Will County libraries hosting needlework, mystery programs

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Updated: August 15, 2011 8:43AM

DesPlaines Library

Crest Hill Branch, 1298 Theodore St., Crest Hill, 815-725-0234

Tech talk computer club: 1-3 p.m. May 28. Feel free to bring your laptop or other gadget you have questions about. Free. Refreshments will be served. Registration required.

Petite plants for a plethora of places: 1-2 p.m. June 11. Create a magical fairy garden, a whimsical gnome garden and more by using perennials, annuals and a little imagination. Registration required.

Frankfort Public Library

21119 S. Pfeiffer Road, 815-469-2423, frankfortlibrary.org

Tuesdays with friends book discussion: 1 p.m. Tuesdays. Discussion on an eclectic selection of fiction, biography, mystery and nonfiction.

Knitters and crocheters wanted: 7 p.m. first Tuesday of month. Drop in to see what others are knitting and crocheting. Talk with other knitters about a project, get advice and pass on knowledge to beginning knitters. Novice and advanced knitters welcome.

DesPlaines Valley Public Library District, Lockport Branch Library

121 E. Eighth St., Lockport. Call 815-838-0755 or visit www.dpvlib.org

The Des Plaines Valley Public Library District is pleased to continue with its “Hooks and Needles” Needlecraft Club at its Lockport Branch Library.

“Hooks and Needles” Needlecraft Club: 6:30-8 p.m. Meets every first Wednesday of the month. Bring your needlework or other craft projects to work on, and sit back and enjoy chatting and sharing skills with other “crafters.”

Manhattan Public Library

240 Whitson St., 815-478-3987, manhattan.lib.il.us

Senior Read: 9-11 a.m. Reading room is open for seniors to browse magazines and newspapers. Drop in and game: 4-6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Wii and PS2.

Mystery book discussion: 11:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month.

Thursday night book discussion group: 7 p.m. second Thursday of each month.

Movie programs: 7 p.m. first Friday of each month. The adult department offers Women Watching Movies; third Friday night, youth department sponsors a movie night; fourth Saturday, children’s department has a matinee movie. All programs are free and require advance registration.

Mokena Public Library District

11327 W. 195th St., 708-479-9663.

Internet classes: For adults age 18 and older. Call for appointments.

Adult writers workshop: 2-3 p.m. the third Monday of each month.

New Lenox Library

120 Veterans Parkway, 815-485-2605, newlenoxlibrary.org

Super-couponing II: 10:30 a.m. to noon May 21 in meeting rooms A and B. You’ll learn to combine multiple discounts, store promotions and coupons to maximize your grocery savings. Jill Cataldo will also teach you how to apply Super-Couponing principles to clothing, toys, housewares and many other items, saving up to 90 percent off regular prices. Registration required.

Excel basics: 5:30 p.m. May 24. Using Microsoft Excel you can create spreadsheets using formulas and functions and even develop charts and graphs. Registration required.

Adult summer reading program: June 6-July 23. This year’s theme is A Midsummer Knight’s Read. Pick up your reading log at the Adult Services desk. All completed logs will be entered into the drawing for a chance to win an exciting prize.

Teen summer reading program: June 6-July 23. This year’s theme is A Midsummer Knight’s Read. Wen you’ve reached seven hours of reading bring in your log for a small prize. after 14 hours of reading, your log is complete. Multiple logs can be completed and turned in for a chance to win.

Plainfield Public Library

15025 S. Illinois St., 815-327-2515, plainfield.lib.il.us.

Microsoft publisher 2007 basics: 7 p.m. May 19.

Conversation club for English language learners: 7 p.m. May 19. For any adult whose first language is not English. Come practice your speaking skills while learning about American culture. Childcare will be provided.

Microsoft publisher 2007 basics: 7 p.m. May 19. A basic class introducing the menus and tools used in creating newsletters, brochures, flyers, and other publications. Learners will explore the variety of templates and tools offered by this application.

Thursday, May 19, Tattoos, 7:00 PM. An artist from Thin Line Tattoo will explain the history of tattoos. You’ll also learn about the safety, ink and design selection used in modern tattoos.

Internet basics (Spanish): 10 a.m. May 21.

Friends of the library flea market: 8 a.m. May 21-22.

