The Six Mile Regional Library District is thrilled to unveil the highly anticipated lineup for Illinois Libraries Present Season 3, scheduled to take place from September 2023 to May 2024. This extraordinary series of events is made possible through the collaborative efforts of public libraries across the state, all coming together to offer an array of premier experiences. Prepare to be captivated, inspired, and uplifted by the incredible offerings brought to you by ILP.

Illlinois Libraries Present Season 3 Lineup
September 2023 through May 2024

Wednesday, September 6, 7PM – The Power of Story with Colson Whitehead

Pulitzer Prize winning #1 New York Times bestselling author Colson Whitehead kicks off Season 3

• Zoom Registration Link to Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ZQy7SkyDSy-fXbYwQ3wjjg

Kicking off our third season, we are thrilled to welcome two-time Pulitzer Prize winning author Colson Whitehead to our Illinois libraries. The #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Underground Railroad, The Nickel Boys, Harlem Shuffle, The Noble Hustle, Zone One, Sag Harbor, The Intuitionist, John Henry Days, Apex Hides the Hurt, and a collection of essays, Whitehead is only the fourth writer to win two Pulitzers in the Fiction category (for Underground Railroad in 2018 and The Nickel Boys in 2020). His highly anticipated latest, Crook Manifesto, is a darkly funny tale of a city under siege, but also a sneakily searching portrait of the meaning of family.

His reviews, essays, and fiction have appeared in the New York Times, The New Yorker, New York Magazine, Harper’s and Granta. Whitehead has received a MacArthur Fellowship and Guggenheim Fellowship and the Library of Congress Prize for American Fiction, among others. In 2023, President Biden awarded Whitehead a National Endowment for the Humanities Medal. He has taught extensively, including at Columbia University, Princeton University, and Brooklyn College, and has been a Writer-in-Residence at Vassar College, the University of Richmond, and University of Wyoming. He lives in New York City.

Wednesday, October 4, 7PM – Chills and Thrills with Stephen Graham Jones

National Endowment for the Arts Fellow Stephen Graham Jones talks horror

• Zoom Registration Link to Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rh-AbiSpQD-FKnaCdfJ51Q

Stephen Graham Jones joins us to talk scary stories, horror and more with librarian Becky Spratford. Jones is the New York Times bestselling author of The Only Good Indians and Don’t Fear the Reaper, and a prolific author of more than 25 books spanning genres. He has been an NEA fellowship recipient and been recipient of several awards including: the Ray Bradbury Award from the Los Angeles Times, the Bram Stoker Award, the Shirley Jackson Award, the Jesse Jones Award for Best Work of Fiction from the Texas Institute of Letters, the Independent Publishers Award for Multicultural Fiction, and the Alex Award from American Library Association. He is the Ivena Baldwin Professor of English at the University of Colorado Boulder.

Illinois librarian and Readers’ Advisor Becky Spratford will join Stephen in conversation. She trains library staff all over the world on how to match books with readers through the local public library and runs the critically acclaimed blog RA for All. A devout horror fan, she writes a horror review column for Library Journal, is the author of The Reader’s Advisory Guide to Horror, and is a proud member of the Horror Writers Association.

Tuesday, October 17, 7PM – Food, Family, and Folktales: A Conversation with Grace Lin

Children’s book author and illustrator Grace Lin discusses food, family, and folktales, along with a drawing demonstration

• Zoom Registration Link to Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_1otd-rUATXO0-jFmWbEmAw

Join Newbery and Caldecott honoree and New York Times bestselling Grace Lin for an engaging conversation about her journey to become an award-winning author and illustrator. Learn about her latest middle grade book, Chinese Menu: The History, Myths, and Legends Behind Your Favorite Foods, a beautifully written full-color book that explores the whimsical myths and stories behind your favorite American Chinese food, and learn how you can draw your own stories. Evanston Public Library Children’s Librarian, Brian E. Wilson, joins Grace in conversation.

