Storytimes near SOUTH ELGIN BRANCH LIBRARY

Main Library

Explore our changing planet through a different lens, immerse yourself in incredible ecosystems and learn how the smallest of actions can have a big impact on our natural world. Earth Matters: Rethink the Future features thought-provoking, fully interactive exhibits, inviting you to see the inner workings of a tree, listen and learn about endangered species, solve complex challenges and push your own ideas to new heights. gailborden.info/earthmatters Sponsored by the Gail Borden Public Library District Foundation. Created by Scitech in Perth, Australia and produced by Imagine.

Main Library, Story Room

Join us for time that preschoolers and caregivers can connect, play, and explore together. Registration required. Please register each child individually

Main Library, Computer Training Room

Get help with common tech issues like Microsoft Office, using a tablet, hotspots, syncing email with your phone, downloading content, and more. Drop in for personalized assistance at your library.

Main Library, Meadows Community Rooms ABC

Join us for an interactive storytime! Best for kids birth-6 years with an adult caregiver. All ages are welcome. Drop-in! If you'd like to see a list of books we may read during this program, please click here .

Main Library, Sally Lee Fox & Eagle Rooms

Join Ms. Carrie to explore art this summer. We'll learn about an artist/medium, but we'll mainly MAKE ART! This session, we'll create "assemblages" like Louise. Registration required. **Please register each child separately. Best for Grades K-5.** Louise Nevelson is an American artist and sculptor who was famous for HUGE sculptures and wooden wall art. You might call her art a "collage" (where you glue all sorts of different things to a base) but she called them "assemblages." We'll use all sorts of items to make our own mini assemblage in Louise's famous style. For a list of possible book titles that we may use in this program, click here . If you register but later are unable to attend the event, please call 847-429-4685 to cancel as soon as possible. This allows a student on the waitlist to join the event. We will be taking attendance at the programs, and staff members reserve the right to move a registrant to the waitlist if they are found to be consistently absent from programs. Is the program full? Be sure to register your child for the waiting list. We do our best to accomodate interested participants.

In The Community

Bring a blanket or chair to sit on and listen to a 30 minute storytime about different animal friends. Lords Park Zoo 325 Hiawatha Dr. Elgin, IL 60120 In the event of bad weather, storytime will move indoors to the Lords Park Zoo cowshed.

Mobile Services

The book bike will have a variety of materials to check out for all ages. You will also be able to register for a library card! 325 Hiawatha Dr., Elgin.

Main Library, Studio 270 Digital Media Lab

Explore the basics of video creation in this hands‑on beginner camp designed for students in grades 6–12. Jump into the world of filmmaking in this beginner‑friendly video camp designed for students in grades 6–12. Over five days, participants will learn how to operate camcorders, capture high‑quality footage, and edit their projects using iMovie and Final Cut Pro. Campers will explore shot composition, basic storytelling, and simple editing techniques while creating short video projects throughout the week. No experience required—just imagination and a willingness to create! Space is limited, so registration is required. Participants are expected to attend all five sessions in order to get the most out of the experience. Students in grades 6–8 who attend all three camps will gain Digital Media Lab (DML) access privileges, which include a limited‑use library card if they do not already have one, limited DML access for one school year (normally available only to high school teens), a one‑year access button pin valid from Summer 2026 through Spring 2027, and the ability to bring one guest to each session.

Main Library

Join us as we dust the shelves of the library, creating a clean and safe space for library patrons. Please meet us near the 2nd floor Information Services Desk. Did you know that Gail Borden Library has over 300,000 books on our shelves? With our extensive collection, we serve a population of 149,907 residents. Our staff works tirelessly every day to create a welcoming space for the community, but we couldn't do it without the additional help of our volunteers--and that's where you come in! By helping us dust our shelves, you will be ensuring a clean and safe space for our many patrons.

