Lists

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
• Summer Reading 2020
• 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
• Summer Reading 2020
• 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
• Summer Reading 2020
• 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
• Summer Reading 2020
• 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
• Summer Reading 2020
• 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
• Summer Reading 2020
• 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
• Summer Reading 2020
• 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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020

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
• Summer Reading 2020
• Summertime Selections

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
• Summer Reading 2020
• Summertime Selections

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
• Summer Reading 2020
• Summertime Selections

Wander the World with Travelogues, Part 2

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

Tags

• Adults
• Summer Reading 2020
• Wild Adventures

Summer Fun for Grades 6-8

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

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Summer Reading 2020
• Summertime Selections

Summer Fun for Grades 3-5

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

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading 2020
• Summertime Selections

Summer Fun for Grades K-2

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

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading 2020
• Summertime Selections
• Just Fun Stuff

Summer Fun for Preschoolers

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

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading 2020
• Summertime Selections
• Just Fun Stuff

Reading, Libraries, and Books

Enjoy these suggestions that you can stream or download anytime.

Tags

• Adults
• Summer Reading 2020
• 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
• Summer Reading 2020
• Well-Crafted Writing
• Biography & Memoir
• Global Perspectives

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
• Summer Reading 2020
• Movies & TV

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
• Summer Reading 2020
• Movies & TV

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
• Summer Reading 2020
• Summertime Selections
• The Natural World

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
• Summer Reading 2020
• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Classics & Award Winners

My Favorite Audiobook Histories on Hoopla

I listen to a lot of histories on audiobook and rarely am I completely disappointed. These audiobooks, though, stand out as particular favorites. All are available for immediate download on the Hoopla app or website.

Tags

• Adults
• Audiobooks
• For History Buffs

Audiobooks for an Epidemic on Hoopla

Human beings have been facing down epidemics for as long as we've been human. These audiobooks make for engrossing listening as they recount episodes in the ongoing struggle of people against plagues. All are available for immediate download on the Hoopla website or app.

Tags

• Adults
• Audiobooks
• For History Buffs
• Offbeat (and a Little Dark)
• The Natural World
• Health & Wellness

Listen to a Microhistory with Hoopla Audiobooks

Find yourself staring at your walls? What better time to listen to a microhistory of walls or some other everyday object or practice! You can download these always available downloadable audiobooks on the Hoopla app or website.

Tags

• Adults
• Audiobooks
• For History Buffs
• Offbeat (and a Little Dark)

Laugh, Learn, and Listen to Hoopla Audiobooks

Laugh and learn at the same time while listening to these and other Hoopla audiobooks. All can be immediately downloaded from the Hoopla app or website.

Tags

• Adults
• Audiobooks
• Nerd Pride
• Just Fun Stuff

Travel the World with Hoopla Audiobooks

Even if you're stuck at home, you can travel the world though the magic of downloadable audiobooks. Most will make you laugh and all will transport you, if only in your mind. You can download them immediately by going to the Hoopla app or website.

Tags

• Adults
• Audiobooks
• Global Perspectives

Under the Radar Family Movies to Stream

Enjoy some off-the-beaten-path suggestions that you can watch via our streaming platforms Hoopla or Kanopy. Age recommendations provided by commonsensemedia.org, where available.

Tags

• Kids
• Movies & TV
• Just Fun Stuff

Feel-Good Movies to Stream

Enjoy some upbeat movie suggestions that you can watch via our streaming platforms Hoopla or Kanopy.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Movies & TV

Under the Radar World Cinema to Stream

Enjoy some international movies that you can watch via our streaming platforms, Hoopla or Kanopy.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Global Perspectives

Graphic Novels I've Been Meaning to Read

You'd think that someone who loves reading as much as I do would embrace this time to work through the tremendous "to-read" pile of novels and nonfiction I've accumulated. Alas, I just can't seem to focus on any book for very long. Graphic novels, on the other hand, are a little easier right now. I'm turning to Hoopla's collection of graphic novels, and on Hoopla, there's never a hold list. These are the ones I'm going to read first.

Tags

• Adults
• Comics & Graphic Novels

Best Animals of 2019

These creatures captured our attention because of their life experience, nobility, bravery, wisdom, and charm. I'm not talking cute kitty picture personality (although they have a place in our annals as well), rather, bold, robust dispositions and soulful depth.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Movies & TV

Exploring Rehabilitation and Our Prison System

These resources introduce the work of Hustle 2.0 and provide some of the background on mass incarceration, rehabilitation, and the U.S. prison system that I have explored in the past 18 months.

