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Spring 2025 News & Events

Lady Bird 

Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Lady Bird poster [Photograph]. Wikipedia.


Movie Night featuring Lady Bird

 

Fri. 3/14 | 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. | Register Here


Join us for a heartwarming and hilarious evening at Phillips Library with a special screening of Lady Bird! Get ready to laugh, cry, and reminisce as we follow Christine "Lady Bird" McPherson's unforgettable journey through high school, family drama, and self-discovery. Whether you're a fan of coming-of-age stories or just in the mood for a movie night with friends, this is the event for you!

Don’t miss out on this cinematic experience—registration is required, so be sure to sign up before the deadline on Thursday, March 13 at 5 p.m.

Grab your popcorn, settle in, and let’s celebrate this  gem together! 🌟🎬

 

 

Kings Point - Elderly New Yorkers Migrating to Florida

Hoffman, S. (Producer), & D'Addario, J. (Director). (2012). King's Point [Film still]. Kanopy.


Documentary Discussion: Kings Point

 

Monday, March 17 | 6 - 7 p.m. | Library Computer Lab | Register Here

Ready to dive deep into the fascinating world of King’s Point? Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking documentary discussion at Phillips Library! This poignant film takes us behind the gates of a Florida retirement community, giving us a heartfelt look into the lives, stories, and experiences of its residents. It's a captivating exploration of aging, love, and friendship that you won’t want to miss!

Come for the conversation, stay for the insights—and bring your thoughts, questions, and reflections to the table! Whether you're a documentary enthusiast or just curious, we promise a lively and enlightening discussion.

Registration is required, so make sure to sign up by the deadline on Sunday, March 16 at 5 p.m. Don’t wait—reserve your spot today for an evening of meaningful dialogue and community connection!

Amazing Women: Wikipedia Edit-a-Thon

 

Tuesday, March 25 | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. CDT  | Phillip's Library computer lab

Create and edit Wikipedia articles of women who have been made visible through exhibitions, publications, and programs across the Smithsonian.  Join us to learn how to edit Wikipedia pages, eat snacks, and make an impact this Women's History Month!

How to Participate:

1. Register for the virtual event from the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum

2. Sign up here to let the library know you're attending. We want to make sure there's enough snacks for everyone!

 

Crafts & Snacks Night


Thursday, March 27 | 6 - 8 p.m. | Register Here

Get ready to unleash your inner artist and snack enthusiast at our Craft & Snack Night at the library! Whether you're a crafting pro or just looking to try something new, this fun-filled evening is the perfect opportunity to create something beautiful while munching on delicious treats. 🖍️🍪

Enjoy a relaxing, creative atmosphere where you can craft, chat, and indulge in some tasty snacks. From DIY projects to hands-on fun, it's the ultimate way to unwind and get your creative juices flowing!

Registration is required, so be sure to sign up by Wednesday, March 26. Don't miss out—grab your spot, and let's make something amazing together!

 

Phillips Library Resources

 

Book Giveaway: Wisdom for Wildly Creative Women / Angela LoMenzo 

In celebration of Women's History Month, Phillips Library is hosting a Book Giveaway featuring Wisdom for Wildly Creative Women by Angela LoMenzo! Stop by the library, write down your name and email address, and drop it in the bin for a chance to win a copy of this inspiring book. The winner will be contacted on Tuesday, April 1. Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate creativity and empower women!


Women’s History Month Display 

Celebrate Women's History Month by exploring our curated collection of digital titles highlighting the incredible contributions of women throughout history! Browse through inspiring books, documentaries, and more online, or visit our physical display in the library for even more amazing reads. It's the perfect way to honor and learn from the women who have shaped our world!


NEH Funded Virtual Bookshelf: Women’s History Month

View and borrow books from a selection of the National Endowment For The Humanities (NEH) - funded projects examining women's achievements and contributions to history, culture, and society. 

  1. The Life and Times of Hannah Crafts / Hecimovich, Gregg | [I-Share]

  2. The Sisterhood: How a Network of Black Women Writers Changed American Culture / Thorsson, Courtney | [I-Share]

  3. Peace on Out Terms: the global battle for women's rights after the First World War / Siegel, Mona | [I-Share]

  4. Lady First: The World of First Lady Sarah Polk / Greenberg, Amy [I-Share]

  5. Free Thinker: The Extraordinary Life of the Fallen Woman Who Won the Vote / Hamlin, Kimberly [I-Share]

 

Online Resources 

 

Women's History is American History | Smithsonian American Women's History Museum 

In the United States, Women’s History Month provides a time for the individual and collective acknowledgement of women’s contributions, past and present. Thanks to the efforts of historians, activists, and women’s organizations across the country, each March since 1995 has been designated by presidential proclamation as a time to honor, acknowledge, and study women’s accomplishments throughout American history. 

