Meet September’s Artist of the Month!

Meet September’s Artist of the Month!

In 2010, Deanne Mroz had a successful career in advertising, when a contest win started her on a brand new path. After being chosen as the Grand Prize Winner in the Amazon Kindle Commercial Contest, she took her prize winnings (Amazon gift cards) and spent them on a brand new DSLR camera, so she could learn photography. After taking photography classes, she launched Deanne Mroz Photography, and has been happily photographing families ever since.

Mroz also applies her design talents to capture images and landmarks of Chicago. A native of the area, she loves the nostalgia of familiar places, including some that live on only in her memory. Enjoy her bright, joyful images of the Windy City-- past and present-- on the Art Wall at the Main Library.

Your name: Deanne Mroz

Your community: Algonquin area

Your background as an artist: I studied web design at NIU and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication. I worked in advertising, doing web design and video editing, and now have my own photography and design business. My personal photography focuses on family documentary projects, where I capture one image every day throughout the year. Frosty Time Design is my creative outlet outside my photography and freelance work.

Your preferred media: Photography and graphic design. Photography allows me to capture people, stories and meaningful moments. while design provides another outlet to explore ideas and bring them to life.

Your preferred subject: The restaurants, venues, neighborhoods and landmarks we grow up with become part of our stories, and even the places that are long gone can hold a special place in our hearts.

Your inspiration: Growing up in the Chicagoland area, I love the places, memories and traditions that make the area feel like home. My art is inspired by those places and the memories attached to them. It's a way to celebrate the places we love, preserving a little piece of local nostalgia and creating artwork that feels personal, familiar and connected to home.

Is your work for sale? Yes. My Chicago posters are available for purchase on my website. My work has also been featured and sold at a shop in downtown Algonquin.

Spice Club – September 2026 – Tajín

Spice Club – September 2026 – Tajín

Tajín is a popular Mexican seasoning made with a blend of mild chile peppers, lime, and sea salt. It has a bright, tangy flavor with mild heat and is designed to enhance food rather than overwhelm it. Tajín is especially popular sprinkled over fresh fruits and vegetables. Try it on watermelon, mango, pineapple, cucumber, avocado, tomatoes, or corn. It can also be used on salads, tacos, eggs, seafood, meats, snacks, and many other dishes. It is a versatile seasoning for meals, fruits, vegetables, and everyday snacks.

Tajín was created in Mexico and was introduced on December 23, 1985. The company's history describes its beginnings as a small operation selling the seasoning from store to store, one bottle at a time. After becoming successful in Mexico, Tajín was first exported to the United States in 1993. The brand later expanded internationally and began increasing its presence in mainstream American stores around 2012.

Tajín's story began in a Mexican kitchen. As a child, founder Horacio Fernández loved the chile sauce made by his grandmother, Mama Necha, who used seven different chiles. He especially enjoyed putting her sauce on freshly cooked corn. Years later, he developed a way to dehydrate the lime and chiles while preserving their flavor—and Tajín was born.

The name Tajín was inspired by the ancient archaeological site of El Tajín in Veracruz, Mexico, which the company's founder visited in 1985.

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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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.

Download Recipes

Don’t Leave Home Without Us!

Don’t Leave Home Without Us!

Taking to the road or sky this summer? Stock up on e-books, e-audiobooks, digital music, video and more from AAPLD!

Digital resources are easy to use, easy to access, and won’t clutter the car or load down your luggage. If you haven’t used our digital collections before, vacation time is the perfect opportunity to give them a try. You’ll find everything from escapist beach reads to thought-provoking non-fiction. In addition to e-books, choose e-audiobooks or video for entertainment on the road or in flight. We also offer collections of films.

Our Digital Collections page has tutorials and links to your favorite app store. Download the correct app for your digital device, enter your AAPLD card number, and enjoy entertainment on-the-go.

Ebooks, eAudiobooks, and more

Libby– Download up to 15 items per month with your AAPLD library card. Libby offers ebooks, eaudiobooks, and magazines for adults, teens and kids. 

