Library News

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The library's May newsletter is available online! Discover what's happening at the Arlington Heights Memorial Library this month including programming and resources for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, outreach events around town, a look at our specialized online genealogy resources and more.

Read the May newsletter here: https://issuu.com/ahml/docs/ahmlnewsletter-may24

The online edition includes live links to easily register for your favorite programs and services. Plus, register through our online calendar or call 847-392-0100.

From Circulation to the Friends of the Library, the ESL & Literacy Office to Kids’ World, volunteers help across the board at the Arlington Heights Memorial Library, providing essential support needed for library services all year long. 

It is thanks to the contributions from volunteers like Gwen Adams that allow the library to be what it is today. Adams is the library’s 2023 Volunteer of the Year, contributing 630 hours of service in 2023. She is also being recognized for achieving volunteer milestones for both 3,500 and 4,000 hours of service.

The library world has always played a huge role

Asian American, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month is a nationally recognized monthly designation that honors the many contributions and accomplishments of Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders and Native Hawaiians. Click below to check out curated lists of books for all ages:
 


Programs and Events
Indian Folk Art Display
Through May / Second floor display case

Display case by

The Arlington Heights Memorial Library (AHML) is the community's place to read, learn and gather! Each month, the library compiles a director's report which highlights the most recent statistics and trends in library usage, programs and other initiatives that impact our community and support the library's overall strategic goals and plan. Highlights from April's report include:

  • AHML Celebrates Women’s History Month (pages 1-2)
  • Staff Member Honored as Local Business Person of the Year (page 4)
  • Increase in Diversity of Library Collection (page 6)
  • Makerplace Supports Local Inventor (page 8)
  • Former Hub Regular Helps Launch Inaugural Convention Inspired by AHML’s

"Ready, Set, Library" is the theme of this year's National Library Week, and the library is ready to share its 2023 Annual Report! This year-in-review highlights notable events, library accomplishments and the many ways customers connected with the library throughout 2023. It also features messages from Executive Director Mike Driskell and Board President Amy Somary. Thank you to all of our customers for being a part of a memorable 2023 and we look forward to continue connecting with you at the library throughout 2024.

Click here to view Annual Report.

Wonder and awe filled North School Park today as close to 700 people joined in the library's Solar Eclipse Viewing Party and witnessed a rare celestial event together- the moon passing between the sun and Earth, blocking the sun's light. 

"It's such as unusual, once-in-a-lifetime occurance for many people," said Arlington Heights resident Jane Born, a former teacher who came to North School Park with her friend, and former colleague, Marcia Becker. "It's so nice to be able to see it locally too and to share in the experience with so many people. It's really amazing and fun!"  

The event, presented

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, an annual campaign to raise public awareness about sexual assault and educate communities and individuals on how to prevent sexual violence in the United States. In recognition of this month, we've put together curated lists of books:

Consent and Boundaries for Littles
Consent and Boundaries for Kids
Consent and Boundaries for Tweens
Sexual Assault Awareness Month Reads for Teens
Sexual Assault Awareness Month Reads for Adults

Programs
Overcoming the Bystander Effect: Tips, Tricks and Tools

Thursday, April 4, 7-8:30 p.m. / Hendrickson Room / Register

Media Literacy for Teens: Consent in a Digital Age

Looking for a fun way to give back to the community during your summer break? Join a Summer Volunteer Squad! The squads include helping at the summer reading table, with arts and crafts and other library events. This opportunity is for teens entering grades 7–12 in the fall of 2024.  

Online applications are open from April 1–30 for Arlington Heights residents. First time participants will be asked to sign up for an informal interview.  Learn more and get started here at ahml.info/teens/volunteer. 

April is Earth Month, and the Arlington Heights Memorial Library invites the community to learn with us, dig deeper and be inspired to become an even better caregiver of the Earth through programming, crafts and more. We've also put together curated lists of books for audiences of all ages to recognize the importance of adopting earth-friendly habits:Books for LittlesBooks for KidsBooks for TweensBooks for TeensBooks for AdultseBooks for Adults (cloudLibrary)Earth Month ResourcesIllinois Legislation


Recycling  


The Arlington Heights Memorial Library (AHML) is the community's place to read, learn and gather! Each month, the library compiles a director's report which highlights the most recent statistics and trends in library usage, programs and other initiatives that impact our community and support the library's overall strategic goals and plan. Highlights from this month's report include:

  • AHML in Chicago Parent (page 1)
  • Soft Launch of 24/7 Pickup Lockers (page 1)
  • Celebrating Black History Month (pages 2 and 8)
  • Adding Three More Culinary Classes (page 5)
  • Making Genealogy Services More Accessible (page 3)

View the full March director's report online here.