Library News

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Stop by the Hub and study for your final exams. We'll provide brain-powering snacks, laptops and group study areas to help you prepare. For high school students only.

Finals Study Lounge
Tuesday, May 21-Friday, May 24, 3-9 p.m.
Saturday, May 25, noon-5 p.m.
Sunday, May 26, noon-6 p.m.
Tuesday, May 28, 3-9 p.m.
Wednesday, May 29-Thursday, May 30, noon-9 p.m.

"Blooming with Gratitude" was the theme of the Arlington Heights Memorial Library's annual Volunteer Recognition Celebration and Concert, which honored the library’s more than 500 volunteers who contributed more than 24,400 hours of service in 2023, which was almost a 25% increase from the previous year.

"Rich soil. Seeds. Water. Sunlight. A nurturing hand. When all of these things come together, a garden not only grows but flourishes," said Volunteer Coordinator Jennifer Begich to the large gathering of volunteers on Tuesday, May 7. "The Arlington Heights library is our garden. It is where information, ideas and opportunities take root, tended

For the past 20 years, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has recognized Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) every May to increase awareness about the vital role mental health plays in our overall health and wellbeing. Visit the library's MHAM website to learn more about local resources and partners, this month's featured programs and booklists, and our special Mental Wellness Bingo challenge.

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

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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

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