 

 

Hoopla– Download up to 15 items per month, with no holds, no waiting. Just click and borrow! 

 

The Palace Project– Download up to 5 items per month. Browse the collection for best-selling fiction, and non-fiction.

 

 

Indie Author Illinois– Discover up and coming independent authors writing adult and young adult fiction and non-fiction. There’s no waiting for a title, and books can be checked out for as long as you like. However, you must be in the state of Illinois to access this collection.

 

Spice Club – July 2026 – Oregano

Spice Club – July 2026 – Oregano

Oregano is a fragrant perennial herb (Origanum vulgare) from the mint family. Native to the Mediterranean region and western Asia, oregano is now cultivated and enjoyed worldwide. It is known for its warm, earthy, slightly peppery flavor and aromatic leaves. Unlike many herbs, oregano often becomes more flavorful when dried because its essential oils become more concentrated. When in bloom, oregano produces clusters of small pink to purple flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Culinary Uses: Oregano is widely used in cooking and is especially popular in Mediterranean, Mexican, and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is commonly added to tomato sauces, pizza, roasted vegetables, soups, grilled dishes, marinades, and salad dressings.

Health Benefits: Oregano contains vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants and small amounts of minerals such as iron, calcium, and manganese. It is especially valued for natural plant compounds including carvacrol and thymol, which are being studied for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Traditionally, oregano has also been associated with digestive support and general wellness.

Cultural Facts: According to Greek mythology, oregano was created by the goddess Aphrodite and planted on Mount Olympus as a symbol of happiness and joy. In ancient Greece and later in Rome, brides and grooms sometimes wore oregano wreaths to represent prosperity and a joyful life together. Oregano was also placed on graves as a symbol of peace for the departed.

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.

Download Recipes

Spice Club July 2026 - Oregano

Meet July’s Artist of the Month

Meet September’s Artist of the Month!

The dark cloud of the Covid-19 pandemic held a silver lining for Huntley resident Sienna Kelly. Being stuck at home gave her an opportunity to rediscover her artist talents, and eventually launch her own stationery business.

Sienna's cheerful, colorful work reflects the beauty of nature, and brings a  summery flare to the Art Wall at the Main Library on Harnish Drive. Stop in for a bright walk through the garden-- while enjoying the cool breeze of the air conditioning.

Your name: Sienna Kelly

Your community: Huntley

Your background as an artist: I am mainly self taught. During the pandemic, when boredom and some crayola markers became so much more, I started getting back into art. I have expanded since then, turning my passion for making into a stationery business, Sienna Sunny Studio.

Your preferred medium: My favorite medium is acrylic paint on canvas. I love that you can blend colors and just a few minutes later layer different colors on top. I also really enjoy drawing in markers, which are mainly seen in my stationery work.

Your preferred subject: Birds, any shape, size, color. I also really enjoy different floral compositions.

Your inspiration: My inspiration comes a lot from my mom and grandmother. Both artists themselves, especially in the bird field. They have always inspired me to create what I love. I love to create things that bring joy and a smile while viewing.

Is your work for sale? How can someone contact you? Yes! My work is for sale! Contact me at siennasunnystudio@gmail.com or https://www.instagram.com/siennasunnystudio/

Read to Feed: How Summer Reading Helps Fight Hunger through Heifer International

Read to Feed: How Summer Reading Helps Fight Hunger through Heifer International

We know reading feeds the imagination, curiosity and knowledge. But did you know that your Summer Reading is helping feed others around the world?

This year, through Heifer International's Read to Feed Initiative  your Summer Reading will help support access to fruit and vegetable seeds for home gardens, clean water for health and sanitation, flocks of chickens that can provide hundreds of eggs each year, and even honeybees that help pollinate future harvests.

Here's how it works!

  • For every 2,000 minutes read by Summer Reading participants of all ages, Heifer International's sponsors donate $20 to the organization's work around the world.
  • Funds donated are from corporate sponsors which partner with Heifer International. No local library funds are used.
  • Books logged into Beanstack, either by participants or library staff, are automatically converted to minutes for the Heifer International program. Log your reading as you normally do, Beanstack will do the rest!
  • All Summer Reading participants can continue to log their reading even after they have earned their t-shirt, either through the Beanstack app, or on a paper log. For those tracking on paper, simply bring your log into the library and we'll be happy to log your reading.
  • Reading logged between June 1 and July 31 counts toward the Heifer International donation.

