Annual Adult and Teen Poetry Contest

Calling all poets: Let’s celebrate National Poetry Month together!The New Lenox Public Library will be hosting a poetry contest to highlight your creativity. Submit a poem on any topic and in a style of your choosing.For more information, and to submit your poem, go to ......More

Calling all poets: Let’s celebrate National Poetry Month together!The New Lenox Public Library will be hosting a poetry contest to highlight your creativity. Submit a poem on any topic and in a style of your choosing.For more information, and to submit your poem, go to https://www.newlenoxlibrary.org/poetrycontest.*All poems will be published in our annual poetry booklet.*Prizes will be awarded to the top poems in each of the following age categories: Grades 7-9, Grades 10-12, and Adult.*Only one poem per person can be entered.*Entries accepted only within the U.S.*Prizes and certificates must be picked up in person and will not be mailed.

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*Cancelled: Studio2Go: Paint by Numbers - Spring Eggs

Stop by the Studio to pick up the craft of the month. We will provide all the materials you may need. March Theme: Paint by Numbers - Spring Eggs*While supplies lasts.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Outreach at the Francis Field Winter Market

Keep an eye out for the library at the Francis Field Winter Market! We'll be handing out informational flyers and fun promotional items! Stop by, say hello, and grab some goodies. We can't wait to see you there!For more information regarding the event, check out Chicago......More

Keep an eye out for the library at the Francis Field Winter Market! We'll be handing out informational flyers and fun promotional items! Stop by, say hello, and grab some goodies. We can't wait to see you there!For more information regarding the event, check out Chicago Street Markets! https://www.chistreetmarkets.com/

801 E Francis Rd, New Lenox, IL 60451, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

March Madness

March Madness 2026: To Be REDYour favorite books are red-hot and ready to be read!Red Alert! March Madness is back featuring the very best of the backlist! It’s March Madness 2026: To Be RED, featuring 16 sizzling books across 8 colorful categories from Crimson Classics......More

March Madness 2026: To Be REDYour favorite books are red-hot and ready to be read!Red Alert! March Madness is back featuring the very best of the backlist! It’s March Madness 2026: To Be RED, featuring 16 sizzling books across 8 colorful categories from Crimson Classics to Fiery Fantasy, Ruby Retellings to Vermilion Verse. Each week, vote for the titles you think should advance as they battle it out for the title of March Madness Champion 2026!How to ParticipateVote Weekly: Voting opens on Monday mornings and that round of voting will be open through Sunday night. Vote once per week from Monday, March 2 through Sunday, March 29.Prize Drawing: Each time you vote, you'll be entered into a drawing to win a prize bundle.Bonus Entry: Want extra chances to win? Fill out a bracket with your predictions before the tournament starts for a bonus prize drawing entry! Brackets will be available at the Adult and Teen Services Desk starting February 2.Perfect Bracket Prize: Think you can predict every winner? If you correctly guess your entire bracket, you'll win the Perfect Bracket Prize!Beanstack Tracking (optional):If you enjoy tracking your reading or collecting badges, you can follow your March Madness activity in Beanstack. Log the time you spend reading any of the Sweet Sixteen titles to earn red themed reading badges, and log your weekly votes to collect voting badges. These badges do not earn you any prize drawing entries and have no bearing on the tournament results, they are just a fun way to track your progress and gamify your reading. Must have a Beanstack account to use this feature. Beanstack App recommended. Register for March Madness tracking here!Dates:Bracket Predictions Due: Sunday, March 1st Round 1: Monday, March 2 - Sunday March 8Round 2: Monday, March 9 - Sunday, March 15Round 3: Monday, March 16 - Sunday, March 22Championship: Monday, March 23 - Sunday, March 29Final Champion Revealed: Monday, March 30th** Registration is not required, but by registering you will receive a reminder email when each new round of voting becomes available.

