Discover
November – December 2017
The South Elgin Branch is now open on Fridays! See back page for hours.
Celebrate the Holidays at the Library!
Holiday Singalong with Mrs. Claus!
Jingle and jangle at this family event as we sing holiday favorites, old and new and take
photos with Mrs. Claus.
Main Library Lobby
Wednesday, December 20 4 – 5 pm
Featuring John LaBorn.
Rakow Branch
Thursday, December 21 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Featuring Josh McClure.
See pages below for more holiday events!
5 - Kids and Family including Kwanzaa and Hanukkah
7 - Adult
11 - Español
Live Music!
All Library Locations
See page 8.
Festival of Trees
Main Library
November 1 – 10 at Noon
Traditional and whimsical holiday trees
and wreaths will be on display. Each
is sponsored by a local business or
organization to benefit the
Ecker Center for Mental Health,
which provides services to
thousands. eckercenter.org
Art for All Annual Winter Show
Main Library Lobby
December 1 – 31
Talented local artists will display their
work presented in a variety of media.
For more information visit
artforallelgin.com.
Art for All
Mrs. Claus photo from 2015 program.
School District U-46 STEM Expo
Kick-Off
Rakow Branch
Tuesday, November 14
6 – 8 pm
Main Library
Wednesday, November 15 6 – 8 pm
Families. Engage with cutting-edge
technologies that will blow your mind,
experiment with next-generation
science and check out live chemistry
and physics demonstrations.
U46STEMexpo.com
WTTW's
Big Idea
Live Tour
Thursday,
November 16
See back page.
THE GAIL BORDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT NEWSLETTER | PUBLISHED BI-MONTHLY ISSUE NO. 2017-06 | November 1, 2017
Kids
Kids Explore
Main Library Story Room South
Thursdays 5 – 6 pm
11/2 Fairytale Stories
11/9 Pop Art
11/16 Skyscrapers
11/30 Baking Bread
12/7 Water Coloring
12/14 Gingerbread Wars
Grades 1-5. Get curious with us and
explore a new topic each week.
Dress for mess. R
After School Adventures
Main Library Story Room South
Mondays 4 – 5 pm
November 6, 20, December 18
Grades K-5. Join us for some after-school
fun with games, building or crafts. R
The Gaming Event
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms BC
Mondays 6 – 8 pm
November 6, December 4
Grades 2-12. Play card-based role-playing
games like Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh or
trade your cards with other beginners
or experts.
Homework Heroes
Main Library Youth Center
Tuesdays 5 – 8 pm
November 7, 14, 28, December 5, 12
South Elgin Branch
Mondays and Wednesdays 3 – 5 pm
No meeting 12/25.
Grades K-8. Students who need help with
homework assignments can drop by to
meet one-on-one with a volunteer.
Camp NaNoWriMo
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Meeting Room
Wednesday, November 22 1 – 2 pm
Grades 3-8. Calling all creative writers!
Celebrate National Novel Writing Month
as we play interactive writing games
and learn how to begin writing your
own novel. R
Chess for Kids
Kids and teens of all skill levels are invited
to practice and play.
ChessMaster Junior Chess Club
Main Library (Location may vary.)
Wednesdays 4 – 5 pm
Grades 2-12.
Rakow Rooks Chess
and Games Club
Rakow Branch
Tuesdays 4:30 – 5:30 pm
Grades 3-8.
South Elgin Sentinels Chess Club
South Elgin Branch
Tuesdays 4:30 – 5:30 pm
Grades 3-8.
STEAM
Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and
Math! Explore the wonders of the universe
through STEAM in a fun, hands-on way. R
Main Library
Meadows Community Room B
Grades K-2 4 – 4:45 pm
Grades 3-5 5 – 6 pm
11/13, 11/27 Tech-it-to-the-limit
12/11 Rollercoaster challenge
At The Branches
Grades 1-5
Wednesdays 4 – 5 pm
11/8, 12/13 Rakow Branch
11/15, 12/20 South Elgin Branch
STEAMing Into Space
Rakow Branch
Thursday, November 2 4 – 5 pm
Grades 1-5. What is a constellation? Is the
sky falling? Why do stars move? R
NEW! Crazy 8s Math Club
Rakow Branch
Tuesdays in November and December
4:30 – 5:30 pm
Grades K-2. Join Bedtime
Math’s Crazy 8s for an entirely new kind
of math club where you’ll build, run, jump
and make a mess! Please register once for
series. Attendance at all 8 sessions is required. R
Family Tech Play
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms BC
Saturday, November 18 10 – 11 am
Grades 1-5. Families will play and
create with robots, stop motion
animation, iPads and more. R
Tiny Tech for Preschoolers
Main Library Story Room
December 27, 28, 29 10:30 – 11:30 am
Preschoolers. Engage with your child
through technology with a variety of
drop-in stations including STEM-based
games like Start-Up Circuits and Robot
Mouse and interactive iPad apps like
Tiggly Shapes.
Creativity Lab
Grades 1 & up. Art, tinkering activities and
games will be available for creative play.
Rakow Branch
Mondays
4 – 5 pm
South Elgin Branch
Thursdays 4 – 5 pm
3D Design
Registrants must have an email address
or Tinkercad.com account.
