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Accessible Newsletter

Branch Out: Lansing Public Library Newsletter (February-April 2026)

Cover Highlights 

Cover highlights:

Our biggest youth event of the year! 

The plant exchange & seed library are back 

Closing out our library@nite concert series

Seed Library 

ALT TEXT: Seed Library Logo

 

The Seed Library is sprouting soon! Starting March 2, pick up free seeds to grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers at home. Open to gardeners of all experience levels, the Seed Library supports learning, sustainability, and community—just plant, grow, and enjoy.

Plant Exchange 

Alt Text: Plant Exchange photo of cuttings of plants

 

Snip & Swap

The plant exchange is BACK! For the month of March, bring in your extra plant cuttings, swap them for something new, and leave with a fresh green buddy to help your space bloom. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting out, this is your chance to grow, trade, and connect with fellow plant lovers. 

National Library Week 

ALT TEXT: National Library Week Graphic

 

Celebrate National Library Week April 19-25, 2026

In the Community 

In The Community

 

Alt Text: LPL on location graphic

 

Calumet Bakery

18349 Torrence Ave

Feb 5 & 26 | Mar 5 & 26  |  April 2 & 23 11am-12pm

 

Kdulche Café

3521 Ridge Rd

Feb 5 & 26 | Mar 5 & 26  |  April 2 & 23

12:15-1:15pm

 

Village Hall

3141 Ridge Rd

Feb 19, Mar 19, Apr 16

10am-12pm

The library is popping up around town! 

 

What to  expect: 

  • Popular titles of books to check out
  • Apply for your full access library card
  • Info on resources and services
  • Event calendars 
  • Occasional free book giveaways!
Community Roots 

Do you know about Community Roots? Lansing Residents benefit from exclusive savings at local businesses - just for having a library card! 

 

Alt text:

Mugs & Magick Logo

Kdulche logo

Ted’s logo

Fine Tune Auto logo

HVAC Masters

El Encanto

Lynnie Ques

Chicago’s Chicken Shack

Village of Lansing Cleanup Day 

Village of Lansing Cleanup Day

 

You can catch staff from the library participating in the 17th Annual Village of Lansing cleanup Day to keep our community clean. 

 

April 18|10am

 

The Village is always looking for volunteers, check out their website for more information on how to register. 

Black History Month 

Black History Month

 

ALT TEXT: Mike Dangeroux plays guitar

 

Delve into Black History month through an immersive experience of cuisine, culture and the arts that will captivate you. 

 

Library@Nite: Mike Dangeroux Orchestra 

Fri, Feb 6 | 6:30pm | Drop-in 

Commemorate the start of Black History Month with an evening of amazing music, cuisine, and community engagement! Doors open at 6:00pm — show starts at 6:30pm.

 

All the People Mural

Sat, Feb 7 | 12pm | Register

Join the community and pitch in to create a beautiful painted mural for Black History Month!  This mural will become part of the library for the community to view and enjoy.

 

Wood Burning Bookmarks

Sat, Feb 21 | 2pm | Register

Join our workshop to create unique wooden bookmarks using wood-burning tools and templates. All supplies provided. Make a personalized keepsake to honor history.

 

Black History Month Book Club (Teen Program)

Thu, Feb 26 | 4pm | Register

Come chat about your favorite black characters and black led stories! Stick around to get some new book recommendations.

 

Library Cinema: Black Barbie

Fri, Feb 27 | 11am | Drop-in

When the filmmaker’s 83-year-old aunt Beulah Mae Mitchell asks, “Why not make a Barbie that looks like me?” — the story of the first Black Barbie begins.

Program Spotlight 

Program Spotlight

 

Alt text: Book cover with Elephant and Piggie

 

Family Event

Read Across America with Elephant, Piggie, and Friends

Sat, Mar 7 | 6pm | Register

This lively literacy celebration will feature interactive read-alouds, games, snacks, and unforgettable photo ops. This high-energy event brings stories to life and inspires young readers to explore, play, and imagine together.

Don’t miss our largest  youth service event of the year! 

Family events are designed for children and accompanying adults.

All Ages Events 

All Ages Events

 

Alt text: noise cancelling headphones

 

Sensory Friendly Browsing Hour

Sat: Feb 21, Mar 21 & Apr 18 

9:30-10:30am | Drop-in

People with sensory sensitivities can enjoy the use of the Library and its services in a safe and welcoming environment. 

