Supplement those lazy days with library concerts, trips, books
"Ah, summer - that long-anticipated stretch of lazy, lingering days, free of responsibility and rife with possibility," said Darell Hammond, philanthropist and chief executive officer of KaBOOM. "It's a time to hunt for insects, master handstands, practice swimming strokes, conquer trees, explore nooks and crannies, and make new friends."
So true, Mr. Hammond, but what about reading, going to concerts, day-tripping and learning new skills? Not to worry - all are available at the Schaumburg Township District Library, and all earn points for this year's summer reading/listening/doing program, "Read to the Rhythm." By signing up for "Read to the Rhythm," all ages can earn prizes while having fun, experiencing new places and activities, and learning. Participants engage in a combination of reading, listening to audio books and attending concerts, programs or bus trips, then receive a prize after completing the activities. Adults, teens and children may sign up beginning June 1 at any of the library locations or online at www.schaumburglibrary.org. The program ends Saturday, Aug. 15.
To kick off the summer program, the library will hold a music-themed celebration throughout the day on Monday, June 1, at the Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates and Hanover Park libraries. There will be a variety of musical activities, including musical instrument demonstrations, concerts and children's programs. No fee or registration is required. This special celebration will begin with "The Knightly News Opera" for children ages 4 and up, from 9:30-10 a.m. or 10:30-11 a.m. in the Rasmussen Room of the Central Library, 130 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. Green Light Vocal Productions will present a delightful show with Prince Charming, Little Red Riding Hood, the Big Bad Wolf and other beloved characters. Add some catchy melodies, and you've got a great way to introduce kids to the concept of a singing story, affectionately known as opera. Limited tickets will be available in the kidsZone 20 minutes prior to show time. Children and caregivers may attend only one show.
Next on the June 1, agenda is the "Rhythm and Rhymes" concert, to be held at both branch libraries. Children ages 2 and up are invited to attend from 12:30-1:15 p.m. at the Hanover Park Branch, 1266 Irving Park Rd. The same concert will be repeated from 3-3:45 p.m. at the Hoffman Estates Branch, 1550 Hassell Rd. Award-winning children's musician Laura Doherty will present an energetic concert featuring songs from her three albums. Children will learn about rhythm, vibration and pitch through songs and puppets.
All ages are welcome to meet the musicians from the Metropolitan Performing Arts Center as they demonstrate a variety of instruments from 4-6 p.m. in the Central Library lobby. Come and ask questions about the instruments, hear them played, and try your hand at playing them yourself. Think of it as a musical petting zoo!
Oldies but goodies will fill Schaumburg's Town Square as the June 1 Read to the Rhythm celebration culminates with a concert by Second Time Around from 6:45-8:15 p.m. Come and hear these nine talented musicians perform rock-n-roll classics by Deep Purple, the James Gang, Yes, the Eagles and more. What's better than a concert under the summer sky? A concert with great snacks. Look for the food trucks from Chicago Pizza Boss and GiaVia Sweets - both will have snacks available to purchase and munch before and during the concert. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be held Thursday, June 4.
Save the date: June 1 is the "Read to the Rhythm" celebration, the library's first summer concert and the first day you may sign up for the library's reading/listening/doing summer program. Stop by before the concert and discover all the great opportunities that await you this summer.