Lists

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 on June 19, 1865 with the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas. 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 in December 1865 made slavery unconstitutional. It is a day to celebrate freedom and also to remember the genocide of enslaved African Americans.

Tags

• Adults
• Black Lives Matter
• Social Justice

Photography for Kids

As the library's staff photographer, I know that photography is super fun and possible for kids to do. Plus, now that we have camera phones, anyone can take pictures easily and just about anywhere. Want to get started? With these books, you’ll learn about the history of photography, important photographers, tips and tricks, and even get to try your hand at experiments and simple projects and prompts. You’re going to have a blast–I can just picture it!

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• For Artistic Temperaments

Picture Books for Tough Times

Books to share with little ones that can provide some inspiration, perspective, and comfort when the world feels like a scary place.

Tags

• Kids

Stories that Reflect

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

Tags

• Adults
• LGBTQ+

PRIDE Movies and TV Series

Films you can watch to celebrate Pride Month.

Tags

• Adults
• LGBTQ+
• Movies & TV

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

Stories with everything the title says, told through a queer lens.

Tags

• Adults
• LGBTQ+

Songs of Existence

Music that evokes the drama, heartache, struggle, liberation, and beauty of queer lives.

Tags

• Adults
• LGBTQ+
• Music

Stories of Experience

How people celebrate Pride is as varied as the experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals. These books share an array of perspectives, but are still only a small selection of the LGBTQIA+ experience.

Tags

• Adults
• LGBTQ+

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).

Tags

• Adults
• LGBTQ+

Nonfiction Books to Read This Summer

Our staff suggest some fascinating nonfiction books for your summer reading pleasure. Enjoy!

Tags

• Adults
• Summer Reading

Celebrating Jewish Voices

Explore and get inspired by Jewish biographies, culinary traditions, and memoirs.

Tags

• Adults

Jewish Life and Culture in Film

From feature films to documentaries, explore a wide range of stories of the Jewish experience through film.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

Engrossing Stories of Jewish Experience

From fantasy to literary fiction to romance, explore a wide range of stories of the Jewish experience in fiction for adults and teens.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens

Jewish American Heritage Month: Books for Kids

Enjoy these books focusing on Jewish Americans for babies through grade 8.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids

Essential Nonfiction Exploring Asian Culture and Asian American Experiences

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

Tags

• Adults

Enthralling Asian American Fiction

Here are some of our staff's favorite fiction titles written by Asian American authors. These books will make you laugh, cry, and captivate you until the end.

Tags

• Adults

Compelling Pacific Islander Stories

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

Tags

• Adults

Asian Perspectives on Screen

In recent years, the entertainment industry seems to be moving a bit forward in a positive direction when it comes to Asian and Asian American films. In 2020, Parasite, a Korean movie, even 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!

Tags

• 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, sweet and fiery romance, action-filled and entrancing fantasy, all the way to bone-chilling horror.

Tags

• Adults

Science Fun!

Some science fact, some science fiction, all science fun. Books for preschoolers through grade 5.

Tags

• Kids
• Science & Technology

Islam: Culture, Diversity, and Religion

Islam is the second largest world religion. It is also one of the most misunderstood. These books provide a window and a mirror to those who would like to learn more about the religion, its influence on culture, and the tireless work of Muslims who stand up against Islamophobia.

Tags

• Adults
• Religion, Faith & Spirituality
• Global Perspectives

Spotlighting Muslim Voices: Grades K-8

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Religion, Faith & Spirituality
• Global Perspectives

Spotlighting Muslim Authors in Teen Fiction

Tags

• Teens
• Religion, Faith & Spirituality
• Global Perspectives

Spotlighting Muslim Authors in Adult Fiction

Tags

• Adults
• Religion, Faith & Spirituality
• Global Perspectives

Hot Summer Reads 2022 (Grades 6-8)

The Hot Summer Reads list for 2022 includes graphic novels, horror, romance, political thrillers, and much more!

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Summer Reading

Cool Summer Reads 2022 (Grades 3-5)

Mysteries, friendships, vampires and dragons, a magical train, two goats, two elephants, a life-changing game, and more. This year's books will keep you guessing, make you laugh, and inspire you.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading

Breezy Summer Reads 2022 (Grades K-2)

From picture books, to nonfiction, to beginning readers, to chapter books, these terrific books are sure to delight kids in grades K-2 and their grown-ups.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading

2022 Oscar Nominees

You can check out these Academy Award nominees from the library.

Tags

• Adults
• Kids
• Movies & TV

Women's Stories

Although it is impossible to fully encompass the breadth of women's experience, these are some of our recent favorites.