Tags

• Adults
• Black Lives Matter
• Social Justice

Cyberpunk Icons

Cyberpunk incorporates advanced technology in dystopian settings. Technology can work as ally or enemy, or sometimes both.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Movies & TV
• Wild Adventures

Beginner’s Guide to Romance Books

Romance provides readers with entertainment, sexual empowerment, emotional fulfillment, lots of fun, and an emotionally satisfying happily ever after (or at least a happily for now). And in this day and age, who doesn't want that?

Tags

• Adults
• Romance

Black and Proud! Black History Month Booklist (ages 5-13)

Want to celebrate Black History Month by reading books that feature black characters but don't know where to start? This list is for you. It has something that everyone will enjoy. Remember, any time of the year is a good time to read books by and about Black people!

Tags

• Kids
• Black Lives Matter
• Social Justice
• For History Buffs

Black History Month: Music

For Black History Month, we're highlighting staff-recommended music created and performed by black musicians.

Tags

• Staff Picks
• Music

Black History Month: Movies & TV

For Black History Month, we're highlighting staff-recommended movies and television written, produced, or directed by black creators.

Tags

• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

Black History Month: Books

For Black History Month, we're highlighting staff-recommended books written by black authors or featuring black characters, for readers of all ages.

Tags

• Staff Picks

When the Oscars Got It Right

I do tend to knock the Oscars a lot for not always picking what I think they should pick (the HORROR!). Here are times from 1990-2018 where I actually agreed with The Academy.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Classics & Award Winners

Coming Together 2020

Enjoy the featured materials selected for Coming Together 2020, Journeys to Niles Township.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Coming Together

Girls You Wanna Meet--Sassy, Smart, and Full of Spunk

Young women who inspire and delight us--that's what this list is about. Whether found in books or movies (or both), they constantly provide a fresh perspective, laughable dialog, heartbreaking pathos, muted strength, or a nuanced performance.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Strong Women

2020 Oscar Nominees

Although The Irishman, Marriage Story, and The Two Popes are exclusives on Netflix, here are some Academy Award nominees that you can check out from the library.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Chicago Cookbooks

Cookbooks for when you are craving home-cooked Chicago cuisine.

Tags

• Adults
• Food & Drink

Celebrating Winter Holidays with Food

Full disclosure: I have not (yet!) tested the recipes in these books. I am a sucker for luscious food photography, however, so if the two are correlated, the results should be delicious!

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Food & Drink
• Holiday

Short Books, Big Ideas - Science

One of my favorite kinds of books, and there are so many good ones.

Tags

• Adults
• Science & Technology
• The Natural World

2019 Staff Picks: Nonfiction

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2019 Staff Picks: Fiction

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2019 Staff Picks: Movies

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2019 Staff Picks: Music

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Music

2019 Staff Picks: Graphic Novels

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2019 Staff Picks: Mystery and Suspense

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2019 Staff Picks: TV Series

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2019 Staff Picks: Young Adult

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

Tags

• Teens
• Staff Picks

2019 Staff Picks: Picture Books for Our Youngest Readers

Here are our favorite 2019 books to share with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. We hope that you enjoy these books as much as we do!

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

2019 Staff Picks: Books for Early Readers

Our favorite 2019 books for kids in kindergarten through 3rd grade. Happy reading, everyone!

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

2019 Staff Picks: Books for Middle Grade Readers

Here are our favorite 2019 books for 4th-6th graders. Happy reading, everyone!

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

Gratitude for Families with Young Kids

Sometimes I wish my daughters were still little. I'm grateful to have this opportunity to choose some great picture books for you to share with the little ones in your life, along with a wonderful little book, translated from French, on meditation for children.

Tags

• Kids
• Holiday
• Health & Wellness

Gratitude for Grown-Ups

It's a great time of year to consider, start, or strengthen the role of gratitude in our lives. These books represent just a tiny sample of what's out there, showing the power of gratitude through reflections, stories, and practical tips. Just putting this list together reminds me of many things I'm grateful for!

Tags

• Adults
• Holiday
• Health & Wellness

Movies for the Whole Family

With the cold weather, there's nothing better than cozying up on the couch with the family to watch a movie. Here's a list of films sure to entertain everyone!

