Sundae Storytime at the Creamery

All Ages. Meet us at the New Lenox Creamery for a delicious storytime!  Enjoy a sweet treat and listen to a cool story sure to help you beat the summer heat!Each registrant will be given a $1 off coupon for their ice cream purchase!

918 Timber Place, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Multi-Library Geocache Event

The New Lenox Library is participating in the 12th Annual ATLAS Multi-Library Geocaching Event and you are invited to join us!All library patrons are invited to use clues and geographic coordinates to find hidden “geocaches” at numerous participating area libraries. For......More

The New Lenox Library is participating in the 12th Annual ATLAS Multi-Library Geocaching Event and you are invited to join us!All library patrons are invited to use clues and geographic coordinates to find hidden “geocaches” at numerous participating area libraries. For each listed geocache you discover, you earn a chance to win a $25 Gift Card.To be eligible for the prize drawing, your library card from a participating library must be in good standing.All ages welcome! Find all the official clues and more information at https://multilibrarygeocache.weebly.com/ starting Monday, June 3rd or pick them up at your local participating library.This program is presented by ATLAS in partnership with multiple Illinois libraries. The event starts Monday, June 3rd, and you have until Saturday, August 3rd to find as many of the caches as you can.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Summer Learning Challenge Begins

Read, Renew, RepeatSummer Learning Challenge 2024 Sunday, June 2–Wednesday, July 31 for Kids, Teens & AdultsThis Summer’s theme is Read, Renew, Repeat! Sign up starts Sunday, June 2. The Challenge is for all ages, from birth through adults. The first week, June 2–9, is ......More

Read, Renew, RepeatSummer Learning Challenge 2024 Sunday, June 2–Wednesday, July 31 for Kids, Teens & AdultsThis Summer’s theme is Read, Renew, Repeat! Sign up starts Sunday, June 2. The Challenge is for all ages, from birth through adults. The first week, June 2–9, is for registration only. Prize bags for kids’ first completed log are available starting June 10. Registration, which is all done through Beanstack, is available at the Library and online. You can talk to staff or one of our Summer Learning Challenge volunteers to sign up in Youth Services. Teens and adults can also register at the Adult & Teen Services desk. Download the Beanstack app or use the website at newlenoxlibrary.beanstack.org to register! You can download Activity Lists at newlenoxlibrary.org/summer. Activity lists are also available in either Youth Services (for Birth to 8th Grade) or Adult & Teen Services (7th Grade and up) at the service desks. New this year: 7th and 8th Graders should choose the Challenge that’s right for them. Preregister for SLC on Beanstack today! Track your Summer Learning Challenge logs anytime, anywhere! Take those Summer vacation selfies knowing you can earn prizes from wherever you go. New Lenox Library’s Beanstack Website at newlenoxlibrary.beanstack.orgBeanstack for iOS on App StoreBeanstack for Android on Google Play Birth–8th Grade Complete the Summer Learning Challenge by doing the activities on the Birth–8th Grade Activity List. Log your activities anytime on the Beanstack app! Staff can also help you log your badges in Beanstack. You do not need to do every activityYou can repeat the same activityAfter 20 activities you will earn a Prize Bag, certificate, virtual drawing entry, and a FREE book!You may complete bonus logs to earn extra virtual drawing entriesPick up your completion prizes at the Youth Services deskPrize drawings pulled August 1 Teens & Adults (7th Grade & Up) Complete the Summer Learning Challenge by doing the activities on the Teen or Adult Activity Lists. Log your activities anytime on the Beanstack app! Staff can also help you log your badges in Beanstack. You do not need to do every activityYou can repeat the same activityEvery 5 activities earns a prize drawing ticket Prize drawings pulled August 1 Find our Summer Challenge Series by looking for the recycling symbol in the Event Guide

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Summer Visual Art Showcase

Enter our Summer Visual Art ShowcaseThe event is part of our 2024 Summer Learning Challenge Read, Renew, Repeat. We look forward to this opportunity to celebrate our community’s creativity!We can change the world! Using your library is an eco-friendly and sustainable wa......More