Las personas con sensibilidad sensorial pueden disfrutar de la biblioteca y sus servicios en un ambiente seguro y acogedor.

We’ll provide optional sensory supports - 

including noise-canceling headphones, 

lap-sized weighted blankets, tactile fidget 

items and more - for anyone who might 

need them. 

 

Prevent Child Abuse Awareness Month

Wed, Apr 1 | 9:30am | Library Stage

The Library and Lansing’s Human Relation Commission will have a presentation on Child Abuse Awareness Month and what you can do to help the community. 

Library @ Nite 

Alt Text: Library@Nite logo

Doors open at 6pm.

Feb 6 black history month celebration; mike dangeroux orchestra.

Mar 6 small batch; irish folk band 

Youth & Teen Events: Birth-PreK Events 

Birth-PreK

Music and Movement 

Every Tues | 11am | Register

Reading to babies is an important foundation for early literacy skills! There will be books, movement, songs, and more. Ages 0-24 months. 

 

Family Storytime

Every Wed | 10am | Register

Enjoy books, movement, songs, and more! Kids will learn important things like motor and literacy skills, finishing with a make & take craft for your child. 

Ages 2-5.

 

Move with Sol  

Wed: Feb 4, Mar 4 & Apr 8 | 11am | Register

Let’s burn some energy!  Follow along as we have fun exercising to kid-friendly YouTube dance videos.

 

Kindergarten Ready

Every Mon: Feb 23 until Apr 27 | 9:45am | Register

Open to children of Lansing residents, this free 10-week program will help the whole family get ready for kindergarten. Kindergarten Ready is open to 4-year-olds who are starting kindergarten within a year. Signing up for this program requires a 10-week commitment. In-person registration is required. Parents are required to stay.

Youth & Teen Events: Grades K-5 

Grades K-5

 

LEGO Build & Play

Sat: Feb 7, Mar 7 & Apr 11 | 1pm | Register

Are you a master lego builder, lego artist, or just a novice? All are welcome here. Join us once a month to create masterpieces and make new lego-loving friends!

 

My Sweet, Sweet Valentine…Cover

Tue, Feb 10 | 6pm | Register

Love is in the air and all around us everywhere. An hour long craft and yap session about our favorite books, movies, and songs. We will craft a Valentine’s Day book cover with felt and beads!  

 

Tissue Paper Flower Craft

Thu, Feb 12 | 6pm | Register

Make a tissue paper flower that you can wear as a hair accessory. All materials provided.

 

Chinese Lunar New Year

Wed, Feb 18 | 6pm | Register

Panda’s Let’s Explore! Lunar New Year program is a fun and educational way to introduce children to the rich history and traditions of Lunar New Year.

 

ArtBots

Wed, Mar 4 | 6pm | Register

Visit Ms. Kim to build, decorate, and take home your own robot that draws for you! 

 

Faux Stained Glass

Tue, Mar 25 | 6pm | Register

A fun and engaging program creating faux stained glass using sharpies and aluminum foil. Come and have fun creating your own master artwork!

Youth & Teen Events: Grades 6-12 

Grades 6-12

 

Teen Volunteer Orientation

Thu: Feb 5, Mar 5 & Apr 2 | 4pm | Register

Need volunteer hours? Want to help the library out during special events and programs? Come to TVO to apply and learn the basics about volunteering. All teen volunteers must complete Teen Volunteer Orientation in order to be eligible to volunteer with the Lansing Public Library.

 

International Tasters Club 

Wed: Feb 11, Mar 11 & Apr 8 | 4pm | Register

Explore the world through your taste buds as we taste-test a selection of yummy snacks from different countries and learn fun facts about their origins.

 

Anime Club

Thu: Feb 19, Mar 19 & Apr 16 | 4pm | Register

Spring is peeking around the corner… let’s hang out and learn about cherry blossoms, festivals, and springtime in Japan!

 

Black History Month Book Club

Thu, Feb 26 | 4pm | Register

Come chat about your favorite black characters and black led stories! Stick around to get some new book recommendations.

 

Bling It On!

