January February Newsletter 2023

Gail Borden 

January-February 

2023 Newsletter 

Public Library District 

Pages 1-12 

February is Black History Month 

Muddy Waters, clipped. Photo by Lionel 

Decoster. This file is licensed under the 

Creative Commons Attribution-Share 

Alike 4.0 International license. 

ES =Programas y 

descripciónes en español, 

ver paginas 10-11. 

R=Registration required 

Ways to register: 

• gailborden.info/register 

• Call 847-429-4597 

• In person 

City of Elgin A-D 

City of Elgin section is 

included only in newsletters 

delivered to Elgin residents. 

ON TO 2050 will help the seven counties and 284 communities 

of northeastern Illinois achieve an inclusive and thriving 

region. It was developed by the Chicago Metropolitan Agency 

for Planning (CMAP) in collaboration with partners. 

The plan addresses transportation, equity, the environment 

and other quality-of-life issues. In developing ON TO 2050, 

CMAP engaged more than 100,000 residents across Cook, 

DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties. 

This exhibition was created by the Dunn Museum and CMAP. 

gailborden.info/2050 

Black Excellence in 

Chicago Music Exhibit 

Main Library Second Floor 

February 

Experience the music of influential 

Black musicians from Chicago who 

changed the world. Musical artists 

from soul, jazz, blues, gospel, opera, 

rap, rock and funk genres will be put in 

the spotlight. Learn about how these 

talented musicians honed their craft 

and listen to a sample of their music. 

Gospel Choir Celebration 

Main Library Meadows Community Rooms 

Saturday, 2/11 • 1 pm 

Enjoy the music of talented local 

gospel choirs. For more information 

visit gailborden.info/blackhistory. 

Pirate Island ES 

Exhibit from the Miami Children’s Museum 

Main Library Through January 15 

Climb aboard a pirate ship and explore 

sailor skills before the ship sets sail! 

Learn about pirate legends and visit 

stations offering a variety of STEAM 

activities. gailborden.info/pirateisland 

ON TO 2050: 

The Long-Range 

Plan for Northeastern 

Illinois 

Main Library 

January 24 – February 27 

Black History Month Events 

See back page for details. 

2/2 100 Years of Black History: 

With Storyteller Linda Gorham 

2/5 Celebrate Black Joy Through 

Poetry: With Elgin Poet Laureate 

Emeritus Chasity Gunn 

2/8 Desserts & Dogs: 

With Chef Dee Kid Liefde 

2/16 We Are Human: CHAR In Concert 

2/23 The Life-Changing Power of 

Community with Author 

Clifton Taulbert 

2/27 Black American Authors 

Discussion Group (page 8) 

Violins of Hope 

Volunteers Needed 

for Upcoming 

Exhibit! 

Violins of Hope will be hosted by JCC 

Chicago and other partner organizations. 

The collection of string instruments played 

by Jewish musicians before and during the 

Holocaust have been painstakingly restored 

and are now coming to our area for cultural 

exhibitions, performances, and community 

education with a message of hope, 

resistance, resilience, and unity. 

Some of this invaluable collection will 

be coming to the Library in April 2023. 

Please watch for more about the 

community performances and education 

in our next issue. 

Please become a trained volunteer. 

Register here: gbpl.info/voh_volunteer 

Sensible Salting 

Exhibit 

Look for the Sensible Salting 

Traveling Exhibit on display at 

the Main Library mid-January! 

gailborden.info/sensiblesalting 

Preschool 

Information Fair 

See page 2 for details. 

The Gail Borden Public Library District Newsletter | Published Bi-Monthly ISSUE NO. 2023-01 | January 1, 2023

Families 

Winter Reading 

Challenge & Our 

Community Reads 

Kids’ Winter Reading 

Challenge ES 

January 2 – February 28 

Snuggle up with books 

this winter by registering 

for the Winter Reading 

Challenge. Receive a 

prize just for signing up, 

then earn badges by 

reading and completing 

activities. 

gailborden.info/winter2023 

Mother Bruce: 

Our Community Reads – Family Fun 

Winter Reading Challenge Kickoff 

Main Library Sally Lee Rooms 

Monday, 1/2 • 2 – 2:45 pm 

Hear stories and experience fun activities 

as we kick off our Winter Reading 

Challenge. 

Our Community Reads - 

Mother Bruce Series 

Main Library 

Tuesday, 1/3 • All day 

Spend the winter getting to know this 

special bear and his friends by reading 

the Mother Bruce series by author Ryan 

Higgins. Interactive and Bruce-themed 

activities can be picked up at the library. 

Mother Bruce: 

Our Community Reads – Family Fun 

South Elgin Branch Hoffer Room 

Saturday, 1/14 • 11 am – Noon 

Hear the stories of Mother Bruce and 

share in fun activities together. 

Week of Play 

Main Library Youth Center 

Monday, 1/2 – Friday, 1/6 

Kick off 2023 with a week of fun and 

games! Grab the family and drop in for a 

variety of themed activities, puzzles, art 

projects and of course—pirates! 

Winter Craft-O-Rama 


Thursday, 1/5 • 11 am 

Make a variety of winter-themed crafts to 

take home. Materials provided. 

Mr. Freeze Cryogenics Show 


Thursday, 1/5 

Session 1: 4 - 4:45 pm 

Session 2: 6 - 6:45 pm 

Join us for the coolest show around! 

Explore cryogenics and exciting 

science-based demonstrations with lots 

of surprises and a few explosions with 

Fermilab’s “Mr. Freeze.” 

Three Kings Celebration ES 

Main Library 

Saturday, 1/7 • 2 – 4 pm 

Meet Gaspar, Melchor and Balthazar, the 

Three Kings, take your picture with them 

and enjoy a taste of traditional “rosca.” 

Stay for stories and crafts. Partner: The Mexican 

Organization of Elgin (OME). 

Family Night of Lotería! R ES 


Monday, 1/9 • 7 pm 

Join us for a fun family night of playing 

the traditional Mexican game, Lotería! 

Preschool Information Fair 


Thursday, 1/12 • 6 – 8 pm 

Representatives from area preschools, 

daycare centers and licensed 

homes will be available to talk 

about their childcare services and 

answer questions. 

Encanto Interactive Movie R 



Join us for an interactive viewing of 

Encanto. We’ll use props to take part in 

the story. Be ready to act, shout and 

sing along! 

Spanish Family Program ES 


Mondays • 7 – 7:30 pm 

1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27 

This program will vary, from stories to 

crafts and more! For families with children 

ages 3 and older who speak or are 

learning Spanish. 

Library Magic Show 

Take Your Child to the Library Day! R 


Saturday, 2/4 • 11 am 

Libraries are full of stories, creativity and 

a touch of magic. Learn all about the 

wonderful services Gail Borden offers and 

catch a fantastic magic show. 

Family Valentine Program R ES 



Celebrate love and friendship 

with a story and a craft. 

Would You Be My Valentine? 

Rakow Branch Corridor West 

Saturday, 2/11 • 11 am – Noon 

Join us for crafts, games and a 

small snack while we celebrate an 

early Valentine’s Day. 

Get Crafty 

Crafty Preschoolers R 

Rakow Branch 

Tuesdays, 1/10, 1/24, 2/7, 2/21 • 10 am 

Join us for a fun craft project. Dress for mess. 

Arts and Crafts Makerspace 

Mondays, 1/16, 2/20 


11 – 11:45 am 


2 – 2: 45 pm 

Grades K-5. Drop in on a no-school day 

and bring your imagination to create 

something amazing. Materials provided. 

Bilingual Crafts for Kids ES 

Main Library 

Wednesdays • 5 – 5:30 pm 

Sally Lee Fox Room 1/11, 1/25, 2/15, 2/22 

Story Room – South 1/18, 2/1 

= Pick up kit at Main Library 

2 R=Registration required • Three ways to register: Online at gailborden.info/register • Call 847-429-4597 • In person

Kids 

Pirate-in-Training - 

A Pirate Academy R 


Tuesday, 1/3 • 1 – 2 pm 

Grades K-5. Join us on the 7 seas and train 

to become a fearsome pirate. There will 

be maps, songs, science and treasure. 

