations this year.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Sikh Awareness and Appreciation

The state of Illinois has designated April as Sikh Awareness and Appreciation month to recognize the many ways Sikh Americans have influenced American history, achievement, culture, and innovation.

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• Adults
• Global Perspectives

National Poetry Month

Any day, any month is a good time for poetry, and we have an expansive collection to choose from. Here are a few of my favorite works of poetry from the last few years.

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• Adults
• Well-Crafted Writing

Novels in Verse for Teens and Adults

If you aren't sure how you feel about poetry, novels in verse are a great place to start. The poems come together to tell one overarching story. They are generally short enough to read quickly, and every word and pause is carefully chosen to make the greatest impact.

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• Adults
• Teens

Poetry Collections on Hoopla

I have found a lot of comfort in poetry collections in the last year. Poems may be short, but the emotion is intense. If you've had trouble reading in the past year, maybe start with some poetry and see where it takes you? A wealth of fantastic poetry collections await on Hoopla. This is only a small fraction of what you will find through this amazing service.

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• Adults
• For Artistic Temperaments

Embrace Nature

Whether the nature you know is outside your back door or in a remote wilderness destination, there is endless beauty and wonder to be celebrated in the natural world. Skokie library staff share some favorite books about nature and the benefits of getting outdoors.

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• Adults
• The Natural World

Climate SOS

It's been 51 years since the first Earth Day celebration and 15 years since An Inconvenient Truth--Al Gore's attempt to wake up humanity to the planetary emergency--hit theaters. Where are we now with the environment? What is the future of civilization on our planet?

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• Adults
• The Natural World

Hope for the Planet

We could all use a little hope to counter the daily drumbeat of doom. These books describe the efforts, inventions, and policy changes aimed at saving the planet, and suggest what you, too, can do.

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• Adults
• The Natural World

Environmental Disasters and Dystopias

Take heed from this list of climate fiction, a specialized variety of fiction that explores the impact of an accelerating environmental crisis of our own making.

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• Adults
• The Natural World

Caring for Mother Earth

How can kids and families become better stewards of our planet? What does Earth need more of and, even more important, less of? Find the answers with these books for kids of all ages.

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• Kids
• The Natural World

Movies with an Environmental Message

Enjoy these selections.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• The Natural World

Watch and Listen to Poetry

Enjoy these selections of movies and audiobooks.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Audiobooks

Poetry for Kids: Grades 3+

Poetry for kids who don't think they like poetry! Funny, snarky, and heartwarming poetry books that are quick to read and stay with you for a long time.

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• Kids

Poetry for Kids: Preschool-Grade 2

Delightful poetry books for younger kids, featuring animals, nursery rhymes, counting, silliness, and one great big cuddle!

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• Kids

Novels in Verse: Grades 1-4

Some novels in verse are a collection of related poem stories, while others tell just one story using a poetic writing style. Either way, here are some of our favorites for kids in grades 1-4. We hope you find them interesting and inspiring.

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• Kids

Novels in Verse: Grades 5-8

Novels in verse are stories told in poetry rather than prose. Here are some of our favorites for middle school students.

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• Teens

Crochet Cute

I've been crocheting since I was in college. I don't make blankets or hats, but I do make amigurumi (cute little toys). No complicated stitches are required. In fact, most are made using the beginning single crochet stitch. Here are some of my favorite pattern books to get you started making your own adorable creations.

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• Adults
• For Artistic Temperaments
• Just Fun Stuff

Movies about Poets

To celebrate National Poetry Month, try these movies to fulfill your poetic curiosity. Some films feature real-life poets, while others are about fictional poetic souls.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

A Literary Guide to Combat Anti-Asian Racism in America

Anti-Asian terrorism and discrimination are on the rise in the United States. Stop AAPI Hate reported nearly 3,800 of anti-Asian hate incidents between March 2020 and February 2021. This figure does not include the recent murders in Atlanta of Delaina Ashley Yaun, Paul Andre Michels, Xiaojie Tan, Daoyou Feng, Soon C. Park, Hyun Jung Grant, Suncha Kim, and Yong A. Yue. I want to use this opportunity to promote a booklist compiled by Jae-Yeon Yoo and Stefani Kuo that was published in the summer of 2020. Yoo and Kuo "compiled this list as a way to better understand the deep roots of Asian American discrimination in the U.S. We hope we can help amplify the urgent need to acknowledge anti-Asian racism and the complexity of Asian American identity today." This list is meant to amplify Yoo and Kuo's compilation and help the Skokie community access these titles more easily. We recognize that reading lists are not enough, but they are a start.

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If You Like 'The Great British Baking Show'

While we're waiting patiently for a new season of one of the best cooking competition shows ever, these materials might help make the wait more tolerable. So, get your "soggy bottom" in gear and find out if any of these titles are worthy of a "Hollywood Handshake."

