The following virtual events are made possible by Illinois Libraries Present, a statewide collaboration between public libraries, including Northbrook Public Library, which offers high-quality events for member libraries. To request accommodations, email illinoislibrariespresent@gmail.com.
The Art of Foraging with Alexis Nikole Nelson
Thursday, April 10, 7:00-8:00pm (Zoom)
Alexis Nikole Nelson is a forager and an outdoor educator who uses TikTok and Instagram to celebrate all the edible plants hiding in plain sight. She peels back historical layers on African American and Indigenous food traditions that have traditionally been repressed and empowers those living in food deserts with greater self-sufficiency.
Poverty: A Discussion with Matthew Desmond
Tuesday, May 13, 7:00-8:00pm (Zoom)
Join us for bestselling author Matthew Desmond in conversation with award-winning journalist, Natalie Moore. Desmond is a professor of sociology at Princeton University and author of the award-winning book, Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City. The recipient of a MacArthur “Genius” Fellowship, Desmond was named one of “fifty people across the country who are most influencing the national political debate” by Politico 50 in 2016. His research focuses on poverty in the United States, city life, housing insecurity, public policy, racial inequality, and ethnography.
Past Illinois Libraries Present Events
Exploring Space with Coralie Adam (3/4/25)
We got an inside look at the space industry with Illinois’ own Coralie Adam, the Deputy Navigation Chief on NASA’s Lucy mission to the Jupiter Trojan asteroids, and also supports several commercial and government exploration initiatives to the moon and beyond.
Slowing Down with Amy Tan (2/19/25)
National Humanities Medal winner and bestselling author of The Joy Luck Club, Amy Tan discussed her body of work and reflect on the wonder of slowing down and savoring the quiet moments.
An Evening with James McBride (2/4/25)
We enjoyed a conversation with James McBride, the National Book Award-winning author of The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store and The Color of Water.
Love and Laughs with Michelle Buteau (1/23/25)
We enjoyed an insightful conversation with the well-known stand-up comedian, actress, and television and podcast host.
Chicago Pizza: Past, Present & Future with Steve Dolinsky (1/9/25)
The well-known food reporter will dish on his comprehensive guide to the styles, locales, and people that make Chicago a prime pizza destination.
Experience Little Women: The Musical at Home! (12/20/24)
We enjoyed a pre-recorded, virtual screening of Louisa May Alcott’s classic story of four sisters growing up in 19th-century Massachusetts. This Broadway musical premiered in London in this acclaimed production at Park Theatre in 2022.
The Magic of Raina Telgemeier (12/10/24)
We enjoyed a night with critically acclaimed comic artist, Raina Telgemeier, the author and illustrator of the graphic novels Smile, Drama, Sisters, Ghosts, and Guts, all #1 New York Times bestsellers.
Holiday Tips and Tricks with Chef Art Smith (11/20/24)
Chef Art Smith shared his culinary journey and brought some inspiration into our holiday season. The prolific cookbook author and TV personality was joined in conversation by Monica Eng, award-winning Chicago journalist, and co-host of the food podcast "Chewing" w/ Louisa Chu.
Raise Your Voice with Jason Reynolds (Youth Event) (10/22/24)
The #1 New York Times bestselling author, advocate, mentor, and 2020-2022 National Ambassador for Young People's Literature joined us for an enlightening evening.
Being Imperfect with Erika Sánchez (10/9/24)
We celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with Erika Sánchez, award-winning author of I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter, who was joined in conversation by Cynthia Pelayo.
The Hidden Gifts of Visual Thinkers with Dr. Temple Grandin (6/4/24)
Dr. Grandin joined us for enlightening evening. Her memoir, Emergence: Labeled Autistic, was published in 1986, and she has continued to write about autism and neurodivergence for decades. Her latest book, Visual Thinking, was published in 2023.
The Many Lives of Kal Penn (5/7/24)
The actor, writer, producer, and former Associate Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement, joined us to discuss his book.
Ruth E. Carter: Interweaving Tradition and Imagination Through Costume Design (3/20/24)
The two time Oscar-winner discussed costume design, Black Panther, and more.
