Courtesy Christy Eyre, Brookfield Public Library

Libraries today are more than repositories for books and other resources. From scouting troops to business groups, toddlers to seniors, public libraries offer invaluable services to all members of the community. This April, the Communities Matter at the Brookfield Public Library. The Library joins the American Library Association and libraries around the country in celebrating the importance of community during National Library Week, April 14-20, 2013.

“Service to the community has always been the primary focus of the library,” said Christy Eyre, Brookfield Public Library Partnerships & Public Relations Librarian. “As communities and technologies evolve, librarians proactively strive to offer services that meet the needs of every member of their community.” The Brookfield Public Library offers a variety of services for all ages, ranging from traditional resources such as books, internet access and storytimes, to 21st century library resources including laptops and ereaders for library and home use; downloadable books, magazines, and music; technology workshops; and an extensive collection of databases accessible 24-hours a day through the Library’s website. The Library also fosters community by providing space for diverse groups to come together.

Throughout April, the Brookfield Public Library will celebrate National Library Week by partnering with local businesses and organizations to showcase the rich community resources Brookfield has to offer.

Upcoming events include:

  • ESL Conversation Café Wednesdays at 1 p.m., Brookfield Public Library Literacy Volunteers of Western Cook County hosts a weekly ESL conversation group at the Library. Participants can practice their conversational skills in a fun group format.
  • Bee Pollinator Aware Workshop Saturday, April 13 at 9:30 a.m., Brookfield Zoo Discovery Center, Classroom 1AB In partnership with the Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield Conservation Commission, Riverside Public Library, and Cantata Adult Life Services, Brookfield Zoo staff will discuss the importance of pollinating animals and their connection to the foods we eat, how local residents can create pollinator-friendly spaces. Registration is required. For more information or to register to attend, contact the Brookfield Public Library at 708-485-6917 or Riverside Public Library at 708-442-6366.
  • Trivia Night @ Irish Times Monday, April 15 at 7 p.m., The Cottage at Irish Times. Join the Brookfield Public Library at Irish Times for a fun night of trivia! 
  • The Affordable Care Act Wednesday, April 15 at 1 p.m., Brookfield Public Library. Learn how new provisions of the health care reform law will change how many people will get their insurance beginning in 2014
  • Poetry Open Mic Night Thursday, April 18 at 7 p.m., Brookfield Public Library. In honor of National Library Week and National Poetry Month, local poets & writers are invited to share their work.
  • Brides on the Boulevard Sunday, April 21 from 12-4 p.m., Grand Boulevard between Grant & Fairview The Brookfield Chamber of Commerce presents the 5th annual Brides on the Boulevard expo. Stop by and explore the possibilities local businesses can bring to your upcoming special event.
  • Foundations of Investing Wednesday, April 24 at 7 p.m. Brookfield Public Library. Steven Langworthy of Edward Jones discusses the key features of bonds, stocks, and mutual funds as well as the importance of proper asset allocation.
  • A Visit from our Banker Friday, April 26 at 10:30 a.m., Brookfield Public Library. Philip M. Richard, CFO, First National Bank of Brookfield talks to preschooler and parents about saving money. Kids can take home a free piggy bank and be money smart!
  • Jazz Movie Matinee: Paris Blues Saturday, April 27 at 2 p.m. In partnership with the Brookfield Jazz Society, join us for Paris Blues. Two jazz musicians living in Paris fall in love and just decide whether to stay in Paris or return to America. Features an all-star cast with music by The Duke Ellington Orchestra and guest soloist Louis Armstrong.

First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April. For further information on Brookfield Public Library’s services and upcoming events, call the Library at 708-485-6917 or explore the Library’s website at www.broookfieldlibrary.info.