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Kids
• Movies & TV
• Just Fun Stuff

Reading Is Fundamental: Gender and LGBTQ Books for Kids

For far too long, stories have been predominately about white, cis-het, people, making those who do not fit into this category feel left out. New books featuring more diverse characters give adults and kids alike the opportunity to finally see themselves in the stories they read. These books can help children understand their feelings, express themselves, and remind them that, however they choose to identify, they deserve respect.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Social Justice

Fantastic Female Fighter Movies

Have you ever wanted a one-stop shop for movies that feature a woman who isn't afraid to take charge? A girl who isn't afraid of a fight? Look no further than this list!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Strong Women

Housing Insecurity

Finding affordable housing in Cook County is becoming increasingly difficult. With few options on the market, families may be evicted from their current home, forced to couch surf, or even end up in homeless shelters. These books may help parents with the tough task of explaining a difficult housing situation. Resources for parents are also included.

Tags

• Adults
• Kids
• Social Justice
• Families & Relationships

Under-Told Histories of Racism and Immigration

"Why isn't this taught in our history books?!" Adults and children alike cry out when they learn about an injustice that the historical canon often does not discuss. While these injustices may not be taught in history books, they are being discussed today by many different authors. These books examine specific events in our time and in the recent past that deserve our attention. For kids ranging from about 7 to 17 and their families.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Black Lives Matter
• Social Justice
• Families & Relationships
• Global Perspectives

Hidden Gems, Foreign Edition

Flicks in other languages that you might have missed!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Global Perspectives

Hidden Gems 3.0

Craving more unsung films? Try these!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Hidden Gems 4.0

Even more titles you could have skipped past while browsing...

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Under the Radar 4.0

If you're looking for hidden gems and overlooked releases, check out the items on this list.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Indigenous Perspectives

In honor of indigenous peoples and their ways of life, here are some suggested titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

To the Moon and Back with Music

The Milky Way Galaxy, constellations, space travel, the planets, the moon, and the sun have intrigued composers and musicians for centuries. This list includes some of the best selections of this themed music from the classical, jazz, blues, and rock traditions.

Tags

• Adults
• Music

The Midnight Disease

In his novel Wonder Boys, Michael Chabon diagnoses writers with the "midnight disease," a form of insomnia driven by late-night inspiration, resulting in daytime madness. These movies and the books that influenced them demonstrate witness its effects.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• For Artistic Temperaments
• Offbeat (and a Little Dark)

Doin' the Downton

The Downton Abbey movie is now in theaters and it may be the highlight of the year. Well, for Anglophiles like me it is. For you, maybe just a mildly exciting happening. Regardless, if you are even slightly enthusiastic, use these items to enhance your enjoyment of both the upstairs Crawleys and the downstairs servants.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• For History Buffs

Non-Superhero Superheroes

These heroes do not need superpowers!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Two Time Periods Are Better Than One

These engaging, captivating novels feature intersecting stories set in two different times.

Tags

• Adults
• Strong Women
• Historical Fiction

Acting with a Disability

There are many actors with disabilities who have major roles in movies and television. Many are advocates for people with their same disability.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

The 20 Campiest Fashion Movies

The first Monday night in May, all eyes turn to New York City and the annual Met Gala. Celebrities and fashion insiders descend upon the Metropolitan Museum of Art and, this year's exhibition was framed around Susan Sontag’s 1964 essay Notes on "Camp." Bolton found Sontag’s writings so timely with what is going on culturally and politically that, “[he] felt it would have a lot of cultural resonance.” In light of the Met theme, I have put together a list of the most absurdist, out-of-this-world, exaggerated, futuristic, cheeky costume designs used in movies!

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Just Fun Stuff

Music by Featured Artists at Ravinia, June-mid July 2019

Ready to relax, engage with friends and neighbors in the beautiful setting we call Ravinia? Chicagoan's suffer through what sometimes seems to be an endless winter, so the Ravinia schedule is relished every year. Who doesn't long to hear some of the great stars of today, see some of the finest dancers, or view movies accompanied by the world-famous Chicago Symphony? Preview or embellish your enjoyment of this year's presentations, and get out and support and enjoy great, live music.

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• Adults
• Music

Movies about Friends and Neighbors

Find feature movies and documentaries about community, friendship, and helping one another.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

2019 District 65 Summer Reading List (K-2)

Check out these wonderful books recommended by Evanston/Skokie School District 65 librarians and teachers.

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• Kids

2019 District 65 Summer Reading List (3-5)

This list of summer reads was curated by Evanston/Skokie School District 65's librarians and teachers.

