Cardamom is an aromatic spice from the ginger family with a warm, sweet, and citrusy flavor. It is widely used in cooking, baking, beverages, and traditional medicine. It is native to India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia, but also cultivated in Guatemala, Nepal, and Tanzania, with Guatemala as the top producer. Culinary Uses: enhances chai, coffee, spiced hot chocolate, and cocktails; […]
In April, AAPLD is delighted to display entries in The Land Conservancy of McHenry County’s Amateur Photo Contest. Each year amateur photographers are invited to participate in this annual contest highlighting the inspiring nature of The Land Conservancy’s preservation work. The goal is to share the beautiful and immense natural diversity found throughout McHenry County. The photos were taken at […]
April showers bring May flowers, plus a bouquet of great new Library Reads! For AAPLD cardholders who’ve signed up for the 2025 Reading Marathon 26 book challenge, we’ve highlighted books that fit our Reading Marathon categories. Chosen by librarians across the country as their favorite new releases for the month of April, these books will keep you reading long into […]
Got a book idea rattling around in your head? Maybe there’s a story you’re just dying to read, but no one has written it…yet! Mystery, memoir, romance, thriller, or maybe, all of the above– give your creativity free reign this summer with the popular Summer Writing Workshop Series! A partnership between Algonquin Area Public Library and the Algonquin Area Writers […]
Spend an evening with author, naturalist, and wildlife photographer Stan Tekiela, Wednesday, April 9, at 7:00 pm, at the Luecht Auditorium at McHenry County College, for a fun and fascinating talk about our favorite (and not-so-favorite!) birds. Challenge what you think you know about common birds such as the European Starling, and the American Crow, for a new perspective and […]
How’s your Reading Marathon Challenge going? For AAPLD cardholders who’ve signed up for the 26 book challenge, we’re always ready with suggestions. Starting this month, through November 2025, our Library Reads posts will highlight books that fit our Reading Marathon categories. Chosen by librarians across the country as their favorite new releases, these books will keep you reading long into […]
For March, AAPLD welcomes pastel artist Susan L. Chelminski to the Art Wall in the Adult Services Department. Learn a little more about this talented artist. The Artist: Susan L. Chelminski Background/Experience: I began my interest in art at a very early age. My mother was a professional artist and she mentored me and stoked the fires. I studied under […]
Cumin is a spice made from the dried seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, which belongs to the parsley family. It has a warm, earthy, and slightly nutty flavor. It is used in cuisines across India, Mexico, the Middle East, and North Africa. Flavor Profile: Cumin has a warm, earthy, and slightly nutty taste with a hint of citrus and […]
Just in time for spring planting, Algonquin Area Public Library, is excited to offer the Seed Library which provides seeds to local gardeners free of charge! Take a look at the Seed Library Catalog. Each listing includes photos and descriptions of plant varieties, along with helpful details on when, where, and how to plant them. Seed packet quantities range from […]
The popular Worth 1,000 Words Photography Club returns to AAPLD on Sunday, March 2, at 2 p.m. The monthly gathering will include discussion of photography techniques, style, and more. We look forward to offering photography challenges, field trips, and other opportunities to learn and grow as a photographer. Whether you’re a veteran or new to the art, use digital, film […]
