Library is simply over the moon about award

Chalk up another award for the Gail Borden Public Library in Elgin.

It recently took home the Innovation Award from the North Suburban Library System for the "Space: Dare to Dream" exhibit mounted last year.

"The Gail Borden Public Library has proven once again that the cultivation of strong community partnerships creates bountiful and magical opportunities," the NSLS award read.

"And when NASA and the International Space Station are in the mix of partners, explorers of all ages are guaranteed a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience."

One program highlight was making contact with the International Space Station on Sept. 5 and having students talk in real time with astronauts orbiting the Earth. Other students had a video conference with NASA. Both events were viewed by thousands around the world via live video streaming.

The exhibit helped the library set records for its summer reading program, attendance and circulation. There were more than 306,000 visits to the library during the exhibit's 112-day run.

The Lake County Discovery Museum Library in Wauconda took home the Library of the Year Award.

And, in case you're wondering, Gail Borden netted that honor two years ago.

Winning libraries are not eligible to win that award in following years.

NSLS spokeswoman Judy Hoffman said officials are considering opening up the relatively new Innovation Award because of all the new programs.

Overall, 10 libraries submitted nominations for the award.

Tapestry rolls on

Speaking of the library, officials are gearing up for another event that is part of the "Tapestry of Freedom" exhibit.

In collaboration with the Elgin Area Branch of the American Association of University Women, the library will present "Jane Addams and the Potential of Women: Her Growth as a Social Reformer" by Louise W. Knight from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. April 1 in the library's community rooms, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin.

Knight is the author of "Citizen: Jane Addams and the Struggle for Democracy."

Knight will trace how Addams' early failures during an era of limited opportunities for women shaped her ideas about women's potential and her social activism. A book signing follows the program.

For details or to register, visit www.gailborden.info, call (847) 429-4680 or stop at the library's Adult Services Desk.

Sherman makes life easier

Hate waiting in line?

You may still wait to see a doctor, but Sherman Health is trying to make the process move faster.

Visitors to the www.shermanhealth.com now can pre-register for a visit to any Sherman location. Sherman is one of the few health systems in the area to offer this service.

Pre-registration must be made at least two days in advance of a visit. For more information, call (847) 429-8427.