Olney Public Library

Horticulture Series: Lawn and Tree Care 10/20 5:30
2025-10-20 17:30 - 18:30 (America/Chicago) | Olney Central College Library 305 NW Street, 305 North West St, Olney
Get your yard ready for the changing seasons at the Olney Public Library! 🍂 Join us on Monday, October 20th at 5:30pm for our Fall Horticulture Series: Lawn and Tree Care, presented by the Illinois Extension. Learn the best fall practices for maintaining healthy lawns, preparing trees for winter, and setting up your landscape for success in the spring. This free program is open to the public, and all gardening enthusiasts are welcome!

Location: Illinois Extension

Mollie's War: History of the Women's Army Corps. OCT 29th 4:30pm
2025-10-29 16:30 - 17:30 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
👩‍✈️✨ Join us at the Olney Public Library for a powerful program:Mollie’s War: History of the Women’s Army Corps📅 Tuesday, October 29th at 4:30pm
Author Cyndee Schaffer will share her mother’s WWII stories and the incredible history of the Women’s Army Corps, exploring how these trailblazing women shaped future generations in the military.
Don’t miss this inspiring look at women’s voices from the front lines of history!
Free event.
#OlneyPublicLibrary #WWIIHistory #WomensArmyCorps #MolliesWar #LocalEvents

OPL Book Club Nov 3rd 5pm - Book Discussion - The Seven Wives of Evelyn Hugo
2025-11-03 17:00 - 18:00 | IL

Fall Horticulture Series: Overwintering House Plants 11/5 5:30pm
2025-11-05 17:30 - 18:30 | Olney Central College Library 305 NW Street, 305 North West St, Olney
The Olney Public Library invites you to the next program in our Fall Horticulture Series: Overwintering Houseplants. On Tuesday, November 5th at 5:30pm, an expert from the Illinois Extension will share practical advice on how to keep your plants thriving through the winter season. From adjusting light and water needs to managing pests and dormancy, you’ll learn everything you need to give your houseplants the best care during the colder months. This event is free and open to the public—all plant lovers are welcome!
Location: Illinois Extension

Game Night Nov 6th 4-6pm
2025-11-06 16:00 - 18:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States

Book Fair Nov 10th - 17th
2025-11-10 - 2025-11-17 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States

Crocheting for Beginners Nov. 15th 1pm
2025-11-15 13:00 - 14:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
🧶 Crocheting for BeginnersHave you always wanted to learn how to crochet? Join us at the Olney Public Library on Saturday, November 15th at 1:00pm 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 to reserve your spot. Don’t miss this fun and cozy afternoon of crafting!

Date: Nov. 15th at 1pm

Blood Drive Friday 11/ 17 12pm - 4pm
2025-11-17 12:00 - 16:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
The Olney Public Library will host a community Blood Drive on November 17th, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room at 400 W. Main St., Olney, IL.
Sponsored by Brookstone Estates and Emerald Glen, this event is part of the Red Cross and PEANUTS® partnership—reminding us that “A little goes a long way. Give blood.” Donors can schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or visiting RedCrossBlood.org.

3D Print Lab
2025-11-20 16:00 - 18:00, 2025-12-18 16:00 - 18:00, 2026-01-15 16:00 - 18:00, 2026-02-19 16:00 - 18:00, 2026-03-19 16:00 - 18:00, 2026-04-16 16:00 - 18:00, 2026-05-21 16:00 - 18:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
Curious about 3D printing? Reserve one of four daily time slots to design in Tinkercad.com on a library computer, then print your creation on our library’s 3D printer with help from staff. This hands-on program is perfect for beginners—bring your idea, build your model, and we’ll guide you through sending it to the printer.
Only 4 spots are available, so please register to save your time. Ages 8+. Available on the 3rd Thursday of each month.
Click to View Available Dates

Photo Presentation by Tim Dunahee - His travels near and far. 11/24 5:30
2025-11-24 17:30 - 18:30 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States