Military genealogy: 7 p.m. May 23. Genealogist, Tina Beaird will be teaching part 3 in her series of courses on tracing your family tree. This class will trace military records from the American Revolution to the Vietnam War with an emphasis on documents available at the National Archives. Mom ‘n tot play date: 10 a.m. May 24. Child and caregiver will enjoy stories, songs and movement on this date. Registration with a Plainfield library card is required for each individual play date.

Reading club for English language learners: 1 p.m. May 24. If you want to learn new words, practice your pronunciation and become more fluent in English, this is the class for you. In a relaxed group, meet weekly with other multi-lingual adults and an English-speaking coordinator to read aloud. Choose your own level and use newspapers, magazines or books to start reading with more confidence today. This group meets in the lower level bay area of the Library.

Lighten up: 7 p.m. May 24. Learn how to mix and match ingredients for maximum flavor without the oil or mayo. Based on the book 30 Spectacular Salads. Samples included.

Computer help for genealogists, 10 a.m. May 26. Having trouble navigating the Library’s genealogy databases? Confused on where to look for obituaries or military records? Drop in anytime during this 90 minute session and bring your genealogy brick walls. We’ll work together to find a solution.

Conversation club for English language learners: 7 p.m. May 26. For any adult whose first language is not English. Come practice your speaking skills while learning about American culture. Childcare will be provided.

Get to know your nook: 7 p.m. May 26. If you own a nook eReader or are thinking about getting one, come for an informational session at the Plainfield Barnes and Noble, 12700 S. Illinois Route 59 in Plainfield. This session will teach you how to shop for ebooks from Barnes & Noble and how Plainfield cardholders can obtain free Library ebooks. Contact Barnes & Noble at 815-609-8233 for more information on Get to Know Your Nook.

Donuts and digital books: 7 p.m. May 26. You get your coffee; we’ll provide the donuts when you join our digital book specialists at the Dunkin’ Donuts on Route 59 & 135th St. in Plainfield for a complimentary one-on-one session demonstrating how to download digital books from MyMediaMall. See some of the digital book devices available on the market, get your questions answered and take home a “Digital Books and More” gift bag with your session. Sessions are 5-10 minutes in length and are by appointment or walk-in. If you would prefer to make an appointment in advance, email Suzanne Ross at sross@plainfield.lib.il.us.

Microsoft Word 2007 Basics, Part 1: 7 p.m. June 1. A basic class that introduces the menus and tools used in creating documents. Learners will explore the variety of templates and tools offered by this application.

Computer Help for Seniors: 10 a.m. June 2. Receive extra help with your computer questions. Learn how to search the internet. Create an email account, create a word document or improve other skills on the computer.

Mobile Learning Center: 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 3. The Mobile Learning Center from Workforce Services Division of Will County provides state-of-the-art technology and support for people looking for a job. This 54’ mobile tech lab has high speed satellite internet access, a network printer and copy machine with 11 computer workstations. The Mobile Learning Center is open to all adults. Registration is not required.

Microsoft Excel 2007 Basics, Part 1: 10 a.m. June 4. This class introduces spreadsheets. Basic commands and tools are demonstrated by guiding the student in creating a simple monthly budget.

Summer Reading Registration begins: 9 a.m. June 6. A Midsummer Knight’s Read Summer Reading Program begins. All ages are encouraged to participate by registering in-person or online beginning Monday, June 6 with a valid Plainfield Public Library card. June 6-10 is registration week. Delight in Renaissance era entertainment, treats and special raffles for everyone. If Plainfield Public Library cardholders are unable to register during the first week, registration will continue through July. During the nine-week program, children, teens and adults will have the opportunity to win great prizes just for reading. Reading requirements for each program will be included with registration materials.

Reading Club for English Language Learners: 1 p.m. June 7. If you want to learn new words, practice your pronunciation and become more fluent in English, this is the class for you. In a relaxed group, meet weekly with other multi-lingual adults and an English-speaking coordinator to read aloud.

Get to Know Your Nook: 7 p.m. June 8. If you own a nook eReader or are thinking about getting one, come for an informational session at the Plainfield Barnes and Noble, 12700 S. Illinois Route 59, Plainfield. This session will teach you how to shop for ebooks from Barnes and Noble and how Plainfield cardholders can obtain free Library ebooks. Contact Barnes and Noble at 815-609-8233 for more information on Get to Know Your Nook.