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e-Reader Basics with Tech Tutors

Learn to better navigate your e-readers and e-reader apps. Please register for a 30-minute time slot in advance to receive one-on-one assistance.*This series focuses on device use and navigation. Our staff and teen volunteers are here to help, but we cannot repair or tr......More

Learn to better navigate your e-readers and e-reader apps. Please register for a 30-minute time slot in advance to receive one-on-one assistance.*This series focuses on device use and navigation. Our staff and teen volunteers are here to help, but we cannot repair or troubleshoot damaged devices. Although we may not be able to answer every question or fix every problem, we will do our best to find solutions together.Registration Required

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

e-Reader Basics with Tech Tutors

Learn to better navigate your e-readers and e-reader apps. Please register for a 30-minute time slot in advance to receive one-on-one assistance.*This series focuses on device use and navigation. Our staff and teen volunteers are here to help, but we cannot repair or tr......More

Learn to better navigate your e-readers and e-reader apps. Please register for a 30-minute time slot in advance to receive one-on-one assistance.*This series focuses on device use and navigation. Our staff and teen volunteers are here to help, but we cannot repair or troubleshoot damaged devices. Although we may not be able to answer every question or fix every problem, we will do our best to find solutions together.Registration Required

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

e-Reader Basics with Tech Tutors

Learn to better navigate your e-readers and e-reader apps. Please register for a 30-minute time slot in advance to receive one-on-one assistance.*This series focuses on device use and navigation. Our staff and teen volunteers are here to help, but we cannot repair or tr......More

Learn to better navigate your e-readers and e-reader apps. Please register for a 30-minute time slot in advance to receive one-on-one assistance.*This series focuses on device use and navigation. Our staff and teen volunteers are here to help, but we cannot repair or troubleshoot damaged devices. Although we may not be able to answer every question or fix every problem, we will do our best to find solutions together.Registration Required

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Hearts & Crafts

Do you make items for charities? Bring your projects and meet likeminded makers! Looking for a project to do? New Life for Old Bags will be there with materials to get you started!

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Easter Egg Flower Wreath

Join us at the library to make the cutest "flower" wreath with Easter Eggs! You will use plastic eggs to make flower shapes and then glue that to a wooden wreath board. Lastly, we will adorn it with a bow & a hanger so you can welcome Spring Time with a wreath of "flowe......More

Join us at the library to make the cutest "flower" wreath with Easter Eggs! You will use plastic eggs to make flower shapes and then glue that to a wooden wreath board. Lastly, we will adorn it with a bow & a hanger so you can welcome Spring Time with a wreath of "flowers!"Registration Required. Please only register for ONE session.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Easter Egg Flower Wreath

Join us at the library to make the cutest "flower" wreath with Easter Eggs! You will use plastic eggs to make flower shapes and then glue that to a wooden wreath board. Lastly, we will adorn it with a bow & a hanger so you can welcome Spring Time with a wreath of "flowe......More

Join us at the library to make the cutest "flower" wreath with Easter Eggs! You will use plastic eggs to make flower shapes and then glue that to a wooden wreath board. Lastly, we will adorn it with a bow & a hanger so you can welcome Spring Time with a wreath of "flowers!"Registration Required. Please only register for ONE session.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Weird Wednesdays: Dreams and What They Mean

Ages 8-13. Join us for a discussion of everything weird, wacky, and wonderful! Each month will focus on a bizarre topic and include a themed activity.  THEME: Dreams and What They Mean

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Cooking With Kyra: Rainbow Graham Cracker Snack

Ages 4-10. Hear a story and follow along with Ms. Kyra's video to make a simple snack. THEME:  Rainbow Graham Cracker SnackIngredients: Graham crackers, blue frosting, mini marshmallows, rainbow candy strip

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Bluestem Readers Group

3rd-5th grade. This is a special celebratory meeting for Bluestem Readers who participated in our sessions throughout the 2026 Bluestem Readers' Choice Award period (September - March). We will celebrate the nominees and find out which book came out on top in the state ......More

3rd-5th grade. This is a special celebratory meeting for Bluestem Readers who participated in our sessions throughout the 2026 Bluestem Readers' Choice Award period (September - March). We will celebrate the nominees and find out which book came out on top in the state of Illinois - as voted on by kids like you!Please note: returning readers from last season who are entering 6th grade and would like to continue participation, are welcome.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Let's Sublimate: Socks

With the SawGrass500, we can heat press an image or design onto different polyester-blended materials. This month, we will be sublimating on Socks. 1 pair of socks per patron.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Disability Care Partners: Training for the Transitions with Equip for Equality