Intro to 3D Design
Main Library Computer Center
Saturday, December 30 1:30 – 3 pm
Grades 3-5. Learn how to make your own
3D designs and leave with a 3D-printed
object. R
Intermediate 3D Design
Main Library Computer Center
Saturday, November 4 1:30 – 3 pm
Monday, December 18 6 – 7:30 pm
Grades 4-8. Take the next step in 3D
printing and create your own designs to
pick up later. You must have completed Intro
to 3D Design in order to attend this class. R
2 R =Registration required • Three ways to register: Online at gailborden.info/register • Call 847-429-4597 • In person
Welcome Baby! Baby’s First
Library Visit
Main Library Story Room
Fridays 1, 3 pm
November 17, December 15
Saturdays 9:30, 10:30 am
November 18, December 16
(10:30 session in Spanish)
Rakow Branch
Saturdays 1, 2 pm
November 4, December 2
South Elgin Branch
Saturdays 1, 2 pm
November 25, December 30
Birth-6 months and parents. Learn about
programs and resources to support baby's
early literacy development. Receive a
special gift! R
Baby & Me Playgroup
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Tuesday, December 12,
Friday, December 15
10 – 11 am
Babies up to 23 months. Join us for
this hands-on playgroup with a variety
of activities.
Library On The Go
Panera Milk & Cookie
Storytime
Panera Bread, 369 Randall Rd., South Elgin
Tuesdays 9:30 – 10 am
November 7, 21, December 5
Enjoy preschool stories read by a
ReaderShip team
member followed by a
milk and cookie snack,
compliments of Panera. R
Movies
No-Shushing Film Series:
Sing (2016, PG)
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Friday, November 10 10 am
All ages. Enjoy a movie in a family-friendly,
casual setting. Chatting and snacks from
home are welcome.
Black Friday Family Film:
Cars 3 (2017, G)
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Friday, November 24 10 am
Interactive Movie:
Beauty and the Beast (2017, PG)
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Friday, January 5 10 am
Join us as we come to life in the
Enchanted Kingdom with Belle and her
friends. Costumes encouraged. R
Story Programs
Baby Rhyme Time
Rakow Branch Shales Living Room
Mondays 10 am
Main Library Story Room South
Thursdays 6:30 pm
Fridays 9:15 am (No program 12/8.)
Birth-11 months. Singing, clapping, simple
stories and playtime. R
Wonderful Ones
Main Library Meadows Community Room C
Mondays 6:15 pm
Tuesdays 9:15, 10, 10:45 am
12-23 months. Join us for short stories,
fingerplays, rhymes and a music and
movement activity followed by a short
playtime. R
Terrific Twos
Main Library Meadows Community Room C
Tuesdays 6:15 pm
Wednesdays 9:15, 10, 10:45 am
2 years. 20 minutes of stories, interactive
fingerplays and large-muscle activities. R
1, 2, 3, Go!
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Room
Tuesdays 10:15 am
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Thursdays 9:30 am
Ages 1-3. Families will share stories,
rhymes and musical activities together.
Winter Film Festival
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
10 am
11/26 The Boss Baby (2017, PG)
12/27 Smurfs: The Lost Village (2017, PG)
12/28 Despicable Me 3 (2017, PG)
12/29 Descendants 2 (2017, Not Rated)
1/2 Captain Underpants: The First Epic
Movie (2017, PG)
1/3 The Emoji Movie (2017, PG)
1/4 Diary of a Wimpy Kid:
The Long Haul (2017, PG)
Story Programs Boost Language Skills
and Reading Readiness!
Fall II Programs October 30 – December 8
Story Mix for Three to Six
Main Library Story Room North
Mondays 9:30 am, 3:30 pm
Tuesdays 10 am, 7 pm
Thursdays 10:15 am
South Elgin Branch
Mondays
6 pm
Rakow Branch
Wednesdays 10:30 am
Ages 3-6. 30 minutes of stories,
fingerplays and songs; the first “on my
own” library experience for children.
Parents must remain in building.
Pediatric Therapeutic
Playgroup
Main Library Story Room South
Tuesdays 11 – 11:45 am
Preschoolers. This unique playgroup
offers opportunities for children who
receive or may benefit from therapeutic
play to focus on “developmental” play
while families meet and find support.
Siblings welcome. Presented by a Licensed
Speech and Language Pathologist from Elgin Pediatric
Therapy, Inc. R
= No School Day Special
Children younger than 8 must be accompanied by a responsible caregiver.
www.gailborden.info 3
Families
Family Book Club
Main Library Story Room South
Saturdays 11 am – Noon
11/4 Grades K-2
Herbert: The True Story of a Brave
Sea Dog by Robyn Belton
12/9 Grades 3-5
The Borrowers by Mary Norton
Enjoy reading aloud and talking about
books with your family. R
Storytime with a Firefighter!
Main Library Story Room
Friday, November 10 10:30 – 11 am
Best for ages 3-6. Let's celebrate
community helpers with firefighter
stories and activities, then meet a real
firefighter. R
Puzzle Club
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Meeting Room
Saturdays
2 – 4 pm
November 11, December 9
Drop in for word puzzles, Sudoku, kids’
floor puzzles and adult jigsaw puzzles.
Winnie-the-Pooh and
Christopher Robin
Celebration
All Library Locations
November 11 All Day
Build a Winter Birdhouse
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Meeting Room
Sunday, November 12 1 – 2 pm
Make a homemade bird feeder to take
home as a fun way for the whole family
to learn which birds are native to the area
and help them out in winter. R
Family Reading Night
Main Library Youth Center
Thursday, November 16 4 – 9 pm
Come build a book nook fort together,
grab a snack and snuggle up with some
good books with your family!
Families Explore
Main Library Meadows Community Room C
Saturdays
2:30 – 4 pm
November 18, December 16
Stay active as you unplug, play and spend
quality time together. Dress for mess.