Tea Time: 11 a.m. June 9. This Library program is stepping out to Gourmet Junction at 24030 W. Lockport St. for an iced tea tasting. You’ll get to know the history of tea, taste a variety of iced teas and enjoy a light snack.

How to Draw Medieval Stuff: 10:30 a.m. June 13. Dragons, Castles, Knights and Royalty: Learn to draw all things medieval with instructor Christine Thornton. Please register each child attending. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; latecomers will be seated at appropriate breaks if space allows.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl Tournament: 2 p.m. June 13. Whether you are a Snake kind of guy or a Kirby girl, we’ll be smashing each other at this tournament for teens. Prizes for the top finishers.

Green Village Series – Organic Food and Wine Tasting: 7 p.m. June 13. This is your chance to ask questions from the experts of organic food and find out your local options to eat healthier by purchasing or growing organic food. After the program, all attendees are welcome to go to Wine and Cheese by TCC in downtown Plainfield for an organic food and wine tasting. Sign up early, this annual event fills up quickly.

Family Bingo: 10 a.m. June 14. Have fun playing this easy game for all members of the family. Please register each child and adult attending. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; latecomers will be seated at appropriate breaks if space allows.

Reading Club for English Language Learners: 1 p.m. June 14. If you want to learn new words, practice your pronunciation and become more fluent in English, this is the class for you. In a relaxed group, meet weekly with other multi-lingual adults and an English-speaking coordinator to read aloud. Choose your own level and use newspapers, magazines or books to start reading with more confidence today. This group meets in the lower level bay area of the library.

Thought Reader: 3 p.m. June 14. Let Michael Kett prove to you that anyone can develop their intuition to an amazing level. During this engaging show, teens will have their thoughts read and personal questions answered intuitively. You will be surprised as audience members demonstrate new and unexplained mental abilities.

Microsoft Word 2007 Basics, Part 2: 7 p.m. June 14. Hands-on creation of your own business card design, and a marketing or informational flyer using various graphic techniques in Word™. Practice will include using WordArt, AutoShapes and Text boxes. Also learn how to create envelopes and labels.

Internet Basics: 10 a.m. June 15. A basic introduction for adults to the internet designed for those who’ve never used the World Wide Web. This class provides the learner with an understanding of the software, called Browsers, used to view material on the internet and also introduces basic searching or “surfing” of the internet.

Job Club: Noon June 15. Topic: “Volunteering” presented by Vanessa Romeo, vice-president for Big Brother Big Sister of Will-Grundy County. Navigating the challenges of a job search is much easier with the encouragement of a group. If you’re looking for work, you’re not alone. The Library’s new Job Club welcomes job seekers and career changers. Network, share and learn from guest speakers in a friendly and helpful atmosphere. Please feel free to bring copies of your resume.

Medieval Knights: 3 and 6:30 p.m. June 15. Learn the functions of medieval weapons and the role of a knight and squire from two fully-costumed knights. Please register each child attending. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; latecomers will be seated at appropriate breaks if space allows.

Computer Help for Jobseekers: 10 a.m. June 16. Assistance will be provided for formatting resumes, completing online applications, searching job listings online, uploading resumes, creating email accounts and answering other questions. Please bring your resume on a flash drive to save your work.

Discover the Fun of Reading with the Girl Scouts: 12:30 p.m. June 16. Learn how to use an iPad, discover new words, write your own story, play games and have fun. Each girl will receive a complimentary Girl Scout membership. Funding provided by your local Target. Please register each child attending. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; latecomers will be seated at appropriate breaks if space allows.

Downloading Books with MyMediaMall: 7 p.m. June 16. Learn how to checkout and download the hottest eBooks, which are digital versions of print books that have been optimized for on-screen reading, to your computer or portable device during this demonstration of the Library’s downloadable service MyMediaMall.

Microsoft Excel, Nivel 1 (en espanol): 10 a.m. June 17. Esa clase introduce a los usuarios sin experiencia al arte de hoja de cálculos (spreadsheet). Comandos básicos y herramientas son demostrado guiando al estudiando en la creación de un simple presupuesto mensual.

The Loathsome Lady An Arthurian Tale Retold: 11 a.m. June 17. Enjoy the Joliet Junior College Fine Arts Department production of “The Loathsome Lady An Arthurian Tale Retold”. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; latecomers will be seated at appropriate breaks if space allows.