Join us for an informational series designed for individuals with disabilities alongside those who support them, such as parents, family, and other care partners. Each session features local organizations or subject experts who will provide practical tools, guidance, an......More

Join us for an informational series designed for individuals with disabilities alongside those who support them, such as parents, family, and other care partners. Each session features local organizations or subject experts who will provide practical tools, guidance, and support. Learn how to access services and resources for self-advocacy, and connect with others navigating similar experiences.In this session:Learn about transition planning, services, and the rights of students with disabilities as they prepare for what waits for them in life after high school & beyond including post-secondary education, employment, and independent living.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Pee-Wee Picasso

Ages 0-2.5 years with caregiver. Join us for a special creative playtime just for our youngest library friends! Pee-Wee Picasso is all about process-based art — no instructions, no expectations, and no “right” way to create. Every child’s masterpiece will be totally the......More

Ages 0-2.5 years with caregiver. Join us for a special creative playtime just for our youngest library friends! Pee-Wee Picasso is all about process-based art — no instructions, no expectations, and no “right” way to create. Every child’s masterpiece will be totally their own.We’ll explore a variety of sensory materials and art tools that encourage curiosity, motor skills, and self-expression — all in a relaxed, child-led environment.DRESS FOR MESS! Getting messy is part of the fun.Let your little one squish, splash, swirl, and smear their way into creativity!

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Ultimate Instant Ramen Showdown II: Second Helpings (Kit Pick Up)

The Ultimate Instant Ramen Showdown is back! This year we’re on the hunt for the Ultimate FLAVOR in our ULTIMATE RAMEN SHOWDOWN II: Second Helpings!Pick up your ramen tasting kit at the library starting Monday at 10 AM, then gather up to four friends or family members t......More

The Ultimate Instant Ramen Showdown is back! This year we’re on the hunt for the Ultimate FLAVOR in our ULTIMATE RAMEN SHOWDOWN II: Second Helpings!Pick up your ramen tasting kit at the library starting Monday at 10 AM, then gather up to four friends or family members to cook and taste a variety of instant ramen at home. Rate each ramen in the provided booklet. Once you’ve tasted them all, visit the voting link to cast your vote for your favorite and help crown the NEW Ultimate Instant Ramen Champion!After your at-home taste test, click here to cast your vote! https://forms.gle/Ltwc1XEDKAhwXehq5 Virtual voting ends April 12th No registration; Kit available while Supplies LastKits cannot be reserved in advance. Pick up begins promptly at 10 AM. First come, first serve while supplies last.One kit per household; an adult from the household must be present at pick up.Serves up to 5.Not able to grab a kit? You can still play along at home by voting for your favorite at the link!

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Ultimate Instant Ramen Showdown II: Second Helpings (Voting)

The Ultimate Instant Ramen Showdown is back! This year we’re on the hunt for the Ultimate FLAVOR in our ULTIMATE RAMEN SHOWDOWN II: Second Helpings!Pick up your ramen tasting kit at the library starting Monday at 10 AM, then gather up to four friends or family members t......More

The Ultimate Instant Ramen Showdown is back! This year we’re on the hunt for the Ultimate FLAVOR in our ULTIMATE RAMEN SHOWDOWN II: Second Helpings!Pick up your ramen tasting kit at the library starting Monday at 10 AM, then gather up to four friends or family members to cook and taste a variety of instant ramen at home. Rate each ramen in the provided booklet. Once you’ve tasted them all, visit the voting link to cast your vote for your favorite and help crown the NEW Ultimate Instant Ramen Champion!After your at-home taste test, click here to cast your vote! https://forms.gle/Ltwc1XEDKAhwXehq5 Virtual voting ends April 12th.Not able to grab a kit? You can still play along at home by voting for your favorite at the link!

