Day Eight - Making the Library Your New Year's Resolution

Today's "get the most out of your local library" tip focuses on library programs and events. I'm guessing here, but my sense is that most people have a limited sense of what types of programs the Des Plaines Public Library offers. You might think the programs are mostly for children or retirees. We have plenty of programs for both of those age groups, but we've got everybody in the middle covered, too. You might think the programs are "intellectual" or "educational," and yes, they certainly are. But many of them are just plain fun, whether it's an alternative rock band playing in Library Plaza or a free movie showing or a gingerbread house making demonstration.

A glance at this month's programming reveals: computer classes for every level of learner, three different book discussions, a live theatrical performance for families, an afternoon of chamber music, dog therapy sessions for kids with autism, a visit from Chicago Wolves player Matt Anderson, and a program explaining "power of attorney." Our events and programs are offered morning, afternoon and evening, 7 days a week. Best of all, no admission charge - in some cases you have to register but often our events are "drop in": all you have to do is show up and enjoy.

So if you've never attended a library program this year, why not make that a resolution? Finding programs and signing up could not be easier. Start at the "Events/Programs" dropdown menu on our Web site. Put your mouse there and you see a number of choices. The "Events/Programs" link take you to detailed descriptions for a month's worth of events, in date order. Click on the title of an event for more information and registration options. We've got a cool, online calendar that makes it easy to browse for interesting events and you can view specialized versions of that calendar for kids and teens. Computer classes and book discussion groups are listed in these calendars, but you can gain more information about them by choosing those links.

Or, let us bring the event listings to you by signing up for the "Events by Email" service. You choose the event categories that interest you and you will automatically receive emails inviting you to new programs in those categories. We won't give away or sell your email address to anyone, and you won't receive emails about anything other than library events.

In upcoming posts, I will clue you in on some spectacular events coming up at DPPL, like our annual "Do the Dewey" FUNdraiser, and the Romance events coming in February. Yes, libraries still offer lots of books, reference help, quiet places to read and study, the way we always have. But put aside your preconceptions and look into our more unusual offerings, too. After all, we are the neighborhood place to work, learn AND play.