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• Adults
• Food & Drink

If You Like 'All Creatures Great and Small'

Based on the books by Yorkshire, England vet James Alfred Wight (pen name James Herriot), All Creatures Great and Small tells the tale of the "fictional" Herriot and his early life as a vet in a rural Yorkshire practice. The PBS Masterpiece production is the second incarnation of Herriot's books, the first being the 1978-1990 series. Now that the new version is over for the season, check out these materials to help you get through until next season.

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• Adults
• Kids
• The Natural World

Exploring Elemental Creatures

Explore the elemental creatures from myths and legends around the world with these books for kids and teens. Recommended by Eli O.

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• Teens
• Kids

BOOMbox at Home: Elements

Enjoy some of our favorite picture books about the four elements: earth, air, fire, and water. Which one is your favorite?

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• Kids
• Science & Technology
• The Natural World

Riveting Nonfiction for Babies through Grade 2

Help your little ones discover the world around them and awaken their curiosity about distant places or creatures that lived long ago.

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• Kids

Riveting Nonfiction for Grades 3-5

You'll be amazed by all the excitement packed into these fabulous, fact-filled books! From the mysteries of nature, to the icy terrain of Antarctica, and all the way to the moon--we guarantee there is something here for you.

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• Kids

Riveting Nonfiction for Grades 6-8

Enjoy these page-turners from some of the best writers of nonfiction. Daring rescues, scientific mysteries, horrific crimes, tragic lives--they're all here. And they're all true!

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• Teens
• Kids

Inspiration: Stories of Women's Accomplishments

These books and films celebrate a few women who've made an indelible mark on the world, even if history books have previously failed to name them.

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• Adults
• Strong Women

Women Overcoming

Women's History Month celebrates the achievements and contributions of women in history.

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• Adults
• Strong Women

Feminist Movement and Theory

The feminist movement has been around for many decades and has had strong voices in each generation. The following titles focus on the issues that have gained momentum in recent years, with an emphasis on including the perspectives of all people.

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• Adults
• Social Justice
• Strong Women

Women Artists and the Power of Creativity for Kids

Be inspired by the lives and creative passions of extraordinary women artists and creators. Enjoy these picture book biographies and great stories to stir your artistic imagination.

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• Kids
• For Artistic Temperaments
• Strong Women

Women Politicians, Activists, and Peacemakers

These youth titles present fascinating women who made (and are making) our world a better place through their hard work, dedication, and emotional and physical strength.

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• Kids
• Social Justice
• Strong Women

Women in the Director's Chair

Here is a short list of movies directed by women and featuring awesome women. All are from the 2000s and most are quite recent.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Strong Women

Women in the Director's Chair: 21st Century

If you think this is a long list, consider how many films have been directed by men.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Strong Women

Women in the Director's Chair: 20th Century

If you think this is a long list, consider how many films have been directed by men.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Strong Women

Kids 'Guaranteed to Read' Nonfiction

Riveting nonfiction for kids in grades 3-6 who haven't found the right book yet.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

Kids 'Guaranteed to Read' Fiction

Engaging, fast-paced fiction for kids in grades 3-6 who haven't found the right book yet.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

Preserving Culture and the Power of Inspiration

This curated list of nonfiction titles for Black History Month 2021 likely contains one or more books that will feed your soul.

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• Adults
• For Artistic Temperaments
• Black History Month

Excellence in Black Fiction

Some of the best fiction by Black authors published in 2020 and early 2021.

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• Adults
• Black History Month

Good Trouble for Young Children

For Black History Month, our youth team is celebrating the extraordinary life of John Lewis, who stood up and spoke out for civil rights for more than 60 years. Here are some wonderful books about activism for our youngest citizens.

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• Kids
• Social Justice
• Black History Month

Good Trouble for Grades 6-12

We're celebrating the extraordinary legacy of John Lewis, a lifelong civil rights activist and legislator. Learn about his life and how you can change the world for the better by standing up and speaking out for your beliefs.

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• Teens
• Social Justice
• Black History Month

Black Joy

This list is inspired by Kleaver Cruz's The Black Joy Project, "a digital and real-world effort to center Black joy." Cruz says, "When we acknowledge that we exist in an anti-Black world that is set up to ensure we do not live, to choose life and to choose to enjoy aspects of that life is a radical act. Centering on Black joy doesn't ignore the realities of our collective pain; rather, it is about holding the pain and injustices we experience as Black folks around the world in tension with the joy we experience in the pain’s midst. Black joy is healing, resistance, and regeneration."

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• Adults
• Black History Month

Black Joy on Screen

In a Vogue article stressing the importance of Black joy, Chante Joseph says, "Where society has told Black people to 'be quiet' or that we’re 'too loud,' reveling in joy is an act of resistance. As our feeds become even more inundated with images of trauma, joy can help us heal, too." Here are some of our favorite depictions of Black joy on screen.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Movies & TV
• Black History Month

Black Wizards and Lovers and P.I.s, Oh My!