Corn Husk Crafts for
Thanksgiving
Rakow Branch West Corridor
Saturday, November 18 1 – 3 pm
Drop in to create cornhusk dolls,
flowers and more to decorate the
Thanksgiving table.
Featured Author Series
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Meeting Room
Sundays
2 – 2:45 pm
November 19, December 17
Stop by for storytime fun featuring books
by favorite children’s authors Aaron
Reynolds (November) and Jan Brett
(December) followed by a craft to-go.
Week of Play
All Library Locations
December 26 – 30 All Day
Join us all week long as we transform our
youth areas into playful wonderlands with
games and many other activities!
For My Family
Main Library
Learning workshops to help parents and
caregivers navigate through family life.
11/14 Therapies for Your Child With ADHD R
6:30 – 8:30 pm
Representatives from Balance Stress
Management & Therapy, Active Medical Center
and ohmMother Yoga will lead discussion.
11/16 Child Nutrition 10 – 11 am
Presented by Two Rivers Head Start. In English
and Spanish. ES
12/7 Bullying 7 – 8 pm
Presented by Kane County Juvenile Justice
council.
Teens
Middle School Zone
Grades 6-8
First Look Book Club
Main Library Conference Room
Wednesdays
7 – 8 pm
November 8, December 6
Meet new friends and “taste” new books
—including some that haven’t been
published yet.
Duct Tape + Paper Toys + You
Main Library Middle School Zone
Wednesday, November 15 7 – 8 pm
Thursday, December 28 3 – 4 pm
Construct a duct-tape wallet, make a
rose, or assemble a nifty paper toy.
Iron Chef
Gingerbread
Challenge
Main Library Story Room South
Tuesday, December 5 7 – 8 pm
Construct a “gingerbread” house out of
graham crackers and candy.
Supplies provided. R
Roller Coaster Creator
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Meeting Room
Friday, December 29 2 – 3 pm
Flex your engineering skills—build and test
a cardboard roller coaster. R
Volunteens Grades 6-8
Are you interested in becoming a volunteer
for KidSpace? Stop by the Main Library’s
Youth Help Desk to find out more.
Grades 6-12
Manga and Anime Club
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms AB
Saturdays 2 – 3:30 pm
November 18, December 16
Watch anime, share fan art and enjoy
Japanese snacks.
Teen Writing and
Art Showcase
Become a published author or artist—
submit your work today! For details, visit
gailborden.info/teenwriting or ask at the
Main Library’s Youth Help Desk.
4 R =Registration required • Three ways to register: Online at gailborden.info/register • Call 847-429-4597 • In person
Celebrate the Holidays
Dance and Watch
The Nutcracker!
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Saturday, November 11
Ballet Lesson 3:30 pm R Ages 6 & up
The Nutcracker Performance 4 pm
Take a ballet lesson with real dancers
and then get a sneak peek of Alma
Dance Theater’s annual The Nutcracker.
Performance will include Alma Dancers only.
Families are welcome to observe. Registration
required for lesson.
Craft-O-Rama
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Wednesday, November 22 1 – 2:30 pm
Kick off the holiday season by making
four different crafts to take home.
Materials provided. Dress for mess.
Gingerbread House Workshop
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Meeting Room
Sunday, December 3
12:30 – 1:30 pm or 2 – 3 pm
Bring your imagination and create a
gingerbread house from milk cartons,
graham crackers and sweet treats! R
Kwanzaa Stories
and Celebration
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Saturday, December 9 1 – 3 pm
Learn about The Seven Principles in
this engaging family program featuring
stories, entertainment, crafts and
refreshments. Partner: City of Elgin Cultural Arts
Commission
Festival of Lights: Hanukkah
Stories, Traditions and Treats
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms AB
Sunday, December 10 2 pm
Learn about Hanukkah through stories,
music, food and the dreidel game. Partner:
Congretation Kneseth Israel.
Tinsel Time
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Thursday, December 14 10 – 11 am
Preschoolers. Celebrate the holidays by
singing and dancing with Mrs. Claus and
Shaun Whitley from Chicago’s Old Town
School of Folk Music. Mrs. Claus will be
available for photos after the show.
Happy Noon Year Party
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Meeting Room
Friday, December 29
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Rakow Branch Shales Living Room
Saturday, December 30
Preschoolers. Can’t stay up until
midnight? Come ring in the New Year
early with fun stories, games, holiday food
and dancing. R
Save the Date!
Three Kings Celebration
Main Library Lobby
Saturday, January 6 2 – 5 pm
Meet Gaspar, Melchor and Balthazar and
take your picture with them. Stay for
stories and crafts. Partner: Organization of México
in Elgin (OME). ES
Studio 270
Grades 9-12 Main Library Studio 270
Grrrl Power
Fridays 4 – 6 pm
11/3 Self Esteem
Presenter: Rose Diaz of YWCA
11/10 Round Table Discussion
Stay safe, strong and sassy. Local women
will be coming to lead discussions in
safety, healthy relationships, self-esteem
and more. There will be snacks, crafts and
great conversations.
NaNoWriMo Write In
Tuesdays in November 4 – 6 pm
Show your progress, get feedback and
receive what every writer needs—snacks!
11/9 6 – 7 pm USB Vinyl Sampling
11/13 6 – 7 pm Intro to Logic Pro X
11/14 7 – 8 pm Open Mic Night
11/20 4 – 5 pm Teen Writers Club
11/21 6 – 7 pm Video Lab: Storyboards
11/29 6 – 7 pm Video Lab:
Intro to Final Cut Pro
12/4 6 – 7 pm Photoshop 101:
Holiday Cards
12/14 6 – 7 pm Intro to Audio Recording
Finals Feeding Frenzy
Main Library
December 18 – 21
December 22
3 – 8 pm
3 – 6 pm
South Elgin Branch
December 19 3 – 6 pm
Get your study on! Refreshments will
be provided.