In this spirit, we offer numerous ways to discover and learn about women in American history. Explore the resources below to see how you can join us in celebrating Women’s History Month 2025.  


Women's History | ThoughtCo

Learn about the half of history missing from many history books with biographies, articles, timelines and other resources on the women—famous and lesser-known—who have shaped our world.


National Women’s History Alliance

The National Women’s History Alliance (NWHA) proudly established March as National Women’s History Month, ensuring diverse women’s voices and contributions are recognized and celebrated. Since 1980, when NWHA (then the National Women’s History Project) successfully advocated for the recognition of Women’s History Week, we have been amplifying the stories of all women who shaped history. In 1981, Congress passed a resolution officially establishing the week, with President Jimmy Carter issuing a proclamation. By 1987, NWHA’s continued efforts led Congress to expand the recognition to the entire month of March, creating the National Women’s History Month we honor today.


National Women’s History Museum

Founded in 1996, the National Women’s History Museum (NWHM) is an innovative virtual-first museum dedicated to uncovering, interpreting, and celebrating women’s diverse contributions to society. A renowned leader in women’s history education, the Museum brings to life the countless untold stories of women throughout history, and serves as a space for all to inspire, experience, collaborate, and amplify women’s impact—past, present, and future. We strive to fundamentally change the way women and girls see their potential and power.


Elizabeth Catlett: A Black Revolutionary Artist

One of the defining artists of the 20th century, Elizabeth Catlett addressed the injustices she witnessed and experienced in the United States and Mexico through her bold prints and dynamic sculptures. See more than 150 of her creations in this exhibition, including rarely seen paintings and drawings.

Trace the career of this cultural force—from her roots in Washington, DC, Chicago, and New York to the remarkable body of work she made during some 60 years in Mexico. In striving to make art for the people, Catlett put justice at the very center of her work.  


Pattern and Paradox: The Quilts of Amish Women

Explore the creative practice of Amish quilters in the United States. Pattern and Paradox: The Quilts of Amish Women looks beyond quilting as a utilitarian practice. It reveals historical quilting among the Amish as an aesthetic endeavor that walked a line between cultural and individual expression. The quilts paradoxically twin the plain with the spectacular, tradition with innovation, and a dismissal of personal pride with objects often seen as extraordinary artworks.


Latinas Talk Latinas

This series introduces you to the lives of 17 Latinas, as told by educators, curators, and scientists across the Smithsonian. Join them as they explore stories of women breaking barriers— in everything from music and fashion to community organizing and scientific exploration—who have shaped the United States.

The Latinas Talk Latinas series is accompanied by digital educational resources that enhance learning about the featured women through highlighted Smithsonian collections.


Virtual Bookshelf: Women’s History Month

Join NEH in celebrating Women’s History Month this March with a selection of NEH-funded projects examining women’s achievements and contributions to history, culture, and society.

Past Spring 2025 Events

News Literacy Week : February 3 - 7

 

News Literacy Week. A graphic of a person frowning at a phone screen with a question mark near their head. Dialogue bubbles surround them from the phone.News Literacy Week highlights the importance of empowering everyone with the skills to navigate today’s complex information landscape. In a world filled with misinformation and rapidly evolving media, this week focuses on fostering critical thinking, fact-checking, and responsible news consumption.

Find valuable resources below to help you understand how to fact-check and find reliable information.

 

 

 

 

 

News Lit Week: Evaluating News Sources Workshop

Celebrate News Literacy Week with a library workshop about navigating the constant stream of new information we encounter each day. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls and find reliable information.

Wednesday, Feb. 5th  | 3 - 4 p.m. | Zoom 

Library Research Guides

 

Online Resources

  • Breaking news checklist - "When big news breaks, it can be hard to cut through the noise and find accurate information. Misinformation thrives during times of war, natural disasters and upheaval — and bad actors often spread falsehoods for cheap engagement on social media. This infographic offers six best practices to help you navigate fast-moving stories." - New Literacy Project

 

Tuesday, February 4 | 4 p.m. 

