Fun Things to Do for Adults
Books, Movies, and More
Hear from our advisory staff about the books, films, and other resources that have lately captured their interest:
Food
Watch video demos and download recipes for one of these great dishes.
- Roasted chickpeas that are simple to make and customizable with any spices you like.
- Chinese-style cucumber pickles that are ready to eat in 30 minutes.
- Kale sambol, demonstrated by Mary Anne Mohanraj, author of A Feast of Serendib: Recipes from Sri Lanka, and two of her recipes for download:
- Sandwich cookies from writer Pooja Makhijani. Watch the recording of her Zoom event.
- Tart cherry scones with Maria Kozi, owner and baker of Kneads & Wants Artisan Bakery on Lincoln Avenue in Skokie. Download the recipe.
- Check out our video series Food Science for the Win and download the companion resource guides:
Arts and Crafts
Express yourself! Download instructions or watch videos to get started on a new creative project:
- Learn how to make a zine (videos):
- DIY grill
- Braided T-shirt rug
- Crochet basics and moss stitch potholder
- Knitting basics and coffee cozy
- Personal collage
- Five creative writing prompts
Equipment Tutorials
Get a head start on the new equipment that will be available in the Studio at the library!
Science and Nature
Staff member Martha shares expert tips in our Backyard Birding video series. You can also check out Martha’s resource list and backyard birding cards.
History and Culture
Enjoy recordings of some of our Zoom events with interesting experts presenting on a variety of topics.
- Chicago's Historic Motor Row District: Chicago is home to the largest intact early "motor colony" in the United States. Barbara Barrett describes the early development of the American automobile industry, architects who designed elaborate automobile showrooms on Motor Row, and more.
- Tarot and the Creative Arts: Artist and tarot reader Rebecca Schoenecker shares her art, her drawn decks, and stories.
- Baseball’s Home Run Explosion: Sports analyst and writer Rob Arthur explains what's led to the increase in home runs in major league baseball--the ball itself has become more aerodynamic.
- Read Arthur’s articles about x-rayed baseballs and how many home runs Barry Bonds would have hit in 2019.
- Health Scares in History from Mysterious Chicago: Local historian Adam Selzer recorded a video journey through different epidemics and health scares that have affected Chicago over the past 100 years.
- Nachos with Nick: Nick Kindelsperger, a Chicago food and dining reporter, shares the history behind one of the most popular snacks in the United States, as well as tips for at-home nachos.