Lego Club Nov 26th 4pm
2025-11-26 16:00 - 17:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
Creative LEGO Building Event at Olney Public Library – Fun for Kids Ages 6-12!
Join us at Olney Public Library for an exciting LEGO Building Challenge designed just for kids ages 6-12! This hands-on, creative event encourages young builders to explore their imagination, develop problem-solving skills, and have fun with friends while constructing unique LEGO masterpieces.
🎉 What to Expect:
✅ Tons of LEGO bricks to build with
✅ Fun challenges and free-build time
✅ Friendly, creative atmosphere
✅ A great opportunity for kids to enhance STEM skills
No registration is required—just bring your creativity and get ready to build! This free event is perfect for young LEGO enthusiasts who love to design, create, and explore.
Don’t miss out on this fun-filled LEGO adventure at Olney Public Library—mark your calendar today! 🚀
#OlneyPublicLibrary #LEGOFun #KidsActivities #STEMLearning #FamilyFun

OPL Book Club - Beartown by Frederik Backman 12/8/2025
2025-12-08 17:00 - 18:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
OPL Book Club – Beartown by Fredrik Backman
Date & Time:Monday, December 8 at 5:00 PM
Location:Olney Public Library(Insert address or “Library Meeting Room” as needed)
Event Description:Join us for a fun, light-hearted evening at the OPL Book Club! This month we’re reading Beartown by Fredrik Backman. Come share your thoughts, favorite characters, and big feelings about this powerful small-town story.
Whether you’ve finished the book, are halfway through, or just getting started, you’re welcome to join the discussion. Grab a friend, your copy of Beartown, and settle in for a relaxed conversation with fellow readers.
Details:

📚 Monthly OPL Book Club

📖 December pick: Beartown by Fredrik Backman

🕔 5:00 PM start time

💬 Open to all adults/teens who enjoy reading and discussion

Christmas at the Library - Photos, Treats and Crafts Dec. 15th 4-6pm
2025-12-15 16:00 - 18:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
Ring in the holiday season at Olney Public Library with a joyful family event!On Monday, December 15 from 4–6 PM, the library will host Christmas at the Library, a festive celebration featuring:
✨ Photos with a real reindeer✨ Holiday treats for all ages✨ A fun Christmas craft to take home
Families are welcome to stop in anytime during the event. Bring your camera, bring your holiday spirit, and enjoy a cozy evening filled with Christmas cheer.We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

OPL Book Club Jan 5th 5pm The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
2026-01-05 17:00 - 18:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
Join Us for OPL Book Club – January 5th at Olney Public Library!
Curl up with a great read and enjoy lively conversation at the next OPL Book Club gathering! This month, participants will be diving into The God of the Woods by Liz Moore, a gripping and atmospheric novel perfect for sparking discussion. Whether you’re a regular book club member or attending for the very first time, you’re invited to join in!
📚 Event Details
📅 Date: January 5th🕔 Time: 5:00 PM📍 Location: Olney Public Library
Come ready to talk about the story, share your thoughts, and enjoy a fun, relaxed, and lighthearted discussion with fellow book lovers. No pressure—just good conversation, community, and a shared love of reading.
About the Book
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore is a beautifully written and suspenseful novel that explores family secrets, mystery, and the lingering echoes of the past. It’s the perfect winter read and an engaging pick for thoughtful conversation.
If you love books, community, and great discussion, mark your calendar and plan to be there. We can’t wait to see you!

Team Puzzle Challenge Jan. 17th 10am-2pm - Teams are Filled.
2026-01-17 10:00 - 14:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
Get ready for a fun and fast-paced Puzzle Challenge at Olney Public Library on January 17th from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM! Gather your team of 2–4 puzzling pros and race against the clock (and other teams!) to complete a 500-piece puzzle. Whether you’re competitive, collaborative, or just love a good brain workout, this event is all about teamwork, strategy, and fun. Prizes will be awarded to the top three teams, so bring your A-game and let the pieces fall into place! 🧩
Registration is Full. Follow us at https://www.facebook.com/olneypubliclibrary/ to hear about upcoming events like this one.