Romance and Regency with Bridgerton's Julia Quinn (2/20/24)
The bestselling and award-winning romance author of the popular series about the Bridgerton family was joined in conversation with Sarah MacLean, bestselling historical romance author, romance columnist for The New York Times and The Washington Post.
A Conversation with Jerry Craft: From Mama’s Boyz to New Kid and Beyond (2/6/24)
Bestselling author, illustrator, and syndicated cartoonist Jerry Craft joined us for a conversation about his works and journey to success, including a drawing demo that will be fun for the whole family.
Speculating our AI Future Panel with Cory Doctorow, Ken Liu, and Martha Wells (1/11/24)
A panel discussion featuring three best-selling science fiction writers, Cory Doctorow, Ken Liu, and Martha Wells. They discussed the promise, perils, and possible impacts that AI will have on our future, as well as AI in contemporary and future science fiction writing.
Experience The Nutcracker at Home! A Recording of the Famous Ballet (12/16/23)
We enjoyed Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker at home performed by the United Kingdom’s internationally renowned Royal Ballet.
Surviving the Holidays with Lori Gottlieb (12/6/23)
Lori Gottlieb, New York Times bestselling author of Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, and co-host of the “Dear Therapists” podcast joined us for a thought-provoking conversation about mental health in anticipation of the winter holiday season.
A Taste of Love with Maya-Camille Broussard of Justice of the Pies (11/8/23)
Maya Camille Broussard, star of Netflix’s "Bake Squad," and owner of Chicago-based Justice of the Pies, shared baking tips from her kitchen just in time for Thanksgiving.
Food, Family, and Folktales: A Conversation with Grace Lin (10/17/23)
Newbery and Caldecott honoree and New York Times bestselling Grace Lin will joined us for an engaging conversation about her journey to become an award-winning author and illustrator. Her latest middle-grade book, Chinese Menu: The History, Myths, and Legends Behind Your Favorite Foods, explores the whimsical myths and stories behind your favorite American Chinese food. Evanston Public Library Children’s Librarian, Brian E. Wilson, joins Grace in conversation.
The Power of Story with Colson Whitehead
Two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning author Colson Whitehead joined us to discuss his highly anticipated book, Crook Manifesto, a darkly funny tale of a city under siege, but also a sneakily searching portrait of the meaning of family.
Chills and Thrills with Stephen Graham Jones (10/4/23)
Stephen Graham Jones joins us to talk scary stories, horror, and more with librarian Becky Spratford. Jones is the New York Times bestselling author of The Only Good Indians and Don’t Fear the Reaper, and a prolific author of more than 25 books spanning genres.
Braiding Sweetgrass: A Conversation with Robin Wall Kimmerer (6/21/23)
Robin Wall Kimmerer, the award-winning author of Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants led an insightful and inspiring talk, sharing her unique perspective on the interconnectedness of humans and nature and the importance of recognizing and respecting the gifts of the earth.
Navigate Your Stars: Jesmyn Ward in Conversation with Tracie D. Hall (6/17/23)
The two-time National Book Award winner discussed her life, her literary vision, and her unique perspectives on love and loss. Tracie D. Hall, Executive Director of the American Library Association joined her in conversation.
On Being Fabulous with Jonathan Van Ness & Kristi Yamaguchi (5/17/23)
“Queer Eye” and “Getting Curious” star and ice skating superfan, Jonathan Van Ness talked with his idol, Olympic Gold Medalist Kristi Yamaguchi.
Drawing Comics with Jarrett J. Krosoczka (5/6/23)
Bestselling author and illustrator Jarrett J. Krosoczka led a live, virtual drawing workshop that inspired our inner artist.
Secrets of a Puzzle Master: A Conversation with Will Shortz (4/25/23)
Will Shortz, the editor of The New York Times crossword puzzle, and the world’s only academically accredited puzzle master, discussed crossword puzzles.
Danny Trejo Talks Tacos, Hollywood, and Redemption (4/4/23)
Actor, author, and restaurateur Danny Trejo talked about developing a prolific career in the entertainment industry and his atypical road to success.
