Coming Together is an annual community partnership in Niles Township that highlights a different topic through literacy, cross-cultural awareness, and community-building programs.
The 2022 theme, Sharing Experiences of Disability, will bring focus to the voices, experiences, and talents of members of the disability community across Niles Township, as well as advocacy and support resources available to all community members.
We're excited to host several kids book discussions at MGPL in March related to this theme. Click the titles below to register, then visit the Youth Info Desk to get your free copy of the book.
Book Clubs for Kids
Mother-Daughter Book Club: The Astonishing Maybe by Shaunta Grimes
Monday, March 14, 7-8 pm
At first, this is a book about friendship with a touch of magical realism. As it progresses, it becomes a deeper meditation about a parent's clinical depression from a child's point of view. (Daughters in grades 4-6 accompanied by a female grown-up).
Guys Read: Dog Driven by Terry Lynn Johnson
Wednesday, March 16, 7-8 pm
McKenna is losing her vision to Stargardt's disease, but she’s hidden her disability from everyone but her little sister. Despite trepidations, McKenna sets out to compete in a rigorous new sled dog race through the Canadian wilderness. (Guys in grades 4-6 accompanied by a grown-up reader of their choice.)
Family Reads Book Club: Aven Green Sleuthing Machine by Dusti Bowling
Monday, March 28, 6:45-7:30 pm
Third-grader Aven Green has been solving mysteries for a whole month, cracking such cases as The Mystery of the Cranky Mom. But can this perceptive detective solve two cases at the same time? (Grades 1-3)
More Coming Together Events
Family Storytime
Sunday, March 27, 3-3:30 pm
At this family storytime we’ll listen to stories, sing songs, and more. (Ages 2 and up with a parent/caregiver)
Coming Together Storytime
Wednesday, March 30, 10-10:30 am
We’ll read books, sing songs, and more as we celebrate the diverse abilities of our community. (Ages 2 and up with a parent/caregiver.)
Illinois Assistive Technology Program
Saturday, March 19, 10-11 am
Lynette Strode of the Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) discusses the programs IATP offers and the different assistive technologies available for persons with disabilities.
EveryBody Can Dance Workshop (Online)
Wednesday, March 23, 6-7 pm
This inclusive creative movement workshop by MOMENTA Dance Company, for people with and without disabilities, uses structured improvisation and dance games to build community while exploring everyone’s creative potential for movement. No dance experience necessary!
Debbie Wiedeman is the Early Literacy Coordinator at Morton Grove Public Library.