Winter Wonderland Bingo R 


Friday, 1/6 • 11 am 

Brrrrr. It’s cold outside, so stop by and 

warm up with a winter-themed game of 

Bingo. Winners will receive prizes! 

Creativity Corner Grades K-5 R 

Tuesdays • 4:45 pm 


1/3 Snow Painting 

1/10 Let’s Draw 

1/31 Winter Hockey Fun 

2/7 Let’s Play with Dominoes 

2/14 Heart Art 

2/28 Let’s Paint – Floral Blowing 

Dandelions 

Thursdays • 4:45 pm 


1/12 Winter Mittens 

1/19 Fake Snow 

1/26 Cotton Ball Penguin Painting 

2/2 Groundhog Day Celebration 

2/9 Symmetrical Snowflakes 

2/23 Snowy Owl Painting 

Homeschool Creativity Corner R 


Tuesdays • 2 pm 

1/17 Chinese New Year 

2/21 Marble Run Challenge 

Kids Explore R 

Grades K-5. 

Thursdays • 4 pm 


1/12 Cezanne’s Parrot 

1/19 The Art of Ed Emberley 

2/16 Mythical Creatures 

2/23 Nebulae 

Virtual via Zoom 

1/26 Your Skeleton 1/16-1/22 

Homeschool Kids Explore: 

Your Skeleton R 


Thursday, 1/26 • 2 pm 

Grades K-5. No bones about it—human 

skeletons are cool! Learn about bones and 

make a skeleton to take home. 

Rakow “BLOCK” Party 

Rakow Branch 

Friday, 1/13 • 10 – 11 am 

Ages 3-6 years. Drop in for creative 

building with all sizes and shapes 

of blocks. 

National Rubber Ducky Day - 

Decorate a Duck 

Main Library Youth Center Creation Station 

Monday, 1/16 • All day 

Drop in and decorate your very 

own rubber duck. Materials provided. 

Let’s Play Friday 

Rakow Branch 

Fridays, 1/20 – 2/24 • 11 – 11:45 am 

Ages 3-6. Drop in for sensory and 

creative play. 

Preschool Puppeteers R 


Tuesdays • 10 am 

1/10 Mother Bruce 

2/14 Moo-Moo, I Love You! 

Best for ages 3-6 with an 

adult. Join us for puppetmaking 

and a story. 

Preschool Dance Party R 


Tuesday, 1/24, 2/21 • 10 am 

Best for ages 2-6 with an adult. Join us 

for an active program of music, stories 

and rhymes. 

Dragon Day 

Main Library 

Friday, 1/27 • All day 

Join Hiccup and the other Vikings as we travel to the Island of 

Burke, where we will learn and explore the world of dragons. 

How to Train Your Dragon Movie! R 


Friday, 1/27 • 10:30 am – Noon 

Let’s watch Hiccup and Toothless the Night Fury Dragon in 

this showing of How to Train Your Dragon (PG, 2010). 

Book Party: Odder R 



Grades K-5. Meet Odder—a curious, storytelling otter. 

When she faces off with a shark, her life changes in a big way. 

We’ll read from the book and make an otter craft together. 

1/23 – 1/29. 

Valentine’s Day Party R 


Thursday, 2/9 • 6:15 pm 

Friday, 2/10 • 10 am 

Ages 3-6. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with 

stories, songs, crafts and more. 

Baking for Kids: 

Palentine’s Day! 

Facebook Live: gbpl.info/FBLV 


Join Miss Jen and follow along as we whip 

up a sweet treat for your favorite pals. 

Let’s make a Palentine’s Day treat they 

will love. 

Pokémon Escape Room R 



Grades 3-5. Team Rocket has 

kidnapped your Pokémon! Work 

together with other trainers to solve 

puzzles and rescue them. 

ES =Descripción en español, ver paginas 10-11. 

GAILBORDEN.INFO 

3

Birth - 

Age 1 

Storytimes 

Baby Rhyme Time R 

Main Library Story Room South 

Fridays, 1/13, 1/20, 1/27, 2/3, 2/17, 2/24 • 9:15 am 

Welcome Baby! R 

Main Library Story Room South | Saturdays, 1/14, 2/11 • 10 am 

South Elgin Branch | Saturdays, 1/21, 2/18 • 11:30 am 

Little STEAMers Storytime: 

Bear Caves! R 


Tuesday, 1/31 • 10 am 

Ages 3-6. Join us for a fun storytime 

about winter, bears and hibernation. After 

stories, participants will engage in handson 

learning with a cave-building activity. 

Teddy Bear Picnic Storytime R 

South Elgin Branch 


Ages 3-6. Bring your favorite stuffed 

animal friend and join us for stories, songs 

and other fun activities. 

Ages 1 - 2 

Ages 1 - 3 

Age 2 

Ages 3 - 5 

Ages 3 - 6 

Families 

Wonderful Ones R 


Mondays, 1/9 – 2/27 (Not 2/6) • 6:15 pm 

Wednesdays, 1/11 – 2/22 (Not 2/8) • 10 am 

Thursdays, 1/12 – 2/23 (Not 2/9) • 9:15 am 

1, 2, 3, Go! 


Wednesdays, 1/11 – 2/22 (Not 2/8) • 9:15 am 

Bounce & Rhyme Storytime R 

Rakow Branch | Wednesdays, 1/11 – 2/22 • 10 am 

South Elgin Branch | Thursdays, 1/12 – 2/23 • 10:30 am 

Terrific Twos R 


Mondays, 1/9 – 2/27 (Not 2/6) • 10 am 

Tuesdays, 1/10 – 2/28 (Not 2/7) • 9:15 am 

Thursdays, 1/12 – 2/23 (Not 2/9) • 6:30 pm 

Budding Bookworms Preschool Storytime R 


Mondays, 1/9 – 2/20 • 5:30 pm 

Thursdays, 1/12 – 2/23 • 11:15 am 

Rakow Branch | Wednesdays, 1/11 – 2/22 • 10:45 am 

Preschool Storytime R 

Main Library Story Room North 

Mondays, 1/9 – 2/27 (Not 2/6) • 9:15 am 

Tuesdays, 1/10 – 2/28 (Not 2/7) • 6:15 pm 

Thursdays, 1/12 – 2/23 (Not 2/9) • 10 am 

Family Storytime & Crafts 

Main Library Sally Lee Rooms | Wednesdays, 1/11 – 2/22 (Not 2/8) • 6:15 pm 

Family Storytime R 

South Elgin Branch | Saturday, 1/21 • 10:30 am 

Saturday Storytime + Sweets 

Main Library | Saturdays, 1/21, 2/18 • 11 am 

Stuffed Animal Workshop: 

Bears R 


Tuesday, 2/7 • 9:15, 10 am 

Ages 3-6. Participants will listen to a story 

and then build their own stuffed animal 

from the book. 

Sensory Fun for 

Every Little One 


Thursday, 2/9 • 9:30 – 11 am 

For babies and toddlers up to 3 years old 

with an adult. Little ones will explore the 

world around them in this drop-in play 

program. Dress for mess. 

= Pick up kit at Main Library = Pick up kit at Rakow Branch 


Youth & Teens 

270 

Grades K-8 

Read to Rover R 


Saturdays, 1/7, 2/4 

2, 2:15, 2:30, 2:45, 3, 3:15 pm 

Rakow Branch 

Sundays, 1/15, 2/19 

2, 2:15, 2:30, 2:45, 3, 3:15 pm 


Saturdays, 1/28, 2/25 

11, 11:15, 11:30, 11:45 am, 12, 12:15, 

12:30, 12:45 pm 

Practice your reading skills by cuddling up 

with a good book and reading aloud to a 

fully trained and certified therapy dog. 

Grades 3-8 

The Gaming Event 

Main Library Youth Center 

Tuesdays, 1/24, 2/21 • 5 – 6 pm 

Grades 3-8. Drop by to play Pokémon 

and other role-playing games. Bring your 

cards to play or trade. We will also offer 

board games and chess. 

Grades 6-8 

Volunteens: In Person 

Volunteer Program R 

Main Library Sally Lee Fox Room 

Saturdays, 1/14, 2/11 • 1 pm 

Tuesdays, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 2/7, 2/14, 

2/21 • 6 pm 

Help out the library and your community 

by working together on volunteer 

projects. One application required for each 

school year. 