The Weird & Wonderful World with Mary Roach (3/1/23)
New York Times best-selling science author, Mary Roach Roach discussed her frank approach to science, the importance of humor, and the weird, wonderful world in which we live.
Saying Yes to Your Story: A Conversation with Kwame Alexander (2/8/23)
An evening of inspiration and conversation with best-selling and award-winning children’s and young adult author and poet.
Inciting Joy: A Conversation with Ross Gay (1/11/23)
We kicked off the new year with a conversation about joy with best-selling essayist and award-winning poet Ross Gay.
Midwest Baking with Shauna Sever (12/13/22)
Shauna Sever, cookbook author, TV and radio contributor, and daughter of the great Midwest, shared her love of food, baking, and some tips to make your holiday gatherings delicious.
A Conversation with Caitlin Doughty (11/16/22)
A conversation with Caitlin Doughty, mortician, bestselling author, and advocate for death acceptance, who discussed the reform of Western funeral industry practices and much more with Mark Bazer (The Interview Show).
A Conversation with Marlee Matlin: From Oscar to West Wing and Beyond (9/14/22)
In celebration of Deaf Awareness Month, Marlee Matlin shared the highs and lows of her Hollywood career and journeys as a Deaf rights activist. This program was offered in ASL and translated through an interpreter.
An Evening with Michelle Zauner (6/30/22)
Musician and author Michelle Zauner discussed her music career and her beloved bestselling memoir, Crying in H Mart with Chicago-based author and music critic, Jessica Hopper.
An Evening with Kwame Onwuachi (6/22/22)
Chef Kwame Onwuachi discussed his first cookbook, My America: Recipes from a Young Black Chef with Erick Williams. the owner and executive chef of Chicago's Virtue restaurant.
Illinois Libraries Present: Jessamine Chan & Emily Maloney (5/25/22)
Jessamine Chan and Emily Maloney discussed the systems of power that impact our lives, our families, and our finances, through the lens of their acclaimed books, The School for Good Mothers (Chan) and Cost of Living (Maloney).
An Evening With Nick Offerman & Jeff Tweedy (4/27/22)
Actor, humorist, and woodworker, Nick Offerman discussed his newest book, Where the Deer and the Antelope Play: The Pastoral Observations of One Ignorant American Who Loves to Walk Outside. Nick was joined in conversation by Jeff Tweedy of Wilco.
An Evening With Jenny Lawson (3/30/22)
Award-winning humorist Jenny Lawson discussed her most recent bestseller, Broken (in the best possible way), and her brilliantly funny body of work. She was joined in conversation by R. Eric Thomas, a national bestselling author, playwright, screenwriter, and podcast host.
An Evening With Jasmine Guillory (2/16/22)
Bestselling author Jasmine Guillory, discussed her latest novel, While We Were Dating, and the modern rom-com with author Morgan Rogers (Honey Girl). Jasmine Guillory is a writer, lawyer, and bestselling author of six romance novels.
About Illinois Libraries Present
These events are made possible by Illinois Libraries Present (ILP), a statewide collaboration among public libraries offering premier events. ILP is funded in part by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a department of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).
Illinois Libraries Present consists of over 200 public libraries across the state that have joined together to provide high-quality online events at equitable prices for member libraries of all sizes and budgets. It connects communities and audiences across the state through shared event experiences. We're proud to be involved with such a great collaboration. Our Executive Director, Kate Hall chairs the Steering Committee, and our Auditorium Coordinator, Arielle Raybuck chairs the Event Production Committee.
Goals:
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To provide high-quality, high-profile events that highlight national names and social justice/DEI issues, that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive for single libraries to hold on their own.
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To reduce costs and maximize reach by taking advantage of both virtual event platforms and the collective buying power of Illinois public libraries.
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To allow access to all libraries as equitably as possible, by aligning each library’s cost to participate with the size of their operating budget.
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To define clear and distinct roles among Illinois Libraries Present committees and the participating libraries, including patron contact points, marketing, invoicing, etc.
The group also is committed to inclusion and accessibility. To request accommodations, email illinoislibrariespresent@gmail.com.