Tue, Mar 3 | 4pm | Register

Bling, bling, and more bling! Bring an item that you have always wanted to add a touch of sparkle to. During Bling It On! we will be bedazzling different items. Life is fun and full of sparkle, our belongings should have that sparkle too! 

 

Spring Fling Karaoke Party

Thu, Mar 26 | 4pm | Register

Sing those winter blues away! Try out the karaoke machine from our Library of Things.

 

A Wonderful Tea Party

Mon, Apr 13 | 4pm | Register

Join us for a wonderful and whimsical tea party! We will be learning about the origins of tea from all over the world and also have a tea taste test!

Family Events 

Family Events

These programs are designed for children and accompanying adults

 

Family Bingo/Loteria 

Wed: Feb 25, Mar 25 & Apr 22 | 5:30pm | Register

Head to the library for a fun night of family BINGO/LOTERIA (Mexican BINGO) and a chance to win a tasty treat!

¡Diríjase a la biblioteca para una noche divertida de BINGO/LOTERIA familiar y la oportunidad de ganarse algo delicioso!

 

Read Across America with Elephant, Piggie, and Friends

Sat, Mar 7 | 6pm | Register

This lively literacy celebration will feature interactive read-alouds, games, snacks, and unforgettable photo ops. This high-energy event brings stories to life and inspires young readers to explore, play, and imagine together.

 

Magic for Muggles

Sat, Apr 25 | 2pm | Register

Have you been captivated by the uber magical school of Hogwarts? Do you wish for the sorting hat to be placed upon your head? For fans of Harry Potter, join us at the library for a magical afternoon of trivia, crafts, and more!

 

Día de los Niños/Día de los Libros (Children’s Day/Book Day)  

Thu, Apr 30 | All Day | Register

¡Celebremos el Día del Niño! Join us for a joyful day full of stories, crafts, music, and family fun at the library! Ages 0-12

Adult Events 

Adult Events

 

Coffee Break Café

Every Tues | 10:30am | Drop-in

Coffee Break Café is Lansing Public Library’s Micro Café that produces freshly made coffee  right in front of you. Join us in conversation or grab a delicious cup of coffee on the go!  Not in session March 10 & 17th.

 

Tai-Chi & Gentle Meditation

Every Tues | 1pm | Drop-in

Instructor, Brian Thompson, from BNEW4LIFE, teaches Tai-Chi & Meditation to help stay focused, alert, and pain-free! Not in session March 10 & 17.

 

Spice Club 

Mon: Feb 2, Mar 2, Apr 6 | Register

Spice up your cooking! Register each month to receive a sample of a new spice along with the spice’s history and delicious recipes.  

 

Senior Bingo! 

Fri: Feb 6, Mar 6 & Apr 3 | 11am | Drop-in

This is the perfect opportunity for you to socialize and win some prizes! 

 

The Soda Shop: Valentine Edition

Mon, Feb 9 | 5:30pm  | Register

Harken back to yesteryear as we make simply delicious sodas and punches! Experience classic drinks with a pink and red twist! Includes a small snack and recipes to repeat at home! 

 

Card Makers

Wed, Feb 11 | 1pm  | Register

Interested in making your own card for Valentine’s Day? Join an expert card maker and learn how to make your own beautifully crafted card. 

 

Trivial Matters! 

Wed: Feb 11, Mar 4, Apr 8 | 6pm  | Register

Grab your squad or just yourself and join us each month as we challenge your brain with different themes and subjects. Snacks will be provided.  

 

Crafty Connections

Fri: Feb 13 & Apr 10 | 12pm  | Register

Enjoy a variety of different simple craft stations for a self-paced, social afternoon! NEW: This program now requires registration.

 

Diamond Art Bar

Fri: Feb 20 & Apr 17 | 12pm  | Register

Come join us at the Diamond Art Bar, where you’ll be able to select small premade designs, and be able to complete them within one hour or less!

 

Spring Wreath Making Workshop

Tue, Mar 3 | 5pm  | Register

Join us at the library where you can create your own beautiful, custom seasonal wreath. All materials and guidance are provided, just bring your creativity and leave with a stunning handmade decoration.

 

All the People Mural - Women’s History

Sat, Mar 7 | 12pm  | Register

Join the community and pitch in to create a beautiful painted mural for Women’s History Month!  This mural will become part of the library for the community to view and enjoy.

