Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—As the weather warms up, April will shower the Park Forest Public Library with gardening sessions for adults and teens. In addition, there are discussions on the hidden meanings behind pre-civil war quilts, travel photography, a virtual session on the art of foraging, and a comedy improv class for kids.
April Shower Events for Adults
Illinois Humanities Road Scholar Connie Martin will deliver a one-hour multimedia presentation on the hidden codes found in quilts used on the Underground Railroad. A sixth-generation descendant of enslaved Africans in Kentucky, Martin will discuss the history of the Illinois routes used by the freedom-seekers. The talk will be on Wednesday, April 2, at 5 p.m. Registration for this event is necessary.
On Tuesday, April 8, at 5 p.m., join Dr. Michael S. Lewis as he takes patrons on a photographic journey across all seven continents. He will share a selection of his award-winning photos and discuss his travel experiences. Organizers appreciate those attending Registration for this event.
A two-hour vision board workshop for adults will happen on Saturday, April 12, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The workshop will help participants create a life vision, discover their purpose, and set personal goals. Registration is necessary and is now open.
Events for Older Adults
Older adults can celebrate National Scrabble Day at noon on Thursday, April 10. Participants can brush up on their Scrabble skills and make a DIY tile coaster. Registration is necessary and opens on April 3.
Two sessions at the library for older people are designed to help with their at-home gardening.
The first, “Body Smart Gardening,” occurs on Saturday, April 12, at 1 p.m. University of Illinois Extension representatives will discuss techniques for protecting yourself from injuries while gardening. Organizers encourage Registration, which opens on April 5.
The U of I Extension will present the second, “Grow Lettuce & Herbs in a Bag,” at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22. Participants will make a mini greenhouse using plastic bags and potting soil to grow lettuce and herbs. Plants can be transplanted outdoors later in the year. Free seeds will be provided. Registration is necessary and opens on April 15.
Library Activities for Teens and Kids
Not to be left out, the library has multiple events for teens and kids in April.
On Monday, April 28, starting at 4:30 p.m., the library will host “Teen Tabletop Takeover: Board Game Night.” Join your friends in one of many challenging, fast-paced board games. Space for this event is at a premium, and registration is necessary.
Also, on Monday, April 21, at 4 p.m., teens can stop by the library for “Teen Time: Color & Cultivate Workshop.” Participants design terracotta planters and then plant seeds to start mini gardens. Registration for this event is necessary.
Teens looking for something to do during spring break are welcome to stop by the library on Friday, April 18, for a movie marathon. The films included are “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” at 10:15 a.m., “Pitch Perfect” at noon, and “Wicked” at 2 p.m. Organizers appreciate Registration for this event but do not require it.
In the “Comedy Improv Class for Kids” participants play games that help with teamwork, public speaking, and creative thinking skills. Taught by Kate Wiersema, a veteran performer and special education teacher, the class is for children ages 7-12. Registration is necessary. Visit the Kids’ Zone in the library or call (708) 748-3731 to reserve a space.
The library is holding an autism acceptance giveaway during the week of April 7. Kids can stop by for a gift while supplies last; no registration is necessary.
The Art of Foraging (virtual)
The Illinois Libraries Present series returns in April with “The Art of Foraging with Alexis Nikole Nelson.” Nelson, a forager and outdoor educator, will discuss African American and indigenous food traditions and the edible plants hiding in plain sight. The virtual session is on Thursday, April 10, at 7 p.m. Registration is required, and participants are sent a Zoom link to access the presentation.
April Movie Matinee
The April movie matinee for older adults is the 2022 film A Man Called Otto, starring Tom Hanks. The viewing is at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 29. The movie has a rating of PG-13. It is a remake of a 2015 Swedish film of the same name. The story follows Otto Anderson, a 63-year-old cranky widower who gets drawn into the lives of his neighbors. Light refreshments will be available. Registration is encouraged but not required and opens on April 22.
Library Hours and Information
Additional details and registration links for all April events appear on the library’s monthly water bill insert (shown below) or the library website. Information on the remaining March events is here.
The library at 400 Lakewood Boulevard is open for all services from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday.