Holiday Flicks:
Elf (2003, PG)
Wednesday,
December 27
2 – 4 pm
Children younger than 8 must be accompanied by a responsible caregiver.
ES = Descripción en español, ver página 11. = No School Day Special
www.gailborden.info 5
Technology Classes & Programs
Classes are open to district
residents and held in the Main
Library Computer Training Room
unless otherwise noted.
Visit gailborden.info/learn for more information.
Computer Basics
Registration is required for each
class date unless otherwise noted.
Register online, by phone or in person
beginning three weeks prior to
scheduled class date.
11/14 Which Tablet is Right for Me? 11 am – 12:30 pm
Rakow Branch Shales Living Room
11/15 Which Tablet is Right for Me? 7 – 8:30 pm
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Room
12/7 Windows 10: Basics 7 – 8:30 pm
12/14 Windows 10: Intermediate 7 – 8:30 pm
Software & Apps
12/5 Craigslist Basics 6 – 7:30 pm
Rakow Branch Shales Living Room
12/12 eBay Basics 7 – 8:30 pm
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Room
12/19 Selling on eBay 7 – 8:30 pm
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Room
Microsoft Tools
Microsoft Excel 2013
Mondays 11/6 – 12/11 7 – 8:30 pm
Wednesdays 11/8 – 12/13 10 – 11:30 am
Microsoft Word 2013
Tuesdays 11/7 – 12/5 7 – 8:30 pm
Device Advice
1:1 drop-in help with your mobile devices. No registration.
Main Library Studio 270
Thursdays 11/9, 12/14
9:30 – 11:30 am
Rakow Branch Computer Café
Thursdays 11/2, 11/16, 12/7, 12/21 9:30 – 11:30 am
South Elgin Branch
Thursday 12/28
10 – Noon
Quiet Lab
No registration.
Mondays
Sundays
9 am – 4:30 pm
Noon – 4:30 pm
We have Computer
Classes in Spanish.
Registration is required for each class date unless
otherwise noted. Activities for your little ones will be
available. Classes are open to the public.
Main Library Computer Training Room
1:30 – 2 pm
11/11, 11/21, 12/2, 12/9, 12/16
Open Lab. Drop in to practice or get help.
2 – 3:30 pm
11/4 Buying Guide: Which Tablet or
Computer is Best for Me?
11/11 Microsoft Word 1
11/21 Microsoft Word 2
2 – 4 pm
12/2 The Internet to Get You Hired
12/9 Microsoft Excel Spreadsheets
12/16 Microsoft PowerPoint and Presentation
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Room
7 – 8:30 pm
11/16 Buying Guide: Which Tablet or
Computer is Best for Me?
12/7 Photos with Mobile Devices
Para descripción en español ver página 11.
Did You
Know?
6 = After Library R operating =Registration hours; required doors will • Three be locked ways at to 7:05 register: pm. Online at gailborden.info/register • Call 847-429-4597 • In person
Adults
Saint John’s Bible
Celebrating Timeless Art
Main Library
Intermittently through January 3, 2018
In collaboration with Christ the Lord Lutheran
Church, Congregation Kneseth Israel, St. Mary's
Church and Zion Lutheran Church.
Commissioned by the monks of Saint
John’s Abbey, The Saint John’s Bible took
professional scribes and artists 11 years to
produce seven volumes. Replica volumes of
the Pentateuch, which contains the first five
books of the Old Testament, and the Gospels
and Acts, which includes the Gospels of
Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, will be on
display intermittently.
These replicas are extremely detailed: the
paper is 100% cotton but has watermarks
to resemble the original velum, the leather
bindings are handstitched and both 24-karat
gold leaf and silver foils were added to the
art by hand.
For more information, go to
gailborden.info/bible.
Interactive Reception
Main Library Lobby
Sunday, November 12 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Both volumes will be on display and trained
guides will help visitors engage with
these books, turn pages and explore the
illuminated art.
When Virtual Becomes
Reality: Virtual Reality
Present and Future
Main Library Elgin Room
Thursday, November 2 7 – 8:30 pm
Learn about Virtual Reality (VR): what it is,
how it is being used and how to get it at
home. Then see a demonstration of the
Oculus Rift.
One Smart Cookie –
Brain Health
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Meeting Room
Tuesday, November 7 6 – 6:45 pm
Nutrition and Kitchen Coach Joyce Lande
will share her best diet tips that will
motivate us to make mindful and tasty food
choices to promote brain health. R
The Great American Eclipse
Rakow Branch
Wednesday, November 8 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Teens and Adults. Michelle Nichols, Astroeducator
from the Adler Planetarium, will
discuss the Great American Eclipse with
images, video and more. R
Memory Wire
Bracelets and Rings
Rakow Branch
Saturday, November 11 1 – 3 pm
Ages 17 & up. Create exquisite jewelry with
memory wire. R
The Vanishing Woman
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Sunday, November 12 2 – 4 pm
Actress Jennifer Goran re-creates the daring
journey of Ellen Craft—the daughter of a
black slave who disguised herself as a
white man in order to escape to freedom. R
Partner: American Association of University Women Elgin
Area Branch.
