Chester library adds computers, Hoopla digital media service

It is a busy month at the Chester Public Library! New public computer workstations and hybrid meeting equipment have been purchased with funds from an $8,200 grant from the Illinois State Library.

The library is also now offering Hoopla to cardholders. This digital media service allows you to borrow movies, music, e-books, audiobooks, comic books and TV shows to enjoy on your computer, tablet or phone. Chester cardholders can check out up to four items per month on this new service. Additional e-books and audiobooks are available on the CLOUD Library.

Here's what else is going on this month at the library. Activities with an asterisk will also be offered via Zoom:

The Turkey Search begins Nov. 15. Stop by the library or download the clues from the website (www.chesterpubliclibrary.com) and start searching for turkey images around town. Find them all and return your answers by Nov. 29 for chances to win prizes.

Adults and teens are invited to register for the Nov. 17 Crafternoon. Craft sessions to make Harry Potter book bead bracelets and Hardy Boys autumn book pumpkins will begin at 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.* Children 6-12 with an adult partner are also welcome. Call (618) 826-3711 to sign up and reserve a craft packet.

Stuffy Sleepover to celebrate Family Reading Night will begin at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 18.* After visiting the craft area and sharing a story, children will tuck their stuffies in for a night of after-hour library adventures. Watch the CPLibrary's Facebook page for photos of this event.

Story times for young children with an adult partner will be hosted by library staff at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Nov. 23, and 30*.

Due to space limitations and COVID restrictions (masks required for all age 2 and older), registration is required for all in-person activities in the CPLibrary.

For more information, stop by or call (618) 826-3711.