As of June 28, AAPLD Summer Reading participants have completed 1,518,601 minutes of reading which equals a donation of $15,186.

Check out our Heifer International Progress Trackers at both Harnish and Eastgate and help AAPLD meet our donation goal of $25,000. Watch our contribution grow as together, we plant a seed to read, and feed!

Spice Club – June 2026 – Cilantro

Spice Club – June 2026 – Cilantro

Cilantro is a fragrant leafy herb from the parsley family, scientifically known as Coriandrum sativum. While the leaves are commonly called cilantro in North America, the seeds are known as coriander. Native to regions of southern Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, cilantro is now widely cultivated and used around the world. It is recognized for its bright, citrusy flavor and distinctive aroma, although some people perceive its taste as soapy due to genetic differences in taste receptors. When cilantro flowers, it produces delicate white or pale pink blossoms that attract bees and other pollinators. The entire plant is edible: leaves, stems, roots, seeds, and even flowers.

Culinary Uses: Cilantro is widely used in cooking and is especially popular in Mexican, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian cuisines. It is commonly used in salsas, curries, soups, salads, tacos, rice dishes, and sauces such as chutney and chimichurri. The seeds, known as coriander, have a warm, slightly sweet citrus flavor and are frequently used dried or ground in spice blends.

Health Benefits: Cilantro contains vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants and small amounts of minerals such as potassium and manganese. It has traditionally been associated with digestive support and anti-inflammatory properties.

Cultural Facts: Archaeologists have found evidence of coriander in ancient Egyptian tombs, and both the Greeks and Romans used the herb in cooking and medicine. Despite its popularity, cilantro is also known for being one of the world’s most divisive herbs because of the way different people experience its taste.

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.

Download Recipes

Meet June’s Artist of the Month

Meet September’s Artist of the Month!

Just in time for summer travel season, and America's 250th birthday, AAPLD's Artist of the Month display features stunning photos from a great American road trip. Seen through the eyes (and lens) of Romanian-born photographer and author Raluca Barbu, the photographs depict the rugged beauty of the American West.

In 2018, Raluca and her husband set out to explore their adopted country, visiting 19 states and over 30 national, state and tribal parks. The photos, and her book American Vacation, (available at AAPLD!) tell the story of that epic trip.

Read on, to learn more about Raluca.

 

Your name: Raluca Barbu

Your community: Crystal Lake

Your background/training: I was born and raised in Pitesti, Romania, came of age in Cluj-Napoca, where I got my college degree in Library Science, got married, became a mother, and worked for more than a decade for one of the largest companies in Romania. I now live in the United States, where I am almost building a second life, and also, finally using my Library Science diploma as an Adult Programming Specialist for the Algonquin Area Public Library.

I have been writing since my teenage years, when my dream was to publish one book. Twenty-five years and five books later, I am still writing.

Your preferred medium: Writing and photography

Your preferred subjects and why: Writing is my way of making sense of life and expressing gratitude for it. Each of my books grew out of a meaningful life lesson and explores the universal experience of growth and change. The photos in this exhibit were taken during the 45-day trip my husband and I took in 2018 through 19 states and 34 national, state, and tribal parks. They are also part of the travel book I wrote about that trip, American Vacation. More than 250 photos are accessible in the eBook version of it.

I photograph landscapes as a way of preserving both their beauty and my gratitude for having witnessed them.

What inspires your work? Life! I am fascinated by life: the surprises it brings, the people I meet, the places I am lucky enough to visit, and the randomness of it all.

Is your work for sale? If so, how can someone contact you? Yes, my book is. You can check out American Vacation at the library (it is currently in 15 libraries statewide). You can also purchase the eBook (with all the photos) HERE.  For more details, visit my website: ralucabarbu.ro/