"This free webinar for educators, presented by the News Literacy Project on edWeb.net as part of National News Literacy Week, will offer strategies for teaching students about the complex topic of bias in news coverage" - New Literacy Project

 

Thursday, February 6 |12 p.m.

"Open to educators, students, and interested members of the public, this free webinar features a discussion with investigative journalist Jeanne Marie Laskas about her reporting on concussions in the NFL. It also covers the watchdog role of a free press." New Literacy Project

Test Your Knowledge

Black History Month colored in red and green surrounded by images of black historical people.

Black History Month Student Art Competition: Inspired by Romare Bearden

 

Collage of black students walking down a street

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
"Young Students" by Bearden, Romare. Collage, 1964, Bearden Foundation, https://beardenfoundation.org/collages/.
 
Celebrate Black History Month through art! Students are invited to create a collage or painting inspired by the iconic works of Romare Bearden, highlighting themes of Black history, culture, and identity.
 
Competition Details:
🎨 Design Period: February 1 – 27
📅 Registration Deadline: February 21
🖼 Artwork Display & Voting: Friday, February 28 | 12 – 4 p.m. [Canceled]
🏆 Prize: $100 gift card for the winning artist (voted by peers)
🍽 Refreshments will be served
Join us in honoring Black history through creativity! Showcase your artistic vision and let your work tell a powerful story. All students are welcome to participate!
Sign up here

 

Don't know how to make a collage? Watch these tutorial videos:
  1. Creating a Collage: An Art Project Inspired by Romare
  2. Romare Bearden: Master of Collage Art & The Harlem Renaissance

Is there a place on campus where I can use art supplies?
Free art supplies can be found at the Art Cafe at the Schingoethe Center every Tuesday 5-7 p.m. and Friday 12-2 p.m. Phillips Library has various magazines that you can use and art supplies that you can check out!

Therapy Dogs 

 

Unleashed & Phillips Library Presents: Therapy Dog De-stress

Come to the library to hang out with the Fox Valley Therapy Dog Club and Destress!

When: February 27 & April 24

Where: Phillips Library

Time: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

This event is made possible by the Fox Valley Therapy Dog Club.

 

Black History Month colored in red and green surrounded by images of black historical people.

Weekly Black History Trivia Challenge

 

Test your knowledge and celebrate Black history! Join us for a weekly Black History Trivia Challenge starting February 3. Each week will feature new questions highlighting the achievements, contributions, and history of Black leaders, trailblazers, and culture.

📅 Begins: February 3 (new trivia challenge each week)
🏆 Winners Announced: The following Monday
🎁 Prizes for top scorer!

Think you have what it takes to win? Participate each week for a chance to claim the top spot and show off your Black history knowledge!

Winners must pick up their prize from the library.


Trail Blazers & Pioneers | Monday, 2/3 - Friday, 2/7  | Test your knowledge

Prize: National Museum of African American History and Culture 2025 Wall Calendar

National Museum of African American History and Culture 2025 Wall Calendar. A black woman with an afro in red on cover. 


Civil Rights Movement Monday, 2/10 - Friday, 2/14 | Test your knowledge

Prize: Sweet Home Café Cookbook: A Celebration of African American Cooking

Cookbook displays southern recipes such as fried chicken, cornbread, and macaroni and chees


Black Cultural Contributions Monday, 2/17 - Friday, 2/21 | Test your knowledge

Prize: Hip Hop Trivia

Small cards with vinyl records that open up with trivia questions about hip hop


Black History Around the World Monday, 2/24 - Friday, 2/28 | Test your knowledge

Prize: Black History Month Tote Bag

Black tote bag that says "Believe Achieve Succeed Celebrate Black History"

 

 

Black History Month colored in red and green surrounded by images of black historical people.

 

Vote for Your Favorite Fiction Book!

 

Invisible Son by Kim Johnson Chain Gang All Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah Symphony of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow

Help us expand our library collection with amazing stories by Black authors! We have 8 incredible fiction books to choose from, and we want your input on which title to add.

📚 How to Vote: Browse the selections and cast your vote for your favorite book.
📅 Voting Deadline: Friday, February 28

The book with the most votes will be added to our library collection—so make your voice heard and help bring more diverse stories to our shelves!

Vote Now!

 

Blind Date with a Book 

 

Come to the library and uncover your next read from our Blind Date with a Book display. 

For a perfect evening, check out one of the books from this display at the Information Desk.


Short on time, but you still want to participate? Reveal your next read below with our digital Blind Date with a Book.