Do-it-Yourself
Retirement Planning
Main Library Elgin Room
Tuesday, November 21 7 – 8:30 pm
Financial planner Keith Rauschenberger
will discuss the financial risks of retirement
and review steps for planning your
own retirement. R
NaNoWriMo
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Meeting Room
11/4 10:30 am – Noon R
Main Library Conference Room*
11/6 6:30 – 8:30 pm
11/16 6:30 – 8:30 pm
Rakow Branch Shales Living Room*
11/27 6 – 8 pm
Join a local author for a writing challenge
at this Come Write In event. *Featuring local
aspiring writer Margaret Keating.
GAIL’S
Find a Golden Ticket
in your checked
out materials
starting November 6 and receive
½ off your fines (if the rest is paid
in full), a GBPL book bag or $3 off of
Gail’s Sales purchases.
Holiday
Card-Making with Cricut®
and Cuttlebug®
Rakow Branch
Saturday, December 9 1 – 3 pm
Ages 17 & up. Learn how the Cricut® and
Cuttlebug® are used in card-making and
then create your own cards. R
Behind the Scenes at Marshall
Field's Holiday Traditions
Main Library Elgin Room
Monday, December 11 7 – 8:30 pm
Amy Meadows, former director of Windows
and Marketing Events for Marshall Field's
and Macy's, provides a sneak peek into
the design and execution of the famed
animated windows, Main Aisle decor and
the Great Tree. R
Cards, Candy Canes,
Candles and More!
Rakow Branch
Saturday, December 16 1 – 3 pm
Ages 17 & up. Make holiday crafts with
candles, candy canes, cards and more. R
Authors on the Fox:
Brett Weiss, Just Give Them
a Hug… and the Rest is Easy
Main Library Elgin Room
Tuesday, December 19 7 – 8:30 pm
Local author/educator Brett Weiss will
encourage readers to take their own
personal journies after sharing his moving
experience of visiting Kenya and deciding to
help children get an education through
a scholarship. R
R =Registration required • Three ways to register: Online at gailborden.info/register • Call 847-429-4597 • In person 7
Music
Sunday Afternoon
Concert Series
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
2 – 3 pm
Free tickets are available at the Main Library,
Rakow Branch and South Elgin Branch three
weeks prior to each concert. Meet the artists
and enjoy refreshments after each concert.
Elgin Symphony Orchestra
Listeners Club
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Wednesday, November 1 1 – 3 pm
This interactive lecture/discussion series
meets before the ESO's Classics Masterworks
performances to dive into the music that
will be performed that week. Led by Jim
Kendros. Please register at elginsymphony.org or call
847-888-0404 ext. 238 to reserve your seat.
Piano
Performances
Main Library Lobby
Thursdays
Join us for piano
performances by community
members. Check our online
calendar for times.
OneVoice
November 19
Under the direction of Dr. Steve Widenhofer,
OneVoice, the flagship vocal jazz ensemble
at Millikin University, is considered one of
the premier collegiate groups of its kind
in the country, traveling and performing in
numerous countries and winning awards.
Elgin Symphony Orchestra
Master Class with
Jennifer Frautschi, Violin
Saturday, November 4 10 am – Noon
World-class, two-time
GRAMMY® nominee and Avery
Fisher career grant recipient
Jennifer Frautschi will work
with local students
on technique and musicianship.
Music in the Stacks:
WWII Radio Hour
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Meeting Room
Saturday, November 4 2 – 3 pm
All ages. This piano-accompanied trio, Patti,
Maxine and Andrew, will reenact a 1940s
radio hour perfect with tunes, choreography
and more.
Music in the Stacks:
Random Ringers
Rakow Branch
Sunday, December 10 2 – 3 pm
The 13 members of The Random Ringers
Handbell Choir will perform renditions of
classic holiday carols new and old geared
towards all ages under the direction of
Beth McFarland.
Elgin Alive
Remarkable Women
of Elgin’s Past
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Tuesday, November 7 7 – 8:30 pm
This presentation will take a further look at
some of the women and women’s groups
that have shaped the city’s past. Presenter:
Jerry Turnquist, Elgin History Museum.
The Polar Express (2004, G)
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Tuesday, December 5 6:30 – 8:30 pm
All ages. Come in your pajamas! Based
on children’s author Chris Van Allsburg’s
modern holiday classic. Featuring: Books at
Sunset's Judi Brownfield as Mrs. Claus and Christina
Harshbarger as the Polar Express Conductor.
Films Screenings & Discussions
For more information and trailers, visit gailborden.info/films.
13th
Main Library Elgin Room
Tuesday, November 7 6:30 pm
An in-depth look at the prison system
in the United States and its link to the
history of racial inequality. Featuring: Author and
Speaker Carl King.
The Economics of Happiness
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Monday, November 13 7 – 8:30 pm
This film shows how we can get more
connected in our daily lives to help avoid
loneliness and isolation.
Brown Bag Lunch Classic Films
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
2nd Mondays 11 am – 1 pm
Film screening only. Coffee will be served.
11/13 The Absent-Minded Professor (1961, G)
12/11 White Christmas (1954, NR)
Heroes on Deck: World War II
on Lake Michigan
with Executive Producer
Harvey Moshman
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Monday, November 20 7 – 8:30 pm
Multi-Emmy® Award-winning producer and
editor Harvey Moshman will be here to
discuss and take questions about the film,
which highlights a bold and innovative
response to the Japanese attack on Pearl
Harbor and the brave pilots behind it.
The Vietnam War Film Series
An epic documentary telling the story of
The Vietnam War as it has never before
been told on film. We will be showing only
the first four of ten parts.
