Indian Prairie Library Wants to Know Your Story

“'Create Your Own Story' is the perfect theme for National Library Week,” said Jamie Bukovac, director of the Indian Prairie Public Library. “Each of our lives is a story, and each day we add to that story. Libraries offer all the resources anyone could need to enhance or change their life, and thus their story, whether the ‘chapter’ is education, employment, personal growth or enjoyment.”

During National Library Week, April 10-16, library patrons are invited to share their own stories about using the library at 401 Plainfield Rd., Darien. Everyone who submits a story will receive a plastic cup and an entry into a drawing for an insulated lunch bag. Ten bags will be awarded each day of National Library Week. “Our members have brought us candy, homemade cakes and cookies—even roses to show how much they appreciate us,” Bukovac said in a prepared statement. “This is our chance to thank them for letting us be a part of their life stories.”

The entire week is filled with events that capture the full range of the reasons why people use the library—from music and movies to computers and crocodiles. In addition to regularly scheduled programs such as story times, chess, current events and the English conversation group, several special events are planned for National Library Week.

A 2 p.m. Sunday, April 10 concert will feature the Midway Ramblers who will perform traditional Cajun and Creole music, zydeco and even a little swamp pop. 

At 7 p.m. Monday, April 11, authors Daniel P. Smith and Grace DuMelle will share tips on interviewing techniques and doing genealogical research to make your family story compelling in their joint program “Writing Your Family’s Story.”

Senior Librarian Jennifer Asimakopoulos will present a hands-on workshop, “Discover a Good Book,” at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 13  Participants will learn how to use online tools and the library’s Web site to find new titles to read.

Wednesday's theme is “Snapshot: One Day in the Life of Illinois Libraries.” The library will be taking photos and gathering statistics, as well as stories, to demonstrate how important libraries are to the state of Illinois. The public is invited to visit the library Wednesday to show support for libraries.

Kevin Guilfoile, author of Cast of Shadows and The Thousand, will talk about his novel and sign books at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 14. Barbara’s Bookstore will be on hand to sell books. 

Also on Thursday, master gardeners from the University of Illinois Extension Service will answer gardening questions in the lobby from 6-8 p.m.

At 7 p.m. Friday, April 15 (doors open at 6:30 p.m.), the Movies & More group will  show The Departed, directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Matt Damon, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jack Nicholson and Mark Wahlberg.

At 2 p.m. Saturday, April 16, the Children’s Theatre of Western Springs will perform Lyle, Lyle Crocodile by Bernard Waber. Tickets are now available.

Call the library at 630-887-8760 for more information about any of these programs. Individuals who require an accommodation for a disability for any library program should contact the library at least five days before the program. The Indian Prairie Public Library serves residents in Burr Ridge, Willowbrook and Darien. Information about these programs also can be found at ippl.info.