Park Forest, IL—(ENEWSPF)—The Park Forest Public Library offers a wide variety of events in May for patrons of all ages, including mindfulness training. To learn stress-reduction techniques, gain a better understanding of artificial intelligence, or pick up some new cooking tips, check out these library events.
“No Pressure” Community Read
The May “No Pressure” Community Read selection is “Count My Lies” by Sophie Stava. The Good Morning America Book Club selection follows Sloane Caraway, whose seemingly minor lies allow her to become the nanny for a wealthy New York couple. After entering the household, she discovers she is not the only one lying, and the family’s picture-perfect life holds dangerous secrets.
A free book copy may be picked up at the library from 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 1. Books are available while supplies last.
May Events for Older Adults
The library hosts several events explicitly targeting older adults in May.
Mindfulness Training
Join mental health specialist Felicia Marie Houston for “Nurturing Mental Wellness in Your Golden Years ” on Thursday, May 8, at 11 a.m. Houston will teach stress-reduction and mindfulness training techniques, how to recognize depression or anxiety, and the benefits of social connection. Registration is encouraged and opens on May 1.
Chef Susan Maddox will be at the library on Saturday, May 10, at 1 p.m. for a live cooking demonstration, “Garden to Plate.” She will discuss the great fruits and vegetables from summer gardens and farmers’ markets that are waiting to be explored. Patrons may stop by for recipes and samples. Registration for this event is necessary and opens on May 3.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Basics
It seems everyone is talking about AI – what it is, what it can do, the possibilities, and the dangers. On Wednesday, May 7, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m., join Mike Gershbein from Very Smart People for a presentation covering the history of AI, the technology that powers it, and its future implications. Gershbein will discuss some popular AI sites and how they can be used.
Organizers appreciate registration for this event, which is now open.
Two Virtual Events in May
The library hosts two virtual events in May: one on cooking and another featuring a noted author discussing poverty in the United States.
On Wednesday, May 21, at 6:30 p.m., Krystyn Slick’s virtual cooking class, “Mediterranean Feast: Flavors of the Sun,” will delve into the flavors of the Mediterranean and the healthy dishes crafted using fresh herbs, spices, and ingredients. To register, phone Sarah at (708) 748-3731, ext. 216, or email [email protected] with “Flavors of the Sun” in the subject line.
Registrants receive the recipes two weeks before the class, allowing them to purchase the necessary ingredients in advance.
Illinois Libraries Present sponsors the second virtual session in May. It features author and Princeton sociology professor Matthew Desmond. On Tuesday, May 13, at 7 p.m., Desmond and journalist Natalie Moore will discuss his research on poverty in the United States, housing insecurity, public policy impacting poverty, and racial inequality.
Registration for this virtual event is necessary. All registered participants will receive a Zoom link to access the presentation.
Comic Books and Star Wars
The library celebrates Free Comic Book Day on Saturday, May 3, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Do Art Productions will conduct an all-ages interactive comic book workshop. Attendees will explore the various language styles employed in comics. Each participant will receive complimentary comics to take home.
Registration is now open and necessary.
On Monday, May 5, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m., the Library invites teens to “Revenge of the 5th,” a Star Wars-themed craft and activity event. Artist Dan Gogh will draw Star Wars-themed caricatures for registered patrons.
Registration is now open and necessary.
Library Hours and Information
Additional details and registration links for all May events are on the library’s monthly water bill insert, shown below, or on the library’s website. Information on the remaining April events are here.
The library at 400 Lakewood Boulevard is open for all services from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday. However, it will not open on Monday, May 26, in honor of Memorial Day.
