JAN • FEB
2026
Winter Fun at the Library!
Connected Futures Dear Fremont Public Library Community, I am excited to share with you the Fremont Public Library’s new Strategic Plan: Connected Futures. This plan is the result of thoughtful engagement with our community over the past several months. More than 600 residents, staff members, and local leaders contributed their voices, ideas and hopes for the future of our Library through focus groups and surveys. Their input helped shape a vision that both looks to the future and respects the values and current needs of the Fremont Public Library. At its heart, this plan reflects our commitment to being more than a building with books. We are a place of connection, creativity and learning. Whether through expanded outreach, inclusive programming, or innovative services, our goal is to meet people where they are and ensure everyone feels welcome, supported and inspired. We are especially excited to strengthen our role as a community hub by offering more arts and cultural events, deeper partnerships with schools and local organizations, and flexible service models that bring the Library into neighborhoods, community events, and gathering spaces. We also recognize the importance of investing in technology, staff development, and infrastructure to ensure we remain responsive and resilient in a changing world. As we move forward, we remain guided by the belief that libraries are essential to thriving communities. I invite you to explore this plan, share your thoughts, and join us in building a future where the Fremont Public Library continues to be a place of inspiration, inclusion and opportunity for all. Warm regards, Laura Long Library Director
STRATEGIC PLAN fremontlibrary.org/strategic-plan
2
Adult Events
SKATE INTO YOUR LIBRARY!
Winter Roller Skating Party Sunday, Jan. 18, 4:00–6:00pm
All ages Join us at Just for Fun Roller Rink to shake off those winter blues. Show your Fremont Library card for free entry, and the Library will also cover the skate rental. You may bring your own skates or rollerblades. (Off-site) Drop in!
Charisma and Character: The Life of Cary Grant Wednesday, Jan. 14, 7:00pm
Jim Gibbons will discuss Grant’s unstable childhood, his early years in pursuit of fame, and his success in film. Register.
An Evening with Paul Lisnek Tuesday, Jan. 27, 7:00pm
WGN-TV’s Paul Lisnek will speak about Illinois politics as well as help prepare participants for the upcoming Midterm Elections in November. (Online) Register.
Bringing History to Life with Jonathan Eig Tuesday, Jan. 13, 7:00pm
Join us for a special event with Jonathan Eig, the bestselling author of six books, including his most recent, Pulitzer Prizewinning, King: A Life. (Online) Register.
Still Afraid of the Dark: An Evening with R.L. Stine Tuesday, Feb. 24, 7:00pm
Join us with The Guinness Book of World Records’ “most prolific author of children’s horror novels,” R.L. Stine, to discuss his illustrious and still-expanding body of work. (Online) Register.
CRAFTS & COOKING Crafting Herbal Mocktails Monday, Jan. 5, 7:00pm
Marcy Lautanen-Raleigh dives into the art of herbal mocktails, demonstrating how to make simple syrups, herb extractions, and bitters to elevate your drink game. Tasting included! Register.
Introduction to Art Journaling Wednesday, Jan. 21, 7:00pm
Red Boot: The Great Chicago Snowstorm of 1967
Jennifer Evans from Periwinkle Art Studio will show us how to express our emotions, manage stress, and explore creativity through art journaling. Fremont cardholders only; register.
Wednesday, Jan. 28, 7:00pm
Join storyteller Megan Wells as she brings to life the tale of the Great Chicago Snowstorm of 1967– the blizzard that buried the city and brought Chicagoans together in extraordinary ways. Register. Adult events are for age 18 & older and are in person unless noted. Go online to fremontlibrary.org/events or call 847-566-8702.
3
Adult Events
NEW HABITS FOR THE NEW YEAR
TAKE HOME KITS
Stop by the 1st Floor Help Desk to pick up these take home kits for adults while supplies last.
Stay Crafty!
Craft kits are available on the first of each month, while supplies last. To see each month's kit, visit fremontlibrary.org/crafts. Limit 2 per person.
NEW! Stay Spicy! 5 Basic Principles for Getting (and Staying!) Organized Monday, Jan. 12, 6:00pm
Learn what it really means to be organized and how organized living saves you time and money with professional organizers Marie Limpert and Annmarie Brogan. (Online) Register.
Senior Connections
2nd Fridays at 10:30am Jan. 9: Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid Feb. 13: The Small and the Mighty by Sharon McMahon
The Library leads this lively book discussion for seniors. Pick up your copy at the 1st Floor Help Desk and register to attend.
Writer's Workshop
3rd Mondays, Jan. 19 & Feb. 16, 6:00pm
Register to receive a link to submit a piece of your writing in advance to get feedback from other writers in this creative writing workshop. Writers of all levels are welcome.