Enter our Summer Visual Art ShowcaseThe event is part of our 2024 Summer Learning Challenge Read, Renew, Repeat. We look forward to this opportunity to celebrate our community’s creativity!We can change the world! Using your library is an eco-friendly and sustainable way to access knowledge, use technology, and engage with your community by borrowing and sharing resources instead of buying them. This year’s Summer Learning Challenge theme, Read, Renew, Repeat, aims to encourage reading as a restorative method of self-improvement and increase awareness of conservation efforts. Conservation as a movement focuses on protecting species from extinction, maintaining and restoring habitats, enhancing ecosystem services, and protecting biological diversity.We encourage you to use this year's theme as inspiration to create and submit your paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, digital art, and more! Let the theme inspire your subject, experiment with natural pigments, or upcycle some of your materials and tools.*Webpage coming soon: https://www.newlenoxlibrary.org/artcontest*Engagement with the theme is encouraged, but optionalSummer Visual Art ShowcaseSubmissions Accepted: Starting June 3Artwork Must Be Received: By July 7Gallery Exhibition: From July 9 – July 23Gallery Reception: Thursday, July 25 at 6:00pm; Meeting Room ABThe Library will display your art through the month of July. Please make arrangements to pick up your art after the conclusion of the Art Gallery & Reception on Thursday, July 25. Art must be retrieved by 4 pm on Friday, August 2. Unclaimed art will not be stored at the library.Open to teens entering 9th Grade - 12th Grade and Adults age 18+.The artwork must be original. You must be the creator of the artwork that is submitted to the contest. Your art must be your own original concept and not a copy of anyone else's copyrighted material. This includes unauthorized derivative work.In light of the evolving understanding of AI generated art and the ambiguity regarding its copyright, any artwork that relies heavily on generative fill or is entirely AI generated is prohibited. Digital images and photographs may be altered or manipulated, but you must be the originator or have obtained the proper permissions. If your image infringes upon another's copyright it will be disqualified.Entry forms must be legibly completed, signed, and turned in with the artwork. Submissions by a minor must include a parent or guardian’s signature.Entry ProcessComplete this entry form and return it with your submission to the Adult & Teen Services desk on the 2nd floor of the Library.All submissions must be received by 4 pm on Sunday, Jul 7, 2024.You must be entering 9th–12th Grade or be an Adult to be eligible.All submissions should be dropped off at the Adult & Teen Services desk on the 2nd floor.A completed form must be turned in at the time of submission. Entries without accompanying forms will not be accepted.Only 1 submission per individual can be entered.Art GuidelinesAny medium will be accepted, including, but not limited to, sculpture, photography, watercolor, chalk, digital art, ink, etc.Wall & 2D Pieces: Finished pieces must be no larger than 12"x 16" including any frame or backing.3D items must be no larger than 1 ft x 1 ft x 1 ft and able to sit on a shelf.The art/object must be gallery ready. Unframed artwork should be mounted onto matte board or other sturdy background within the size limitations.3D objects should be able to sit level on a shelf or arrive with an appropriate stand, plinth, or display case within the size perimeters. Framed artwork should be able to sit level on a shelf.Artwork should be practical for a space that is open and available to the public. Please avoid submitting items that are too fragile, sharp, or small to be safe in such an environment. Understand the library does not assume responsibility for loss of or damage to your artwork or frames.Artwork must be “appropriate,” as it will be displayed in the library building. The library reserves the right to reject work deemed unsuitable for display in the library building.Artwork must not have been submitted to a previous Visual Art Showcase at the New Lenox Library.Judging CriteriaCraftsmanship & TechniqueCreativity & Originality Personal VoiceGuideline Adherence*Engagement with the theme will not be included in the judging criteria

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Chalk the Walk

Bring your creativity and help us make our sidewalk pop with color this summer!  Sidewalk chalk will be provided.Registration not required.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Spice Club

Variety is the spice of life, so let’s try out a variety of spices! Every other month we will feature a different spice. Kits each include a sample of that month’s spice and a packet full of recipes, cookbook recommendations, as well as some history and cultural context......More

Variety is the spice of life, so let’s try out a variety of spices! Every other month we will feature a different spice. Kits each include a sample of that month’s spice and a packet full of recipes, cookbook recommendations, as well as some history and cultural context. Take & Makes will be available starting at 4:00 PM on Monday while supplies last. Check out all recipes and past information packets here:2024August - Black Cumin Seeds/Nigella (Coming Soon...)June - Caraway (Coming Soon...)April - TarragonFebruary - Ground Ginger2023December - AniseedOctober- AllspiceAugust- Dried DillJune- SumacApril- Culinary LavenderFebruary- Ancho Chile Powder

