Schools

The Great Read 2013: Roundup of Events

Some events and ways to get involved in the program, which was founded by the Plainfield School District and the Plainfield Public Library.

This year, community literacy program The Great Read is focusing on Abraham Lincoln, with an entire reading list dedicated to the 16th president.

Mark your calendars now — here's a roundup of this year's Great Read activities:

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The Great Read Opening Night – historical portrayal

Thursday, February 21 at 7 p.m.

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Press Conference with President and Mrs. Lincoln
***Nook e-reader prize drawing***

Barnes & Noble, 2621 Plainfield Road, Joliet

Travel back in time and meet President and Mrs. Lincoln. During a press conference, President Lincoln (Max Daniels) will go over the state of the nation during his presidency and Mrs. Lincoln (Donna Daniels) will be on hand to show her support. A Nook e-Reader will be given away to one lucky attendee.

The Last Years of Mary Todd Lincoln – historical portrayal

Tuesday, February 26 at 7 p.m.

Shorewood-Troy Public Library District, 650 Deerwood Drive, Shorewood

Donna Daniels will be presenting The Last Years of Mary Todd Lincoln: a one-woman show that goes more into detail about her life, before, and after her years with Mr. Lincoln. Join us for this educational and historical telling of perhaps the most famous First Lady of all time.

Keepin' It Reel

Thursday, March 7 at 6 p.m.

Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin

Film adaptation: Lincoln by Steven Spielberg

Shorewood-Troy Public Library District, 650 Deerwood Drive, Shorewood

Do you think the book is always better than the movie? Do you usually just see the movie, but wonder if it's worth it to read the book? Then stop by to discuss the books that became movies. Pick up a copy of this month's read at the circulation desk.

Abe Lincoln Kids Event

Saturday, March 9 at 10-11:30 a.m.

Joliet Junior College – Main Campus, 1215 Houbolt Road, Joliet

Celebrate the values and accomplishments of the 16th President of the United States with storytime and crafts. This program is suggested for ages 5 to 9 years old, and parents are welcome to stay during the program. Registration for each child is requested; please call (815) 280-1555 to register.

Lincoln Book Discussion

Tuesday, March 14 at 7 p.m.

A Novel Idea Book Discussion:  Killing Lincoln: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever by Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard

Plainfield Public Library District, 15025 S. Illinois Street, Plainfield

Join us for what is sure to be a lively and spirited discussion about the assassination of one of the country’s most-loved presidents. Killing Lincoln is a riveting historical narrative of the heart-stopping events surrounding the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. Starting February 15, you may pick up a copy of the book at the Adult Reference Desk.

Lincoln Book Discussion

Wednesday, March 27 at 7 p.m.

The Lincoln Letter by William Martin

Fountaindale Public Library District, 300 W. Briarcliff Road, Bolingbrook

What if Lincoln recorded his innermost thoughts as he moved toward the realization that he must free the slaves? And what if that diary slipped from his fingers in 1862? A recently discovered letter written by Lincoln suggests that the diary exists and is waiting to be found. Some want the diary for its normous symbolic value to a nation that reveres Lincoln.  Others believe it carries a dark truth about Lincoln's famous proclamation--a truth that could profoundly impact the fast-approaching elections and change the course of a nation. Join us Wednesday, March 27, 2013 at 7 pm as we discuss this thriller by William Martin. Copies are available at the second floor desk.

Adult Book Discussion

Wednesday, April 10 at 7 p.m.

Killing Lincoln: The Shocking Assassination that Changed America Forever by Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard

Shorewood-Troy Public Library District, 650 Deerwood Drive, Shorewood

Join us as we discuss this month's book pick! You bring the thoughts and discussion, we'll bring the snacks. Pick up a copy of our next book at the circulation desk today.

The Untold Family Stories of Abraham Lincoln – historical portrayal

Sunday, April 14, 2 p.m.

Plainfield Public Library District, 15025 S. Illinois Street, Plainfield

There were three women in Abraham Lincoln’s childhood that shaped his life and influenced the man that he became. This historical portrayal will reflect on these remarkable women and how they loved and cared for the future president.

A Night at the Theater: The Great Read Grand Finale – historical portrayal
Thursday, May 2 at 7 p.m.

Fountaindale Public Library District, 300 W. Briarcliff Road, Bolingbrook

Celebrating the great life of a great man, The Great Read presents an evening with President and Mrs. Lincoln. History comes alive with the reenactment of President Lincoln’s last moments at the White House with his beloved Mary Todd.

Before they leave for Ford’s Theater, the Lincolns reflect upon their life together, their children, the ending of the Civil War and the President’s political career. The Lincoln Art Contest winners will be announced and all artwork submissions will be showcased. All attendees are also welcome to put on their black hat and enter the Abe Look-A-Like Contest. Refreshments will be served.

Underground Railroad Quilts

Thursday, May 9, 11 a.m.

Plainfield Public Library District, 15025 S. Illinois Street, Plainfield

Vintage Civil War era quilts will be on display. Author Dr. Clarice Boswell explains the meanings of the symbols on the quilts. She also reflects on her family's heritage which is detailed in her historical fiction book, Lizzie's Story: A Slave Family's Journey to Freedom.

MOVIE PROGRAMS

All movie events are tentatively scheduled.

New Release Tuesday

 Tuesday, March 5 at 6 p.m.

Shorewood-Troy Public Library, 650 Deerwood Drive, Shorewood

Lincoln

Friday Movie Matinee

Friday, April 5, 1 p.m.

Plainfield Public Library District, 15025 S. Illinois Street, Plainfield

Lincoln

Movie

Sunday, April 14, 2 p.m.

Fountaindale Public Library District, 300 W. Briarcliff Road, Bolingbrook

Lincoln

Movie Night at JJC

Friday, April 26 at 6:30 p.m

Joliet Junior College – Main Campus Conference Center, 1215 Houbolt Road, Joliet

The Young Mr. Lincoln starring Henry Fonda

Registration is requested at  (815) 280-1555. 

Click here for more on The Great Read 2013.


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