Just hearing the name “Oz” conjures up fantastic images, adventures, and heartfelt memories. So many of us can recite the plot of this famous story, but how many of us really know what went into creating it? What influences did L. Frank Baum have in his life as he wrote what is widely acknowledged as America’s first fairytale? Librarian Laura Keyes will separate fact from fiction as she shares the fantastic story of the amazing man who brought us The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.

This program will be available on YouTube for you to view at your convenience from Friday, June 2–Tuesday, June 13. View at https://links.cretelibrary.org/oz.

 

The library will be closed for the July 4th holiday

Krista Stevenson, SNAP Outreach Coordinator for the Northern Illinois Food Bank, will assist people with filling out applications for the Illinois Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as Food Stamps or Link Card.

Bring the whole family to this fun event, which includes face painting, a magician, a petting zoo, a bounce slide, games for kids, and more.

Sign up for Summer Reading and receive a hot dog and chips. Popcorn will be provided by Old Plank Trail Bank. No registration is required.

This month's trivia theme is Saturday Morning Cartoons. Compete on your own or bring a group of friends with you. Prizes will be awarded. Seating is first come, first served. 

Second session of the AARP Smart Driver course which began on Thursday, June 8.

Join us to play an interactive Wizard of Oz-themed Murder Mystery game. Players will read aloud* and listen closely as the suspects question each other and shocking revelations ensue. Players will then decipher the game clues to figure out which one of them had it in for the Wizard of Oz. Once everyone has had an opportunity to guess the culprit, the mystery's solution will be revealed. Light refreshments will be served.

Are you or someone you know looking for employment? The Mobile Workforce Center of Will County will visit our parking lot to help with resume development, cover letters, and job applications. Their bright orange bus has internet access and contains computer stations, a photocopier, and a printer. Their services include keyboarding lessons and job search assistance using online listings including jobs4people.org and Illinois workNet. 

Knot Just for Knitters is the library's regular group of needleworking patrons who get together to share camaraderie while working on knitting, crocheting, or any other type of needlework project. Everyone is welcome. The group meets on the first Thursday of the month from 1-2pm and on the third Thursday of the month from 6-7:30pm at Crete Public Library District.

Join us for a special evening with Robin Wall Kimmerer, the award-winning author of "Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants." In this insightful and inspiring talk, Robin will share her unique perspective on the interconnectedness of humans and nature and the importance of recognizing and respecting the gifts of the earth. She will delve into her own experiences as a botanist, indigenous science professor, and environmental advocate, and offer insights into her journey of learning to listen to the voice of the natural world. This is a rare opportunity to hear from one of the most important voices in the movement toward a more sustainable and equitable future and to be inspired to make positive changes in your own life and neighborhood.

Robin Wall Kimmerer is an acclaimed author, botanist, and indigenous science professor known for her deep connection to nature and passion for promoting a more sustainable and equitable world. Her writing blends indigenous knowledge, scientific research, and personal experiences to offer a unique perspective on the interdependence of humans and the natural world. Her first book, "Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants," has received widespread praise and has become a touchstone in the movement towards rethinking our relationship with the earth.

Join us for Book Appétit as we enjoy a potluck array of food from one cookbook per month. Each member picks a recipe from the current months cookbook and brings their dish to share with other members. Copies of the book will be available in advance at the Patron Services Desk. Registration preferred.

Enjoy creating a bee-themed greeting card to keep or give to a friend. All materials will be supplied. Class size is limited to 12. View a sample card at the Information Desk.