Tags

• Adults
• Strong Women

Women Overcoming

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

Tags

• Adults
• For History Buffs
• Strong Women

Inspiration: Stories of Women's Accomplishments

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

Tags

• Adults
• Strong Women

Feminist Movement and Theory

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

Tags

• Adults
• Strong Women

Coming Together 2022: Books for Adults

Enjoy materials selected for Coming Together 2022, Sharing Experiences of Disability. For more information about Coming Together 2022, go to https://www.comingtogether.in

Tags

• Adults
• Coming Together

Coming Together 2022: Books for Teens

Enjoy materials selected for Coming Together 2022, Sharing Experiences of Disability. For more information about Coming Together 2022, go to https://www.comingtogether.in

Tags

• Teens
• Coming Together

Coming Together 2022: Books for Grades 6-8

Enjoy materials selected for Coming Together 2022: Sharing Experiences of Disability. More at https://www.comingtogether.in

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Coming Together

Coming Together 2022: Books for Grades 3-5

Enjoy materials selected for Coming Together 2022: Sharing Experiences of Disability. More at https://www.comingtogether.in

Tags

• Kids
• Coming Together

Coming Together 2022: Books for Grades K-2

Enjoy materials selected for Coming Together 2022: Sharing Experiences of Disability. More information: https://www.comingtogether.in

Tags

• Kids
• Coming Together

Books You’ll Fall in Love With

Lovely books for babies through teens about love in many forms.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids

Brewing a Better Cup of Coffee

Whether you’re a simple fan or a self-proclaimed home barista, these books will get you closer to understanding and mastering your perfect cup of coffee.

Tags

• Adults
• Food & Drink

For the Love of Coffee

Pour yourself a cup and get cozy with these coffee-inspired reads.

Tags

• Adults
• Food & Drink

Sweet Reads

Our library staff make their swooning and romantic Valentine's Day reading picks.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Romance

Excellence in Black Fiction

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

Tags

• Adults
• Well-Crafted Writing
• Black History Month

Preserving Culture and the Power of Inspiration

This list of music and nonfiction books for Black History Month 2022 likely features one or more ways to feed your soul.

Tags

• Adults
• Music
• 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."

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• 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.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Black History Month

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

In a Tor.com article entitled "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 favorites.

Tags

• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers
• Romance
• Black History Month

Thinking and Feeling, and Thinking about Feeling

I don't watch funny movies. I don't read mindlessly. I don't like pop music. What I do like is a lot of drama and self-help books and really feeling my feelings; they are my closest friends. These books (and a CD) have helped me make sense of said friends.

Tags

• Adults
• Health & Wellness

What to Read If You Loved the Hulu TV Series 'Only Murders in the Building'

Our staff recommend mystery and true crime suggestions.

Tags

• Adults
• Mysteries & Thrillers

2021 Staff Picks: Movies

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2021 Staff Picks: TV Series

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Movies & TV

2021 Staff Picks: Mysteries, Thrillers, and Suspense

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Mysteries & Thrillers

2021 Staff Picks: Historical Fiction

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Historical Fiction

2021 Staff Picks: Literary Fiction

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Well-Crafted Writing

2021 Staff Picks: Biographies and Memoirs

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Biography & Memoir

2021 Staff Picks: Graphic Novels

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

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Staff Picks
• Comics & Graphic Novels

2021 Staff Picks: Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Science Fiction & Fantasy

2021 Staff Picks: Nonfiction

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2021 Staff Picks: Teens

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

Tags

• Teens
• Staff Picks

2021 Staff Picks: Music

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Music

2021 Staff Picks: Grades 6-8

Staff favorites from 2021 for kids in grades 6-8.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Staff Picks

2021 Staff Picks: Grades 4-5

Staff favorites from 2021 for kids in grades 4-5.

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

2021 Staff Picks: Grades K-3

Staff favorites from 2021 for kids in grades K-3.

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

2021 Staff Picks: Ages 0-5

Staff favorites from 2021 to share with kids ages 0-5.

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

Crafting Handmade Gifts

Want to make some handmade gifts this holiday season? Try one of these great crafting books.

Tags

• Adults
• For Artistic Temperaments
• Holiday
• Sharing and Caring

Indigenous Teen Reads

From "heart-achy" romance to trippy dystopian, this list celebrates Native voices all year long.

Tags

• Teens

Honoring Native and Indigenous Voices

Enjoy a selection of movies and TV series about Native and Indigenous people and communities.