In a Tor.com article titled "The Role Publishing Plays in the Commodification of Black Pain," L.L. McKinney writes, "We know that for every 'issue' book, we need at least five more where we can go on adventures, fall in love, solve mysteries, be heroes, do everyday things like everyone else. Black readers need to see themselves in narratives outside of racism, slavery, Jim Crow, police brutality. As do non-Black readers.” From cozy mysteries to thrillers, science fiction to fantasy, and romance to horror, here we celebrate some of our favorite Black-centered genre fiction.

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• Adults
• Black History Month

Beginner's Guide to Manga: Staff Favorites

We love these and think you will find something here to love, as well!

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• Adults
• Teens
• Comics & Graphic Novels

Interesting Ingredients

The experiential learning team is fascinated by all sorts of ingredients, from those found in food to makeup to medicine and more.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Science & Technology

Food in Fiction Picture Books

Food seems like it's everywhere, or maybe we're just hungry all the time. These books are some of our favorites that feature food, from donuts to bao to muffins.

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• Kids

MLK Day 2021

To honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this year, my colleagues and I present this list that focuses on labor and voting rights, community service, and activism. The list is not exhaustive, but we hope you find it inspiring.

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• Adults
• Social Justice

Speaking Up against Injustice

What can kids do to be embody the spirit of Martin Luther King, Jr. and other activists for change? Here are some great books to help inspire kids of all ages to stand up against injustice.

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• Kids
• Social Justice

Time Travel

Do you want to escape to another world in a time machine? My time travel guide contains suspense and drama selections for high school teens and adults, all featuring actual time travel (not historical fiction). So hop in your time travel gizmo, be sure to bring your imagination, and away we go! Hang tight because it may be a bumpy ride.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Winter: Celebrate the Season and Stay Warm

I'm not a fan of winter, but I concede that there are some nice things about it--hot soups and drinks, stories by a cozy fire, cross-country skiing in the woods, and acknowledging the cycle of rest that leads to renewal.

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• Adults

Upbeat Fiction for Your Online Book Club

Is your book club feeling the need for something uplifting to read? Maybe a book that even makes you laugh out loud but also offers something to sink your teeth into? I've scanned the fiction offerings from the last several years, and here are my suggestions.

Tags

• Adults
• Well-Crafted Writing

New Findings from NASA

A new report from NASA on the number of possibly habitable planets in the Milky Way puts the total at more than double the estimate of seven years ago. Supposing that even 7% of our galaxy's four billion sun-like stars have an Earth-size object orbiting in their “Goldilocks” zone—neither too hot nor too cold for liquid water—up to 300 million planets could potentially host life.

“We want to be very conservative in case nature has any surprises regarding habitability,” said one of the authors of the report, which was based on almost a decade’s worth of data collected by NASA’s Kepler spacecraft. “So we are low-balling the estimates intentionally.”

If you're like me, this sends chills up my spine and literally blows my mind. So let's see what materials we have to help us understand what this all means.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Wild Adventures
• Science & Technology
• The Natural World

Stealth, Smarts, and Skills: Stories for Aspiring Spies

Calling all aspiring spies! Here are some titles to get you sneaking, seeing clues, and solving puzzles. The game is afoot.

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• Kids
• Science & Technology

2020 Patron Picks

Some of the books, films, and TV series you and your neighbors have enjoyed this year.

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• Adults

2020 Staff Picks: Nonfiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Fiction

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Music

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Music

2020 Staff Picks: Graphic Novels

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Comics & Graphic Novels

2020 Staff Picks: Ages 0-5

Our favorite books of 2020 to share with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Grades K-3

Our favorite books of 2020 for kids in kindergarten through 3rd grade.

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks 2020: Grades 4-5

Our favorite books of 2020 for kids in 4th and 5th grade.

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Grades 6-8

Our favorite books published in 2020 for kids in middle school.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Movies

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2020 Staff Picks: TV Series

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2020 Staff Picks: Romance

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Romance

2020 Staff Picks: Thrillers, Suspense, and Mysteries

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Mysteries & Thrillers

2020 Staff Picks: Science Fiction, Dystopia, and Fantasy

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

2020 Staff Picks: Horror

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Teen

Our expert staff members look back at the year and share their favorite titles.

Tags

• Teens
• Staff Picks

66 Years of Composer John Williams

John Williams has been composing for the motion picture industry since the 1970s. In these favorite film scores by the multiple-Oscar-winning musician, I've included items from every decade since the '70s, focusing on his more prominent compositions. Williams has just recorded (2020) a great new CD with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, John Williams in Vienna, which includes oldies and wonderful new pieces. I hope you you find these selections both inspiring and uplifting.

Tags

• Adults
• Classics & Award Winners
• Music

Book Chat with Library Staff, Part Four

Members of our staff join Allyson and Becca to share what they have been reading, listening to, and enjoying recently.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Staff Picks

Run for President

What in the world drives somebody to actually want to be President of the United States? Ambition, sure, but a level of hubris not found in most. Here is a selection of books exploring this strange, seemingly all-consuming quest to reach the White House.

Tags

• Adults
• Biography & Memoir

Book Chat with Library Staff, Part Three

Along with many Skokie Public Library staff members, Allyson and Becca bring you what they have been reading, listening to, and enjoying recently.