 

Senior Breakfast

Sat, Mar 21 | 10am | Register

Join the library in the morning for a special breakfast from a local restaurant! Join in conversation with other breakfast lovers! 

 

RTA: Your Guide to Travel Independence

Mon, Mar 30 | 1pm | Drop-in

The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) will be providing a presentation on transit programs for older adults or people with disabilities that are looking for or considering transit through accessible options with CTA, Metra, and Pace. Please join us to learn all about some transit options that can assist with your travels.

 

ChatGPT/AI: For the Curious & the Clueless

Tue, Apr 7 | 4pm | Drop-in 

Tue, Apr 28 | 5pm | Drop-in

How to save time, work smarter, and stay ahead using ChatGPT.

Craftmasters 

Craftmasters

CraftMasters is designed for makers who want the time, tools, and guidance to complete a full craft project and take it home. 

 

Acrylic Book Vases

Wed, Feb 18 | 6pm  | Register

Decorate a modern acrylic vase shaped like a book that blends seamlessly into any decor. 

 

Bee Houses

Wed, Apr 15 | 6pm  | Register

Create a bee sanctuary for your home that is both cute and functional. 

Computer & Technology 

Computer & Technology

1:1 Tech Help | By Appointment

Book an Info Services staff member for 30 minutes of one-on-one technology assistance! Scheduling is dependent upon the topic and staff availability. Request an appointment in-person at the Info Desk, by phone at (708) 474-2447 ext. 109, or by email to infodesk@lansingpl.org. 

*Please note this service is not intended as a replacement for device support, i.e. Geek Squad. Staff are not certified to troubleshoot or repair devices, but may only assist patrons with basic device usage and instruction of library applications.*

 

Cloud Storage

Tue: Feb 10, Mar 10, & Apr 14 | 10am  | Register

Learn how to save all your files without a flash drive using cloud based storage services from Google Drive to Microsoft OneDrive and more.

 

AI For Humans

Mon, Feb 16 | 10am | Register 

Wed, Mar 11 | 6pm | Register 

Are the robots taking over everything?  Not so fast!  Come get a crash course in what AI is, what it can do (and not do) and simple tips to keep yourself safe in the process.

 

Computer Basics Series

Wed: Mar 4, 11, 18 | 1pm  | Register

Learn the essential skills needed to confidently use a computer in this beginner-friendly class series. 

*Each session covers a key topic—using a mouse and keyboard, navigating the internet, creating and saving documents, understanding email, and staying safe online. No prior experience is required. Join us to build your digital confidence one step at a time!

Book Discussions 

Book Discussions

 

BYOBook Club

Mon: Feb 23, Mar 23 &  Apr 20 6:30pm | Drop-in

Have a favorite book or two you’d like to share with fellow readers and librarians? Come tell us about them, get the scoop on new and upcoming releases, and discover recommendations for what to read next!

 

Book Banter

1st Thursday | 6pm | Drop-in

Feb 5: The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store

Mar 5: Hello Beautiful

Apr 2: Women’s Hotel

 

Criminally Good

2nd Friday | 10am | Drop-in

Feb 13: Any Where You Run

Mar 13: The White Lady

Apr 10: In the Woods

Lansing Library Cinema 

Lansing Library Cinema provides free movies, drinks, and treats! Come see newly released flicks, retro reels, and movies made from books with us on our 84in 4k TV. 

 

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Black Barbie

Fri, Feb 27 | 11am | Drop-in 

 

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Wizard of Oz

Fri,  Mar 27 | 11am | Drop-in

 

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First 50 patrons will be entered into a prize drawing

Wicked for Good

Fri, Apr 24 | 11am | Drop-in

 

Horror Movie Club

Welcome to the club! Once the library closes, the library stage transforms into a private theater for those brave enough to enter. Enjoy classic movie treats while watching some of the best horror flicks. Feel free to bring your own blankets, camping chairs for comfort, and friends for support as we’ll be locked in! Doors open at 6:30pm — movie starts at 7pm.

 

Weapons

Fri, Mar 13 | 7pm  | Register 

 

Good Boy

Fri, Apr 10 | 7pm  | Register 

Library @ Home Homebound Delivery Service 

Library@Home Homebound Delivery Service

Homebound delivery provides library services to Lansing cardholders of all ages who are unable to physically come to the library. 