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• Kids

2019 District 65 Summer Reading List (Español)

The suggested grade levels for each book are included in the notes. Teachers in Evanston/Skokie District 65 selected these books.

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• Kids

2019 District 65 Summer Reading List (grades K-2)

These wonderful books are recommended by Evanston/Skokie School District 65 librarians and teachers.

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• Kids

2019 District 65 Summer Reading List (grades 3-5)

This list of summer reads for kids in grades 3-5 was compiled by Evanston/Skokie School District 65's librarians and teachers.

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• Kids

Summer 2019 Friends & Neighbors: Preschool Books

Connect, explore, imagine, and create. It's always more fun when you include family, friends, and neighbors.

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• Kids

Summer 2019 Friends & Neighbors: Grades K-2

Connect, explore, imagine, and create. It's more fun when you include family, friends, and neighbors.

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• Kids

Summer 2019 Friends & Neighbors: Grades 3-5

Connect, explore, imagine, and create. It's more fun when you include family, friends, and neighbors.

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• Kids

Summer 2019 Friends & Neighbors: Grades 6-8

Connect, explore, imagine, and create. It's more fun when you include family, friends, and neighbors.

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• Teens
• Kids

Opioid Epidemic

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 115 people in the U.S. die each day after overdosing on opioids. The Midwest has been hit particularly hard by this epidemic. Across the country, from rich neighborhoods to rural enclaves, it seems that no community has been spared the horror of this epidemic. It was caused, in good part, by doctors, seeking to help patients manage pain. Several publications now address the history and devastation of this epidemic, as well as responses by pharmaceutical companies, the federal government, faith leaders, and community activists.

[Supplement: Public libraries are helping communities respond to the devastation. The Public Library Association (PLA) and OCLC are producing eight case studies of varied communities in which the public library is playing a role in responding to the opioid crisis.]

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• Science & Technology
• Health & Wellness

2019 Niles North Summer Reading List

Pick up a great book, or several, from the official Niles North list for summer 2019.

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2019 Niles West Summer Reading List

Pick some great books for the summer! Here is the official Niles West reading list for summer 2019.

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• Teens

Shah Rukh Khan Films

I'll admit it. I'm a little obsessed with the famous Indian actor Shah Rukh Khan. And I discovered his films about a decade ago by checking them out from Skokie Public Library! These are some of my favorite SRK (Shah Rukh Khan) movies, from when he was the #1 heartthrob in Indian cinema.

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• Movies & TV
• Global Perspectives

Difficult Paths to Education

For many students, a formal education has not been easy to acquire. This may be because of political and equity reasons, weather-related delays or problems, gang-targeted school routes, families not valuing the importance of education, or learning challenges. This list examines the issues for those who have difficulty acquiring the education they so inherently deserve. My hope is that all of us come to appreciate and understand the priceless nature of education so many of us take for granted.

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• Adults
• For History Buffs
• Strong Women

Cool Summer Reads 2019

Some of our favorite books for kids in grades 3-5 to read this summer!

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• Kids

Hot Summer Reads 2019

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

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• Teens

Recent Hidden Gems, Part 1

Catch up on some "under the radar" films that might have come and gone without notice.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Recent Hidden Gems, Part 2

Even more "under the radar" films that might have come and gone without notice.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Become a Better Investor

Try one of these recent investment advice books.

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• Adults
• Money Matters

New Riffs on Retirement

Recent advice on preparing for a well-funded and happy retirement and possibly doing it at an earlier age.

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• Adults
• Money Matters

Be Money Smart in 2019

Personal finance books to help you manage your financial life.

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• Adults
• Money Matters

Under the Radar 3.0

If you're looking for hidden gems, overlooked releases, or slightly forgotten films, check out the items on this list.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Under the Radar 3.5

If you're looking for hidden gems, overlooked releases, or slightly forgotten films, check out the movies on this list.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Women in the Director's Chair

Celebrate women directors. Here are some recently released movies directed by women; some are veterans and others are up-and-coming filmmakers.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Books Inspired by the Arabian Nights

Although the influence of the Arabian Nights can hardly be reduced to eight books, I hope this selection gives an approximate idea of the range of that influence, and will gratify those readers who wish the Nights will never end.

