Kankakee Public Library, 201 E. Merchant Street, announced its June program schedule.
Lawyers in the Library: In partnership with the library, Prairie State Legal Services invites residents to meet with a lawyer in the library on the second Thursday of every month from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Representatives from Prairie State will give a brief presentation on their services, and then offer free, one-on-one meetings with an attorney to give legal advice. All participants must complete a screening before speaking with an attorney about civil legal matters. June’s Lawyers in the Library event will be held on Thursday, June 8.
Bingo with the Books: Looking for a place to play fun, free bingo? Join us for Bingo with the Books on Friday, June 9, from 10 a.m. to noon, in the fourth floor auditorium, for a chance to win an assortment of prizes. Snacks will be available! Invite friends and relatives to play along.
Tuesday Morning Book Discussion: The Tuesday Morning Book Discussion meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. The free book discussion, which is open to the public, is scheduled for Tuesday, June 13, and will feature “My Name is Lucy Barton,” by Elizabeth Strout. This free program is open to the public. Join us to discuss the book!
Published in 2016, this book explores the impact of trauma as Lucy navigates her reunion with her estranged mother. Long listed for the 2016 Man Booker Prize, “My Name is Lucy Barton” was adapted for the stage as a one-woman show, featuring acclaimed actress Laura Linney in 2018 and 2020.
Artists’ Resource and Community: Artists’ Resource and Community (ARC) was created to provide a space for artists to share their work and grow with other creative individuals. At ARC, members can give and receive feedback, but this is not a requirement, and fellowship is welcome, as well. General meetings are once a month, with an additional meeting every month for figure-drawing and skills practice. Artists of all skill levels and mediums are welcome. It is recommended for ages 16 and up. This program will be held on Wednesday, June 14, from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m.
Library closed in Observance of Juneteenth: The library will be closed on Monday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth and will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, June 20, at 9 a.m.
SNAP Assistance: The Northern Illinois Food Bank will be at the library on Wednesday, June 21, between 1 and 4 p.m., to provide assistance with applying for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, otherwise known as SNAP. Questions may be directed to the Food Bank at 630-443-6910, ext. 242, or kstevenson@northernilfoodbank.org.
June Soul Collections Book Discussion: Join the library for the monthly Book Discussion Soul Collections, which highlights black authors and themes. On Thursday, June 22, at 5:30 p.m., the group will meet to discuss thoughts on “Sing, Unburied, Sing,” by Jesmyn Ward. This event is free and is held in the third floor meeting room.
This story follows Jojo as he travels with Leonie, Leonie’s friend Misty, and Kayla, to pick up his white father, Michael, from Parchman, the Mississippi plantation-style state prison from which he recently was released.
Figure Drawing: Practice your figure drawing in an encouraging and laid-back atmosphere at the library. Figure drawing will be held on Wednesday, June 28, from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. Figure drawing improves hand-eye coordination and observational skills, no matter one’s art style. This is not a class but simply a welcoming environment where participants will not need to share their work unless they wish. A suggested donation of $3-$5 is requested. It is recommended to bring a large pad of newsprint, additional charcoal, pencils, or pastels. Artists of all skill levels and mediums are welcome. It is recommended for ages 16 and up.
More information may be found on the library’s website, www.lions-online.org, or by calling 815-939-4564.