Join The Club! Find a group that fuels your passion at AAPLD

Join The Club! Find a group that fuels your passion at AAPLD

Kids going back to school? Newly retired? Ready to discover (or rediscover) a new interest? Check out AAPLD's roster of in-house and community-sponsored clubs, conveniently located at your friendly, neighborhood library. It's a great way to meet others who share your interest, as well as expand your skills.  Registration is required, but everyone is welcome.

Algonquin Area Writers Group- Local writers of all experience levels are welcome to join us for critiques, discussion, and brainstorming sessions. Meets the fourth Thursday of the month (third Thursday in November and December), 6:30 - 8:30 pm at the Main Library.

Knitting or Crocheting Corner - Bring a knitting or crocheting project to share, or get help from an experienced instructor! Fourth Saturdays, 10-11:30 am at the Eastgate Branch.

Quiting Club - Bring your own project, share ideas, and connect with fellow quilters. All skill levels welcome. Sewing machines and project materials will not be provided. First Thursday of the month, 10 am- 3 pm, at the Main Library.

Worth 1,000 Words Photography Club - Join us each month for a fun social gathering with photo tips and sharing! Sundays, meeting times and locations vary. Check the newsletter or online Events calendar for details.

Scrapbooking Club - Join us each month to create a unique 12”x12” scrapbook page. Bring your favorite photos and we'll supply the materials and tools. First Tuesday of the month, 6-8:00 pm in the Makerspace at the Main Library.

Great Decisions Discussion Group - Join us for a guided discussion on current global issues. The Great Decisions program explores eight key foreign policy challenges facing Americans each year. Third Monday of the month, 6-7:30 pm, Main Library.

Mah Jongg - Have fun and enjoy playing this ancient Chinese tile game. Mah Jongg sets and mats will be provided, but participants are also welcome to bring their own. This group is for players who already have a working knowledge of the game. Instruction will not be available. Players should bring their own 2026 Mah Jongg cards. If you do not have a  card, order one HERE. Drop-in, no registration required. Weekly on Mondays and some  Tuesdays, 10 am-12 pm. See the newsletter or Events calendar for dates.

Finders/Keepers Genealogy - Looking to start or continue your genealogy research? Open to novices and experts alike, this club is a dedicated time to conduct genealogy research. Research your family tree using databases and print materials provided by the library. Bring your questions and projects! Basic computer skills required. Monthly, second  Thursday of the month 10-11 am, at the Main Library.

Spice Club – August 2026 – Cajun Blackening

Spice Club – August 2026 – Cajun Blackening

Cajun Blackening Blend is a bold, flavorful seasoning from the culinary traditions of southern Louisiana. Cajun Blackening Blend is a versatile seasoning for fish, shrimp, chicken, steak, pork, roasted potatoes, vegetables, and even tofu. It is typically used to coat food before cooking over very high heat, creating a dark, flavorful crust. Despite its name, "blackened" does not mean burned. Instead, the spices toast and caramelize, giving the food its signature color and rich flavor. Whether cooked on the grill, in a skillet, or in the oven, this seasoning brings the bold flavors and rich culinary heritage of Louisiana to everyday meals.

Although cooks in Louisiana had long used similar seasoning techniques, Chef Paul Prudhomme popularized blackening across the United States in the early 1980s with his famous blackened redfish. Traditionally, blackened foods are cooked in a very hot cast iron skillet with a small amount of butter or oil to help form the flavorful crust.

Most Cajun Blackening blends contain paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, and salt. Some recipes also include white pepper, cumin, or smoked paprika. The blend offers a smoky, savory flavor with a level of heat that depends on the amount of cayenne.

Cajun cuisine reflects the history of the Cajun people, descendants of French-speaking Acadians who settled in southern Louisiana after being expelled from what is now eastern Canada in the 1700s. Their cooking blends French, Spanish, African, Native American, and Caribbean influences, creating the hearty, flavorful dishes for which the region is known.

ALLERGEN WARNING - AAPLD is not responsible for any reactions or sensitivities to any spice. Please be aware that spices may contain or come into contact with common allergens like dairy, eggs, soybeans, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, shellfish, or wheat. Stay safe! Cook with caution.

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