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• Adults
• Wild Adventures
• Global Perspectives

BEST Best Pictures

Around "awards season," people often note the films that shouldn't have won Best Picture. Here, I'd rather highlight some of the best ones that did win...in my opinion.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Classics & Award Winners

Reading to Keep You Awake

From skin-crawlingly creepy horror to psychological suspense, these books will keep you up at night.

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• Adults
• Offbeat (and a Little Dark)
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Movies for Black History Month

In honor of Black History Month, here are some suggested titles from Black directors and featuring Black characters.

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• Movies & TV
• Classics & Award Winners
• For History Buffs

Black History Month Documentaries

In February, in honor of Black History Month, check out these documentaries on the Black experience, from either a contemporary or a historical point of view.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV

Black History Month 2019--Books for Adults and Teens

In honor of Black History Month, here are some recent titles celebrating Black lives that are perfect for adult and teen readers.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Biography & Memoir
• For History Buffs

It Ain't All Gamblers and Gunslingers

Westerns are peopled by many character types—from rebellious and headstrong men and women, to the desperate, confused, and outright maniacal—all of them bound together by the forbidding, but beautiful landscape that serves as a character in its own right.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Wild Adventures

Modern Film Noirs

Think noir movies are only black and white films from the 1940s? Well, think again!

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Offbeat (and a Little Dark)
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Beyond The Nutcracker

If you enjoy classical ballet, I invite you to also explore these contemporary ballet and modern dance features and documentaries. You'll be entertained and awed by the choreography, and by the athletic and artistic prowess of the dancers. And in some, you'll get to see how the choreographers work, as well. The following titles are by no means a complete list of the library's holdings! Also, there are oodles more titles to stream on Kanopy and Hoopla.

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• Movies & TV
• For Artistic Temperaments
• Music

Kindness Matters

These picture books emphasize the importance of being kind to everyone.

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• Kids
• Just Fun Stuff

Desi & Desi-American Fiction

As someone working on a novel about an Indian-American family, I am constantly trying to diversify my reading palette by diving into books by different Desi authors. Although Khaled Hosseini would be considered an Afghan author and not Desi, his first novel has resonated with me deeply and it would be a loss to omit from this list. Many of these titles are from the early 2000s but each tell an important tale that has, and will likely continue to, stand the test of time.

Tags

• Well-Crafted Writing
• Global Perspectives

Pairs Well with Wine

At home having a nice glass of wine and want something to watch? These films might go well with what you're sipping.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Romance

2018 Staff Picks: Picture Books to Share with Our Youngest Readers

Our favorite books for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

2018 Staff Picks: Teens

Our experts select the best books of 2018 for teens.

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• Teens
• Staff Picks

2018 Staff Picks: Books For Early Readers

Our favorite books for Kindergarten through Third Graders.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

2018 Staff Picks: Books for Middle Grade Readers

Our favorite books for 4th-6th graders.

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• Kids
• Staff Picks

2018 Staff Picks: Fiction

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

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• Adults
• Staff Picks

2018 Staff Picks: Mystery and Thriller

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

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• Staff Picks
• Mysteries & Thrillers

2018 Staff Picks: Nonfiction

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

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• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Biography & Memoir
• Science & Technology

2018 Staff Picks: Graphic Novels

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

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• Staff Picks
• Comics & Graphic Novels

2018 Staff Picks: Science Fiction and Fantasy

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

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• Staff Picks
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

2018 Staff Picks: Music

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

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• Staff Picks
• Music

2018 Staff Picks: Movies and TV

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

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• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

Off-Beat Graphic Novels for Adults

These quirky, often irreverent graphic novels are a bit off the beaten path. Find something new, dark, weird, or interesting to match your personality.

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• Adults
• Comics & Graphic Novels

In Their Words

This list of funny, insightful, and inspirational audiobook memoirs deliver more impact when read by the actual authors.

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• Audiobooks
• Biography & Memoir

Visually Stunning Films

Give your eyeballs a treat with these ground-breaking, fascinating, and gorgeous films.

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• Movies & TV
• Offbeat (and a Little Dark)
• Wild Adventures

Dark Futures

From sci-fi to modern classics, these are worlds you wouldn't want to find yourself living in.

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• Adults
• Classics & Award Winners
• Wild Adventures

Spooky Movies for Family Fun Part 2

More ideas for October viewing; take look and enjoy. Age recommendations provided by commonsensemedia.org, when available.

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• Teens
• Kids
• Movies & TV
• Offbeat (and a Little Dark)
• Just Fun Stuff

Movies about Movies

Hollywood has been self-examining itself for years. Here are some of the best!