Tags

• Adults

Gothic Movies

While reading the book Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, I started to think about movies. Here are some suggestions for gothic horror, noir, romance, and southern. Enjoy!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Autumn Movies

George Eliot once wrote, “Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns.” How about successive films set in or around autumn? What follows is a small harvest of some of cinema's most colorful offerings.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Summer 2020: Fun Times and Great Titles

Find some interesting, entertaining, and fascinating summer (or anytime) reads.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens

Recent Perspectives on Women's Suffrage

The 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote was passed 100 years ago, in 1920. The library has a wealth of books and movies documenting the 80+ years of struggle leading up to the ratification. But what's special about the following, recently published titles, is that they include the often overlooked stories of minority women--Black, Native American, Mormon, and others--who actively campaigned for equality all across the country.

Tags

• Adults
• Social Justice
• Strong Women

Rhyme Time for Ages 3–5 and Caregivers

Not only are rhymes lots of fun to hear and say, they also serve as building blocks for reading readiness. Rhymes help children notice the sounds in words and encourage play with those sounds--important steps toward becoming a reader. Filled with clever and creative rhyming stories and poems, this varied list of titles is sure to delight.

Note: Originally developed for D69 TOPS Preschool Parent Group.

Tags

• Kids
• Just Fun Stuff

Books about Technology and Screen Time for Ages 3–5 and Caregivers

Achieving a balanced media diet in this time of pervasive technology is a huge challenge for parents and caregivers, both for themselves and for their children. These engaging picture books and parent guides can help.

Note: Originally developed for D69 TOPS Preschool Parent Group

Tags

• Kids
• Science & Technology

Books about Early Math for Ages 3–5 and Caregivers

Math opportunities are everywhere, from sorting laundry to cooking to looking for patterns in nature. Early math achievement is highly predictive of later math and reading success, so check out these engaging picture books and caregiver guides that will foster the idea that math learning is for everyone and can be a fun part of kids' everyday lives.

Note: Originally developed for D69 TOPS Preschool Parent Group.

Tags

• Kids

Books about Doing Good Together for Ages 3–5 and Caregivers

Studies have shown that even very young children will help adults without being asked. These books have been selected to help caregivers nurture this capacity in our children to make the world a better place.

Note: Originally developed for D69 TOPS Preschool Parent Group.

Tags

• Kids
• Sharing and Caring

Books about Bedtime for Ages 3–5 and Caregivers

Bedtime is an important routine, and it's not always an easy one. These picture books--some laugh-out-loud funny, some quiet, some interactive--offer lots of ways to entice your little one to bed and chase away their fears. Parenting guides offer helpful solutions.

Note: Originally developed for D69 TOPS Preschool Parent Group.

Tags

• Kids
• Health & Wellness

Books about Making Friends for Ages 3–5 and Caregivers

As young children move beyond family, they have the opportunity to make friends. While exciting, making friends requires social and emotional skills and resilience. Here are some of our favorite picture books to foster these skills in a fun way, as well as parent guides.

Note: Originally developed for D69 TOPS Preschool Parent Group.

Tags

• Kids
• Families & Relationships

Books about Challenging Behavior for Ages 3–5 and Caregivers

Books to share with your children that will not only engage them but will also help them develop healthy ways to express their emotions and resolve conflicts. Guides for caregivers offer strategies for discipline guided by compassion and positive reinforcement.

Note: Originally developed for D69 TOPS Preschool Parent Group.

Tags

• Kids
• Families & Relationships

Books about Emotions for Ages 3–5 and Caregivers

Managing emotions can be challenging for adults and can be even more difficult for young children experiencing powerful feelings for the first time. These titles provide guidance and strategies through stories and breathing exercises to empower children to recognize and express their emotions in healthy ways.

Note: Originally developed for D69 TOPS Preschool Parent Group.

Tags

• Kids
• Health & Wellness

Books about Adjusting to Preschool for Ages 3–5 and Caregivers

Enjoy reading these special books together to help your child navigate the excitement and anxiety that can come with the transition to preschool.

Note: Originally developed for D69 TOPS Preschool Parent Group.

Tags

• Kids
• Families & Relationships

A Beginner's Guide to Thrillers: Staff Favorites

To complement the "Beginner's Guide to Thrillers" blog post, staff share their favorite titles from this genre.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Staff Picks
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Movies You Can Watch in 100 Minutes or Less

Enjoy these viewing suggestions.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Great Articles, Great Authors: Roxane Gay

To supplement our online discussion of Roxane Gay's article, "Bad Feminist," I've compiled this list of contemporary works on feminism.

Tags

• Adults
• Social Justice
• Strong Women

Teen Activists in Fiction

Get inspired to get involved in resistance movements and take political action like the teens in these fiction titles.

Tags

• Teens
• Social Justice

Love and Politics

Love and politics can be messy bedfellows, as you will see in these fiction titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Romance

Halloween Delights

Decorating, pumpkin carving, costume and mask making--crafts to explore come the long-awaited fall season. Everyone in the family can jump in and celebrate the season and appreciate autumnal delights.