Virtual

Join us for an energizing virtual conversation with Rachael DeVaux, New York Times Bestselling Author, Dietitian, Mom, and Founder of Rachael’s Good Eats. Please register. Rachael DeVaux, RD is the New York Times bestselling author of Rachael’s Good Eats . Her newest book, The High Protein Plate , shows how anyone at any stage of life can easily incorporate protein into their diet. From Buffalo Chicken Baked Tacos and Honey Blackberry Overnight Oats to Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Pasta, these satisfying and simple meals are made for everyday life. Getting enough protein is essential. It’s needed for health and strength at every stage of life. The more protein you eat, the more satisfied, energized, and resilient you’ll feel. It builds muscle, fuels hormones, and supports every organ. The High Protein Plate includes the following: - 100 high-protein, craveable recipes for packing protein from breakfast through dessert. - Straightforward guidance on how much protein you really need—and why it matters. - Macros for every recipe, so you can easily track what’s best for you. - Confidence to plan and prepare balanced, purposeful meals. - Meal prep tips to set you up for success all week long. - A 28-day plan to help get you started and stay on track. Whether you’re focused on building lean muscle, balancing blood sugar, boosting energy, or just feeding your family well you need protein. The High Protein Plate makes it simple—and delicious to get enough every day. Register today to learn delicious ways you can incorporate protein into your meals! About the Author: Rachael DeVaux is the author of the instant New York Times bestseller Rachael’s Good Eats . A registered dietitian, certified personal trainer, and entrepreneur, she has built a loyal audience of over a million people through her website and Instagram by sharing practical, science-backed guidance on food, fitness, and feeling good. She lives in Seattle, Washington, with her husband and young son. Visit RachaelsGoodEats.com to learn more. Please Register for link to program . Live Virtual Author Talks - This new series through Library Speakers Consortium offers live online talks by bestselling authors of books in a variety of genres. Participants receive a link to the program when they register. Please see https://libraryc.org/gailborden to register and also view recorded videos of past speakers.

Main Library, Grove Room

A Men's Shed is a place geared toward older men to gather, make new friendships while working on projects, learning new skills and hobbies, and giving back to the community. All are welcome.

Main Library, Sally Lee Fox & Eagle Rooms

Join Ms. Carrie to explore art this summer. We'll learn about an artist/medium, but we'll mainly MAKE ART! This session, we'll create "assemblages" like Louise. Registration required. **Please register each child separately. Best for Grades K-5.** Louise Nevelson is an American artist and sculptor who was famous for HUGE sculptures and wooden wall art. You might call her art a "collage" (where you glue all sorts of different things to a base) but she called them "assemblages." We'll use all sorts of items to make our own mini assemblage in Louise's famous style. For a list of possible book titles that we may use in this program, click here . If you register but later are unable to attend the event, please call 847-429-4685 to cancel as soon as possible. This allows a student on the waitlist to join the event. We will be taking attendance at the programs, and staff members reserve the right to move a registrant to the waitlist if they are found to be consistently absent from programs. Is the program full? Be sure to register your child for the waiting list. We do our best to accomodate interested participants.

Rakow Branch, Rakow - Shales Living Room

Make a felt Cinnamoroll keychain, a Perler bead Hello Kitty, character buttons, and more cute merch! Upcoming Crafternoons: Main Library Bookbinding Crafternoon 7/15 Candy Art + Tasting Crafternoon 7/22 DIY Seed Paper Crafternoon 7/29 Kandi & Candy Crafternoon 8/5 Rakow Branch Fakemon Crafternoon 7/23 South Elgin Branch Tiny Charms with Polymer Clay Crafternoon 7/16

Mobile Services

Please find us on the corner of Sherwood Ave and Oakhill Rd. Elgin IL 60120. The Tech Mobile will provide hotspots and laptops for checkout. Technical help and community resources will also be provided. You will be able to return these and any other library items to the Tech Mobile during regularly scheduled stops. You will also be able to register for a library card!

Mobile Services

Come make a craft and then check out some books on the Techmobile at Trout Park. Hang out, relax with a craft (while supplies last) or a good book. You can also register for a library card on the Techmobile!

Mobile Services

576 Trout Park Blvd, Elgin, IL 60120 Join us May 29–August 1 for the Great Tech Escape at our Tech Mobile pop-up park stops! Visit us throughout the summer, collect stickers on your bookmark, and earn prizes along the way. Sign up to receive a small giveaway, then complete visits to earn drawing tickets for exciting end-of-summer prizes. The more you visit, the more chances you have to win!