You had me at
Film Club
Beginning Jan. 15: Cardamom Beginning Feb. 15: Chinese Five Spice
Pick up a spice sample to liven up your cooking! Included are recipes, cookbook recommendations, fun facts & 2 tablespoons of the selected spice of the month, while supplies last.
Booktok Talks
3rd Saturdays at 11:00am Jan. 17: Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil by V.E. Schwab Feb. 21: Someone You Can Build a Nest In by John Wiswell
Meet us at AREA Coffee to discuss some of the hottest books on the internet while enjoying coffee & pastries provided by the Library. Pick up your copy at the 1st Floor Help Desk. Register.
Game Night
4th Mondays, Jan. 26 & Feb. 23, 6:00-8:00pm Join us for a fun-filled night of board games! Register or drop in.
Tighthead Brewing in Mundelein Come for an hour of books! We'll discuss the Book of the Month and share book recommendations. The Library will provide soda; beer is available for purchase. Register.
You Had Me at Film Club
3rd Tuesdays at 7:00pm Jan. 20: The Grand Budapest Hotel (R) Feb. 17: In the Mood for Love (PG)
Calling all casual viewers and cinephiles! Discuss a mix of American hits and international favorites while enjoying sweet treats provided by the Library. Pick up your copy at the 1st Floor Help Desk. Register.
3rd Mondays at 7:00pm Jan. 19: Slow Horses by Mick Herron Feb. 16: Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor Ages 21+
4
Adult events are for age 18 & older and are in person unless noted. Go online to fremontlibrary.org/events or call 847-566-8702.
TECHNICALLY SPEAKING Byte-Sized Tech
Thursdays, Jan. 8 & Feb. 12, 1:00–3:00pm Get answers to basic tech questions with one-on-one assistance. Bring your device, login and password for personalized help. Sign up for one 20-minute time slot.
AI 101
Wednesday, Feb. 4, 7:00pm
Artificial Intelligence is everywhere, but understanding what it is and how it works can be overwhelming. Join Theresa Benson as she makes learning about AI approachable and engaging. Register.
Adult Events
TUESDAYS AT TWO
Don’t let the winter weather stop you! We have activities every Tuesday at 2:00pm. Make the Library a regular part of your week!
Jan. 6, 2:00pm
Test your knowledge and face off against fellow community members in an exhilarating game of Family Feud. Winners will receive prizes! Register or drop in.
Crafternoon
Jan. 13, 2:00pm Vision Board Feb. 10, 2:00pm Folded Book Heart
Supplies and instruction will be provided to create your own work of art! Fremont cardholders only. Registration opens Jan. 15 for the Feb. 10 event.
Managing the Aches and Pains of Arthritis
Job Center on the Move
Jan. 20, 2:00pm
Occupational therapist Molly Ireland will provide tips, tricks and exercises to combat chronic pain in your hands. Register.
Brain Boost
Jan. 27 & Feb. 24, 2:00pm
Stay sharp and exercise your brain with cognitive workouts, memory games, and discussions on brain health. Register or drop in.
Job Center on the Move
Thursdays, Jan. 15 & Feb. 19, 2:00–4:00pm
Meet with a Job Center representative for one-on-one support with customizing your resume, discussing your career transition, and more. Drop in!
Name That Tune: Oldies Feb. 3, 2:00pm
Belt out your favorite tunes and identify classic songs in a game of name that tune-oldies edition! Winners will receive prizes. Register or drop in.
AI, Scams and Synthetic Voices
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2:00pm
Theresa Benson will walk you through some of the most pressing risks emerging from today’s AI toolsespecially the ones targeting people who just want to stay safe, informed and in control. Register. Adult events are for age 18 & older and are in person unless noted. Go online to fremontlibrary.org/events or call 847-566-8702.
5
Adult Events
LIBRARY LOVERS ASSEMBLE! You've Got Rom-Coms! Monday, Feb. 9, 7:00pm
Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek will explore the evolution of romantic comedy during Hollywood’s Golden Age, from witty screwball banter to heartwarming happily-ever-afters. Register.
Chicago Mobsters and the St. Valentine's Day Massacre Wednesday, Feb. 11, 7:00pm
Donna Herula Trio at Tighthead Thursday, Feb. 5, 7:00pm
You buy the beer; we’ll bring the music. Join us at Tighthead Brewing Company to hear the Donna Herula Trio perform traditional Delta Blues and early Chicago Blues. Drop in.
Your team of 2-3 players will have two hours to assemble a 500-piece puzzle. Fastest team wins a prize! Register.