Wings of Fire Escape Room R 


Wednesday, 1/18 • 4:30 pm 

A rogue Skywing has stolen six dragon 

eggs – and the theft might lead to an allout 

dragon war. Can you find and return 

the eggs? 

DIY Dragon Crafts 



Let’s make dragon 

buttons, a papercraft 

dragon and a 

customized 

shrink-plastic dragon. 

Grades 6-12 

Manga and Anime Club R 


Saturdays, 1/28, 2/25 • 2 pm 

Calling all fans of Demon Slayer, My Hero 

Academia, Attack on Titan and more! 

Watch anime, draw fan art, make buttons, 

and try an anime-themed craft. 

K-Pop Afternoon R 

Main Library Sally Lee Eagle Room 

Tuesdays, 1/10, 2/14 • 4:30 pm 

Are you a fan of BTS, Blackpink, Stray Kids, 

or other K-pop groups? Enjoy your favorite 

K-pop songs while you make buttons, 

shrink-plastic charms and other crafts. 

Teen Writing and 

Art Showcase 

Get your creative 

work published! Email 

your piece to zone@ 

gailborden.info or 

visit gailborden. 

info/teenwriting for 

more details. 

Science • Technology • 

Engineering • Arts • Math 

Full STEAM Ahead! R 

Grades 3-5. 



1/5 Explore Thermal Energy with 

Hot Cocoa 

2/2 Heart Art Math 


Tuesday • 4:45 pm 

1/24 Create a Marshmallow Igloo 

2/21 House of Cards Challenge 

Homeschool STEAM: Putting 

the “A” for Art in STEAM R 



Grades K-5. Join us to check out some cool 

STEAM-related art projects. 

{Classes with this symbol are sponsored by 

Comcast Internet Essentials to help bridge the 

digital divide and foster digital literacy skills. 

For more information on Comcast Internet 

Essentials programs, visit 

internetessentials.com. 

Studio 

Grades 9-12 

Programs are held in Studio 270 at the 

Main Library. 

Holiday Movie Marathon 

Tuesday, 1/3 • 2 – 6 pm 

Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate 

and enjoy holiday classics. 

Beat Making Workshop R 


Learn the basics of beat making 

and music production in our 

Digital Media Lab. 

Pizza & Books 

Tuesdays, 1/24, 2/21 • 5 – 6 pm 

Stop by Studio 270 for a slice of pizza 

and join in on the conversation. We will 

be talking about what books we are 

reading now and new books that are on 

the shelves. 

Elgin Teen Life: For the Love 

of Chocolate R 

Tuesday, 2/14 • 5 pm 

Teens will learn how to use candy melts 

to pour molds and dip pretzels and 

cookies with chocolate. In partnership with 

the Elgin Police Department. 

Basics of Audio Recording R 


Learn the basics of capturing audio 

using devices ranging from professional 

microphones to your smart phone. 

STEAM for K-5 R 

Mondays • 4 pm 


1/9 Putting the “A” in STEAM 1/2-1/8 


1/16 Winter Survival Skills! 

1/23 Build a Toboggan Run 

1/30 Secrets of Stamps 

2/20 The Science of Kindness 

2/27 The Chemistry of Baking 

Coding Club 

Coding Candy & Cards R 

Main Library Computer Training Room 

Tuesday, 2/14 

Session 1: 2 – 2:45 pm { 

Session 2: 4 - 4:45 pm { 

Grades 2-5. Learn the fundamentals of 

computer programming while coding with 

candy and creating animated cards. 


5

Technology 

Excel Series R { 

Thursdays, 1/5 – 2/2 • 7 pm 

Learn how to manipulate, format, and 

organize numbers. 

Cybersecurity Series R { 

Tuesdays, 1/10 – 1/24 • 7 pm 

Learn about common viruses, keeping 

your data safe, internet privacy and how 

to care for your devices. 

Device Advice 

Thursdays 

Main Library 2nd Floor Behind Elevators 

1/12, 2/9 • 9:30 – 11:30 am 

Rakow Branch 

1/5, 1/19, 2/2, 2/16 • 9:30 – 11:30 am 


1/26, 2/23 • 10 am – Noon 

Need help figuring out how to use your 

tablet, smartphone or other device? Bring 

your questions and your device to the 

library for some 1:1 help. 

Computers 101 Series R { 


Thursdays, 1/12 – 1/26 • 10 am 


Wednesdays, 2/8 – 2/22 • 10:30 am 

Learn how to use the mouse and 

keyboard, pick up basic computer skills 

and browse the internet in this series. 

Adults 

Classes are held in the Main Library Computer Training Room unless otherwise noted. 

R - Register online, by phone or in person beginning December 16. Registering for 

the first class in a designated series enrolls you in all required sessions. All other 

classes require separate registration. If you cannot attend a session, please cancel 

your registration. Visit gailborden.info/learn or contact the Computer Center at 

847-429-4680 for more information. 

Cut the Cable Cord R 

Rakow Branch 

Wednesday, 1/18 • 6 pm 



Tired of paying an overpriced bill? Learn 

how you may be able to “cut the cable 

cord” in place of subscriptions like Netflix, 

Hulu and more. 

Google Tools 

Tuesdays • 7 pm 

Dive deeper into these stand-alone 

Google Tools classes. 

2/7 Drive R 2/14 Docs R 

2/21 Photos R 2/28 Slides R 

Windows 10 Series R { 

Thursday, 2/9, 2/16 • 7 pm 

Learn how to navigate, customize and 

adjust system settings. 

Getting Started with Arduino R { 


Learn the basics of programming with 

Arduino hardware. 

Program Wearable LEDs 

with Arduino R { 


Learn the basics of programming and how 

to program wearable LEDs in any color 

using an Arduino IDE microcontroller. 

LinkedIn Series R 

Mondays, 2/13, 2/20 • 6:30 pm 

Learn how to develop your profile, join 

groups, adjust account settings and 

create professional connections. 

Get to Know Your iPad R 


Thursday, 1/12 • 10:30 am 



Learn how to navigate Apple’s mobile 

operating system, iOS, on iPhones and 

iPads. Please bring your device. 

Introduction to Canva R 


Thursday, 2/23 • 10:30 am 

Learn to create and edit eye-catching 

designs and use the built-in templates to 

create your next flyer, card or graphics. 

Windows 11 Basics R 


Learn how to navigate the new 

Windows 11 interface, locate and 

manage your files, and customize 

your preferences. 

{Classes with this symbol are sponsored by Comcast Internet Essentials to help bridge the digital divide and foster digital literacy skills. For 

more information on Comcast Internet Essentials programs, visit www.internetessentials.com 

The Field Museum: 

A Savvy Soil Story R 



Discover the interesting facts from 

a six-year study following the conversion 

of bluegrass turf to native plants. 

Presenter: Carter O’Brien, former 

Field Museum employee. 

Under Our Feet Series 

Continuation of the “Start in Your Yard” Series 

4-part series provided by the award-winning Wild Ones of 

Northern Kane County & the Elgin Sustainability Commission. 

What Is Soil: 

What Do I Need to Know? R 



Learn the basic understandings of soil: 

what it is comprised of, how it is formed, 

how and why soils differ and signs 

of healthy soil. Presenter: Mark Bramstedt, 

experienced soil analyst. 

Heirloom Seed Swap 

Rakow Branch Shales Living Room 

Saturday, 2/4 • Noon 

Expand your native wildflower, herb and 

heirloom vegetable garden. Bring labeled 

seeds with type and variety to share. 

Rest & Digest: 

3 Keys to Better Sleep R 



Learn how to resolve your restless nights 

with key strategies to heal the sleep-gut 

connection. Presenters: Alison Brill and Olga Chwa. 


Adults 

PhD (Projects Half Done) Club 


Mondays, 1/2, 2/6 • 6 pm 

Main Library Grove Room R 

Thursdays, 1/12, 2/9 • 10 am 

Are you working on a PhD - Project Half 

Done? Bring your project and join others 

to work on unfinished projects together. 