Tags

• Kids
• Just Fun Stuff
• Holiday

Auto Mechanics for Everyone

Do you know your cam shaft from your pistons? The correct PSI for your tires? How often you should rotate your tires and change your oil? Take a look at this list to see what we have in our collection to help you out. Proper auto preventive care can extend the life of your vehicle and it's not that difficult. Give it a shot!

Tags

• Adults
• Science & Technology

Hispanic Heritage Month

Here are some of our favorite books by Hispanic authors and illustrators that celebrate the lives of Hispanic people, their contributions to our world, and the richness and vibrancy of their cultures. These are great books for families with kids ages 3-12.

Tags

• Kids

Classic Authors--Short Stories on Libby or Hoopla

The short story is often unsung. Many authors become famous with novels, but more than likely, they started out writing short stories. Sometimes their short stories are even better than their novels. Sometimes not. Here are some classic authors whose shorter works you might not have read...or even heard of!

Tags

• Adults
• Well-Crafted Writing

Wander the United States This Summer

What have I missed the most during this COVID-19 summer? Traveling! A true Sagittarius at heart, I long to be driving the coast highway in Maine, biking over mountain ranges, or paddling through marshes and lakes. But I, like so many, comfort myself with great library selections to keep my wanderlust satisfied for now. We have plenty of films and books to help us as armchair travelers and we can savor our grand country through literature and movies. So, I will be writing about various parts of the country that I have visited or long to visit again. Second location is Michigan (my first was Montana).

Tags

• Adults
• Summertime Selections

"Best American" Short Works Collections on Hoopla or Libby

One of the most famous series of collected works out there, the "Best American" series began life in 1915 with "Best American Short Stories." So, 105 years old and still going strong! This is just a sampling of one from each of the series. Many more editions are available (mostly through Hoopla).

Tags

• Adults
• Well-Crafted Writing

Sharon's Picks

Here are some under-the-radar recent favorites you can check out from the library.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Rascally Boys in Movies

Boys who steal your heart, give you pause, make you mad, and engage you for life! Haven't we all fallen under the spell of young men who defend their family or brighten the screen with their rambunctious, sometimes pugnacious personalities? Or perhaps it's their quiet empathy for others (including animals) that catches our attention. In any case, we willingly let them into our psyche, because there is resonance with whom they are and what they do! Who's your favorite rascally boy?

Tags

• Adults
• Kids
• Movies & TV

Book Chat with Library Staff, Part Two

Allyson and Becca, with many Skokie Public Library staff members, got together to bring you what they have been reading, listening to, and enjoying recently.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Staff Picks
• Summertime Selections

A Long List of Short Novels

These books, each with 220 pages or fewer, are perfect for these strange times where our focus is so divided. Some classics, some contemporary, these novels might be low on pages but they are high on entertainment.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Summertime Selections

Get Out of the House

This handy guide to imagining and creating activities and adventures in your backyard and beyond includes books for all ages.

Tags

• Adults
• Kids
• Summertime Selections
• The Natural World

Help Stop Littering

For our friends of the earth who are ages 3-8, this collection of books introduces the problem of littering and offers some practical suggestion for things we can all do.

Tags

• Kids
• The Natural World

Movies Shot around or Set in Chicago, Part One

Here's a selection of great movies featuring out great city!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Movies Shot around or Set in Chicago, Part Two

Even more of Chicago in the movies!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Build Sandcastles

Many beaches and parks with sandlots are open now that it's summer, and who doesn't like being at the beach or park on a beautiful sunny day, building sandcastles? Sandcastle contests take place all over the world, but the one you make at your neighborhood beach is the true winner. Here are selections for all ages that impart how-to basics as well as poems and songs about summer and sandcastles.

Tags

• Adults
• Kids
• Summertime Selections
• Just Fun Stuff

Build a Healthy Life

Plenty of sleep, an organic plant-based diet, meditation, eight glasses of water and 30 minutes of exercise a day (preferably outside, engaging with friends and family, social distancing as much as possible). All of these things, and many more, contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Discover in these books foods and activities that will contribute to your joy and health.

Tags

• Adults
• Health & Wellness

Wander the USA This Summer

What do I miss the most during this COVID-19 summer? Traveling! A true Sagittarius at heart, I long to be driving the coast highway in Maine, biking over mountain ranges, or paddling through marshes and lakes. But I, like so many, comfort myself with great library selections to keep my wanderlust satisfied for now. We have plenty of films and books to help us as armchair travelers and we can savor our grand country through literature and movies. So, I will be writing about various parts of the country that I have visited or long to visit again. First location is Montana.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Journeys and Travels

Career Resources

Whether you are looking for a job right now or are considering making a career change, here are some great books to explore. See more ways the library can help: skokielibrary.info/services/job-seekers

Tags

• Adults
• Business & Careers

Supporting Kids on the Spectrum

A selection of books for parents and caregivers of children on the autism spectrum.

