 | | | |  | September is here, and that means it’s time to celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month with the American Library Association! We’re excited to invite everyone in the community to discover the incredible resources and opportunities that await you with a library card—now with a fresh new design!
This year, Optimus Prime from the TRANSFORMERS is our Special Ambassador, highlighting that there's more than meets the eye at the Highwood Library & Community Center. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills, find valuable information, or connect with fellow readers, a library card unlocks a world of possibilities. At Highwood Library, you'll find diverse programs, job search assistance, homework help, book clubs, STE(A)M activities, story times, and more. Now you can access all these resources with our newly designed library cards, reflecting the vibrant spirit of our community.
Getting a library card is easy and is an essential step toward academic success and lifelong learning for all ages. Everyone should have one! Visit the Highwood Library this September to apply for, renew, or replace your library card.
Don’t miss out—roll out to the library today and discover a world of possibilities with your new Highwood Library card! |
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| | |  | The Library will be closed on Monday, September 2, in observance of Labor Day. We will resume regular hours on Tuesday, September 3. Remember, our digital resources are available 24/7. Use your library card to enjoy e-books, audiobooks, and more from the comfort of your home. Explore our digital collection, and enjoy the day! |
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| | CONNECT WITH OUR CASE MANAGEMENT TEAM |
|  | Can we help you to access health insurance, financial assistance, housing, employment, medical care or food assistance? Our team is here to support you!
Reach out to our case managers who can connect you with the services you need:
By appointment, and walk-ins are always welcome. |
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| | FIND SUPPORT FOR YOUR WELL-BEING |
|  | Are you dealing with any of the following? A significant life change or transition. Challenges in navigating cultural differences. A desire to express yourself in new ways. Daily stress that limits your peace, happiness, or success. Past experiences affecting your mood, relationships, or performance. A desire to boost your self-confidence or understand yourself better.
Our professionals are here to support you and assist with your needs. You don’t have to be in crisis or trauma to benefit from therapy. We’re here to help you navigate life’s challenges and find a path to well-being.
What people who participate in therapy are saying:
“Thanks to the support at the library, I’ve been able to make progress at my own pace. I find myself smiling more, enjoying my family, and having more energy and a better mood. The intense depression I felt before is gone.”
“Therapy saved my life. I was in so much pain that I couldn’t see hope or a way out.”
“The kindness here makes us feel welcome and understood.”
“I keep coming, even though some of my family members don’t believe in therapy. I see the change in my thinking and outlook on life.
To make an appointment, contact Viri at (847) 432-5404 ext 132 or vgonzalez@highwoodlibrary.org. |
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| | TEEN ADVISORY BOARD (TAB): A SPACE FOR YOU |
|  | The Highwood Library & Community Center Teen Advisory Board (TAB) is a volunteer group for middle and high school students who want to support their community, shape library programs for tweens and teens, engage in service projects, and build professional skills.
Teens involved in TAB have the unique opportunity to amplify the voices of their peers and grow into strong leaders. TAB members also assist with library events and volunteer activities.
Meetings are typically held on the first and third Saturday of the month. Teens interested in TAB can join by meeting with the Teen Services Coordinator, Lauren Hegedus in the Young Adult department during regular library hours or by emailing lhegedus@highwoodlibrary.org directly. Teens can also complete the application using the link below to receive an invitation to the next TAB meeting. |
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| | | LIBRARY SERVICES: BEYOND BOOKS |
|  | Our friendly circulation staff is here to assist you with a wide range of digital and tech needs. We’re here to help with: Printing and Photocopying Scanning and Faxing Creating an Email Account Sending Emails and Attachments Downloading Materials To and From Your Phone Accessing eBooks, Audiobooks, and Digital Magazines Using Library Databases for Research And much more!
No question is too small! Simply stop by the circulation desk, and we’ll be happy to assist you with any of your digital needs. |
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| | REGISTER FOR OUR ADULT EDUCATION CLASSES |
|  | Want to learn English? Join our free English as a Second Language (ESL) classes! Our Basic classes provide a supportive environment to improve your speaking, pronunciation, grammar, reading, and writing skills. For those at a more advanced level, our Advanced classes focus on developing and enhancing vocabulary and communication skills for both everyday and formal situations. Students will have the opportunity to engage in discussions to reach a shared understanding of familiar topics. Classes begin this month—check out our schedule and find the class that’s right for you!
Looking to earn your high school diploma equivalent? Our free, in-person High School Equivalency (GED) classes are for you! Join us every Wednesday from 5:00pm-6:30pm to build the skills you need to pass the GED and HiSET exams. Our classes cover all the essential subjects: Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, and Mathematics. With personalized guidance throughout the process, we're here to support your journey every step of the way.
Why wait? Register today! Connect with Aurora at adultlit@highwoodlibrary.org for more information and to secure your spot. |
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| | | Khiabet joined our library team this month! To help you get to know her better, we asked her a few questions. |
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| | | Our Summer Send-Off! Reading and Resource Fair was a tremendous success, and we want to extend a heartfelt “Thank you” to the more than 200 community members and partners who joined us and contributed to making it a memorable event.
We are especially grateful to our dedicated volunteers, partners, and community members whose support and enthusiasm helped us wrap up the summer on a high note. As we reflect on this successful event, we are already looking forward to next summer’s reading program, Level Up at Your Library. Thank you once again for being a part of our vibrant community! |
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| Explore all our programs by clicking the links below. |
| | Our library can help you to improve your computer skills, English language skills, earn your high school equivalency, and more! There are many ways that we can partner with you to help you meet your personal and professional goals! Additionally, we offer engaging programs like our Book Club and other activities designed to enrich your learning and provide ways to connect with the community. |
| HLCC BOOK CLUB: September Pick |
|  | This month, we dive into the critically acclaimed novel Less by Andrew Sean Greer. This witty and poignant story follows Arthur Less, a failed novelist who embarks on a worldwide adventure to avoid attending his former lover’s wedding. As Arthur travels from one exotic location to another, he confronts his past, his fears, and his sense of self. Join us for an engaging conversation about love, loss, and the search for meaning in this delightful read.