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

Hitchcocktober

I cannot take credit for the creative merge of The Master of Suspense with the 10th month on the calendar. I saw it in a BBC America email and it spurred me on to recommend some spooky Hitchcockian tales.

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• Teens
• Movies & TV
• Offbeat (and a Little Dark)
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Notable Firsts and Promising Introductions

Enjoy this list of artistically significant movie debuts, starts, and firsts.

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• Movies & TV
• Classics & Award Winners
• Global Perspectives

Classic Rom-Coms by Classic Directors

Romantic comedies are hardly a recent addition to American cinema. Here are some oldies but goodies that are just as good—if not better—than today's rom coms.

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• Adults
• Classics & Award Winners
• Romance

Differently Dead

American funerary practices are big business that have little to do with the naturalness of death. Author and non-profit undertaker Caitlin Doughty wrote, “Due to the corporatization and commercialization of deathcare, we have fallen behind the rest of the world when it comes to proximity, intimacy, and ritual around death.” But that is changing—with the green burial movement, in particular. These books and movies explore alternatives to current mainstream funerary and deathcare practices.

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• Adults
• Offbeat (and a Little Dark)

On the Basis of Sex: Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Supreme Court Judge, exercise enthusiast, opera lover, advocate for equality, mentor to hundreds of female attorneys, role-model for many women—Ruth Bader Ginsburg (RBG) strikes fear and wonder into the hearts of many. This list views her through a variety of different lenses.

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• Adults
• Biography & Memoir
• For History Buffs

Stellar Courtroom Dramas

Looking for a little legal drama to spice up your life? Well, look no further than these great films set in the world of lawyers and courts.

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• Adults
• Classics & Award Winners
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Let's Go Back in Time! (6th-8th Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go back in time. The books on this list will help you travel back through time.

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• Kids
• For History Buffs

Let's Go Back in Time! (K-2nd Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go back in time. The books on this list will help you travel back through the pages of history.

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• Kids
• For History Buffs

Let's Go Back in Time! (3rd-5th Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go back in time. The books on this list will help you get a blast from the past.

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• Kids
• Historical Fiction
• Just Fun Stuff

Let's Go Back in Time! (picture books)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go back in time. The books on this list will help you step back into the past.

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• Kids
• Just Fun Stuff

Let's Go on a Quest! (3rd-5th Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on a quest. The books on this list will help you launch your next adventure.

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• Kids
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Let's Go to the Cinema! (6th-8th Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go to the Cinema. The books on this list inspired great movies.

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• Kids
• Movies & TV

Let's Go to the Cinema! (Picture Books)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go to the Cinema! The books on this list were turned into fantastic films.

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• Kids
• Movies & TV

Let's Go on a World Tour! (Picture Books)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on a World Tour! The books on this list will take you places you've only dreamed of visiting.

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• Kids

Let's Go on a Quest! (6th-8th Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on a quest!

Tags

• Kids
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Let's Go to the Cinema! (3rd-5th Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go to the Cinema! The books on this list inspired movie magic.

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• Kids
• Movies & TV

Let's Go to a Studio! (Picture Books)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go to the Studio! The books on this list will help inspire the imaginations of young artists.

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• Kids
• For Artistic Temperaments

Let's Go on a Picnic! (6th-8th Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on a Picnic! The books on this list will get you excited about food this summer.

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• Kids
• Food & Drink

Let's Go on a Picnic! (3rd-5th Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on a Picnic! The books on this list will help you work up an appetite.

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• Kids
• Food & Drink

Let's Go on a Picnic! (K-2nd Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on a Picnic! The books on this list will help you plan for your outdoor meal.

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• Kids
• Food & Drink

Let’s Go on a World Tour (Adult/Teen)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on a World Tour. Try these items and explore all parts of the planet.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Global Perspectives

Let’s Go to the Laboratory (Adult/Teen)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go to the laboratory. These works of science and science fiction provide a summer's worth of knowledge and entertainment.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Science Fiction & Fantasy
• Science & Technology

Let's Go To the Cinema (Adult/Teen)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go to the cinema! The books on this list will help you become a Summer Reading movie star.

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• Movies & TV
• Biography & Memoir

Let's Go on a Picnic (picture books)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on an picnic! Take a bite. These books are delicious.

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• Kids

Let's Go to the Park (Adult/Teen)

Skokie has tons of public parks and summer is the perfect time to visit them! These books are all about games and sports perfect for playing at the park or perfect for just reading at the park.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Just Fun Stuff

Let's Go to the Studio (Adult/Teen)

The following books will help jumpstart your creativity and entertain you with stories of artists.