Intro to PCs Computer Class: 10 a. m. June 18. A basic one-time introduction to computers.

Author Visit – Shelly Moore Thomas: Monday, June 20 at 10:30 AM. Meet the author of the popular Good Night, Good Knight books and hear stories about her experiences as a writer. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; latecomers will be seated at appropriate breaks if space allows.

Drop-In Art in the “Park”: 10:30 a.m. June 20. Wear your old clothes for this outdoor art program. Tempura, finger paints and sidewalk chalk for will be provided. In the event of inclement weather, this program will be cancelled. Check the Library website for information or contact us at 815-439-2877.

“Literacy Leads” Grant Program Parent Workshop: 7 p.m. June 20. Parent meeting for “Literacy Leads” Penny Severens Grant-funded workshop - to register or for information contact Sue Parsons in Youth Services at 815-439-2877 or sparsons@plainfield.lib.il.us

Reading Club for English Language Learners: 1 p.m. June 21. If you want to learn new words, practice your pronunciation and become more fluent in English, this is the class for you. In a relaxed group, meet weekly with other multi-lingual adults and an English-speaking coordinator to read aloud. Choose your own level and use newspapers, magazines or books to start reading with more confidence today. This group meets in the lower level bay area of the library.

Pixie Hollow Party: 2:30 p.m. June 21. Celebrate the world of Pixie Hollow with games, treats and find your inner fairy talent.

Intro to PCs Computer Class: 7 p.m. June 21. A basic one-time introduction to computers.

TWiG – Tricounty Writer’s Guild: 7 p.m. June 21. A writer’s group, partnered with the Library. This group of writers meet the third Tuesday of every to discuss writing and share ideas. Interested adults are welcome.

Email Basics: 10 a.m. June 22. A basic 90 minute introduction to Yahoo!’s web-based email.

Medieval Falconer: 11 a.m. June 22. Mark Booth presents medieval falconry. Falcons will be tethered during the presentation. Please register each child attending. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; latecomers will be seated at appropriate breaks if space allows.

Drop-In Family Movie: 2 p.m. June 22. Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer, Wednesday. Beat the heat. Enjoy popcorn and the movie Adventures of a Teenage Dragonslayer, rated PG. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; latecomers will be seated at appropriate breaks if space allows.

Computer Help for Genealogists: 10 a.m. June 23. Having trouble navigating the Library’s genealogy databases? Confused on where to look for obituaries or military records? Drop in anytime during this 90 minute session and bring your genealogy brick walls. We’ll work together to find a solution.

Drop-In Design Your Own Pet Dragon: 10 a.m. June 23. Drop into the castle to make your own pet dragon. This program is geared towards grades 1-5. Preschool and Kindergarten children are welcome to attend with an adult. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; latecomers will be seated at appropriate breaks if space allows.

Merlin’s Magic Academy: 1 p.m. June 23. Learn basic magic tricks and make some snacks disappear. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; latecomers will be seated at appropriate breaks if space allows.

Microsoft Publisher 2007 Basics: 1 p.m. June 23. A basic class introducing the menus and tools used in creating newsletters, brochures, flyers, and other publications. Learners will explore the variety of templates and tools offered by this application.

Get to Know Your Nook: 7 p.m. June 23. If you own a nook eReader or are thinking about getting one, come for an informational session at the Plainfield Barnes and Noble, 12700 S. Illinois Route 59, Plainfield. This session will teach you how to shop for ebooks from Barnes and Noble and how Plainfield cardholders can obtain free Library ebooks. Contact Barnes and Noble at 815-609-8233 for more information on Get to Know Your Nook.

Microsoft PowerPoint 2007 Basics: 7 p.m. June 23. Learn to create professional slide shows for your presentations.

Literacy Leads Grant Program: 9:45 a.m. June 24. Using concrete, easy ways to foster reading and writing from birth to age 9 for children for who English is a new language or native speaking children who need a boost in reading. If you qualify please contact Sue Parsons in Youth Services as 815-439-2877 or sparsons@plainfield.lib.il.us.