Before she was a bestselling author and illustrator of picture books, early readers and middle grade novels, Grace was the only Asian girl going to her elementary school in Upstate NY. That experience, good and bad, has influenced her books—including her Newbery Honor Where The Mountain Meets the Moon, her Geisel Honor Ling & Ting, her National Book Finalist When the Sea Turned to Silver and her Caldecott Honor A Big Mooncake for Little Star. Grace advocates for diversity through her TEDx talk – “The Windows and Mirrors of Your Child’s Bookshelf” – and a PBSNewHour video essay, “What to do when you realize classic books from your childhood are racist?” She continued this mission with her podcasts kidlitwomen. In 2016, Grace’s art was displayed at the White House and Grace, herself, was recognized by President Obama as a Champion of Change for Asian American and Pacific Islander Art and Storytelling.

Wednesday, November 8, 7PM – A Taste of Love with Maya-Camille Broussard of Justice of the Pies

Netflix’s Bake Squad star and owner of the Chicago-based bakery Justice of the Pies Maya-Camille Broussard shows us how to bake with love

• Zoom Registration Link to Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HNoZ0aXWRTu6XjvrMgb8sg

Join Maya Camille Broussard, star of Netflix’s Bake Squad, and owner of Chicago based Justice of the Pies for a demo from her kitchen just in time for Thanksgiving. She will share her love of pie, the stories of those that inspired her, and some tips and tricks to help you make the perfect Thanksgiving pie.

Broussard uses her love of food to have a positive impact on the local community. She offers an “I Knead love” workshop several times each year for kids from low-income households to learn basic cooking skills, healthy eating habits, and nutrition. Justice of the Pies has partnered with many Chicago area charities to provide meals for communities on the South and West sides. During the COVID pandemic, her bakery partnered with Frontline Food to provide food from restaurants for front-line workers. Being hearing impaired, Broussard works hard to set an example for young bakers by telling the story of her struggles and success.

Wednesday, December 6, 7PM – Surviving the Holidays with Lori Gottlieb

Psychotherapist and New York Times bestselling author Lori Gottlieb helps us survive the holidays

• Zoom Registration Link to Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_lStJPe5yQwquzYSYXvwAsQ

Lori Gottlieb, New York Times bestselling author of Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, and co-host of the “Dear Therapists” podcast joins us for a thought-provoking conversation about mental health in anticipation of the winter holiday season. Gottlieb will share tools to help in everyday life and especially as you prepare for the holidays.

Lori Gottlieb is a psychotherapist and New York Times bestselling author of Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, which has sold over a million copies and is currently being adapted into a television series. In addition to her clinical practice, she is co-host of the popular “Dear Therapists” podcast and writes The Atlantic’s “Dear Therapist” advice column. She has been on the Today Show, Good Morning America, CNN, and NPR’s “Fresh Air” as a therapy expert and her 2019 TED Talk was one of the most watched of the year.

December Date To-Be-Determined: a stream of The Nutcracker, danced by The Royal Ballet, with music played by the orchestra of the Royal Opera House.
January 11 – Sci-fi author, journalist, and activist Cory Doctorow and Hugo and Nebula award-winning author Ken Liu, AND New York Times bestselling author Martha Wells join us to speculate about our AI Future
February 6 – Meet American cartoonist and children’s book author/illustrator Jerry Craft to learn how to draw your own comics
February 20 –  #1 New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn helps us feel the romance all month with a discussion about Bridgerton and all things romance
April 3 – Prominent speaker and professor Dr. Temple Grandin shares on the gifts of neurodiversity
May 7 – Kal Penn discusses his many lives: writer, producer, former White House staff member, starring actor of “Harold and Kumar” and much more

These events are made possible by Illinois Libraries Present, a statewide collaboration among public libraries offering premier events. ILP is funded in part by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a department of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).

As summer approaches, the communities of Granite City, Pontoon Beach, and Mitchell, Illinois are filled with anticipation for the summer season. Amidst the warm sunshine and joyful vibes, there is a special place that invites residents to embark on exciting literary adventures: the Six Mile Regional Library District. At the heart of these communities, the library district is dedicated to promoting literacy and engaging readers of all ages. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of the Six Mile Regional Library District in fostering a lifelong love for books, particularly during the summer.

A Gateway to Imagination

The Six Mile Regional Library District serves as a gateway to the boundless realms of imagination. With its diverse collection of books, ranging from classic literature to contemporary bestsellers, the library district offers something for everyone. In June, as children and adults have more time to explore their interests, the library district becomes a haven for imaginative minds. By providing access to captivating stories and engaging literature, the district encourages young readers and adults alike to embark on thrilling literary journeys that ignite their love for reading.