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• Adults
• Teens
• For Artistic Temperaments
• Just Fun Stuff

Movie Nights at Ravinia 2018

This summer Ravinia is bringing us a great selection of movies which will be broadcast on large screens throughout the park. The amazing part is that the music scores will be played by live orchestras! Plan to hear some of the best film music composed by Bernard Herrmann, John Williams, and John Corigliano played by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Philharmonic.

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Let's Go To a Concert

Going to a concert can really transport the listener to another place—there is so much happening in and around the show. These books shed some light on the many factors that go into making it all happen!

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• Adults
• Music

Let's Go to Skokie (Adult/Teen)

Summer is the perfect time for a staycation so let's explore Skokie and earn that Summer Reading badge in the process!

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• Adults
• Teens
• Biography & Memoir
• For History Buffs

Let's Go on a Picnic

It's summertime and the outdoors is a-callin'. Grab a basket and blanket and head to the park, or fire up the grill in your own backyard. From the simple to the exotic, these books offer suggestions for outdoor eating. And there are culinary fiction books to enjoy, as well.

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• Adults
• Food & Drink

Milos Forman and His Movies

The Czech director of two of my favorite films (Amadeus and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest) passed away recently. And even though he did not direct many films, his impact on the filmmaking world is considered legendary.

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• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Classics & Award Winners

Let's Go to the Moon! (picture books)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go to the moon: 3, 2, 1, blast off!

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• Kids
• The Natural World

Let's Go to the Moon! (K-2nd Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go to the moon: 3, 2, 1, blast off!

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• Kids
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Let's Go to the Moon! (3rd-5th Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go to the moon: 3, 2, 1, blast off!

Tags

• Kids
• Science Fiction & Fantasy
• Science & Technology

Let's Go to the Moon! (6th-8th Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go to the moon: 3, 2, 1, blast off!

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• Kids
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

Let’s Go to the Moon (Adult/Teen)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go to the Moon. These books can take you to space and different realms and worlds without you having to leave your home. Blast off!

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• Adults
• Teens
• Science Fiction & Fantasy
• Science & Technology

Outstanding Audiobooks, 2018

This is a select list of finalists for the annual Audie Awards which recognize outstanding audiobooks and spoken-word entertainment. The awards were conferred in May. See if I picked the winners: https://www.audiopub.org/winners/2017-audies-1

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• Audiobooks
• Classics & Award Winners

33rd Chicago Gospel Festival June 1& 2, 2018

Before you start stomping your feet and clapping your hands at this year's Gospel Festival, take a look at this list of CDs and books that will enrich your experience of this world-class event.

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Let's Go on an Adventure (Adult/Teen)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on an Adventure. These books can take you to faraway places without you having to leave your comfiest chair.

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• Adults
• Teens
• Wild Adventures

Let's Go on an Adventure (3rd-5th Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on an adventure! These books will take you on the ride of your life.

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• Kids
• Wild Adventures

Let's Go on an Adventure (K-2nd Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on an adventure! These books will take you on the ride of your life

Tags

• Kids
• Wild Adventures

Let's Go on an Adventure (6th-8th Grade)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on an adventure! These books will take you on the ride of your life.

Tags

• Kids
• Wild Adventures

Let's Go on an Adventure (picture books)

In celebration of Summer Reading, let's go on an adventure! These books will take you on the ride of your life.

Tags

• Kids
• Wild Adventures

Niles North High School 2018 Summer Reading List

Niles North High School 2018 Summer Reading List

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• Teens

Niles West High School 2018 Summer Reading List

Niles West High School 2018 Summer Reading List

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• Teens

I’m Not Crying, You’re Crying

Some movies, despite our best efforts, make us cry. Tearjerkers, weepies, melodramas, and perhaps most pejoratively, the chick-flick, these films are often oppressively fine-tuned to elicit our sorrow. Here are some movies that earned my own recalcitrant tears.

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• Movies & TV
• For Artistic Temperaments
• Global Perspectives

Money Moves

This list features autobiographical books by famous black women who want to talk to you about money, relationships, discrimination and everything in between.