Citizenship and DACA Renewal 

Information Resources ES 

Main Library Sally Lee Fox Room 

Wednesdays, 1/4, 2/1 • 4 – 7 pm 

Saturdays, 1/7, 2/4 • 10 am – 1 pm 

Drop-in service. Come and talk to one 

of our representatives about the free 

citizenship and DACA renewal services 

that we offer. Families welcome! Spanish 

help available. 

Begin the New Year 

with Meditation R 

Wednesdays • 6:30 pm 

Part 1 - 1/4 Hybrid: Main Library and Zoom 

Part 2 - 1/18 Zoom 

The New Year is a time to create a clean 

slate in this powerful workshop. Presenter: 

Umesh Bhatia, meditator. 

National Bird Day: Birding 

the Fox River for Beginners R 

Main Library Alft River Room 


Enjoy an interesting and informative 

program about the beautiful birds of 

the Fox River. BYOB (Bring your own 

binoculars!). Presenter: John Sprovieri, President of 

the Kane County Audubon Society. 

Latino Voices: Pastigel ES 

Facebook Live: gbpl.info/FBLV 


Learn about the tasty treats and about 

the success story from a local bakery in 

Elgin: Pastigel! 

Handmade @ the library for 

Adults Series ES 

Main Library Grove Room 

Tuesdays • 3:30 – 4:30 pm 

Materials will be provided. 

1/17 Kokedama! R 

Learn the art and craft of the Kokedama, 

pictured above. In this class, you’ll 

create your own Kokedama that you can 

hang or place on a surface. 

1/24 Lotion Bars R 

Create your own lotion bar with 

essential oils. 

1/31 Soap-Making R 

Create your own soaps with 

essential oils. 

The World War II 

You Never Knew: 

The Dutch Hunger 

Winter R 

Main Library Elgin Room 


Hear inspiring stories of 

tenacity and courage from this forgotten 

page of history. Presenter: Rob Currie, author of 

The Hunger Winter. 

Global Neighbor 

Series – Ukraine R 

Main Library 

Sunday, 1/8 • 1:30 pm 

Learn about Ukraine’s, 

people, history, culture, music and 

food. Discover the diverse cultures in 

our community. 

Monthly Matinee 

Classic Films R 


Mondays • 11 am 

1/9 True Grit (G, 1969) 

2/13 North by Northwest 

(NR, 1959) 

Eating Healthy on a Budget R 



Learn creative ways for eating healthy 

nutritious foods while saving money. 

Presenter: Alison Brill, Certified Health Coach. 

eRead Gail Borden R 


Thursdays, 2/9, 2/16 • 10:30 am 

Learn about free eBooks, eAudiobooks, 

newspapers, magazines and more with 

Gail Borden’s entertainment apps. 

In the Kitchen: Vegan Hot 

Chocolate for Valentine’s Day! ES 

Facebook: gbpl.info/virtual 


Learn how to make vegan hot chocolate 

for Valentine’s Day. 

Resource of the Month: 

PressReader ES 



PressReader is the best place to read 

thousands of newspapers and magazines 

from around the globe. Free with your 

library card! 

Celebrating National 

Popcorn Day! R 



Celebrate National Popcorn Day 

with Christopher Sumner of Elgin’s 

Mama Lee’s Popcorn Shop. Chris 

learned from his mom how to make 

delicious, tasty popcorn and now runs 

a successful business. 

Biscottis with Bill the Baker R 


Saturday, 1/21 • 10:30 am 

Learn how to substitute and mix and 

match ingredients so that your biscotti 

complements your tastes. Presenter: 

Bill the Baker. 

Lawyer in the Library 


Thursdays, 1/26, 2/23 • 6 – 7:30 pm 

Get assistance with your legal questions 

at this walk-in service. Partner: The Kane County 

Law Library & Self-Help Legal Center. 



7

Adults 

Book Clubs 

NextReads Newsletter 

Want to know about new books at the library? Sign 

up for a NextReads Newsletter. These newsletters 

deliver reading recommendation lists by genre or 

topic directly to your email. From job hunting to 

health, from science fiction to horror and more! 

Visit gailborden.info/nextreads to sign up. 

Walking Book Club 

Main Library Conference Room 

Wednesdays • 7 pm 

Jan The Measure by Nikki Erlick 

Feb Leaving Coy’s Hill 

by Katherine A. Sherbrooke 

Contemporary Book Group 



1/16 The Lobotomist’s Wife 

by Samantha Greene Woodruff 

2/20 The One Hundred Years of 

Lenni and Margot by 

Marianne Cronin 

Rakow Readers Book Club 


Mondays • 1:30 pm 

1/23 Last House on the Street 

by Diane Chamberlain 

2/27 The Exiles 

by Christina Baker Kline 

Great Books Discussion 

Group R 

Hybrid Main Library 

Conference Room & Zoom 


1/9 “A Letter Concerning 

Toleration”, John Locke 

(Philosophy) 

2/13 “Lady Windermere’s Fan”, 

Oscar Wilde (Play) 

Co-sponsored by the American Association of 

University Women Elgin Area Branch. Facilitated 

by Barbara Njus and Gail Cohen. 

ELGbtq+ Book Club 


Saturdays, 1/28, 2/25 • 4 pm 

Read and discuss LGBTQIA+ 

literature with others. Hosted by ELGbtq+. 

Black American Authors Discussion 

Group NEW R 


Monday, 2/27 • 6:30 pm 

February author is Toni Morrison. This group selects 

a different Black American author each month 

and discusses topics including love, freedom, civil 

rights, churches, schools, challenging times, plays 

and music. 

Music 

gailborden.info/music 

Elgin Symphony Orchestra 

Listeners Club R 

Main Library Meadows Community 

Rooms 

Wednesdays, 1/4, 2/1 • Noon 

This lecture/discussion series 

meets prior to the ESO’s Classics 

Masterworks series and will broaden 

your understanding of the music to 

be performed that week. 

Discussion Groups 

Poetry Writers Workshop R 

Hybrid Main Library & Zoom 

Mondays, 1/2, 2/6 • 6:30 pm 

Share your love of poetry. Poets 

will share their work in a supportive 

environment. Facilitated by Gareth Mann, 

Elgin Poet Laureate. 

Loving Elgin: 

A Poetry Celebration R 

Main Library 

Sunday, 2/12 • 2 pm 

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a 

poetry reading about the things 

citizens love about Elgin. Then, enjoy 

Valentine’s Day cookies! Partner: Gareth 

Mann, Elgin Poet Laureate. 

Sunday 

Afternoon 

Concerts 

Aebersold & Neiweem 

Piano Duo R 


Rooms 


Indulge in the “Impressions for 

Two Pianos” - an enjoyable mix 

of repertoire including works by 

Liszt, Debussy, Milhaud and Ravel. 

Stephen & Anastasiya 

Squires R 


Rooms 


Flutist Anastasiya Squires, 

accompanied on the piano by her 

husband Stephen, will perform a 

varied recital including music of 

her native Ukraine. 

Dream Lover – Vintage 

Songs of Love R 



This is NOT your typical 

sappy love show full of slow ballads! 

These love songs, ranging from the 

1920s-1960s, highlight the flirty, fun, 

joyful and playful love songs. 

Armchair Generals 


Tuesdays • 11:45 am 

1/10 The Other Jefferson Davis 

2/14 The Civil War, Episode 8: 

“War is All Hell” (1865) 

Elgin Genealogical Society 


Tuesdays, 1/3, 2/7 • 9:30 am 


Thursdays, 1/19, 2/16 • 7 pm 


Adults 

Business & Finances 

Resume Assistance 

with WorkNet Batavia 


Tuesdays • 1 – 4 pm 

1/10, 1/24, 2/7, 2/21 

Drop in with your resume, cover letter 

or job-hunting questions to receive 

professional assistance in your job search. 

Career Series R 


Wednesdays, 1/11, 1/18, 1/25 • 10:30 am 

Develop skills for success on resume 

building and job interviewing. 

Cashflow Board Game R ES 

Main Library Meadows Community Room C 

Saturdays, 1/14, 2/11 • 9 am 

Cashflow was created by Robert Kiyosaki, 

author of the book Rich Dad Poor Dad. It 

is a fun and educational board game to 

increase your financial knowledge. We will 

have two games—one in Spanish and one in English. 