Tags

• Adults
• Families & Relationships

Book Chat with Library Staff

Allyson and Becca invited fellow Skokie Public Library staff members to share what they have been reading and enjoying recently. Now we're sharing them with you!

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

Royal Movies, Part Two

Of the many films made about princes and kings, princesses and queens, I believe these films should be at the top of any royal watch list.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Comfort during COVID-19: Helping Others

Some of our favorite books for parents to share with kids ages 3-6 during troubling times.

Tags

• Kids
• Families & Relationships

Comfort during COVID-19: Fears

Some of our favorite books for parents to share with kids ages 3-6 during troubling times.

Tags

• Kids
• Families & Relationships

Comfort during COVID-19: Optimism

Some of our favorite books for parents to share with kids ages 3-6 during troubling times.

Tags

• Kids
• Families & Relationships

Comfort during COVID-19: Humor

Some of our favorite books for parents to share with kids ages 3-6 during troubling times.

Tags

• Kids
• Families & Relationships
• Health & Wellness

Summer 2020: Books about Reading for Grades 3-5

Enjoy these books about words, reading, libraries and more. Then find lots of great reading activity ideas in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Reading, Libraries, and Books

Summer 2020 Books about Reading for Grades K-2

Enjoy these books about words, reading, libraries and more. Then find lots of great reading activity ideas in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Reading, Libraries, and Books

Summer 2020 Books about Reading for Grades 6-8

Enjoy these books about words, reading, libraries and more. Then find lots of great reading activity ideas in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Reading, Libraries, and Books

Summer 2020 Books about Reading for Preschoolers

You will love these books about words, reading, libraries and more! Then find lots of great reading activity ideas in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Reading, Libraries, and Books

Independent Feature Movies from Black Women Directors

Enjoy one or more of these feature movies.

Tags

• Adults
• Black Lives Matter
• Movies & TV

Summer 2020: Books about Food for Grades 3-5

Read these yummy books, then find lots of great food activity ideas in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Food & Drink

Summer 2020: Books about Food for Preschoolers

Share some of these yummy books, then find lots of great food activity ideas in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Food & Drink

Summer 2020: Books about Food for Grades K-2

Read one of these yummy books, then find lots of great food activity ideas in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Food & Drink

Summer 2020: Books about Food for Grades 6-8

Find lots of great food activity ideas to accompany these books in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Food & Drink

Summer 2020: Books about Making Things for Preschoolers

Find a fun book here, then find lots of great "making" activity ideas in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• For Artistic Temperaments

Summer 2020: Books about Making Things for Grades 6-8

Read one of these books, then find lots of great creative activity ideas in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• For Artistic Temperaments

Summer 2020: Books about Making Things for Grades 3-5

In addition to these books, find lots of great creative activity ideas in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• For Artistic Temperaments

Summer 2020: Books about Making Things for Grades K-2

In addition to these books about creating and inventing, you can find great creative activity ideas in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• For Artistic Temperaments

Summer 2020: Books about Sharing and Caring for Grades 6-8

Read one of these books, then find great ideas for giving back in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Sharing and Caring

Summer 2020: Books about Sharing and Caring for Grades 3-5

Read one of these books, then find great ideas for giving back in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Sharing and Caring

Summer 2020: Books about Sharing and Caring for Grades K-2

Read one of these great books, then find great ideas for giving back in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Sharing and Caring

Summer 2020: Books about Sharing and Caring for Preschoolers

In addition to reading these books, you can find great ideas for giving back in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Sharing and Caring

Summer 2020: Books Featuring Journeys and Travels for Grades K-2

Read these books, then find great ideas for "wandering" in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Journeys and Travels

Summer 2020: Books Featuring Journeys and Travels for Grades 3-5

Read one of these books, then find great ideas for "wandering" in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Journeys and Travels

Summer 2020: Books Featuring Journeys and Travels for Grades 6-8

Read one of these books, then find great ideas for "wandering" in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Journeys and Travels

Summer 2020: Books Featuring Journeys and Travels for Preschoolers

In addition to reading these books, you can find great ideas for "wandering" in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Journeys and Travels

Summer 2020: Books Featuring Games and Sports for Grades 6-8

Read one of these books, then find great ideas for play activities in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Just Fun Stuff

Summer 2020: Books Featuring Games and Sports for Grades 3-5

Read one of these books, then find great ideas for play activities in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Just Fun Stuff

Summer 2020: Books Featuring Games and Sports for Grades K-2

Read one of these books, then find great ideas for play activities in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Just Fun Stuff

Summer 2020: Books Featuring Games and Sports for Preschoolers

Read these fun books, then find great ideas for play activities in the Summer Reading 2020 Idea Book.

Tags

• Kids
• Just Fun Stuff

Royal Movies, Part One

Of the many films made about princes and kings, princesses and queens, these are the ones that I believe should be at the top of any royal watch list. Part one focuses on British royals.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• For History Buffs

Skokie Spirit Shines Through (Ages 3-8)

The Skokie Spirit Shines Through campaign is meant to highlight the strength of our community, especially during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. These picture books feature themes of being a good neighbor, self-care, gratitude, and kindness.