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Teen Open Studio

7th-12th Grade. Create with others your age in The Studio. Bring a project with, or create one out of the materials and projects we have here. Registration is encouraged.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Park Pals

All Ages. We're bringing the library to you this summer! Join your Youth Services librarians at Freedom Park for songs, stories, and other summer fun. Bring your own blanket or chair and arrive ready for laughs, silly dances, and a few read-alouds. Weather permitting. R......More

All Ages. We're bringing the library to you this summer! Join your Youth Services librarians at Freedom Park for songs, stories, and other summer fun. Bring your own blanket or chair and arrive ready for laughs, silly dances, and a few read-alouds. Weather permitting. Registration is not required.

300 Charleston Drive, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

(New Date!) Dr. Temple Grandin: The Hidden Gifts of Visual Thinkers

NEW DATE TUESDAY, JUNE 4: Our Illinois Libraries Present program with Temple Grandin was orginaly scheduled in April. If you registered for the April event you DO NOT need to register again.Join us for a special event with Dr. Grandin, one of the world’s most accomplish......More

NEW DATE TUESDAY, JUNE 4: Our Illinois Libraries Present program with Temple Grandin was orginaly scheduled in April. If you registered for the April event you DO NOT need to register again.Join us for a special event with Dr. Grandin, one of the world’s most accomplished and well-known adults with autism. Dr. Grandin has been at the forefront of research and activism for autism and neurodiversity for decades.Her memoir, Emergence: Labeled Autistic, was published in 1986 and she has continued to write about autism and neurodivergence over the decades. Her most recent book is Visual Thinking: The Hidden Gifts of People Who Think in Pictures, Patterns, and Abstractions.Dr. Grandin’s research and understanding of animal behavior spearheaded a reform in the quality of life for agricultural animals worldwide.Follow the link to register: bit.ly/ILP_TempleGrandinThis event is made possible by Illinois Libraries Present (ILP), a statewide collaboration among public libraries offering premier events. ILP is funded in part by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a department of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). ILP is committed to inclusion and accessibility. To request accommodations, please email [email protected]

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Messin' Around: Sidewalk Chalk Painting

Ages 5-7.  Unleash your creativity in this fun and messy art program perfect for young artists! Program will be held in the Outdoor Naturescape, weather permitting. Dress for mess! Theme: Sidewalk Chalk Painting

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Picnic Storytime

All Ages. Bring your lunch and blanket to the library and enjoy an outdoor storytime as you eat!  Stay and play outdoor games and activities in the library’s naturescape. Weather permitting.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Garden Buddies

Ages 3-5 Outdoor Naturescape at the Library Come dig in the dirt and help plant herbs and flowers in the library’s garden boxes. Then, we’ll make some garden art. Dress for mess.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Writers, We (Community Group)

Join local writers to discuss and workshop your writing. The group welcomes those new to the art as well as those with experience. Bring your haunting horror, sappy romance, blood-pumping action, children's lit., shining sci-fi, poetic pathos-- all genres welcome!The Ne......More

Join local writers to discuss and workshop your writing. The group welcomes those new to the art as well as those with experience. Bring your haunting horror, sappy romance, blood-pumping action, children's lit., shining sci-fi, poetic pathos-- all genres welcome!The New Lenox Writers' Group publishes an annual anthology of their themed submissions which can be found on Amazon.At this time, Writers, We is conducting hybrid meetings. This means in addition to meeting at the library, there is also the option to join the group virtually via Zoom. Email [email protected] to register your attendance in person or to request the Zoom meeting link.Registration Encouraged for Room Capacity.*This is a community group and is not run or monitored by library staff.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Board Game Afternoon

All Ages.  Beat summer boredom and drop in to play a round or two of your favorite board games!  Games will be provided, but you are more than welcome to bring your own as well.  Participants must be supervised by an adult.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Knit Happens!