Estate Conservation R 



Join us for a discussion on why we should 

all have an estate plan, the options 

available and some key fundamentals of 

estate conservation. Presenter: KCT’s Certified 

Financial Planner. 

IRA Basics 

KCT Financial Wellness Series R 


Saturday, 1/28 • 10:30 am 

Learn what IRA options are available, 

requirements and distributions, and if an 

IRA is a good option for you. 

Improve Your Credit Score R 


Tuesday, 2/7 • 10:30 am 

Explore topics that can have a big impact 

on improving your financial health. 

Presenter: First American Bank. 

Managing Money: A Caregiver’s 

Guide to Finances R 


Saturday, 2/18 • 10:30 am 

Get tips on money management for 

caregivers. Presented by Jim Sullivan, a CPA 

specializing in serving clients and families with 

dementia and ALS and the Alzheimer’s Association. 

AARP Safe Driver Course R 


Saturday, 2/18 & Sunday, 2/19 • Noon 

This 2-day, 8-hour class will explore how 

senior adults (55+) can continue their 

driving experiences in a safer way. 

First Time Home Buyers 

Workshop 

KCT Financial Wellness Series R 


Saturday, 2/25 • 10:30 am 

Hear about your options for buying your 

first home, along with the process and 

how to determine if you’re ready. 

Provided by KCT Credit Union. 

Library in the 

Community 

Elgin Memory Café 

South Elgin Village Squire 

480 S. Randall Rd., Elgin 60120 

Tuesdays, 1/10, 2/14 • 4 pm 

Those with mild cognitive impairment, 

Alzheimer’s or a related dementia and 

their care partners are invited for a 

social event and to gather resources. 

RSVP 847-289-5848. 

Wednesday Social: Lotería ES 

Senior Services Association 

205 Fulton St., Elgin 60120 

Wednesdays, 1/18, 2/15 • Noon – 1 pm 

Have fun playing lotería and learn about 

library resources. There will be prizes! 

Interested in other 

programs for Seniors? Visit: 

gailborden.info/senior-services 

Language 

Citizenship Conversation 

Group R ES 

Main Library 


1/5, 1/19, 2/2, 2/16 

Using USCIS material that includes civics 

questions, the application form and other 

requirements for the citizenship interview, 

students build confidence learning 

English. Led by a Literacy Connection tutor. 

English Conversation 

Group R ES 

Hybrid - Main Library & Zoom 

Tuesdays • 6:30 pm 

1/3, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 

2/7, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28 

Practice having everyday conversations 

in English, improve your pronunciation 

and gain confidence with a tutor. 

Go Bilingual R ES 


Wednesdays • 6 pm 

1/4, 1/11, 1/18, 1/25, 2/1, 2/8, 2/15, 2/22 

Learn with native English and 

Spanish speakers. 

Spanish Café Conversation 

Group R ES 


Mondays • Noon 

1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27 

Intermediate-level participants 

practice structured and spontaneous 

conversational skills. Led by Pita Betancourt 

and Nohora Chacon. 

French Conversation Group R 

Main Library Conference Room 

Saturdays, 1/14, 2/11 • 10:30 am 

Practice or improve your conversation 

skills with others. This discussion 

group will be in a friendly and relaxed 

atmosphere. Facilitated by Sue Aissaoui, 

native speaker. 

German Conversation Group R 


Wednesdays, 1/25, 2/22 • 7 pm 

Herzlich willkommen! Practice or improve 

your conversation skills about different 

relevant topics with other German 

speakers. Facilitated by Barbara Laane. 



9

en español 

Para Familias 

Celebración de los 

Reyes Magos 

Biblioteca principal 

Sábado, 7 de enero • 2 – 4 pm 

Ven a conocer a Gaspar, Melchor y 

Baltazar, tómate una foto con ellos y 

disfruta de la rosca tradicional. Habrá 

cuentos y manualidades. En asociación con la 

Organización Mexicana de Elgin (OME). 

¡Noche familiar de Lotería! R 

Biblioteca principal salones Sally Lee 

Lunes, 9 de enero • 7 pm 

¡Acompáñenos a una noche familiar 

divertida con el juego tradicional 

mexicano, Lotería! Favor de registrar a cada 

persona que estará jugando. 

Programa en español para la 

familia con Grisel 

Biblioteca principal salones Sally Lee 

Los lunes • 7 – 7:30 pm 

23 de enero y 20 de feb. 

¡Este programa variará, desde cuentos 

hasta manualidades y más! Para familias con 

niños de 3 años en adelante. 

Programa Familiar del Día de 

San Valentín R 

Biblioteca principal salónes Sally Lee 

Lunes, 6 de feb. • 7 pm 

¡Acompáñanos a celebrar el amor y la 

amistad! Escucháremos un cuento y 

haremos una manualidad familiar. 

Desafío de Lectura de 

Invierno para Niños 

2 de enero – 28 de febrero 

Acurrucarse con los libros 

este invierno registrándose 

para el Desafío de Lectura de 

Invierno. Recibe un premio 

sólo por entrar, luego 

gana insignias leyendo y 

completando actividades. 

gailborden.info/winter2023 

Isla de Piratas 

Biblioteca principal hasta el 15 de enero 

¡Sube a bordo de un barco pirata 

y explora las habilidades de los 

marineros antes de que el barco 

zarpe! gailborden.info/pirateisland 

Para Padres y Guardianes 

Temas para Padres R 

Virtual mediante Zoom 

Los miércoles • 12 pm 


Este programa ofrece apoyo, confianza 

e información para interactuar con los 

niños y apoyar su educación. En colaboración 

con Family Focus. 

Café para Padres 

Biblioteca Principal 

Los jueves, 11 am – 1 pm 


Padres pueden hablar, participar y 

escuchar sobre temas a través de la 

autorreflexión y el aprendizaje. Exploran 

sus fortalezas, aprenden sobre los 

factores protectores y crean estrategias 

para fortalecer a sus familias. 

Reuniones para Padres 

de Estudiantes 

Por el Comité Asesor de Padres 

Bilingües (BPAC) 

Biblioteca principal salones de la comunidad 

Miércoles, 25 de enero • 6 – 8 pm 

Participe y establezca una voz eficaz. 

Biblioteca en la Comunidad 

Reuniones de padres de 

South Elgin High School 

South Elgin High School 

760 E. Main St. South Elgin 60177 

Jueves, 19 de enero y 16 de feb. • 6 pm 

¡Los padres y los estudiantes aprenderán 

sobre los recursos de la biblioteca, 

participarán en un tutorial de recursos 

y más! 

Recursos de la biblioteca 

Centro de bienvenida U-46 

1019 E. Chicago St. Elgin 60120 

Jueves, 2 de feb. • 6 – 8 pm 

Aprenda sobre los programas de la 

biblioteca, recursos y participe en clases 

de tecnología. 

Recurso del Mes: PressReader 


Jueves, 23 de feb. • 6:30 pm 

PressReader es el mejor lugar para leer 

miles de periódicos y revistas de todo 

el mundo. Gratis con tu tarjeta de la 

biblioteca. 

Para Adultos 

Voces Latinas: Pastigel 


Jueves, 5 de enero • 6 pm 

Conozca las delicias y la historia de éxito 

de una panadería local en Elgin. 

100 Historias R 


Los jueves • 6:30 pm 


Adéntrate en el diario vivir de un/a 

adolescente, quizás tu amigo/a/x, 

primo/a/x, hijo/a/x o vecino/a/x. Cada 

historia es real, narrada en español por el 

maestro Raúl Castillo. 

Juego de mesa Cashflow R 

Biblioteca principal salón de la comunidad C 

Sábado, 14 de enero y 11 de feb. • 9 am 

Cashflow fue creado por Robert Kiyosaki, 

autor del libro Padre Rico Padre Pobre. 

Es un juego divertido y educativo para 

aumentar tu conocimiento financiero. 

Tendremos dos juegos uno en español y otro en inglés. 