11/8 “Déjà vu” 1858-1961
Main Library Grove Room 7 – 8:30 pm
11/16 “Riding the Tiger” 1961-1963
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Room 5 – 6:30 pm
11/29 “The River Styx” 1964-1965
Main Library Grove Room 6:30 – 8:30 pm
12/12 “Resolve” 1966-1967
Main Library Elgin Room
6:30 – 8:30 pm
8 R =Registration required • Three ways to register: Online at gailborden.info/register • Call 847-429-4597 • In person
Book Clubs and Discussion Groups
Great Books Discussion Group
Main Library Conference Room
Monday 6:55 pm
11/13 The Loudest Voice by Grace Paley
Partner: American Association of University Women Elgin
Area Branch.
Contemporary Fiction Book
Group
Main Library Grove Room
Wednesdays 7 – 8:30 pm
11/15 His Bloody Project by
Graeme MacCrae Burnet
12/20 Sons And Daughters Of Ease
And Plenty by Ramona Ausubel
Rakow Readers
Rakow Branch Shales Living Room
Mondays 1:30 – 2:30 pm
11/27 Underground Railroad by
Colson Whitehead
12/18 Commonwealth by Ann Patchett
Walking Book Club
The Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way, Elgin
Wednesdays 7 – 8:30 pm
A 45-minute walk followed by a 45-minute
book discussion.
For more information on Book Clubs, visit
gailborden.info/bookclubs.
Poetry Writers Workshop
Main Library Grove Room
Mondays 6:30 – 8:30 pm
November 6, December 4
This is a group for local poets to share what
they have written. Facilitated by Gareth Mann Sitz.
Writers on the Fox
Mondays 7 – 8:30 pm
11/27 Main Library Community Room B
12/18 Main Library Community Room C
This writer's peer group will inspire and
motivate you using prompts and exercises
for creative writing of all genres.
Hillbilly Elegy & The Legacy
Of Poverty: Special Public
Discussion
Main Library Grove Room
Wednesday, November 8 7 – 8:30 pm
A lively, in-depth discussion of JD Vance’s
book and the poverty issue. Partners: Gail Borden
Librarian Tish Calhamer and Women on the Brink.
Illinois Speaks! Current Issues
Monthly Discussion Group
Main Library Grove Room
Tuesday, November 28 7 – 8:30 pm
Poor Choices Or Poor Policies?
Share your viewpoint, understand a different
perspective and engage in the art of fine
conversation on timely topics. Partner: The
Illinois Humanities Council.
Kane County Sheriff Series
Main Library Elgin Room
Tuesday, November 14 7 – 8:30 pm
Race Relations
Kane County Sheriff Donald E. Kramer and
a panel of community leaders will address
some of the most pressing social issues
affecting our county and community. R
Armchair Generals: A Civil
War and Lincoln Brown Bag
Lunch Interest Group
Main Library Grove Room
2nd Tuesdays 11:45 am – 1:15 pm
11/14 “The Kentucky Fall Campaign
of 1862” Fred Reczkowicz
12/12 Holiday Trivia Game
Commemorate events, share insights and
talk about books or experiences.
Listen, Learn and Lead
Toastmasters Club
Main Library Grove Room
2nd & 4th Thursdays Noon – 1 pm
Become the speaker and leader you want
to be.
Evening Chess Club
Main Library 2nd Floor
2nd & 4th Thursdays 5 – 7 pm
(No club 11/23.)
Ages 10 & up. Free-play chess sessions for
players of all skill levels. Some boards will be
provided.
Elgin 360 Photography Club
Main Library Elgin Room
2nd Thursdays 7 – 8:30 pm
11/9 Christmas Lighting
12/14 Gear and Holiday Cheer
Photo enthusiasts of all skill levels
are invited to learn, share, teach and
photograph.
Veterans Information
Networking Session
New place and time!
South Elgin Branch Hoffer Room
3rd Thursdays 5 – 6:30 pm
11/16 Screening of The Vietnam War:
E2: “Riding the Tiger” 1961-1963 (pg 8)
12/21 VA Benefits Update
Presenter: Jake Zimmerman, Kane County VAC.
Elgin During the Vietnam War
Main Library Meadows Community Rooms
Wednesday, December 6 6:30 – 8:30 pm
Elgin historian Jerry Turnquist recalls Elgin
during the Vietnam War as told through the
newspapers of the time and images from
the Elgin History Museum. R
Foundation Corner
gailborden.info/foundation
Thank you for supporting the 6th Annual
Gail Borden Public Library Foundation Book Sale!
Special thanks to our talented local
artists, Tom Berna for moving assistance,
School District U-46 for lending tables, the
sale volunteers and all of the enthusiastic
shoppers! All proceeds from the Annual
Book Sale and the ongoing Gail’s Sales are
used to enhance the library’s exhibits and
events, such as funding the most recent
Dinosaur Giants exhibit.
-Jo Ann Armenta and Carla Walther;
Book Sale Co-Chairs
A special thank you to Stephanie Doran and Taffy Hoffer for assisting with Foundation activities.
www.gailborden.info 9
Business, Career and Resume Assistance
Start and Grow Your Business
Main Library Elgin Room
Monday, November 6 7 – 8:30 pm
Discover resources to help you start
and grow your business.
Presenter: Small Business Association.
Financial Management
Main Library Meadows Community Room C
Thursday, November 16 6:30 – 8 pm
Learn how to build a stronger financial
future for your business. Partner: Elgin State Bank.
Languages and Citizenship
German Conversation Group
Main Library Elgin Room
Thursday, November 16 7 – 8:30 pm
The group is led by John Schwartz, who
has lived and traveled in Germany and
taught German and other languages.