Ways to check out the book: Physical copies are available at the library. Audiobooks are available on Hoopla for three-week check-outs. E-books are available on Boundless for two-week check-outs.
The discussion will take place in English. Refreshments will be provided.
We look forward to seeing you there and hearing your thoughts on this delightful read! |
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| | “JOB CENTER ON THE MOVE” at the Library
Need Career Advice? Looking for a Job? Lake County’s Workforce Development “Job Center on the Move” program will be at the Highwood Library throughout the summer.
Drop in to speak with Lake County Workforce Development at the Library on Mondays from 1PM-4PM. This will take place from July 1 through September 30 (except for Labor Day, Sept. 2).
The Job Center can help you with one-on-one resume development, job training, internships, career transitions, information about growing your business, and more. Take advantage of this free resource today! No appointment necessary. |
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| Explore our Adult Literacy programs by clicking the link below. |
| | | | | The Library offers a wide range of children's and teen programs to support the literacy and educational needs of the youngest members of our community. |
| Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Us!
Join us for a series of exciting activities in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month! |
|  | Folkloric Dance Class: September 16 at 5PM - Come and learn some of the traditional dances and discover a bit of the rich history behind this vibrant art form. Registration required.
Papel Picado: September 21 at 1:30PM - Get creative and make your own papel picado to decorate your home.
DIY Piñata: September 28 at 1:30PM - We’re making piñatas out of paper mache! In the first part of this series, we’ll be crafting the piñatas and letting them dry, so come prepared to get your hands messy!
Don't miss these fantastic opportunities to explore and celebrate Hispanic culture through dance, art, and hands-on creativity. |
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| | Baby & Toddler Storytime
Join us for Baby & Toddler Storytime, where you and your little one can bond over interactive songs, rhymes, and stories! This special session is designed for babies and toddlers and their caregivers to enjoy together. Come for a joyful experience filled with music and storytelling!
Thursdays at 10:30AM on September 5, 12, 19, & 26
We're thrilled to announce that the famous Mr. Mark's Music and Movement Class will join us on September 12. Don't miss this exciting addition! |
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| | Kohl Children’s Museum Mobile Learning Lab
Join us for a fun-filled visit from the Kohl Children’s Mobile Museum! All ages are encouraged to explore a variety of engaging activities. Participation in the program is free of charge, and children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Tuesday, September 24, 12:30PM-2PM
Don’t miss out on this exciting event! |
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| Discover more of our programs for ages 0-10 by clicking the link below! |
| | | | | Makerspace Mondays for STE(A)M Powered-Teens!
Explore your creativity on the following Mondays from 5PM to 7PM in the Makerspace of the Young Adult (YA) area. Ideal for ages 10-18. No experience or registration is required! Drop-in for some fun! |
|  | Open Make
Join us in the Makerspace for Open Make sessions, where you can unleash your creativity and work on a project of your choice! Ideal for ages 10-18.
September 5 & 19, 5:30PM-7:30PM
We can't wait to see what you'll create! No experience or registration is required! Drop-in for some fun! |
| | Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Us!
Join us for a series of exciting activities in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month!
Mexican Teen Folk Art: September 21 at 1:30PM - Unleash your creativity by recreating vibrant traditional Mexican tin folk art, known for its colorful designs and rich cultural history. Perfect for all skill levels—come and create your own masterpiece!
Book Buffet: September 27 at 6:30PM - Discuss books written by Latine authors featuring Latine characters! |
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| | Highwood Library & Community Center’s Highwood to College Presents College Mondays!
This month, on Monday, September 16 & 23 from 5:30PM-7:30PM we are excited to offer drop-in college essay support with expert Amanda Scholz. Whether you’re starting your essay, need feedback, or are looking for tips to polish your work, Amanda is here to help.
Join us for personalized guidance to make your college application stand out! Bring a laptop and the essay questions you want to work on.
No appointment is necessary—just drop in and get the support you need. |
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| Explore our additional programs tailored for ages 10-18 by clicking the link below! |
| | | | | The Library’s Health Equity program is committed to promoting the health and well-being of our community through health services and education. Key areas of focus are preventative health education, mental health education, case management, and counseling services. |
| | Mental Health First Aid
Learn how to understand, identify, and respond to mental health challenges in this free training session. The course will be conducted in Spanish and includes refreshments and a certificate upon completion.
Saturday, September 7 from 9AM-5PM
Space is limited. To secure your spot, contact Carolina at cibarra@highwoodlibrary.org or (847) 432-5404 ext. 131. |
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| | Conscious Conversations Special Edition: LGBTQIA+ Youth 103
Join Rainbow Mental Health as they answer your questions and dive deeper into the coming out process, mental health struggles, risk factors, support systems, parent/caregiver journey, and more.
Thursday, September 19 from 6PM-7:30PM
There will be raffles and refreshments!
Questions? Contact Carolina at cibarra@highwoodlibrary.org or (847) 432-5404 ext. 131. |
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| Take a look at this month’s Health Equity programs by clicking the button below. |
| | For additional information on library programs, visit our website: |
| | | | Excited about what's taking place at your library? Support the Friends of the Highwood Public Library by clicking on the link below. |
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