Bring your knitting, crochet, embroidery, sewing, weaving, looming and other fiber arts projects for a social evening with other adults. Don't have anything in the works? Peek through The Studio's freebie cabinets and yarn swap to see what we've got whenever you're in t......More

Bring your knitting, crochet, embroidery, sewing, weaving, looming and other fiber arts projects for a social evening with other adults. Don't have anything in the works? Peek through The Studio's freebie cabinets and yarn swap to see what we've got whenever you're in the Library.All skill levels are welcome!Registration is encouraged (so we can let you know if a rare cancellation happens) but is not required. Pop in and say hello! Coming in late or needing to leave early is absolutely fine.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Donuts, Decorating, and Dominos

Let's go all out for National Donut Day this year! We will be decorating donuts, playing dominos, and learning about these delicious pastries via some donut trivia. Prize awarded to the top donut decorator!

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Summer Kickoff with Crosstown Exotics

Help us kick off the Summer Learning Challenge with Crosstown Exotics Reptile and Bug Show! Get an up-close, hands-on experience with some amazing creatures while learning fun facts and interesting information about the creepy, crawly world of reptiles and bugs!The even......More

Help us kick off the Summer Learning Challenge with Crosstown Exotics Reptile and Bug Show! Get an up-close, hands-on experience with some amazing creatures while learning fun facts and interesting information about the creepy, crawly world of reptiles and bugs!The event will take place outdoors behind the Library (weather permitting). Please bring lawn chairs or blankets. Registration is required and begins May 25.This event is for all ages to enjoy as part of our Summer Learning Challenge Kickoff!!!Please register all members of your party who will require a space/chair in the event of inclement weather. Rain location is Meeting Room AB. Children should be accompanied by a registered adult or caregiver.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Sundae Storytime at the Creamery

All Ages. Meet us at the New Lenox Creamery for a delicious storytime!  Enjoy a sweet treat and listen to a cool story sure to help you beat the summer heat!Each registrant will be given a $1 off coupon for their ice cream purchase!

918 Timber Place, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Play-Doh Playtime

Ages 1-3 with caregiver   A fun, hands-on experience perfect for the littlest patrons, Play-Doh Playtime is sure to bring out your child's creativity and imagination. Leave the mess to us!

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Let's Go Fishin'!

Ages 6-12 with a caregiver   (June 10, 17, 24) In this 3-week class, kids will learn to cast, bait, and take fish off the hook. Fishing poles and bait are supplied. Class occurs rain or shine. Registration starts May 27.An adult must be present and will need a fishing l......More

Ages 6-12 with a caregiver   (June 10, 17, 24) In this 3-week class, kids will learn to cast, bait, and take fish off the hook. Fishing poles and bait are supplied. Class occurs rain or shine. Registration starts May 27.An adult must be present and will need a fishing license if they are planning to assist their children (16 and under do not need fishing licenses). A signed waiver is also required.Register for one session only (June or July). Registration is for a 3-week session and attendance is required for all 3 weeks.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

New Lenox Public Library District Board Meeting

The Board of Trustees meets every month on the second Monday at 7 pm with additional meetings as necessary. Visit Board of Trustees & Meetings for more information.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Park Pals

All Ages. We're bringing the library to you this summer! Join your Youth Services librarians at Freedom Park for songs, stories, and other summer fun. Bring your own blanket or chair and arrive ready for laughs, silly dances, and a few read-alouds. Weather permitting. R......More

All Ages. We're bringing the library to you this summer! Join your Youth Services librarians at Freedom Park for songs, stories, and other summer fun. Bring your own blanket or chair and arrive ready for laughs, silly dances, and a few read-alouds. Weather permitting. Registration is not required.

300 Charleston Drive, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

T-Shirt Tuesdays: Tie-Dye

Ages 8-12 Turn trash into treasure by bringing new life into an old t-shirt. Bring an old t-shirt and transform it into something new and fun! Theme: Tie-Dye (Dye will be supplied, please bring a shirt from home)

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Discovering Witches: The Real Historical Records and Manuscripts Seen in Movies, Books, and TV Shows

Witches are iconic figures in popular culture. They appear in some of your favorite silver screen and streaming media shows alongside archaic books and strange texts.In this program, we'll uncover the real records and printed resources seen in your favorite shows, what ......More

Witches are iconic figures in popular culture. They appear in some of your favorite silver screen and streaming media shows alongside archaic books and strange texts.In this program, we'll uncover the real records and printed resources seen in your favorite shows, what the writers used as inspiration, and how to access historical resources for free from home.Whether you're a hardcore fan or an armchair historian, bring your curiosity and your questions to this program!Registration Encouraged

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US