French Conversation Group
Main Library Grove Room
3rd Mondays 6:30 – 8:30 pm
November 20, December 18
Refresh and enhance your knowledge
of French language and culture in a
conversational setting with former college
language professor Dennis Schwank.
Job Search & Resume Help
Main Library Computer Training Room
Tuesdays 1 – 4 pm
Drop in for 1:1 assistance with your resume,
cover letter, completing online applications
and more.
Job Training
Information Session
Main Library Conference Room
New dates! 2nd & 4th Wednesdays
9:30 – 11 am
Training grants are available to help you get
a job! Learn about WIOA services and the
application process.
In partnership with the Kane County
Office of Community Reinvestment. For
more information, call 630-844-8768.
Citizenship
Conversation Group
Main Library
6:30 – 7:30 pm
Thursdays 11/2, 11/16, 12/7
Mondays 11/13, 11/27, 12/11
No meetings 12/21 and 12/25.
Practice for the naturalization/citizenship
test, by reviewing English for the interview
and the 100 questions from the history/
civics test. Presented by The Literacy Connection. ES
English Conversation Group
Main Library Conference Room
Tuesdays 6:30 – 7:30 pm
No meeting 12/16.
Gain confidence as you practice having
everyday conversations in English and
improve your pronunciation. Presented by The
Literacy Connection. ES
IDES Unemployment and
Illinois Job Link Assistance
Main Library Computer Training Room
Tuesdays 1 – 4 pm
Drop in for help with filing for
unemployment benefits and
registering on the Illinois Job Link website.
Partner: Illinois Department of Employment Security.
For more information, call 1-800-244-5631 or visit
www.ides.illinois.gov.
Did You
Know?
The Main Library
has an LCD
Projector and
portable screen
available for
check out!
Contact the
Information Desk at 847-429-4680
to reserve equipment in advance
or for more information.
Go Bilingual
Conversation Group
Main Library Elgin Room
Wednesdays 6 – 7 pm
No meeting 11/23, 12/20 and 12/27.
Meetings resume 1/10.
Learners of all levels will learn a new
language together with a native speaker. ES
Spanish Café
Main Library Conference Room
1st and 3rd Monday Noon – 1 pm
Practice structured and spontaneous
conversations and vocabulary in Spanish at
an intermediate level. ES
Hello
English
Hello
Elgin
Hello English, Hello Elgin
A new website in English and Spanish with information and resources for adults who are
learning English and organizations that serve learners in the Elgin area.
Visit www.helloenglish.org for:
• Information on free classes, tutoring and conversation groups.
• Recommended websites with grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, listening,
citizenship, reading and writing lessons and activities.
• News on class registration and a calendar of program dates. ES
10
ES = Descripción en español, ver página 11.
Programas en español
Familia
Posada
Biblioteca Principal
Salones de la Comunidad Meadows
Sábado 16 de diciembre 1 – 3 pm
Para todas las edades. Celebra con
manualidades, ponche, cuentos, una
piñata y canciones con el coro de la
Iglesia Católica San José.
Cuentos para la Familia
Biblioteca Principal Salón de Cuentos
Todos los miércoles a las 6:30 – 7 pm
No habrá programa 11/22.
30 minutos de cuentos, música, rimas, y más
para el disfrute de toda la familia.
Por Mi Familia
Talleres para ayudar a padres y guardianes a
navegar la vida familiar. En inglés y español.
11/16 Nutrición de Niños 10 – 11 am
Presentador: Two Rivers Head Start.
Café Latino: La Distancia
entre Nosotros
Biblioteca Principal Salón Grove
Lunes 27 de noviembre 6 – 7:30 pm
¡Explora Latinoamérica a través de libros,
nuevos amigos y un buen rato! En Esta
reunión hablaremos del libro La Distancia
entre Nosotros de la autora Reyna Grande.
En asociación con el Centro de Información.
Clases Gratis de
Computación
Clases en español; la tarjeta de la biblioteca
no es requerida. Puede registrarse para la
serie completa o una sola clase. Actividades
disponibles para sus pequeños.
Biblioteca Principal
Salón de entrenamiento de computación
1:30 – 2 pm
11/11, 11/21, 12/2, 12/9, 12/16
Salones abiertos. Tiempo de
práctica con asistencia en español.
2 – 3:30 pm
11/4 Guía de Compras: computadoras
y tabletas
11/11 Microsoft Word 1
11/21 Microsoft Word 2
2 – 4 pm
12/2 El Internet para Conseguir Empleo
12/9 Microsoft Excel
12/16 Microsoft PowerPoint y
Presentaciones
Salón Hoffer en la Sucursal South Elgin
7 – 8:30 pm
11/16 Guía de Compras: computadoras
y tabletas
12/7 Fotos con Aparatos Móviles:
¡Las mejores formas de
guardar, editar, y compartir!
¡Aparta la Fecha!
Celebración de los
Reyes Magos
Biblioteca Principal Vestíbulo
Sábado 6 de enero 2 – 5 pm
Ven a conocer a Gaspar, Melchor, y
Baltasar, tómate una foto con ellos.
¡Quédate para cuentos y manualidades!
En asociación con la Oganización de México en Elgin
(OME).
Idiomas y
Ciudadanía
Hello English, Hello Elgin
Un nuevo sitio web en inglés y español
con información y recursos para adultos
que están aprendiendo inglés y las
organizaciones en Elgin que ayudan a los
estudiantes. Visite www.helloenglish.org
para encontrar:
• Información sobre clases gratuitas,
tutorías y grupos de conversación.