Tags

• Adults
• Kids
• Movies & TV

Delve into Native and Indigenous Communities, Cultures, and Histories

Broaden your knowledge about the various tribes and the unique challenges Native and Indigenous communities face.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens

Native American and Indigenous Voices in Fiction

Celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, histories, and life experiences of Native and Indigenous people.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens

Honoring Native and Indigenous Voices: Books for Younger Kids

Books by and about Native and Indigenous people and communities for kids ages 0-8.

Tags

• Kids

Honoring Native and Indigenous Voices: Books for Older Kids

Books by and about Native and Indigenous people and communities for kids ages 8 and up.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids

What's to Eat?

Devour some delicious movies about food, cooking, chefs, and restaurants.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• Food & Drink

What's on the Menu?

We are excited to share with you a sample of our favorite literary recipes for mystery, love, and life.

Tags

• Adults
• Food & Drink

The Joy of Cooking

Want some help with your next meal? Looking to learn more about food from around the world? Our staff share some of their favorite cookbooks from our awesome collection.

Tags

• Adults
• Food & Drink

Books for Hispanic Heritage Month (Preschool-Grade 1)

Books by and about people who identify as Hispanic, Latino, Latina, and Latinx, for kids up to grade 1.

Tags

• Kids

Books for Hispanic Heritage Month (Grades 1-8)

Books by and about people who identify as Hispanic, Latino, Latina, and Latinx, for kids in grades 1-8.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids

Free to Read: Books for Older Teens and Adults

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

Tags

• Adults
• Teens

Perspectives of Hispanic Heritage on Screen

This list represents only a small selection of the great diversity of themes, perspective, and genres of Hispanic and Latinx filmmaking and television, but it is a great selection to get you started.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV

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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• Kids

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.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading
• 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.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading
• 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.

Tags

• Teens
• Kids
• Summer Reading

Movie Musicals of the 21st Century

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

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• Adults
• LGBTQ+
• Movies & TV

Beginner's Guide to Audiobooks: Staff Favorites

Library staff share their favorite audiobook titles.

Tags

• Adults
• Audiobooks

Adventures in Storytelling (for Kids)

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

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading

Adventures for a Rainy Day (for Kids)

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

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading
• 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.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading

Adventures for Your Imagination (for Kids)

Books to help you dare to dream.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading

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.

Tags

• Kids
• Summer Reading
• The Natural World

Pride Books for Younger Kids

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

Tags

• Kids
• LGBTQ+
• Families & Relationships

Pride Books for Grades 3-8

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

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• Kids
• Global Perspectives

Small-Scale Creations

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

Tags

• Adults
• Kids
• Just Fun Stuff

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.

Tags

• Adults
• Teens
• Comics & Graphic Novels

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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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?

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• Kids
• The Natural World

Movies with an Environmental Message

Enjoy these selections.

Tags

• Adults
• Movies & TV
• The Natural World

Watch and Listen to Poetry

Enjoy these selections of movies and audiobooks.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• Kids

Poetry for Kids: Preschool-Grade 2

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

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• Adults
• For Artistic Temperaments
• Just Fun Stuff

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."

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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?

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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!

Tags

• Teens
• Kids

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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• Kids
• Staff Picks

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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• Teens
• Social Justice
• Black History Month

Beginner's Guide to Manga: Staff Favorites

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

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• 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.

Tags

• Kids

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.

Tags

• Kids
• Social Justice

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

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.

Tags

• Kids
• Science & Technology

2020 Patron Picks

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

Tags

• Adults

2020 Staff Picks: Nonfiction

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Fiction

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks

2020 Staff Picks: Music

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Music

2020 Staff Picks: Graphic Novels

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

Tags

• Adults
• Staff Picks
• Comics & Graphic Novels

2020 Staff Picks: Ages 0-5

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

Tags

• 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

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

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

Sharon's Picks

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

Tags

• Adults
• 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

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
• Well-Crafted Writing

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
• 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

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

Independent Feature Movies from Black Women Directors

Enjoy one or more of these feature movies.

Tags

• Adults
• Black Lives Matter
• Movies & TV

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

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

Reading, Libraries, and Books

Enjoy these suggestions that you can stream or download anytime.

Tags

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

Summer Fun and Warm Weather Titles

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

Tags

• Adults
• Summer Reading
• Movies & TV
• Audiobooks
• Wild Adventures
• Global Perspectives

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
• Summer Reading
• 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
• Summer Reading
• Global Perspectives
• Music

'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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Black History Month: Music

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

Tags

• Staff Picks
• For History Buffs
• Music
• Black History Month

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

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
• Black History Month

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

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