Allspice comes from the pepper plant Pimenta dioica, a member of the myrtle family that grows as a shrub or tree and produces aromatic berries. The berries are harvested unripe, then sun-dried, and sold whole or ground as a spice. Originally native to Jamaica, allspice spread throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America by migratory birds. Today, it is grown […]
Who doesn’t love a page-turner? If you’re ready to get lost in a book, consider one of the thrillers on the January Library Reads list– new releases chosen by librarians nationwide as their favorites. So grab a cozy blanket, a cup of your favorite reading brew and settle in for a great read! Not a thriller fan? Check out the […]
Steven Hillmann, AAPLD’s Artist of the Month for January, captures the life in inanimate objects. Buildings and architecture; bustling or abandoned. Toys that appear to be posing for portraits. Even celestial objects, progressing through changes and phases we couldn’t observe on our own. The self-taught photographer says he loves the technical challenge of these subjects. See them for yourself this […]
You could say that Michelle Marsh, AAPLD’s Artist of the Month for December, was born to be a photographer. Her grandmother was an avid photographer, who encouraged Michelle’s childhood interest. Her mother loved adventure– wherever she could find it. Those influences have shaped Michelle’s vision as a nature photographer, and the work she displays this month on the Art Wall […]
Owls have long captured the human imagination with their silent flight, haunting calls, and piercing eyes. These mysterious birds of prey are not only mesmerizing, they’re an essential part of Illinois’ natural ecosystem. Join us for Owls of Illinois, a special program for adults and seniors, on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2:00-3:00 p.m., at the Eastgate Branch, located at 115 Eastgate […]
AAPLD welcomes award-winning landscape photographer Cory Anne Cosman to the Art Wall at the Main Library. Cory’s work captures the essence of nature. She loves traveling to National Parks, and her adventures have taken her to the Badlands of South Dakota, the Rocky Mountains, Moab, Utah, Bryce Canyon, Haleakala, Waimea Canyon, and Death Valley. But much of her recent work […]
Know an awesome 8-letter word that contains the letters Q, Z and Y? You might have what it takes to be the Scrabble King or Queen of Algonquin! Don’t miss the fun Wednesday, November 19, when AAPLD hosts its first-ever Scrabble Tournament, from 6:30-8:-30 p.m. at the Main Library. Players will be randomly assigned to tables of 3 to 4 […]
Tarragon is a fragrant herb with a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor and a hint of bitterness. You’ll find it fresh, dried, or infused in vinegars and oils. Its delicate taste makes it a favorite in many kitchens, adding depth and brightness to both simple and elegant dishes. Culinary Uses: A staple of French cooking, tarragon shines in Béarnaise sauce, in […]
What are you thankful for this season? Family and friends, community, and simple things that bring joy– including reading! Here at AAPLD, we love being able to help you find new authors and stories, like these November new releases, chosen by librarians nationwide as their favorites. Library Reads makes it easy to find a great read, so check out this […]
Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a perennial herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae), related to basil, rosemary, oregano, and lavender. Native to the Mediterranean, it is now grown worldwide. The plant is a small evergreen shrub with soft, gray-green leaves and purple-blue flowers in summer. Sage has an earthy, slightly peppery flavor with hints of pine and citrus, making it a […]
