Storytimes near AUSTIN BRANCH

Austin, Auditorium, 2nd floor, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Join Austin Branch Library for a discussion of  And the Crowd Went Wild  by Susan Elizabeth Phillips. "After a mortifying--and very public--humiliation, Dancy Flynn is desperate to find sanctuary far from the crowd. But where can a washed-up sex symbol hide? How about making an unannounced appearance at the secluded lake house of the sweet, sensitive high school boyfriend she hasn't seen in almost twenty years? But Chicago Stars quarterback Clint Garrett is no longer the kid Dancy remembers. Now he's a gridiron superhero, still holding a massive grudge against her for breaking his teenage heart. With no room in his life for either complexity or distractions, he banishes Dancy to a refurbished old railroad caboose tucked away in the woods...and out of his sight"-- Books are available at the circulation desk. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Interested in learning how to tell stories through film? Join us for Film Club, a hands-on introduction to the basics of filmmaking led by filmmaker Erin Turney. In this beginner-friendly workshop series, participants will explore the fundamentals of visual storytelling, including camera basics, framing, lighting, interviewing, and capturing meaningful moments. Whether you’re interested in documentary, music videos, narrative film, or simply want to better understand how stories are shaped on screen, this club is for you. No prior experience required. Just curiosity and a story you want to tell. All are welcome. This is an in person event. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, Auditorium, 2nd floor, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Join us to learn to quilt!  The class is led by local Austin resident Jacqueline Doctor Johnson. Come expecting to learn, and to have some fun!   Bring your own supplies. How to Attend This event takes place in person. Questions about visiting the library? Check out our Using the Library FAQs . Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

We bring the zoo to you! Learn about some of the most unique creatures from around the world. There is something for everyone. In this interactive presentation, kids of all ages will get a chance to meet a selection of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds and insects. For ages 3 and up. How to Attend Register by 11 a.m. Thursday, July 9. Chicago Public Library cannot collect personal information online from kids 0 to 13. A parent or guardian’s email address must be used to register. As a reminder, school email addresses may block external emails such as those from CPL. Due to space limitations, please include the total number of children and adults as attendees when you register. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Join us for Reading Came First , a book club that explores the powerful connections between literature, music, identity, and culture. Hosted by rapper, librarian, and Rapbrary founder Roy Kinsey, this monthly gathering creates space for thoughtful conversation about books that challenge, inspire, and reflect the world around us. Each month we’ll read and discuss works by groundbreaking authors across fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and cultural criticism. Together we’ll explore themes like storytelling, community, creativity, and social change while connecting literature to music, art, and lived experience. Whether you’re an avid reader or just looking to join a welcoming community conversation, all are welcome. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Join us this summer for play groups or story times for our littlest friends. Play Group: Fun toys and time for parents and children to socialize. 6/15, 6/29, 7/13, and 7/27 Story Time: Engaging songs and stories. 6/22, 7/6, and 7/20 For ages 0 to 5 with a caregiver. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, Auditorium, 2nd floor, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Join us for a relaxed evening of board games at the library. Play classics, learn something new, and connect with others in a welcoming space. All experience levels are welcome. Feel free to bring your favorite game or use one of ours. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, Upstairs Auditorium., 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Calling all plant parents, green thumbs, and budding botanists! Join us for Leaf It to Us , a community plant swap where you can give a plant, take a plant, and grow your collection. Whether you're trading cuttings, full-grown greenery, or just looking for plant-care tips, come mingle with fellow plant lovers, share stories, and go home with something new and thriving. All ages and experience levels welcome—let’s grow together this summer at CPL! Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, Auditorium, 2nd floor, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Join us for a film screening of Megan 2.0 (2025) Two years after M3GAN's rampage, her creator, Gemma, resorts to resurrecting her infamous creation in order to take down Amelia, the military-grade weapon who was built by a defense contractor who stole M3GAN's underlying tech. ©Universal Pictures, 119 minutes, PG-13 Community Cinema is at a branch near you! Check out hundreds of other screenings at libraries across Chicago. Accessibility English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing will be available for this screening.

Austin, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Design a new skyscraper for the city. Creations will be put on display for everyone to see. Ages 6 to 13. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Join us for My Story, Your Story, an interactive program where creativity, conversation and teamwork come together! Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Welcome to Austin Open Mic: a new creative stage on the West Side at the Austin Branch Library. This is an open call for poets, singers, rappers, comedians, spoken word artists, and performers of all kinds to share their work and build community. Come perform, come support, come discover local talent. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Bring the family and try your hand at screen printing with our Chicago themed stencils. Bring your own T-shirt or canvas bag. For families with children ages 13 and under.  How to Attend Register by 6 p.m. Monday, July 6. Chicago Public Library cannot collect personal information online from kids 0 to 13. A parent or guardian’s email address must be used to register. As a reminder, school email addresses may block external emails such as those from CPL. Registration is required. Please include adults and children in your count when registering. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, Auditorium, 2nd floor, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Join us to learn to quilt!  The class is led by local Austin resident Jacqueline Doctor Johnson. Come expecting to learn, and to have some fun!   Bring your own supplies. How to Attend This event takes place in person. Questions about visiting the library? Check out our Using the Library FAQs . Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Join us this summer for play groups or story times for our littlest friends. Play Group: Fun toys and time for parents and children to socialize. 6/15, 6/29, 7/13, and 7/27 Story Time: Engaging songs and stories. 6/22, 7/6, and 7/20 For ages 0 to 5 with a caregiver. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, Auditorium, 2nd floor, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Join us for a relaxed evening of board games at the library. Play classics, learn something new, and connect with others in a welcoming space. All experience levels are welcome. Feel free to bring your favorite game or use one of ours. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, Auditorium, 2nd floor, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Join us for a screening of Hoppers (2026). Animal lover Mabel uses clever new technology designed to "hop" human consciousness into lifelike robotic animals to communicate with beavers, uncovering mysteries within the animal world beyond anything she could have imagined. ©Disney Pixar - 105 minutes - Rated PG Community Cinema is at a branch near you! Check out hundreds of other screenings at libraries across Chicago. Accessibility English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing will be available for this screening.

Austin, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Graffiti your own mini-fence and bring Chicago Street style art to life. Ages 6 to 13. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.

Austin, 5615 W. Race Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Have the whole family create their own mini board game. For families with children ages 13 and under.  How to Attend Register by 6 p.m. Monday, July 13. Chicago Public Library cannot collect personal information online from kids 0 to 13. A parent or guardian’s email address must be used to register. As a reminder, school email addresses may block external emails such as those from CPL. Registration is required. Please include adults and children in your count when registering. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.