Tags

• Kids
• Families & Relationships
• Health & Wellness

Vacations Gone Wrong

Doesn't something always go wrong on vacation--the weather, the missed train, the dragon living nearby that you forgot to consider (to paraphrase Tolkien)? These streaming/downloadable movies and eBooks are about vacations that weren't.

Tags

• Adults
• Summertime Selections
• Just Fun Stuff

Neglected Black Histories on Hoopla Audiobooks

Authors continue to bring to light episodes of Black American history that were overlooked or even suppressed in the past. These eye-opening audiobook accounts are available for immediate download on the Hoopla website or app.

Tags

• Adults
• Black Lives Matter
• Social Justice
• Audiobooks
• For History Buffs

Intriguing Black Lives on Hoopla Audiobooks

These audiobook biographies and memoirs will introduce to people who will broaden your awareness of what it means to be Black in this country. All are available for immediate download on the Hoopla website or app.

Tags

• Adults
• Black Lives Matter
• Social Justice
• Audiobooks
• For History Buffs
• Strong Women

Skokie Spirit Shines Through (Grades 3-5)

The Skokie Spirit Shine Through campaign is meant to highlight the strength of our community during the COVID-19 pandemic. These books can help kids in grades 3-5 find ways to feel hope and build community.

Tags

• Kids
• Health & Wellness

Independent LGBTQ Movies

Enjoy these selections that you can stream or download any time.

Tags

• Adults
• Social Justice
• Movies & TV

Social Justice-Themed Movies

Here are some feature movie recommendations that focus on social justice in some way. As a white person, I want to learn more about systematic racism and inequalities to be a better ally against racism. Movies not only entertain, they can also broaden perspectives, start conversations, and increase awareness. All these titles are available from our physical collection. However, if you like to stream movies, check the website justwatch.com for digital options outside the library’s collection.

Tags

• Adults
• Black Lives Matter
• Social Justice
• Movies & TV

Racism in the United States: Specific Stories

Documentaries about individuals who have fought against prejudice and the racial divide that still exists in this country.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Black Lives Matter
• Social Justice
• Movies & TV
• For History Buffs

Racism in America: Documentaries

Documentaries about prejudice and the racial divide that still exist in this country.

Tags

• Adults
• Black Lives Matter
• Social Justice
• Movies & TV
• For History Buffs

Anti-Racism Bookshelf Vol. 2

Jane Mount, of Ideal Bookshelf, is known for her hand-drawn prints featuring curated books about different topics or personalized depictions of a person's "ideal bookshelf." She recently crowd-sourced anti-racism titles and made a print featuring those titles. As a white person, reading my way through the anti-racism bookshelf to learn more about systemic oppression and structural racism is one thing I can do to be a better ally. This list is not comprehensive, but it is a great place to start.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Black Lives Matter
• Social Justice
• Well-Crafted Writing
• For History Buffs

Anti-Racism Bookshelf Vol. 1

Jane Mount, of Ideal Bookshelf, is known for her hand-drawn prints featuring curated books about different topics or personalized depictions of a person's "ideal bookshelf." She recently crowd-sourced anti-racism titles and made a print featuring those titles. As a white person, reading my way through the anti-racism bookshelf to learn more about systemic oppression and structural racism is one thing I can do to be a better ally. This list is a great place to start.

Tags

• Adults
• Black Lives Matter
• Social Justice
• Well-Crafted Writing
• Biography & Memoir
• For History Buffs

Cool Summer Reads 2020

Great books for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders to read over the summer!

Tags

• Kids

Hot Summer Reads 2020

Attention junior high students. From hundreds of new books, we've chosen 10 we know you will love. Sci-fi, horror, fantasy, romance–they're all here.

Tags

• Kids

Wander the World with Travelogues, Part 2

From the comfort of your home, these books will take you all over the globe.

Tags

• Adults
• Wild Adventures
• Journeys and Travels

Summer Fun for Grades 6-8

Our Youth Services team have put together some of their warm weather favorites.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Summertime Selections
• Just Fun Stuff

Summer Fun for Grades 3-5

Our Youth Services team have put together some of their warm weather favorites.

Tags

• Kids
• Summertime Selections
• Just Fun Stuff

Summer Fun for Grades K-2

Our Youth Services team have put together some of their warm weather favorites.

Tags

• Kids
• Summertime Selections
• Just Fun Stuff

Summer Fun for Preschoolers

Our Youth Services staff gathered some of their warm weather favorites.

Tags

• Kids
• Summertime Selections
• Just Fun Stuff

Reading, Libraries, and Books

Enjoy these suggestions that you can stream or download anytime.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Audiobooks
• Reading, Libraries, and Books

Wander the World with Travelogues, Part 1

From the comfort of your home, these books will take you all over the globe.