Donuts and Digital Books: 10 a.m. June 25. You get your coffee; we’ll provide the donuts when you join our digital book specialists at the Dunkin’ Donuts on Route 59 and 135th St. for a complimentary one-on-one session demonstrating how to download digital books from MyMediaMall. See some of the digital book devices available on the market, get your questions answered and take home a “Digital Books and More” gift bag with your session. Sessions are 5-10 minutes in length and are by appointment or walk-in. If you would prefer to make an appointment in advance, please email Suzanne Ross at sross@plainfield.lib.il.us.

Microsoft Excel 2007 Basics, Part 2: 10 a.m. June 25. A 90 minute hands-on demonstration of advanced Excel tools including: Adding/Filling rows and columns, Freezing panes, and creating charts and graphs. A basic familiarity with Excel is assumed.

Super Stolie: 11 a,m. June 27. Super Stolie will have the children and their families rocking ‘n’ rolling to her music. Please register each child and adult attending. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; latecomers will be seated at appropriate breaks if space allows.

Teens Can Cook: 3 p.m. June 27. Make it in a Mug: Cooking takes too long and then there is too much mess to clean up. That’s true when you’re NOT using a microwave and coffee mug. Learn how to make a variety of egg-ceptional breakfast mugs and a chocolate mug cake.

Container Gardening: 7 p.m. June 27. Patio Party Planters: Bring your house plants outdoors this summer. With the addition of flowering annuals and garden art in your tropical house plants you can make your patio pop for summer parties.

A Patriotic Fun with Music: 10 a.m. June 28. Children ages 9 months through 8 years, along with their adult caregiver, are invited to a musical celebration of patriotic music. We may not always be right on key or keep up with the beat, but we have a great time with rhythm instruments, singalongs and dance. Registration for each child attending required; please, no unregistered siblings.

Murder Mystery Rehearsal: 10 a.m. June 28. The annual Murder Mystery returns with “A Murderous Melodrama”. Teens going into middle and high school may audition for a role in this year’s performance. Please make sure you are able to attend all rehearsals and final performances held on July 29-30.

A Patriotic Fun with Music: 11 a.m. June 28. Children ages 9 months through 8 years, along with their adult caregiver, are invited to a musical celebration of patriotic music. We may not always be right on key or keep up with the beat, but we have a great time with rhythm instruments, singalongs and dance. Registration for each child attending required; please, no unregistered siblings.

Reading Club for English Language Learners: 1 p.m. June 28. If you want to learn new words, practice your pronunciation and become more fluent in English, this is the class for you. In a relaxed group, meet weekly with other multi-lingual adults and an English-speaking coordinator to read aloud. Choose your own level and use newspapers, magazines or books to start reading with more confidence today. This group meets in the lower level bay area of the library.

A Patriotic Fun with Music: 4 p.m. June 28. Children ages 9 months through 8 years, along with their adult caregiver, are invited to a musical celebration of patriotic music. We may not always be right on key or keep up with the beat, but we have a great time with rhythm instruments, singalongs and dance. Registration for each child attending required; please, no unregistered siblings.

Off to See the Elephant: Plainfield Boys Go to War: 7 p.m. June 28. Dozens of local Plainfield boys served in the Union Army during the Civil War (1861-1865). The lives and fates of several of those boys as well as local residents awaiting the news of loved ones at war will be retold.

Hidden Harry Potter: 2 p.m. June 29. Enter the magical world of Harry Potter with this thrilling insider’s peek at one of the most treasured film series of all time. We’ll hear hilarious inside jokes and uncover behind-the-scenes tidbits and other fascinating facts sure to delight film buffs and Potter fans alike as we enjoy a collection of the most exciting scenes from the first six films. Everyone will enjoy free candy while learning exciting trivia in this fun filled presentation designed to help Harry Potter fans enjoy these wonderful stories even more.

Friends of the Library Meeting: 7 p.m. June 29. The Friends of the Library meet to plan events and programs in support of the Library. Join other community-minded citizens in this volunteer group.

Timeless Rhythms of the Soul and Shakespeare: 7 p.m. June 29. A lively and innovative performance combines beautiful soul songs with passionate and often humorous recitals of the poems and plays of Shakespeare.

Family Bingo: 2 and 7 p.m. June 30. Have fun playing this easy game for all members of the family. Please register each child and adult attending. Attendees are asked to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time; latecomers will be seated at appropriate breaks if space allows.

To be included local libraries, email your updated listed to jfeatures@stmedianetwork.com and for more information call Jean Edwards at 815-439-5312.