  • A temporary hardship due to a major illness
  • An ongoing need due to physical abilities
  • A long-term illness
  • Homebound seniors
  • New parents

Lansing homebound residents can call the library to arrange an in-home visit to get a library card - or register online anytime. 

More info: (708) 474-2447 ext. 109

Get Your Library Card 

Get Your Library Card 

 

Still need to get your library card?

You can apply online from the comfort of your home! 

Once approved, you will receive your FULL ACCESS card via email and can instantly unlock all of the benefits your library card offers. 

Want a physical card? 

Stop into the library! 

swanlibraries.net/get-a-card

Northstar 

Northstar 

Not sure where your technology skills stand? The library now offers a free technology skills self-check through Northstar Digital Literacy, made possible by a grant from AgeOptions. These quick, self-paced tools help you identify your skills and feel more confident using computers, the internet, and everyday technology. 

Learn more here: 

https://bit.ly/4qjx4TO

Give us a follow! 

Give us a follow! 

Never miss a moment of fun, helpful, and behind-the-scenes posts we share on social media. Scan the QR code and start following us on Facebook and Instagram today! q.me-qr.com/l/getconnected

Library Hours 

Library Hours

Monday-Thursday: 9am-8pm

Friday & Saturday: 9am-5pm

Sunday: CLOSED

Library Director & Board of Trustees 

Director

Lisa Korajczyk

 

Library Board

Sharon Novak, President

Jeri Villa, Vice President

Steven Carr, Secretary

Mozella Brown, Treasurer

Yvette Farmer, Trustee

Afenya Montgomery, Trustee

Meetings are held on the 3rd Thursday of the month at 6pm in the Community Room. 

Disability Accommodations 

Disability Accommodations

Any person needing accommodations for a disability in order to access the benefits of the Library’s services, programs, or activities under the American with Disabilities Act should contact Director Lisa Korajczyk by phone      708-474-2447 or in writing, not less than five (5) business days prior to the event.

Contact Info 

Contact Info

2750 Indiana Avenue

Lansing, IL 60438

Phone: 708-474-2447

lansingpl.org

Please visit the Library or our website for updates to program information. Visit our website to subscribe to our eNewsletter.

Image Release 

Image Release: All program registrants and participants must permit to the taking and use of their image in future library publications, both printed and electronic.

Designer 

Designer/Editor: Bre Podgorski

Friends of Lansing Public Library 

Friends Meeting

Mon, Mar 9 | 6:30pm | Brick Room

Please come check us out at our meetings. We’re a fun bunch! 

ALL ARE WELCOME. 

 

Friends Meeting

Mon, Mar 9 | 6:30pm | Brick Room

Please come check us out at our meetings. We’re a fun bunch! 

ALL ARE WELCOME. 

 

Raffle Baskets

$5/1 ticket or $10/3 tickets

Valentine’s Day Basket

Drawing: Feb 2

Black History Month Basket

Drawing: Feb 28

Mother’s Day Basket

Tickets Available: Mar 13

Lansing Historical Society 

Lansing Historical Society

Bessie Coleman: Aviation Pioneer

Mon, Feb 23 | 6pm | Community Room

Local historian Dan Cuthbert explores the life and legacy of African American aviation pioneer, Bessie Coleman, a trailblazing figure who broke barriers in aviation history. 

 

Women’s Baseball in the Midwest

Mon, Mar  23 | 6pm | Community Room

Illinois Humanities Road Scholar Anna Sielaff examines Illinois’s role in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League and the history and lasting impact of women in sport.

 

History of Lansing Baseball 

Mon, Apr 27 | 6 PM | Community Room

Ken Reynolds and longtime Lansing residents share stories and memories of the teams and leagues that shaped Lansing’s baseball history. 

 

Lansing Fallen Heroes Exhibit

April 8-30 

The Lansing Historical Society Museum presents its annual exhibit honoring Ken Novak, Lansing’s only police officer killed in the line of duty, and Phil Martini, Lansing’s only Iraq War casualty. 

Wed, Apr  8 | 9am-7:30pm

Thursdays | 5:30-7:30pm

Saturdays | 11am - 1pm