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On Our Own

Ages 4-6. Sing along with songs, listen to fun stories, then wrap it all up with a hands-on art project. Caregivers may sign-in participants and stay within the youth department during the duration of the program. PLEASE REGISTER FOR EITHER MONDAY OR THURSDAY SESSION (N......More

Ages 4-6. Sing along with songs, listen to fun stories, then wrap it all up with a hands-on art project. Caregivers may sign-in participants and stay within the youth department during the duration of the program. PLEASE REGISTER FOR EITHER MONDAY OR THURSDAY SESSION (NOT BOTH).  DUPLICATE REGISTRANTS WILL BE REMOVED.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Spring Break Crafternoon

All Ages Let your creativity flow with an afternoon of self-directed arts & crafts in the Studio! Supplies will be provided and adult supervision is required.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Intro to 3D Printing and TinkerCAD

4th Grade & Up: Learn the ins-and-outs of The Studio's 3D printing process: how to find something to print, submit it to us, and pick up a finished design. Want to design something yourself? Learn how to make your own keychain design in TinkerCAD!Note: This is a reoccur......More

4th Grade & Up: Learn the ins-and-outs of The Studio's 3D printing process: how to find something to print, submit it to us, and pick up a finished design. Want to design something yourself? Learn how to make your own keychain design in TinkerCAD!Note: This is a reoccurring class that is the same lesson each time.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Baby & Me Storytime

Ages 6 months-23 months with caregiver.  This sweet storytime is filled with books, songs, rhymes, and bubbles! Siblings are welcome

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Pajama Time

Ages 3-7 with a caregiver. Throw on your jammies for a family slumber party! Grab your favorite stuffed animal and cuddle up for bedtime stories and a simple craft. No children younger than 3 years, please.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Quarterly Activity Packet: The Leisurely Librarian

Introducing a now quarterly activity book designed just for adults! Features puzzles, reading recommendations, recipes, games, and more all in large print. Packets are available on the second floor on the Programs Display and the Senior Information Table.Check out these......More

Introducing a now quarterly activity book designed just for adults! Features puzzles, reading recommendations, recipes, games, and more all in large print. Packets are available on the second floor on the Programs Display and the Senior Information Table.Check out these past editions:January 2026 October 2025July 2025April 2025January 2025October 2024July 2024April 2024January 2024October 2023July 2023May 2023March 2023January 2023

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Music Makers

Ages 0-6 years with caregiver. Listen to stories and explore music while we dance around and sing songs.PLEASE REGISTER FOR EITHER 9AM -OR- 10AM SESSION (NOT BOTH).  DUPLICATE REGISTRANTS WILL BE REMOVED.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Music Makers

Ages 0-6 years with caregiver. Listen to stories and explore music while we dance around and sing songs.PLEASE REGISTER FOR EITHER 9AM -OR- 10AM SESSION (NOT BOTH).  DUPLICATE REGISTRANTS WILL BE REMOVED.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Spring Break Crafternoon

All Ages Let your creativity flow with an afternoon of self-directed arts & crafts in the Studio! Supplies will be provided and adult supervision is required.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Writers, We (Community Group)

Join local writers to discuss and workshop your writing. The group welcomes those new to the art as well as those with experience. Bring your haunting horror, sappy romance, blood-pumping action, children's lit., shining sci-fi, poetic pathos-- all genres welcome!The Ne......More

Join local writers to discuss and workshop your writing. The group welcomes those new to the art as well as those with experience. Bring your haunting horror, sappy romance, blood-pumping action, children's lit., shining sci-fi, poetic pathos-- all genres welcome!The New Lenox Writers' Group publishes an annual anthology of their themed submissions which can be found on Amazon.At this time, Writers, We is conducting hybrid meetings. This means in addition to meeting at the library, there is also the option to join the group virtually via Zoom. Email [email protected] to register your attendance in person or to request the Zoom meeting link.Registration Encouraged for Room Capacity.*This is a community group and is not run or monitored by library staff.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US

Chess Club for Kids

Ages 8-12.  Learn the basics of chess & use your skills with other players in this three week program.  This program is designed for beginner players, but all skill levels are welcome to come enjoy the fun!  Registration is for a 2-week session and attendance is require......More

Ages 8-12.  Learn the basics of chess & use your skills with other players in this three week program.  This program is designed for beginner players, but all skill levels are welcome to come enjoy the fun!  Registration is for a 2-week session and attendance is required for both weeks.

120 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL, 60451, US