Technology Programs
Spotlight on Home Security Cameras
This class will teach you what you need to know to get started using home security cameras, covering both the benefits and the pitfalls.
Cord Cutting - Choosing the Best Streaming Services
Whether you’re about to cancel cable or cut the cord years ago, it’s time to survey the rapidly changing landscape of streaming services.
Not Dead Yet - Classic Film Cameras and Lenses
While digital cameras and smartphones have led to the apparent demise of film, classic cameras and their lenses have had a recent renaissance.
If the pandemic is taking a toll on your mental health, you are not alone. We will discuss practical ways in which technology can help to relieve stress, improve sleep, and clear your mind.
We will be highlighting some of our favorite podcasts and providing tools for you to seek out podcasts that interest you. We will also discuss different ways to listen to your favorite podcasts.
Experts recommend that we use a different password for every website. What a pain! Thankfully, password managers will remember every login for you, and even auto-generate strong ones.
Learn how to apply Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1) to make your social media presence accessible and friendly to all. Presented by Mark McCarthy, an Accessibility Engineer at the University of Illinois System.
Voyagers Travel Discussion
The Berkshires of Western Massachusetts provide the perfect backdrop for fall color. We will guide you through the highlights of travel to this region to jump start your fall travel plans.
Capture D.H. Lawrence’s sense of wonder in this discussion of Santa Fe, New Mexico, a picturesque cultural jewel in the desert Southwest.
We present a four-day itinerary on this virtual trip to Seattle, and include ideas for day trips outside of the city.
If you are hesitant to fly but ready to travel this summer, we will be discussing drivable destinations that will check all of the boxes for outdoor summer fun.
This virtual trip includes stops at the city’s most popular destinations, as well as historical context and information.
Safer Travel in Challenging Times
In this program, we discuss strategies to reduce your risk of contracting the novel coronavirus while enjoying your trip.
Explore majestic sights across the globe without leaving leaving your home.
Mike and Susan discuss why you might want to take on the enriching activity of being a pen pal and how to go about it.
For Students & Parents
Jumpstart Your College Applications
This workshop for incoming high school Seniors will arm you with everything you need to know to get started on your applications. Consultant Kim Anderson will cover the different application platforms and overall timing for the application process, what is important to highlight on your application, how to build a balanced college list and a sound application strategy, what does test-optional really mean, how important are letters of recommendation and when is the right time to ask, what makes a strong personal statement and guidelines for writing great supplemental essays. Get a head start on your applications before the start of the school year.
Challenges to College Aid and Awards
Recent legislation included substantial changes to the FAFSA and college financial aid. Join us as Heidi King of College Inside Track describes how these changes may impact your family and new strategies to consider to give your student the best opportunity.
Join Katherine Stievater, Founder of Gap Year Solutions, for a presentation and Q&A about the benefits of Gap time, and how to plan a transformational and purposeful Gap Year on any budget.
Professional college advisor Kim Anderson will guide you through the process of applying to college by providing important tips so that you can find the schools that are YOUR best fit.
Why Gap Years Matter More Than Ever
Join Katherine Stievater, Founder of Gap Year Solutions, for a presentation about the benefits of a Gap Year and what Gap Years look like when international travel is not a realistic option.
Kitchen Tech
Kitchen Tech - Pump Up Your Pantry
Life is too short for uninspired and boring meals; make room for exciting ingredients to help spark up those pedestrian dishes with updated pantry essentials!
Susan and Mike walk you through what you need to know about a meat-free diet and provide insight into the latest plant-based innovations.
Learn how to use kitchen tech to make all things Italian from pizza to pasta, gelato to espresso. Ciao!
What benefits does a smart kitchen provide? Is it worth the extra cost? We’ll separate hype from reality in this informative session.
We will discuss what you can grill beyond burgers, steaks, and brats, what tools you’ll need, and how to do it.
Guest Presenters
Paranormal Illinois - Tales of Ghosts, UFOs, and Mysterious Creatures
Paranormal researcher Chad Lewis takes the audience on a ghostly journey to some of the most bizarre places in Illinois.
From Hinsdale to Paris: 160 Years of Loie Fuller
Join us for an event with Liz Heinecke, author of “Radiant,” a book about Loie Fuller and Marie Curie. 160 years since her birth, Loie Fuller’s hometown of Hinsdale celebrates her life.
Chef Grace Goudie joined us to demonstrate a favorite recipe, answer questions, and share some Chopped secrets.
Tech to Table: 25 Innovators Reimagining Food
Local author Richard Munson joins us to discuss his new book “Tech to Table: 25 Innovators Reimagining Food.”
The Color of Law & Reversing Segregation
Richard Rothstein, researcher and author of “The Color of Law” presents on the policies that led to racial segregation in American communities, and what can be done to reverse these practices and work towards racial equity.
Novel Tea
Join us for a lovely afternoon of tea and treats, and hear about some of the newest books suggested by Adult Services librarians.
Brew a cup of tea and join us from home to hear about some of the newest books suggested by Adult Services librarians Maura & Emily.
Brew a cup of tea and join us from home to hear about some of the newest books suggested by Adult Services librarians Maura & Emily.
Brew a cup of tea and join us from home to hear about some of the newest books suggested by Adult Services librarians Maura & Emily.
Food Programs
Fresh and Local - Farmer's Markets and CSAs
Get the scoop on the best farmer’s markets and CSA shares in the area.
United Foods of America: Pizza!
In this program, we will explore the ways pizza is prepared across America, from New Haven to California and all points between.
Emergency Preparedness
Join fall prevention expert Chandra Jadhwani to learn important tips to prevent falls and avoid serious injuries.
Professor Paul Sirvatka from the College of DuPage will summarize the nature and climatology of significant weather from wind storms to tornadoes to devastating snow and ice storms.
Surviving A Spring Power Outage
When the power goes out, we will provide you with important tips to keep your food safe, your phone charged, and keep you connected to the latest news.
Other Programs
Technology is always a crowd favorite and we’re here to help you find the hottest gift ideas for computer enthusiasts or the family chef.
We cover what composting is, how to compost, what is compostable, and different types of composters available.
Getting Comfortable with Hi-Tech Workwear
Get the latest information on garments that project a professional appearance while maximizing comfort, as well as recommendations on specific clothing items to try.
We will cover how to identify unbiased sources, when to be wary, how to find reliable polling information, and where to go for trusted sources of voter information.