Events

🧶 Crocheting for BeginnersHave you always wanted to learn how to crochet? Join us at the Olney Public Library on Saturday, October 3rd from 1:00pm - 3:00pm for a hands-on introduction to this relaxing and creative craft. Participants will learn the basics of crocheting, how to read a pattern, and how to stitch a simple dishcloth to take home. All materials will be provided, but pre-registration is required only 10 spots available to reserve your spot. Don’t miss this fun and cozy afternoon of crafting! Date: October 3rd 1-3pm 10 spots only. Registration required.

Spark at the Library: Beaded Keychains October 14 | 4–5 p.m. Get creative at Spark at the Library! Join Illinois Extension at the Olney Public Library for a hands-on afternoon making beaded keychains. Participants will have a chance to experiment with colors, patterns, and designs while creating a fun project to take home. Come ready to create, learn, and have fun!

Understanding Pollinators and Attracting Them to Your Garden October 19 | 5:30 p.m. Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators play an important role in our gardens and environment. Join Illinois Extension at the Olney Public Library to learn more about the pollinators around us and discover ways you can make your own yard or garden more welcoming to them. Learn practical ideas for choosing plants, creating habitat, and supporting these hardworking garden visitors.

Making Your Produce Last: Post-Harvest Handling and Storage October 26 | 5:30 p.m. You grew it—or bought it fresh—now how do you make it last? Join Illinois Extension at the Olney Public Library for a helpful program on post-harvest handling and storage of fresh produce. Learn practical tips for handling, storing, and caring for fruits and vegetables after harvest to help maintain quality and reduce food waste. A great program for home gardeners and anyone who wants to get more life out of fresh produce.

Spark at the Library: Alliteration Poem November 18 | 4–5 p.m. Silly sentences, spectacular sounds, and seriously creative writing! Join Illinois Extension at the Olney Public Library for Spark at the Library and discover the fun of alliteration—using words that begin with the same sound. Participants will play with language and use their creativity to create an alliteration poem of their own. No poetry experience necessary—just bring your imagination!

Spark at the Library: Hand Warmers December 9 | 4–5 p.m. Warm up your creativity at Spark at the Library! Join Illinois Extension at the Olney Public Library for a hands-on activity making hand warmers—a perfect project for chilly winter days. Spend an hour creating, learning, and having fun while making something useful to take home.

Spark at the Library: Musical Instruments January 13 | 4–5 p.m. Turn up the creativity at Spark at the Library! Join Illinois Extension at the Olney Public Library for a hands-on activity exploring musical instruments. Participants will combine creativity, sound, and a little experimentation as they learn through making and play. No musical experience needed—just bring your curiosity!

Spark at the Library: Stained Glass Jar Art February 10 | 4–5 p.m. Add a little color to winter! Join Illinois Extension at the Olney Public Library for Spark at the Library and create your own stained glass-inspired jar art. Experiment with color and design while creating a beautiful project to take home. It’s a fun opportunity to get creative and try something new.

Spark at the Library: Origami March 10 | 4–5 p.m. What can you create with just a piece of paper? Come find out at Spark at the Library! Join Illinois Extension at the Olney Public Library for an afternoon of origami. Learn how simple folds can transform paper into creative shapes and designs while practicing patience, precision, and problem-solving along the way.