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Dungeons & Dragons Thursday, Feb. 19, 5:30pm
Adult Jigsaw Puzzle Competition Saturday, Feb. 7, 1:00pm
Join Susan Gibberman to learn about the rise of organized crime in Chicago, leading to the gangland killing in a Clark Street garage on Feb. 14, 1929. Register.
Come to the Library for an epic Dungeons & Dragons adventure! Whether you're an experienced player or a beginner, all adults are welcome. Fremont cardholders only; register beginning Jan. 15.
Echoes of Africa: Art and Folktales Thursday, Feb. 12, 7:00pm
In celebration of African American Heritage Month, join cultural educator Elizabeth Kahura for a vibrant virtual journey into Africa’s history and oral traditions. (Online) Register.
An Unfinished Journey: African American Music in its Pivotal Decades Wednesday, Feb. 18, 7:00pm
Clarence Goodman will take us on a journey through the history of African American music, performing and discussing its origins and exploring the ways in which it unifies and endures. Register.
6
Adult events are for age 18 & older and are in person unless noted. Go online to fremontlibrary.org/events or call 847-566-8702.
Teen
GET TOGETHER
Winter Roller Skating Party
Events Grades 6-12
Sunday, Jan. 18, 4:00–6:00pm See page 3 for details!
Super Smash Hour
Tuesday, Jan. 27, 6:30pm
Grab your friends and play Super Smash Bros. at the Library! Snacks will be provided. Register.
Games & Pizza with Candy Hearts Friday, Feb. 6, 4:30pm
Bring your friends and enjoy an afternoon of games and pizza… and candy hearts! Register by noon that Friday so we know how much pizza to order.
Teen Morning Reels
Saturday, Feb. 7, 10:00am
Rewind your routine! Join us for a movie and breakfast. This month we will watch A School for Good and Evil (PG-13). Register.
GET COOKING
Teen Chefs: Kitchen Safety
Wednesday, Jan. 7, 6:00pm
Learn kitchen safety and cooking basics through this hands-on class. Use your culinary skills to prepare a tasty treat! Register.
Teen Chefs: Soup & Sandwich Wednesday, Feb. 25 4:00 or 6:30pm
Learn how to make a soup and sandwich combo! Note: You must have attended the Teen Chefs: Kitchen Safety class prior to taking this class. Register.
GET CREATIVE
Winter Teen Take & Make: Wire-Wrapped Pendant Learn how to create jewelry using wire wrapping techniques with this seasonal take-home kit. Available at the Teen Help Desk beginning Jan. 2 while supplies last.
Teen Craft Corner: DIY Valentines
Stop by the craft corner in the Teen Area February 1–15 to make a heart box or heart card. Supplies provided.
Pet Rock
Friday, Feb. 20, 4:30pm
Join us for a crafting session to design and decorate your very own pet rock. We'll provide all the rocks and supplies. Snacks will be served. Register.
GET HELPING Tutor Time
Wednesdays, Jan. 14 & Feb. 11 6:00–7:00pm Grades K-12 Drop in to study with a student volunteer from Mundelein High School’s Peer/AP Tutor group. All subjects are available; bring your supplies and questions!
Teen Service Hours Saturday, Jan. 17 1:00–3:00pm
Are you a teen, age 13-18, who needs service hours? Drop in anytime from 1-3pm to work on a service task or two with us, and earn up to 2 hours of community service. Register or drop in.
GET READING
Books & Boba: Sci-Fi & Fantasy Edition! Friday, Jan. 16, 4:30pm
Enjoy boba tea while “tasting” some new sci-fi and fantasy books! Feel free to check out any that catch your eye! Register.
Teens’ Personal Reading Challenge 2026
Join this year’s Reading Challenge! Grab a sheet in the Teen Area or find it on the Teen Page. Participants can win a $100 gift card of their choice!
Young Adult Book of the Month: Grades 9–12 Jan: Sky’s End by Marc Gregson Feb: Audre & Bash are Just Friends by Tia Williams
Read and collect 4 bookmarks from our monthly selections and get a free book when you show your Fremont Library card!
Registration for Teen February events opens Jan. 15. Teen events are just for the ages listed, no parents or younger siblings, please.
7
TWEEN
STEM in the Stacks
Jan: Quilt Maps Feb: Candy People Puzzle
Grades 4-8 Take a walk through the stacks on the first floor to learn about a new STEM topic. Available all month long. Drop in.
Creator’s Corner
2nd Thursdays at 5:30pm Jan. 8: Inspired by Alma Woodsey Thomas Feb. 12: Art Therapy Grade 4 & up Artists (and wannabe artists) have the freedom to create and explore at Creator's Corner. Enjoy a new theme every time! Register.