Main Library, Computer Training Room

In this series, learn about and develop skills for success on resume building and job interviewing. This class is part of a series. Registering for the first class automatically enters you in all required sessions. If you cannot attend this session, please cancel your registration. 7/2 - Resume Essentials: Learn how to create a basic functional or chronological resume and format it to best sell your skills and experience to potential employers in this class. 7/9 - Crafting a Cover Letter: Learn tips & tricks for crafting a cover letter that will engage a reader and persuade them to review your resume. 7/16 - Acing Your Job Interview: Learn strategies for how to navigate the interview process including information prep, tackling common questions, and following up with prospective employers

Main Library

Explore our changing planet through a different lens, immerse yourself in incredible ecosystems and learn how the smallest of actions can have a big impact on our natural world. Earth Matters: Rethink the Future features thought-provoking, fully interactive exhibits, inviting you to see the inner workings of a tree, listen and learn about endangered species, solve complex challenges and push your own ideas to new heights. gailborden.info/earthmatters Sponsored by the Gail Borden Public Library District Foundation. Created by Scitech in Perth, Australia and produced by Imagine.

South Elgin Branch, South Elgin - Shales Children's Activity Room

Enjoy songs, bounces, and gentle stories with your baby while learning early literacy tips you can use at home. Best for little ones 0-11 months with a parent or caregiver. We understand that your child may be having a bad day. It is OK to step outside the room for a break. Feel free to come back. If you'd like to see a list of books we may read during this program, please click here .

Main Library, Meadows Community Rooms ABC

Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes all about our best stuffed friend! Registration required. Please register each child individually. Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes all about our best stuffed friend! Registration required. Please register each child individually. For a list of books read at this program, please click here .

Rakow Branch, Rakow - Shales Living Room

Second Fridays, join us at Wits Workout which combines intellectually stimulating exercises, social interaction, and education about brain health in a friendly, engaging, and FUN way! Please register

Main Library

Designed for toddlers and preschoolers, this open-ended playtime encourages imagination and fun on our KidSpace outdoor patio. Drop in and play—weather permitting! This program is weather-dependent . If inclement weather occurs, the program will not be held that day. Call the KidSpace Desk at (847) 429-4685 for the status.

Main Library, Studio 270 Digital Media Lab

Explore the basics of video creation in this hands‑on beginner camp designed for students in grades 6–12. Jump into the world of filmmaking in this beginner‑friendly video camp designed for students in grades 6–12. Over five days, participants will learn how to operate camcorders, capture high‑quality footage, and edit their projects using iMovie and Final Cut Pro. Campers will explore shot composition, basic storytelling, and simple editing techniques while creating short video projects throughout the week. No experience required—just imagination and a willingness to create! Space is limited, so registration is required. Participants are expected to attend all five sessions in order to get the most out of the experience. Students in grades 6–8 who attend all three camps will gain Digital Media Lab (DML) access privileges, which include a limited‑use library card if they do not already have one, limited DML access for one school year (normally available only to high school teens), a one‑year access button pin valid from Summer 2026 through Spring 2027, and the ability to bring one guest to each session.

Main Library, Studio 270

Enjoy popcorn while watching Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves. Join us for this fun fantastical adventure!

Mobile Services

1300 N McLean Blvd, Elgin, IL 60123 The Tech Mobile will provide hotspots and laptops for checkout. Technical help and community resources will also be provided. You will be able to return these and any other library items to the Tech Mobile during regularly scheduled stops. You will also be able to register for a library card!

Mobile Services

The book bike will have a variety of materials to check out for all ages. You will also be able to register for a library card! Elgin Farmers Market: South Riverside Drive

Mobile Services

132 S Grove Ave, Elgin, IL 60120 Join us May 29–August 1 for the Great Tech Escape at our Tech Mobile pop-up park stops! Visit us throughout the summer, collect stickers on your bookmark, and earn prizes along the way. Sign up to receive a small giveaway, then complete visits to earn drawing tickets for exciting end-of-summer prizes. The more you visit, the more chances you have to win!

Main Library

Explore our changing planet through a different lens, immerse yourself in incredible ecosystems and learn how the smallest of actions can have a big impact on our natural world. Earth Matters: Rethink the Future features thought-provoking, fully interactive exhibits, inviting you to see the inner workings of a tree, listen and learn about endangered species, solve complex challenges and push your own ideas to new heights. gailborden.info/earthmatters Sponsored by the Gail Borden Public Library District Foundation. Created by Scitech in Perth, Australia and produced by Imagine.

Main Library, Sally Lee Fox & Eagle Rooms

Join us for an interactive storytime! Best for kids birth-6 years with an adult caregiver. All ages are welcome. Drop-in! If you'd like to see a list of books we may read during this program, please click here .

Main Library, Grove Room

Practice or improve your conversation skills with other French speakers. This discussion group will be in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere facilitated by a volunteer. Please register.