Tags

• Adults
• Well-Crafted Writing
• Biography & Memoir
• Global Perspectives
• Journeys and Travels

Wander with Movies Set around the World

Since we can't travel right now, use these films to escape your house and see the world.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Journeys and Travels

Wander the Streets of New York City

Are you missing the Big Apple? In many of these movies, the City becomes a character; in others it is a beautiful or scary background to the action taking place on the screen.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Journeys and Travels

Play and Eat in Your Outdoor Living Space

Do you wish you could convert your backyard space into an English garden or a California style oasis? Being outdoors is healthy for your mind and body--especially if you can share it with pets! Plants for sun and shade, wind and chill protection, outdoor furniture and rugs that are designed to withstand the elements, are easily procured and affordable. Let's move outdoors!

Tags

• Adults
• Summertime Selections
• The Natural World
• Just Fun Stuff

Build Stronger Bones

We all know how important strong bones are, especially for the elderly. Calcium is key but there are other considerations; many non-dairy, too. Weight-bearing exercises and working out on a regular basis keep bones strong. Bone broth and collagen supplements are also important. I've listed print as well as digital resources available to anyone interested in galvanizing their bones for a sturdier lifestyle.

Tags

• Adults
• Health & Wellness

Spin a Salad

Is there anything better than freshly picked heirloom tomatoes, crisp garden cucumbers, French radishes, and early summer carrots, tossed with fresh romaine or bibb lettuce and your own homemade vinaigrette/salad dressing? Salads are versatile, healthy, and downright delicious, and they can be served for lunch or supper. My list explores books dedicated solely to the art of salad making. Enjoy!

Tags

• Adults
• Summertime Selections
• Food & Drink

Summer Fun and Warm Weather Titles

Here are some selections that you can stream or download any time.

Tags

• Adults
• Summertime Selections
• Movies & TV
• Audiobooks
• Wild Adventures
• Global Perspectives

Swim!

While the pools and beaches are closed for swimming, splash around with these books and movies that have swimming themes. This list focuses primarily on material that's available electronically.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Summertime Selections

Summertime Bossa Nova

I’m a huge fan of bossa nova--the summery, jazzy, intimate, samba-inflected Brazilian music that cut a quirky swath through late '50s and '60s popular music. Perfect music for breezy summer nights, Hoopla has several classics available for streaming. Here are a few I think you’ll enjoy.

Tags

• Adults
• Summertime Selections
• Global Perspectives
• Music

Summer Afropop

Made up of 54 countries, each teeming with its own individual histories and rich musical traditions, it’s impossible to offer anything but the most rudimentary glance at the wealth of amazing recorded music that emerged from the continent of Africa over the last half-century. Here are a handful of wonderful, lilting albums, perfect for backyard barbecues, introspective star-gazing, or just chilling in the hammock.

Tags

• Adults
• Summertime Selections
• Global Perspectives
• Music

'Beach' Movies on Hoopla

The equivalent of "beach reads," these movies are light and fun...perfect popcorn movies for summer nights.

Tags

• Adults
• Summertime Selections
• Movies & TV
• Just Fun Stuff

'Can't-Miss' Mysteries Audiobooks

Sometimes you want to take risks and sometimes you want to play it safe. These mysteries are all tried-and-true favorites with broad appeal, as safe as T-bonds. All are available for immediate download on the Hoopla website or app.

Tags

• Adults
• Audiobooks
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Film Noir Movies on Kanopy

Try out Kanopy and binge watch some moody movies in the comfort of your own home!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Classics & Award Winners
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Visiting Your Friends from Pawnee

Parks and Recreation aired from 2009 to 2015, giving viewers an inside look at the fictional government department in Pawnee, Indiana. Five years after wrapping up the last show, they reunited for one more episode to raise money for COVID-19 relief. To help with Parks & Rec withdrawal, enjoy some audiobooks and videos from various cast members that you can stream via Hoopla or Overdrive.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Audiobooks
• Biography & Memoir
• For History Buffs
• Nerd Pride
• Strong Women
• Just Fun Stuff

Relaxing Albums on Hoopla

Ambient, mellow, calming music for dreaming. Here are a few of my favorite albums for relaxing and floating downstream.

Tags

• Adults
• For Artistic Temperaments
• Music

Independent Movies to Stream

Enjoy some independent movies that you can watch using our streaming platforms, Hoopla or Kanopy.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• For Artistic Temperaments
• Global Perspectives

UK TV Series on Hoopla

Feeling a bit Brit? Try out Hoopla and binge watch some good TV series in the comfort of our own home!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Mysteries & Thrillers
• Global Perspectives

The Wonders of Bird Nests

Spring means birds are building nests, incubating their eggs, and hatching little ones. If you are keeping watch on a real nest outside, lucky you! These books and films that can enhance your appreciation of our feathered friends.

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• Adults
• The Natural World

Peace Amid the Pandemic (ages 3-8)

In this uncertain time, it can be hard to talk with our young children about what’s going on in our world, especially when we feel unsettled or afraid. Reading together can help. Check out these digital picture books and streaming videos while you’re spending time at home.

Tags

• Kids
• Health & Wellness

Vintage Movies on Hoopla

Rediscover the classics in the comfort of your own home!

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