Círculo de Lectura: 

Lee, Conversa, Comparte R 

Biblioteca principal salón Elgin 

Jueves • 6 pm 

19 de enero Gabriel García Márquez, 

“La siesta del martes” 

9 de feb. Miguel de Unamuno, 

San Manuel Bueno, mártir 

Cada mes leemos una lectura 

hispano- americana corta del 

libro Abriendo puertas: Ampliando 

perspectivas. Hay copias del libro en la biblioteca. 

En la cocina: Chocolate caliente 

vegano para San Valentín 


Jueves, 9 de feb. • 6:30 pm 

¿Te gusta Cocinar? Participa y comparte 

tu receta con la comunidad. Para más 

información manda un correo electrónico a 

biblioteca@gailborden.info o llama al 847-608-4673. 

Talleres de empleo: 

El currículo y entrevistas de trabajo R 

Al registrarte quedarás inscrito para las dos partes. 

Biblioteca principal • 10:30 am 

23 de enero salón Elgin 

24 de enero salón Grove 

10 R=Registration R=Regístrese • required Tres maneras: • Three en ways línea to en register: gailborden.info/eventos Online at gailborden.info/register • por teléfono 847-429-4597 • Call 847-429-4597 • en persona • In person

Consejito Financiero: 

Préstamos Hipotecarios 

Biblioteca principal salón Elgin 

Jueves, 26 de enero • 6 – 7 pm 

Aprende con la especialista Elizabeth 

Romero, qué evalúan las entidades 

financieras a la hora de hacer un 

préstamo de vivienda. 

Café de los Recuerdos 

Inicien el año como reyes 

Biblioteca principal salones de la comunidad 

Miércoles, 18 de enero • 3:30 – 5 pm 

Una oportunidad para compartir con los 

adultos mayores en familia y comunidad. 

Miércoles Social: Lotería 

Senior Services Association 

205 Fulton St., Elgin, IL 60120 

Los miércoles • 12 – 1 pm 


Diviértase y aprenda sobre los recursos de 

la biblioteca. Habrá premios. 

¿Interesado en otros programas para 

personas mayores? Por favor visite: 

gailborden.info/senior-services 

Serie Hecho a Mano 

para Adultos 

Biblioteca principal salón Grove 

Los martes • 3:30 - 4:30 pm 

Se proporcionarán todos los materiales. 

En inglés y español. 

17 de enero Kokedama R 

Aprende sobre este arte y artesanía. 

24 de enero Barras de loción R 

¡Crea tu propia barra de loción con 

aceites esenciales! 

31 de enero Jabones R 

¡Crea tus propios jabones con aceites 

esenciales! 

Ciudadanía y Más 

Información sobre Ciudadanía 

y Renovación de DACA 

Biblioteca principal salón Sally Lee zorro 

Los miércoles • 4 – 7 pm 


Los sábados • 10 am – 1 pm 


Conozca sobre los servicios que 

ofrecemos. No necesita registrarse. 

Familias son bienvenidas. 

Grupo de Conversación 

para la Ciudadanía R 

Biblioteca principal salón de conferencias 

Los jueves • 6:30 pm 

5 y 19 de enero & 2 y 16 de feb. 

Usando material de USCIS que incluye 

preguntas de educación cívica, el 

formulario de solicitud y otros requisitos 

para la entrevista de ciudadanía. 

Dirigido por un tutor de Literacy Connection. 

¿Aplicó para la ciudadanía y va a tomar 

el examen en español? 

Podemos ayudarle a prepararse y estudiar. 

Comuníquese por texto a 224-407-2399 o 

por correo a biblioteca@gailborden.info. 

Aprender Idiomas 

Grupo de Conversación 

en Inglés R 

Híbrido - Biblioteca principal y Zoom 

Los martes de enero y feb. • 6:30 pm 

Practica conversar, mejora tu 

pronunciación y adquiere confianza con 

un tutor. Los salones cambiarán, por favor revise 

el calendario. 

Go Bilingual R 

Híbrido - Biblioteca principal y Zoom 

Los miércoles de enero y feb. • 6 pm 

Participa con otras personas que hablan 

español o inglés como primer idioma. Los 

salones cambiarán, por favor revise el calendario. 

Café en Español R 

Biblioteca principal salón Grove 

lunes 9, 16, 23 de enero y 

13, 20 y 27 de feb. • 12 pm 

Participantes de nivel intermedio 

practicarán respondiendo o empezando 

conversaciones en español con fluidez. 

Dirigido por Pita Betancourt y Nohora Chacon. 

Clases de Computación 

No hay costo ni hay que tener tarjeta de 

la biblioteca. Favor de registrarse. Puede 

registrarse para la serie completa o para 

una sola clase. 

{ Estas clases son patrocinadas por Comcast Internet 

Essentials para ayudar a cerrar la brecha digital y fomentar 

destrezas del alfabetismo 

digital. Para más información 

acerca de Internet Essentials, 

visite internetessentials.com. 

Biblioteca Digital R { 


Los lunes • 9:30 am 

9 y 16 de enero & 13 y 20 de feb. 

Obtenga ayuda con problemas 

tecnológicos comunes en su 

computadora, tableta o celular. 

Curso Básicos de 

Computación R { 


salón de entrenamiento de computación 

Sábados, 14, 21, 28 de enero • 1 pm 

Esta serie es para principiantes, para 

aprender destrezas básicas. Al registrarte 

para la primera clase quedarás inscrito en todas las 

sesiones. 

14 de enero - Windows 10 

Aprenderás sobre los programas que 

ejecuta una computadora, cómo organizar 

y guardar su información y más. 

21 de enero - El Internet 

Aprende a buscar y encontrar en tu 

teléfono o computadora y conoce recursos 

locales y de la biblioteca, inclusive para 

buscar un empleo. 

28 de enero - Correo Electrónico 

Aprenderás a crear, utilizar, enviar y ver 

correos electrónicos y como diferenciar un 

correo sospechoso. Además, podrás verlo y 

sincronizarlo con su celular. 

Serie Creadores R { 


salón de entrenamiento de computación 

Sábados, 4, 11, 18, 25 de feb. • 1 pm 

Nivel intermedio - Debes saber usar el ratón y 

teclado, antes de tomar esta clase. 

4 de feb. - Tu canal de YouTube 

Aprende a crear tu canal personal o de 

negocios y también manejar contenido. 

Debes tener una cuenta de Gmail antes de esta clase. 

11 de feb. - Tu tienda en eBay 

Crea tu tienda para vender tus productos 

e iníciate como un empresario. 

18 de feb. - Tu sitio Web 

Aprende a crear tu propia página web. 

25 de feb. - Tu estudio de edición 

Crea y modifica tus fotos y videos. 


11


City of Elgin 


Boletín en Español: Cada número del boletín está disponible en español en línea en cityofelgin.org/boletin. 

Winter storms and cold weather reminders 

Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, 

frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning and heart attacks from 

overexertion. Winter storms including blizzards can bring extreme 

cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds. 

A winter storm can last a few hours or several days, cut off heat, power 

and communication services, and put older adults, children, sick 

individuals and pets at greater risk. 

Play it safe and take precautions when extremely cold temperatures 

are anticipated. Dress for the outdoors by layering clothing and 

wearing a hat. To ensure hands and feet are kept warm, lined gloves 

or mittens on hands as well as boots on feet are recommended. 

During extreme cold, stay indoors if at all possible, too. Check on 

friends and relatives to ensure that they are prepared, especially the 

elderly who may live alone. 

If you, or someone you know, need a place to stay warm, there are 

several warming centers and shelters in the area. Information 

regarding shelters, resources and other cold weather considerations 

can be found at cityofelgin.org/coldweather. 

Prevent cold weather water problems 

During extreme cold, water pipes in unheated areas, or pipes located in 

areas exposed to drafts or open windows, will often freeze. Residents can 

help prevent freezing pipes by making minor repairs to prevent drafts, or 

heat or insulate exposed water pipes. If a pipe freezes, the problem can be 

resolved by gradually heating the frozen section of pipe with a fan or hair 

dryer. Do not to use an open flame to thaw frozen pipes, as this creates a 

potential fire hazard. 

During long durations of cold weather, a more critical water issue can occur. 