LEGO STEM Challenge
2nd Tuesdays, Jan. 13 & Feb. 10 6:00pm
Grade 4 & up Test out your building and STEM skills with new LEGO challenges each month. Register.
Tutor Time
2nd Wednesdays, Jan. 14 & Feb. 11 6:00–7:00pm
Grades K-12 Drop in to study with a student volunteer from Mundelein High School's Peer/AP Tutor group. All subjects are available; bring your supplies and questions!
Winter Roller Skating Party Sunday, Jan. 18, 4:00–6:00pm See page 3 for details!
Drama Club
Thursday, Jan. 22, 5:30pm
Grade 4 & up Play charades, practice skits, and learn some warm-ups to train your voice and acting skills. Register. 8
Registration for February events opens Jan. 15. Tween events are just for the ages listed, no parents or younger siblings. Please contact the Kids Help Desk at 847-918-3218 if special accommodation for the tween is needed.
+
Jump into January! Winter Roller Skating Party Sunday, Jan. 18, 4:00–6:00pm All ages See page 3 for details.
KIDS EVENTS
+
+
Strange Food Combinations
Wednesday, Jan. 21, 6:30pm
Grades 3-5 Put your taste buds to the test! Will these weird food combos gross you out or become your new favorite snack? Register.
Inside the Lines Coloring Club Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Projects
Monday, Jan. 19 10:00–11:30am & 2:30–4:00pm
All ages with an adult Serve others and enjoy a day off school with projects that benefit your community. Drop in.
For Here or To Go? Library Fun
Jan: I Spy Around the Library– Scavenger Hunt Feb: I Love My Library
All ages Drop in for special activities all month long. Ask at the Kids Help Desk.
Wednesday, Jan. 28, 5:00pm
All ages with an adult Can you stay within the lines? Try your hand at coloring with art supplies provided by the Library, or bring your own favorite pens and markers! Drop in.
1
2
3
4
4 Art Projects in 1 Hour Thursday, Jan. 29, 6:00pm or Friday, Jan. 30, 10:00am
All ages with an adult Make your artworks extra sweet with four unique candy-inspired projects. Drop in.
STEM To-Go
Jan: DaVinci's Bridge Feb: Sound Waves–Dancing Sprinkles
Grades K-5 Bring Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math home with you! Available on the first of the month on a first-come, first-served basis; limit one per child.
Take Home Kits
All ages Bring home a creative craft that fits the season! Available on the first of the month while supplies last; limit one per child.
Registration for February events opens Jan. 15. Go online to fremontlibrary.org/events or call 847-566-8702.
9
KIDS EVENTS
Fabulous February Children's Artwork Showcase Thursday, Feb. 5, 4:00–6:00pm
All ages with an adult Use the supplies provided to create a masterpiece that we will display in the Library for everyone to enjoy. Drop in.
Life-Size Candyland
Saturday, Feb. 14, 10:00 or 11:00am
All ages with an adult Play through a life-size version of the classic game and meet the iconic characters in real life! Register.
Monday, Feb. 16, 4:00pm
Grades K-5 with an adult Through hands-on experiments and interactive stories, Science Heroes will get you excited about the science that’s around us as we celebrate the scientists who color our world with art! Register.
Family BINGO Night
Marble Run Mania
Monday, Feb. 16 10:00–11:30am, 2:00–3:30pm
Grades K-5 Show off your building skills and harness the power of kinetic energy to build the most thrilling marble run roller coaster. The only limit is your imagination! Drop in.
monthly meetups
Thursday, Feb. 19, 4:30 or 6:30pm All ages with an adult Play the classic game with your whole family! Prizes for all and light refreshments served. Register.
Homeschool Learn & Grow Together
Tutor Time
Grades K-5 Join Miss Avocado as we explore our wonderful world and uncover new perspectives on a topic. Register.
Grades K-12 Drop in to study with a student volunteer from Mundelein High School's Peer/AP Tutor group. All subjects are available; bring your supplies and questions!
2nd Fridays, Jan. 9 & Feb. 13, 2:00pm
LEGO Challenge
2nd Tuesdays, Jan. 13 & Feb. 10 4:30pm
Grades K-3 with an adult We will be problem-solving, using critical thinking, and engineering skills. Stack up your skills with brick-building fun! Register.
10
Science Heroes: Adventure of the Missing Color
2nd Wednesdays, Jan. 14 & Feb. 11 6:00–7:00pm
Read to Rover
2nd Wednesdays Jan. 14 & Feb. 11, 7:00–8:00pm
Age 7 & older Sign up for one 15-minute time slot to read to a trained therapy dog. Register.