Kid's Lego Club Jan. 29th 4pm
2026-01-29 16:00 - 17:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States

Book Club Matt Haig, The midnight library Feb 2nd 5pm
2026-02-02 17:00 - 18:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
Beige Modern Bookclub Invitation – 1

Kid's Lego Club Mar. 26th 4pm
2026-03-26 16:00 - 17:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States

"The Road was Home" by Jamie Poorman 4/2 5:30pm
2026-04-02 17:30 - 18:30 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
Join us at the Olney Public Library for a fascinating historical presentation by librarian and Illinois Road Scholar presenter Jamie Poorman.
In this program, Poorman will explore the history of Romani Americans who traveled through Central Illinois in the late 1800s. Through stories and historical research, attendees will learn about the lives of these families, their travels, and their experiences in the region.
“The Road Was Home” highlights an important and often overlooked part of local history, offering insight into the cultural traditions and journeys of Romani communities in Illinois.
This engaging presentation is perfect for anyone interested in regional history, cultural heritage, and historical storytelling.

One book, One Community. Author Pres. with Shelby Van Pelt 4/15 5:30
2026-04-15 17:30 - 18:30 | RC PAC at Richland County High School
One Book, One Community
Author Presentation with Shelby Van Pelt
📅 April 15 | 5:30 PM📍 RC PAC at Richland County High School
Olney Public Library invites the community to a special One Book, One Community event featuring Shelby Van Pelt, author of the bestselling novel Remarkably Bright Creatures.
During this program, Van Pelt will share insights about her writing process, the inspiration behind the beloved novel, and the journey of bringing this unique story to readers around the world. The evening will conclude with a book signing opportunity.
A limited number of copies of Remarkably Bright Creatures will be available for purchase at the event.
Community members are encouraged to participate in the One Book, One Community reading program by picking up a free copy of the book at:
• Olney Public Library• Olney Chamber of Commerce• OCC Learning Commons
This special event is sponsored by Olney Public Library, Carrie Winter Trust, and Johnsie Fildes Trust.

Acrylic Landscape Painting Class May 9th 1pm-3pm
2026-05-09 13:00 - 15:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
Come paint a wonderful acrylic painting with us on May 9th. Registration for this class is required. Only 30 spots are available.
Class is put on by Macoupin Art Collective.

Class is now full!

Troubleshoot your Vegetable Garden May 19th 5:30
2026-05-19 17:30 - 18:30 | Illinois Extension
Troubleshooting Your Vegetable Garden
May 19 | 5:30 PM
Do you have questions about your garden? Join Olney Public Library and Illinois Extension for an informative gardening program focused on troubleshooting common vegetable garden problems.
Participants will learn tips and techniques for identifying and managing issues such as:
• Plant diseases• Insects and pests• Poor plant growth• Watering concerns• Soil and nutrient problems
Whether you are a beginner gardener or have years of experience, this program will provide helpful advice to keep your vegetable garden healthy and productive throughout the growing season.
Come ready to learn, ask questions, and gain practical gardening knowledge for a successful harvest!

Blood Drive Wednesday May 27th Noon - 4pm
2026-05-27 12:00 - 16:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
Olney Public Library Blood Drive
Wednesday, May 27, 202612:00 PM – 4:00 PMOlney Public Library Multipurpose Room400 W. Main St., Olney, IL
Olney Public Library is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive. Donating blood is a simple way to make a lifesaving difference for patients in need.
Community members are encouraged to schedule an appointment and help support local hospitals and emergency care services. Every donation can help save lives and provide hope to patients and families facing medical emergencies.
The blood drive is sponsored by Brookstone Estates & Emerald Glen.
Appointments may be scheduled by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or by visiting the American Red Cross donation website.
Join us in honoring our heroes and supporting those in need through the gift of blood donation.

Kid's Lego Club May 28th 4-5pm
2026-05-28 16:00 - 17:00 | Olney Public Library, 400 W Main St., Olney, IL, 62450, United States