When frost is driven deeper into the ground, service lines carrying water to 

homes and buildings can become frozen. Residents with this problem 

should contact 311, as services lines can 

only be thawed by a professional using 

electric welders. 

Help prevent this issue by running a 

small stream of water in a sink, allowing 

movement in the service line during 

those durations of extreme cold. 

Keep your furry friends safe from the elements 

Burr, it’s cold! Your pets get cold, too. Here 

are some tips to keep them safe during cold 

weather: 

▪ Limit time outdoors or keep pets inside. 

▪ Shivering is a clear sign your pet is cold. 

▪ Bundle up! Coats, sweaters and even 

booties can help keep your pet warm. 

▪ Wipe snow and ice from the belly and legs of pets with a 

moist rag to remove any salt. 

▪ Prep paws: Clip long fur between toes and foot pads to 

prevent ice balls. 

▪ Never leave pets alone in a car. 

▪ Outdoor cats seek heat from vehicles. Consider making noise 

by banging on the hood or honking the horn before turning 

on and moving car. 

Adopt a Fire Hydrant 

Can you see the fire hydrants on your street? Please consider 

“adopting” a hydrant in front of your home or in your neighborhood. 

Fire hydrants buried by snow can cause 

dangerous delays for firefighters. Adopt 

a hydrant near your home or business 

by clearing snow at least 3 feet around 

and a path to the roadway to ensure 

quick access by firefighters if needed. 

This photo shows the best way to clear out a fire hydrant. 

Every second counts during an emergency response - visibility and 

access to the hydrants are important. If you are able to help, thank 

you for your time and effort! 

A R=Registration required • Three ways to register: Online at gailborden.info/register • Call 847-429-4597 • In person 

A CITYOFELGIN.ORG | 311 (OR 847-931-6001)


City of Elgin 


When the flakes begin to fall, 

Snow Command makes the call 

Every snow event is different. The duration and rate of snowfall, type of snow, 

temperature of the ground versus air, humidity and forecasted weather in the 

hours and days after the snow stops are some of the factors that come into play 

when developing a treatment plan for a snow or ice event. The City strives to 

keep the community informed of what to expect for each event. 

Why is snow piled at the end of my driveway? 

The primary goal of plowing is to remove snow from streets so that the road is 

passable for vehicles. Plowing pushes snow to the side from the middle of the 

street and in doing so, it naturally and unfortunately results in snow piling up in 

front of driveways. It is difficult to avoid this, and drivers cannot stop or raise the 

plow at each driveway. Residents are advised to wait until the plow has been 

through their road prior to cleaning their driveway and mailbox area. If drifting 

or more snow occurs, the plows may have to make multiple passes at a later 

time to keep the road clear. 

When will the plow clear my cul-de-sac or alley? 

In effort to get the most efficient use of time with City plows, their routes are 

restricted to streets. Cul-de-sacs, alleys and parking lots are cleared by a 

contracted private company that responds to calls from the City’s Snow 

Command team, typically after two inches of snow has accumulated, and 

sometimes not until hours after an event began. 

When does snow route parking enforcement go into effect? 

Elgin’s emergency snow routes are marked with posted signs, and vehicles are 

prohibited from parking on those designated streets anytime two or more 

inches of snow accumulates. Vehicles are not to park back on the street until 

24 hours after the accumulating snow event has stopped. Avoid a ticket or tow 

by planning ahead for alternative parking options. 

Why do I measure more/less snow than the City has announced? 

As the official National Weather Service reporting station for Elgin, the Leo 

Nelson Riverside Water Plant is where measurements are taken. Variances in 

snow totals may be caused by many factors including blowing, drifting, or even 

the fact that various parts of the city can have different snow totals. 

Is trash collection impacted by the snow events? 

If conditions impact Waste Management’s ability to service residences, the City 

will post notices to its website and social media channels as soon as possible. 

You can always contact Elgin 311 if you aren’t sure. 

Is the City of Elgin closing school today? 

Closing school is not a City decision. Please refer to your school district. 

Wanted: Sidewalk Heroes 

NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES. 

Some are geared up in layers of winter wear and armed 

with a trusty shovel or snowblower. 

Will you be the Sidewalk Hero your neighborhood needs 

this winter? Some are not physically able to shovel. People 

with disabilities, the elderly, meter readers and mail carriers 

all need your help to keep the sidewalks clear of snow and 

ice this winter. Sidewalks may see heavier traffic this winter, 

too, as many people are staying home and working from 

home more frequently. A leisurely walk around the 

neighborhood is a great way to get some fresh air and 

exercise. 

Have a big heart 

Own snow gear 

*Cape + mask optional 

Requirements: 

Own a shovel 

or snow blower 

40 lb 

Ability to lift upwards 

of 40 pounds 

*Snow can be heavy 

Share your good deeds and find others like you. Upload 

your photos on social media with #SidewalkHeroes. The 

City may share your photo or offer you a prize! For more 

information, visit cityofelgin.org/sidewalkheroes. 


CITYOFELGIN.ORG | 311 (OR 847-931-6001) 

B 

B


City of Elgin 


The Edward Schock Centre of Elgin 

The Edward Schock Centre of Elgin is more than a recreational 

facility; it’s a community center, providing residents with nearly 

185,000 square-feet of leisure space. The Centre boasts a modern 

fitness center, premium aquatics center, group exercise classes, 

climbing wall, indoor walking and running track, three full-sized 

basketball courts, two racquetball courts, a preschool wing, 

ceramics studio, meeting rooms and beautiful banquet space to 

accommodate everything from weddings to business luncheons. 

Achieve Your Fitness Goals in 2023 

There’s no better time than now to get a membership and start 

working on those New Year’s resolutions! Get fit by joining The 

Centre’s health and fitness club or by signing up for a group 

exercise class. Whether you’re looking to start lifting weights, 

increase your cardiovascular health to train for a big race, or take 

classes that give you plenty of options of how and when you 

exercise, the Edward Schock Centre of Elgin has got you covered. 

Explore your options today and take advantage of special 

membership offers in January. 

Learn about Our Membership Packages 

With so many amenities, the Centre has a variety of membership 

packages to meet your family’s needs: 

■ Platinum - This all-inclusive package gives you access to the 

fitness center, pool, unlimited group fitness classes, racquetball, 

climbing wall, fieldhouse and more. Children 10 and under are 

FREE and members have access to KidzWorld, our supervised play 

area for kids 8 and under. 

■ Gold - This membership is top tier, with access to the fitness 

center, the Adventure Island Aquatic Center, racquetball, climbing 

wall and field house. 

■ Silver – Not a swimmer? No problem. This membership has plenty 

of perks, like unlimited access to the fitness center, racquetball 

courts and climbing wall to name a few. 

■ Bronze - This membership is geared for swimmers, with unlimited 

access to our Adventure Island Aquatic Center. 

■ Junior – Designed for ages 8 to 13, this membership provides 

youth access to swim, climb and play ball. 

100 Symphony Way, Elgin 

847-531-7000 

centreofelgin.org 

@CentreofElgin 

@centreofelgin 

@centreofelgin 

Ready to take the first step? 

Call us at 847-531-7025 and ask about our New Year Special. 

Did you know? 

You can now sign up for many Parks and Recreation classes online, including swimming, 

youth sports, dance and much more! Simply go to cityofelgin.org/recreation and click on 

“Register Online.” 

From the registration main page, do one of the following: 

■ Login with your email and password (if you have already setup a password online) 

■ Create an Account (If you have not used our new online registration system nor 

have participated in any program with the Elgin Parks & Recreation Department) 

■ Forgot or Reset Password (if you forgot the password you had previously setup) 

For assistance with online registration, 

call the front desk at 847-531-7000. 

C R=Registration required • Three ways to register: Online at gailborden.info/register • Call 847-429-4597 • In person 

C CITYOFELGIN.ORG | 311 (OR 847-931-6001)


City of Elgin 


January Events 

2-16 Martin Luther King Jr. Community Food Drive, find various 

drop-off locations at cityofelgin.org/mlk 

6 First Friday Improv at the Hemmens Cultural Center 

7-8 Elgin Symphony Orchestra presents “Exuberant Energy” 

at the Hemmens Cultural Center. 