Community Engagement

Summer brings communities together, and public libraries serve as the perfect platform for fostering meaningful connections. SMRLD organizes events, book clubs, and classes, creating a vibrant atmosphere of literary enthusiasm. These events provide an opportunity for readers to interact, share recommendations, and engage in thought-provoking discussions. By building a sense of community, libraries become spaces where book lovers can find like-minded individuals, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and intellectual growth.

Summer Reading Programs

Summer reading programs are a highlight of the Six Mile Regional Library District’s initiatives. Designed to combat the “summer slide” and promote literacy, these programs encourage children, teens, and adults to delve into the world of books. This summer the library district introduces exciting and creative approaches to incentivize reading. With themed events, reading challenges, and rewards, the district ensures that summer reading becomes an enjoyable and rewarding experience for all participants. By igniting a passion for reading through these programs, the library district inspires a lifelong love for books among residents of all ages.

Lifelong Learning

The Six Mile Regional Library District is dedicated to promoting lifelong learning and personal growth. Whether you are planning a vacation, exploring new hobbies, or seeking personal enrichment, the library district offers an array of resources. From travel guides to cookbooks, gardening manuals to outdoor games and fishing licenses, SMRLD can equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to make the most of your summer adventures. Through these resources, the library district encourages continuous learning and exploration, even during leisurely months.

A Haven for All

The Six Mile Regional Library District is a welcoming and inclusive space for all residents 62040. Children can participate in storytimes, craft workshops, and interactive events that ignite their creativity and love for reading. Teenagers have access to cooking classes and crafts that help them develop new skills and explore their passions. Adults can join book clubs, and participate in educational workshops that promote intellectual growth and personal fulfillment. The library district ensures that everyone feels valued and supported within its walls.

As Summer arrives, the Six Mile Regional Library District stands ready to inspire a lifelong love for books and reading among the residents of 62040. Through our summer reading programs, commitment to community engagement, and dedication to lifelong learning, the district serves as a hub of knowledge, imagination, and connection. Whether you are a child discovering the magic of books, a teenager seeking inspiration, or an adult thirsting for knowledge, the Six Mile Regional Library District offers a welcoming space where you can embark on new literary adventures, connect with fellow book lovers, and explore the endless possibilities that the world of books has to offer.

Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White awarded nearly $6 million in pandemic recovery grants to libraries focused on responding directly to the COVID-19 pandemic by modifying services, transforming spaces and developing resources for their local recovering workforce. Funding 211 academic, school, special and public libraries, all of which received grants ranging from $5,000 to over $1 million. A combination of funding sources provided through the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), both from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and state technology funds were used to maximize the statewide impact.

SMRLD is the proud recipient of $50,000 of funding from the Illinois State Library’s (ISL) Bouncing Back from the Pandemic grant. As a part of our project, Building a Job Ready Workforce, expert, Frank Alaniz will be presenting a series of job search training sessions.

Job Searching: How to Find a Job – Thursday, March 23rd
Online Job Search Applicant Tracking Systems – Thursday, April 13th
Basics of LinkedIn – Thursday, May 11th
Library Training and Events Room, 2001 Delmar Ave, In person and via Zoom.

Registration Required – Please call
618-452-6238 or go to https://forms.gle/MA9ApYySXSxSq9kA6 to register.

We look forward to sharing more exciting news with you in the future about what we are able to accomplish through our grant funded project, Building a Job Ready Workforce.
*These materials were developed pursuant to a Library Services and Technology Act grant administered by the Illinois State Library using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Available at 2001 Delmar Ave: Tuesday – Thursday 11:00-2:30; &  Friday 10:30-2:30

Hayden Ellis joins the SMRLD as a Masters of Social Work intern. Hayden received their Bachelors in Criminal Justice from Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville. Hayden is currently enrolled at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in the Master’s program. Hayden’s goal at the library is to help and connect a customer who is in need with the services and resources provided within the community. Hayden has a passion for helping others and using solution-focused practice to help customers through any crisis in their life. Hayden also has experience with crisis work, as they currently work as a Mobile Crisis Responder in East St. Louis.