I love living near Chicago. We’re so lucky to be a frequent stop on world tours for popular artists and performers. My favorite thing to do is experience Broadway in Chicago—Hamilton, anyone? Chicago’s home to famous museums and other historical landmarks. In 2020, I’m looking forward to seeing world famous art right here in Glen… Read More
'Tis the season! All the top toy lists are out, and while browsing through toys filled with slime or “fart-inspired” scents, I’m asking myself, “What is it with kids these days?!” However, I remind myself that it’s not really kids these days. When I was a kid, my favorite summer reading theme was B.A.R.F. (Books… Read More
One of my favorite days of the year is Cookie Day. You might not have heard of Cookie Day unless you participate in a version of it yourself. For me, Cookie Day happens annually in December and involves myself, my sister, and two of our childhood friends who gather for a day-long cookie baking extravaganza.… Read More
As the weather gets colder and snowier, kids start to spend more time indoors. What’s more appealing than an iPad or TV? It’s an ongoing struggle many parents face: children want more and more screen time, yet the research is showing that screen time isn’t great for kids. So, how best to minimize technology usage… Read More
As a librarian, do I support people buying books? Yes! But then am I somehow encouraging people not to use the library but a bookstore instead? Reading is reading whether the book is borrowed or bought. Before I became a librarian, I bought my fair share of books. One of my librarian duties is collection… Read More
As the holiday season approaches, many people are making plans to spend time with friends and family. Maybe a trip is in the works, or perhaps your family will be hosting out-of-town visitors. The bustle and excitement of the season is something to look forward to. But sometimes, this time of year coincides with changes… Read More
Autumn is the perfect opportunity to spend time in the kitchen with your kids. Cooking is highly creative and is a surefire way to connect. Cookbooks written especially for kids break down each task into more manageable parts and give you tips for success. Kids can chop safely with either plastic knives or butter knives.… Read More
Meeting Donald Duck with my brother during our first trip to Disney World We're all passionate about something. If you know me, you know that my passions are the Chicago Cubs and Disney. Specifically, Walt Disney World in Florida. EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival I love Disney World so much that I have lost track… Read More
November is a time of giving and reflection. It’s a time to think about what you are thankful for. It’s also a good opportunity to consider those around you, both inside and outside of your community. Many volunteer around Thanksgiving to help those who aren’t as fortunate. November is also Native American Heritage Month. Following… Read More
Did you know that GEPL librarians visit local preschools for storytime? Hearing stories from voices other than those of their parents or teachers can engage children in a special way - so we take books, music, and other storytime tricks on the road. It’s important that kids still get to experience the magic of library… Read More
This month, we see pink everywhere: on cups and caps. On football cleats, ribbons—even cement mixers! What’s with all the pink? October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and pink is its symbolic color. Breast cancer is an insidious disease that statistics say will affect 1 in 8 women sometime during her lifetime. Other than skin… Read More
It’s October, which means people are finding their costumes, painting pumpkins, hanging skeletons, and buying candy. Although I enjoy parts of Halloween (like the candy), I’m a total scaredy-cat. I detest haunted houses, scary movies, spooky stories, and all things frightening. When I was a kid, I would timidly walk around my neighborhood on Halloween,… Read More
