Library News

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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

The library's April newsletter is available online! Discover what's happening at the Arlington Heights Memorial Library this month including our new 24/7 Hold Pickup Lockers, Earth Month programming and reading recommendations, a Solar Eclipse Viewing Party, a look at our online databases and more.

Read the April newsletter here: https://issuu.com/ahml/docs/ahmlnewsletter-april2024

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.

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.

Meta Quest 2 is now available at the Arlington Heights Memorial Library! The all-in-one virtual reality (VR) headset is available to Arlington Heights cardholders, ages 12 and up, to use in the library's digital media lab, the Studio. Strap on the headset and get ready to experience total immersion with 3D positional audio, hand tracking and easy-to-use controllers working together to make virtual worlds feel real.

"When customers first put on the headset, they're generally surprised as the quality of this technology has greatly advanced and you really feel like you're being transported into another world," said Chris Smith, Digital

The library is proud to offer Explore More Illinois and Museum Adventure Passes, two ways for Arlington Heights Memorial Library cardholders to obtain discounted or free museum and attraction passes.


How do I get a Pass?
Get started at Explore More Illinois Login. Select the Arlington Heights Memorial Library from the drop-down menu and enter your library card number. Browse for passes and available offers for the upcoming three months. You can also search for offers by date, attraction name or location. 


For Museum Adventure Passes find Arlington Heights Memorial Library to see which passes are currently available. Most passes are