Community, Library, Local, Park Forest

Park Forest Library Features Kids’ Outdoor Fun, Healthy Gardening Tips, and a Chicago History Discussion in July


Park Forest Public Library

Park Forest, IL-(ENEWSPF)- The Park Forest Public Library features two unique events for kids in July plus several adult learning opportunities.

Kids’ Activities Take Center Stage

sun setting over water with land on the hoizon
The library is offering outdoor kids’ events in July. (PFPL Image)

On two Wednesdays, July 12 and July 19, at 1 p.m. (weather permitting), the library hosts “Cool Down at PFPL!” This outside event includes activities and water games designed for kids of all ages. No registration is required for these events.

mermaid underwater sitting on a rock
Kids can receive a Little Mermaid surprise bundle on July 24. (PFPL Image)

A “Little Mermaid Surprise Bundle” is offered to children in the library’s Kids’ Zone at 1 p.m. on July 24. The bundle includes items that celebrate the new Little Mermaid movie currently in theaters. Registration is required and will open on July 14.

July Discussion Groups

man with mustache and bowler hat in front of a building
Learn about Chicago’s past from historian Clarence Goodman on July 26. (PFPL Image)

Chicago historian Clarence Goodman returns to the library in July with “A Tale of Two Chicagos: The White City & The Murder Castle of Englewood.” Join Goodman on July 26 at 5 p.m. as he discusses some of Chicago’s most infamous tales and explores Chicago’s first World’s Fair. This event requires registration which opens on June 30.

image of smartphone with emojis rising from it
“The Chaos Machine” is the Life Ripples book selection for July. (PFPL Image)

The Life Ripples Book Club meets in the Ringering Room at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 15. “The Chaos Machine” by Max Fisher is this month’s book for reading and discussion.

Sessions for Healthy Gardening and Exercise

gardening fork in ground next to a potted plant
Home gardeners can learn safety tips at the library on July 22. (PFPL Image)

The University of Illinois Extension presents “BodySmart Gardening” at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 22 in the Library Commons. Learn how to protect yourself from injury when using common gardening tools and how to care for your skin and prevent aches and strains. Those in attendance may receive raffle prizes. Registration opens at 9 a.m. on July 15.

logo with image of mountain range
The Park Forest Library offers Tai Chi for older persons on Tuesdays. (PFPL Image)

Brian Thompson returns on Tuesday, July 11, at 9 a.m. with “Nature’s Gentle Tai Chi Gong.” He will lead participants in breathing, relaxation, self-calming, and gentle movements that have mental and physical health benefits. Registration for the July 11 session opens at 9 a.m. on July 3. Registration for subsequent sessions opens a week before each session.

Library Hours and Information

white coffee cup sitting in white saucer
The Park Forest Library Cafe’ Connections continue in July (PFPL Image)

Café Connection continues every Tuesday beginning at 10 a.m. Coffee and tea are available to patrons while the supply lasts.

Additional details and registration links for all July events appear on the library’s monthly water bill insert (shown below) or at pfpl.org/calendar. Find information on the remaining June events here.

The library is located at 400 Lakewood Boulevard and 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. The library will be closed on Tuesday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day.


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