• Sitios web recomendados con
actividades para practicar gramática,
vocabulario, pronunciación, compresión
auditiva, ciudadanía, lectura y escritura.
• Noticias sobre cómo inscribirse para
clases y un calendario de eventos.
Grupo de Conversación
para la Ciudadanía
Biblioteca Prinicpal
6:30 – 7:30 pm
Jueves 11/2, 11/16, 12/7
Lunes 11/13, 11/27, 12/11
No habrá reunión el 12/21 y el 12/25.
Practica para el exámen de ciudadanía,
revisa y practica el inglés para la entrevista
y las 100 preguntas de historia y cívica.
Presentador: The Literacy Connection.
Grupo de Conversación
en Inglés
Biblioteca Prinicpal Salón de Conferencias
Martes 6:30 – 7:30 pm
No habrá reunión el 12/16.
Adquiere confianza teniendo conversaciones
de cada día en inglés y mejora tu
pronunciación. Presentador: The Literacy Connection.
Grupo de Futuros Bilingües
Biblioteca Principal Salón Elgin
Miercoles 6 – 7 pm
No habrá reunión el 11/23, 12/20, y 12/27.
Las reuniones resumen el 1/10.
Estudiantes de todos los niveles practicarán
con otras personas que hablan español e
inglés como primer idioma.
Grupo de Conversación
en Español
Biblioteca Principal Salón de Conferencias
Primer y tercer lunes del mes
Mediodía – 1 pm
Participantes de nivel intermedio
practicarán conversaciones estructuradas
y espontáneas en español y aprenderán
nuevo vocabulario.
R =Regístrese • Tres maneras: en línea en gailborden.info/register • por teléfono 847-429-4597 • en persona
www.gailborden.info 11
Board of Trustees:
Jean Bednar, President
Elizabeth Kruger, Vice President
Sue Moylan, Treasurer
Patricia Harkin, Secretary
Amanda Garcia
Herb Gross
Tiffany Henderson
Library Director - Carole Medal
Newsletter Editor - Denise Raleigh
Assistant Editor - Natalie Kiburg
Graphic Designer - Laura Espinoza
This newsletter contains recycled
paper and soy-based inks.
Main Library
270 N. Grove Ave.
Elgin, IL 60120
847–742–2411
Mon-Thu
Fri-Sat
Building Hours
9 am – 9 pm
9 am – 6 pm
Sun Noon – 5 pm
Extended Drive-Up Window
Mon-Thu 8 am – 9 pm
Fri-Sat 8 am – 6 pm
Sun 11:30 am – 5 pm
Rakow Branch
2751 W. Bowes Rd.
Elgin, IL 60124
847–531–7271
Mon-Thu
Fri-Sat
Building Hours
9 am – 8 pm
9 am – 5 pm
Sun Noon – 5 pm
Extended Drive-Up Window
Mon-Thu 8:30 am – 8 pm
Fri-Sat 8:30 am – 5 pm
Sun 11:30 am – 5 pm
ECRWSS
LOCAL POSTAL PATRON
South Elgin Branch
127 S. McLean Blvd.
South Elgin, IL 60177
847–931–2090
Mon-Thu
Fri-Sat
Sun
Mon-Thu
Fri-Sat
Sun
Building Hours
10 am – 7 pm
10 am – 4 pm
Noon – 4 pm
New Lobby Hours!
Non-Profit Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
Elgin, IL 60120
Permit No. 164
Carrier Route Sort
9:30 am – 7 pm
9:30 am – 5 pm
11:30 am – 4 pm
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
partners, 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.
Library Closings
The Main Library, Rakow Branch and
South Elgin Branch will be:
• closing at 6 pm on Wednesday,
November 22 and closed Thursday,
November 23 for Thanksgiving
• closed Sunday, December 24 and
Monday, December 25
• closed Sunday, December 31 and
Monday, January 1 for the New Year
Thank you
Local businesses for offering incentives during
September's Library Card Sign-Up Month.
Rake-O Family Fall Festival: Lou Malnati's Pizza,
Culver's, Elgin Community Garden Network
WTTW Kids
Big Idea Live Tour
Thursday, November 16
11:30 am – 12:15 pm
Do you have a big idea? Join us for this
fun-filled, interactive live performance
that will allow children to expand upon
their own natural desires to learn.
The WTTW Kids BIGIDEA "Lab Guy" will
bring an interactive travelling lab and
help visitors explore the recipe for a
BIGIDEA: wonder, watch and learn more.
Now available!
GoChip Beam Movie Tv/Hotspot
Watch movies and TV shows anywhere
offline on multiple WiFi-enabled devices
with the new GoChip Beam for kids and
adults. Each device is pre-loaded with a
full season of a TV show or 5 movies. Just
download the GoChip Player App, enter
the key on your device and get instant
entertainment. No connection to the
internet necessary.
GoChip Beams are available at the Main
Library and can be checked out for 7 days.
Save the Date!
Black History Family Festival
Saturday, February 3, 2018 at 1 pm
Main Library
½off
Purchases at Gail’s Sales
Valid: Saturday, November 25
Small Business Saturday at
Gail Borden Public Library
Main Library - 270 N. Grove Ave.
Small Business Saturday
Saturday, November 25
Shop Small by shopping at Elgin-area
small businesses. Use the coupon on the
left to receive half off your purchases at
Gail’s Sales at the Main Library.
Small Business Saturday is a
registered trademark of American
Express Corporation and is being
promoted locally by Gail Borden
Library, the Elgin Area Chamber
and the Downtown Neighborhood
Association.
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