Grayslake Library Blog

  The Academy Awards, fondly known as the Oscars, are a beacon of excellence in the film industry. The institution traces its origins back to May 1927, when the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was established. The inaugural ceremony took place in 1929, where awards were handed out for Best Actor and Actress, Cinematography, Directing (Comedy and Dramatic), Writing (Original and Adaptation), and more. Of course, the most sought after award was for Best Picture or, as it was originally called, Outstanding Picture. Over the course of the next century, the Oscars have become a worldwide phenomenon, with millions of viewers tuning in to see their favorite films, actors, actresses, directors, and more get the recognition they deserve. Here at the Grayslake Library, we are proud to offer up many of the films that have graced the Oscars’ stage. Listed below are the Best Picture winners from the very beginning, from “Wings” to “Everything Everywhere All at Once.” All of these fi...

  While it may feel like we just had a new year, there is another one coming up to celebrate: the Lunar New Year! Also known as Chinese New Year, this celebration is based on the lunar calendar. Listed below are some fun trivia facts about the Lunar New Year, and some reading and program recommendations. The Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is based on the lunar calendar. It usually falls between January 21 and February 20, varying each year. The Lunar New Year is associated with one of the 12 Chinese zodiac animals. Each year is linked to a specific animal, and 2024, for example, is the Year of the Dragon. It is a time for family reunions and is considered the most important traditional festival in Chinese culture. People travel long distances to be with their families during this period. It's a tradition to give and receive red envelopes, known as "hongbao" in Mandarin. These packets usually contain money and are given for good luck and...

  The story of Black History Month dates back almost a century, when African American historian Carter G. Woodson declared the second week of February to be “Negro History Week,” the date chosen to correspond to Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass’ birthdays. In 1970, this was expanded to the Black History Month we observe during February today. To commemorate Black History Month 2024, we have compiled a list of biographies of black heroes for younger readers. This is just a small sampling of the wide range of materials we have to offer; feel free to ask a librarian for more recommendations. Going Places: Victor Hugo Green and His Glorious Book Victor Hugo Green was an African American postal worker and travel writer best known for creating "The Negro Motorist Green Book," a guidebook designed to help Black travelers find safe accommodations during an era of racial segregation in the United States. Just Jerry: How Drawing Shaped My Life Jerry Pinkney was a highly acclaimed...