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Evanston Literary Festival 2018

Running May 12 through 20, 2018, the Evanston Literary Festival brings books to life. Guests include: Daniel Kraus (The Shape of Water), Audrey Niffenegger, Eddie Campbell, Charles Johnson, Nadine Strossen, Angela Morales, Ricardo Rowan Phillips, Sofa Samatar, and others. Coordinated specifically to coincide and partner with the Northwestern Spring Writers' Festival in mid-May, the festival casts a spotlight on the fantastic selection of literati (including readers, writers, and publishers) in and around the Evanston area.

Tags

• Classics & Award Winners
• Well-Crafted Writing
• Strong Women

Alaska!

As we celebrated longer hours of daylight this spring, I was reading a novel set in the interminable darkness of an Alaskan winter. Yet, despite the lack of daylight (just over 3 ½ hours on the shortest day in Fairbanks), Alaska inspires and fascinates many people who are looking for true wilderness and adventure, plus opportunities for quiet and solitude. Maybe you yourself don’t want to live there, but you can experience it vividly through these books.

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• Biography & Memoir
• Wild Adventures
• The Natural World

Armchair Travel

Want to take a staycation? Try these movies set in beautiful, scenic, breathtaking locales while staying in the comfort of your home.

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• Movies & TV
• Wild Adventures
• Global Perspectives

Hear Our Voice!

Movements like March for Our Lives have proven once again that anyone, regardless of age, can be civically engaged in a meaningful way. Whether that means organizing a protest or simply starting a conversation, this list is a new generation's guide to speaking up about injustice and creating change on a local and national level.

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• Teens
• Biography & Memoir
• Strong Women

Cool Summer Reads 2018

What's cooler than cool? These awesome summer reads for third through fifth graders!

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• Kids

Hot Summer Reads 2018

Attention junior high students: your summer reading list is here! Get them while they're hot and see how many great titles you can read from this awesome list

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• Teens
• Kids

Fairy Tales Retold

Your favorite timeless stories with a twist.

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• Strong Women
• Offbeat (and a Little Dark)
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Catch a Killer

Have you ever wondered if you have what it takes to track down a serial killer? Close a cold case? Discover a murderer in your own midst? The characters in these books will take you down the cold, dark road to an answer. You might not like what you find out.

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• Offbeat (and a Little Dark)
• Mysteries & Thrillers

Tchaikovsky at Chicago's Steppenwolf Theater

Playwright, pianist, and actor Hershey Felder is known for bringing musical greats like Irving Berlin, Leonard Bernstein, George Gershwin, and Franz Liszt to life with his engaging and acclaimed solo shows. His latest subject is Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky—not only considered one of Russia's greatest composers, one of the greatest composers of all time. Check out these selections before or after the performance and enrich your experience.

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• Biography & Memoir
• Music

Leonard Bernstein at 100

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of the great American musician, conductor, composer, and music educator, Leonard Bernstein. With so many local organizations paying tribute to this phenomenally creative artist, it is appropriate to take a look at his vast catalog of contributions. Included in this list are CDs, DVDs, and books to round out our tour of all things Bernstein.

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• Movies & TV
• Classics & Award Winners
• Music

Under the Radar 2.5

If you're looking for hidden gems, overlooked releases, or the slightly forgotten, check out the items on this list.

Tags

• Movies & TV
• Classics & Award Winners
• Strong Women

Get the Gardening Bug

For avid gardeners, floral dabblers, and armchair observers, here are some cinematic recommendations that have more blooms than weeds.

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• Summertime Selections
• The Natural World

Business Narratives

Highly readable accounts of recent business scandals, investigations, meltdowns, plant closings, new product developments, and the occasional happy development.

Tags

• Adults
• Biography & Memoir
• Money Matters
• Business & Careers

Underwater Beauty: Shedd Aquarium's Special Exhibit

Oceans, lakes, and rivers are filled with unusual and stunning creatures. Many of us never get to see what beauty lies beneath the surface. Chicago's Shedd Aquarium is the best place to see these strange and bizarre creatures. But before you head to the museum, take a glance at the gems we have in our collection. It will enhance your visit.

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• Science & Technology
• The Natural World

Lagom: Culture of Enough

Last year I compiled a list on hygge, the Danish expression for cozy, warm, and homey. This season, I want to highlight a new trend which many Americans are embracing (including Oprah): lagom, which means "just the right amount."

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• Global Perspectives
• Just Fun Stuff
• Health & Wellness

Under the Radar Picks 2.0

If you're looking for hidden gems, overlooked releases, or the slightly forgotten, check out the items on this list.

Tags

• Movies & TV
• Romance
• Global Perspectives