14 39th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer Breakfast, 

Elgin Community College 

25 Bison Feeding at the Lords Park Zoo 

February Events 

1 Story Hour: Alligators at the Elgin Public Museum 

3 First Friday Improv at the Hemmens Cultural Center. 

3-5 Elgin Theatre Company presents XXX at the 

Elgin Art Showcase 

4-5 Elgin Symphony Orchestra presents “Homage” at the 

Hemmens Cultural Center. 



15 Drawing Adventures at the Elgin Public Museum 

17-18 Daddy Daughter Dance at the Centre of Elgin’s 

Heritage Ballroom. 



20 “Significant Black Women of the Reconstruction Era and 

Beyond” at the Elgin History Museum 

29 Bison Feeding at the Lords Park Zoo 

Find more information on all City events at cityofelgin.org/events. 

For more community events and things to do, visit 

ExploreElginArea.com or search #ExploreElgin on social media. 

38th annual 

Dr. Martin Luther 

King Jr. Celebration 

"Life's most persistent and urgent 

question is, 'What are you doing for others?'" 

-Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

Each year, the City of Elgin Human Relations Commission takes great 

pride in presenting a weekend of activities celebrating the life of one of 

our country’s greatest civil rights leaders, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther 

King, Jr. This year’s theme is "Life's most persistent and urgent question 

is, 'What are you doing for others?'" A branch of the commission, the 

Martin Luther King Committee, organizes several programs to carry on 

the legacy of Dr. King, including a youth scholarship program, food drive 

and prayer breakfast. For the most updated information and 

announcements visit cityofelgin.org/mlk. 

2023 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship 

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship is awarded annually to 

students who have demonstrated an active interest and meaningful 

involvement in the areas of human rights, civil rights, social justice 

and/or world peace. Scholarships may also be awarded to students 

whose activities are exemplary and reflect the ideals and life of Dr. 

King. Donations help provide very deserving young people the ability 

to attend college and become successful, contributing leaders of our 

community. Donations can be made anytime at 

cityofelgin.org/mlkyouthdonation. 

12th Annual Dr. King Food Drive 

For the past eleven years, the Dr. King Food Drive has 

Martin 

Luther 

King Jr. 

collected thousands of pounds of food for the less fortunate 

in our community. In addition to collecting food for local 

food pantries, cash donations are also encouraged. Every $1.00 

donation collected equals eight pounds of food. Donate today at 

cityofelgin.org/mlkfooddonation. 

Adventure Island and Lap Pool 

Located at the Edward Schock Centre of Elgin, Adventure Island boasts a variety of pools and 

features, including a zero-depth entry pool, a 25-yard competition lap pool, a warm water 

therapy pool, diving boards and a water slide. Learn more at cityofelgin.org/pools. 


CITYOFELGIN.ORG | 311 (OR 847-931-6001) 

D 

D

Board of Trustees: 

Board of Trustees: 

Jean 

Jean Bednar, 

Bednar, 

President 

President 

Elizabeth 

Amanda Garcia, 

Kruger, 

Vice 

Vice 

President 

President 

Patricia 

Tiffany Henderson, 

Harkin, Secretary 

Secretary 

Amanda 

Laura Bedolla 

Garcia 

Herb 

Amy Prochot 

Gross 

Tiffany 

Joy Symonds 

Henderson 

Chief Executive Officer: 

Library Carole Director Medal - Carole Medal 

Newsletter Editor - Denise Raleigh 

Assistant Editors - Liz Clemmons, 

Natalie Questions Kiburg about the newsletter? 

Graphic Email Denise Designers Raleigh - at Laura Espinoza, 

draleigh@gailborden.info. 

Karen Gilpatrick 

This newsletter contains recycled 

paper and soy-based inks. 

Main Library 

270 N. Grove Ave. 

Elgin, IL 60120 

847–742–2411 

Building Hours 

Mon-Thu 9 am – 9 pm 

Fri-Sat 9 am – 6 pm 

Sun Noon – 5 pm 

Drive-Up Window 



Sun 11:30 am – 5 pm 

Rakow Branch 

2751 W. Bowes Rd. 


847–531–7271 




Sun Noon – 5 pm 

ECRWSS 

LOCAL POSTAL PATRON 


127 S. McLean Blvd. 

South Elgin, IL 60177 

847–931–2090 


Please check gbpl.info/covid or sign up for our eNewsletter Mon-Thu 10 am at – 7 pm 

gbpl.info/newsletters for updates. 

Fri-Sat 

Sun 

10 am – 4 pm 

Noon – 4 pm 

Drive-Up Window 

Lobby Hours 

Mon-Thu 

Fri-Sat 

Sun 

8:30 am – 8 pm 

8:30 am – 5 pm 

11:30 am – 5 pm 

Mon-Thu 

Fri-Sat 

Sun 

9:30 am – 7 pm 

9:30 am – 5 pm 

11:30 am – 4 pm 

Non-Profit Organization 

U.S. Postage 

PAID 


Permit No. 164 

Photo Release 

All visitors agree to be 

photographed/videographed 

during library events/activities 

for future marketing purposes. 

Customers with Disabilities 

The Library accommodates 

customers with disabilities. Please 

call 847-742-2411 to discuss 

arrangements at least seven days 

prior to a scheduled event. 

Thank you community. 

Due to our work with many paners, 

your library received the nation’s 

highest honor conferred on 

museums and libraries 

for service to the 

community: the 

National Medal for 

Museum and 

Library Services. 

Black History Month Events 

Continued from cover. gailborden.info/blackhistory 

100 Years of Black 

History: With Storyteller 

Linda Gorham R 


Thursday, 2/2 • 6:30 – 8 pm 

All ages. This program explores 

the contributions of more than 

30 African American men and 

women over the past 100 years. 

Celebrate Black Joy 

Through Poetry: With 

Elgin Poet Laureate 

Emeritus Chasity Gunn R 

Main Library 

Meadows Community Rooms 

Sunday, 2/5 • 1:30 pm 

Adults. Elgin’s first Poet 

Laureate Chasity Gunn 

performs a selection of her 

poems and presents her 

poetry proteges. 

Desserts & Dogs: With 

Chef Dee Kid Liefde R 



Learn how to make bakerystyle 

cheesecake based on 

soul food traditions and classic 

Chicago hot dogs with Elgin 

area baker Dee Kid Liefde. 

Taste the delicious creations 

afterwards! 

We Are Human: 

CHAR In Concert R 

Main Library 



Singer-songwriter CHAR stirs 

your emotions and delights 

your senses in an evening 

of songs celebrating Black 

History Month. 

The Life-Changing 

Power of Community 

with Author Clifton 

Taulbert R 


Thursday, February 23 • 7 pm 

Adults. Internationally known 

author Clifton Taulbert 

(Once Upon A Time When We 

Were Colored, The 8 Habits 

Of The Heart) will illustrate 

the power of community to 

transform lives. 

Library Closings 

Saturday, December 31 and Sunday, January 1 

All library locations will be closed. Passport services will be unavailable. 

Foundation Corner 

Gail Borden Library Foundation volunteer 

extraordinaire Janet Pritza is recognized 

for her valuable service at the 2022 Elgin 

Area Chamber Thanksgiving Luncheon. Janet accepted it 

on behalf of all the Gail Borden volunteers that make such 

a difference to the library and community. 

We would appreciate a donation of your gently 

used books and DVDs. 

Help to Literally change someone’s LIFE 

The Literacy Connection, a non-profit organization dedicated 

to adult literacy, is currently seeking volunteers to provide free 

tutoring services in English as a Second Language or Basic 

Reading. To register or for more info, call 847-742-6565, visit the 

website at www.elginliteracy.org/how-to-help/become-a-tutor 

or email requestinfo@elginliteracy.org. 

Consolidated Primary 

Election Voting 

Main Library 


Tuesday, 2/28 

6 am – 7 pm 

Free Tax Preparation 


Thursdays • 4 – 8 pm 

1/26 – 2/23 

Saturdays • 9 am – 1 pm 

1/28 – 2/25 

Tax preparation is available for 

individuals and families who 

qualify for the Volunteer Income 

Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

January February Newsletter 2023

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