Registration for February events opens Jan. 15. Go online to fremontlibrary.org/events or call 847-566-8702.
Preschool Kids
weekly Storytimes Jan. 5–22 & Feb. 2–19
Pick up a drop-in ticket; siblings are welcome.
Family Storytime
Mondays at 6:30pm Thursdays, 9:30 or 10:30am Age 5 & under with an adult Stories and songs for families to enjoy together.
Toddler Time
Tuesdays, 9:30 or 10:30am Ages 1-2 with an adult Jump, wiggle, dance, and sing at this high-activity storytime for your busy toddler!
Baby Bounce
Wednesdays 9:30 or 10:30am
Babies-15 months with an adult Cuddles and connection are the focus of this gentle storytime for the youngest readers.
Art with Baby
Friday, Jan. 16, 10:00am
Babies under 24 months Engage your baby’s senses with process-oriented art projects. Dress for a mess! Drop-in ticket required.
Sensory Explorers: Love & Hearts
Tuesday, Jan. 27, 9:30–11:00am Babies under 24 months Explore sensory activities filled with love with your baby. Drop-in ticket required.
Cuéntame un Cuento Storytime in Spanish
Baby Bounce Playdate
Saturday, Jan. 24, 10:00am
Wednesdays, Jan. 28 & Feb. 25 9:30–11:00am
All ages with an adult Sing and read together in Spanish! Todas las edades con un adulto. ¡Cantar y leer juntos en español! Sin registro. Drop in.
Babies-15 months Babies and their grown-ups are invited to drop in for socializing, play and reading! Drop-in ticket required.
Play-Dough Playtime
Unicorn Storytime
Age 5 & under Shape, squish and sculpt your way into a world of creativity! Drop in.
Age 5 & under Gallop on down to the Library for a magical storytime all about unicorns! Drop-in ticket required.
Mondays at 6:00pm Jan. 26 & Feb. 23
Tuesday, Feb. 24 9:30 or 10:30am
Fremont Library
All little ones must be accompanied by an adult for all events. For drop-in ticket events, pick up a ticket from the Kids Help Desk beginning at 9am the day of the event.
11
Fremont Public Library District 1170 North Midlothian Road Mundelein, IL 60060
Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid Mundelein, IL 60060-1237 Permit No. 203
Phone: 847-566-8702 www.fremontlibrary.org
Library Hours
Monday–Thursday 9am to 9pm Friday 9am to 6pm Saturday 9am to 5pm Sunday 1pm to 5pm The Library is open Jan. 19 & Feb. 16.
***ECRWSS*** RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER
Show Off Your Stuff!
We invite Fremont cardholders age 18 & older to display their interesting collections in our lobby display cases. Visit the library’s website and click on “Lobby Displays” to sign up.
AgeGuide ADRN Hours
Wednesdays, 9:00am–1:00pm
Adults 60+ and their caregivers may drop in to meet with a certified representative on health, transportation, housing, and financial resources available for seniors in Lake County. Drop in.
Friends Winter Book Sale
Friday, Feb. 27, 1:00–5:00pm Saturday, Feb. 28, 10:00am–4:00pm
The Friends & Foundation welcome you to this special sale where they will offer up the best of the donations that have come in. Cash, check or credit cards accepted. Drop in.
Family History Finders
Wednesdays, Jan. 7 & 21 and Feb. 4 & 18 1:30pm
AARP Tax Help
TRUSTEES
The Library will again host the AARP Tax Facilitators to provide tax preparation services from February 5 to April 9. Register for an appointment online at fremontlibrary.org/taxes or call for assistance. Register beginning January 7.
A library staff member will be here to answer your genealogy questions and help you with your searches. Register or drop in.
Laurie MacKay, President Micki Pflug Mounce, Vice President Allison Wilmes, Treasurer Sharon Smogor, Secretary Amy Clapp Catherine Corbett Sam Kendall Library Director: Laura Long
Thursday afternoons and Friday mornings Registration opens Jan. 7
DIY Taxes
Thursdays, Feb. 5–April 10 5:00–7:00pm Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram & TikTok! FPLD staff may take photos or video of program participants for library publicity in print and online. Names and personal information will not be released without permission. Please notify staff if you do not wish yourself or your child to be photographed. Some images were generated using Adobe Stock AI.
Patrons with an income of $84,000 or less in 2025 can file their taxes online for free with an in-person tax counselor on hand to answer questions. Computers and a printer will be provided; basic computer skills required. Register for a one-hour time slot.