The Library presents wonderful literary events on a regular
basis, ranging from a variety of book discussions to visits from local and
nationally known authors. Check the Library calendar for upcoming events or subscribe to the literary events RSS feed. ![]()
Denotes link to online calendar and options to view, save, share, and register for programs
There are also a number of bookstores in the Skokie area that host author visits, writing workshops, and activities for children. Check out their websites for upcoming activities.
Web resource
Available with Skokie Public Library card
Available in Library only
Literary Events at Skokie Public Library
Are you an author or have a program you'd like to present at the Library? Information regarding applying to perform or speak is available online.
Author Visits and Writing Workshops
The Library frequently hosts writing workshops to hone the skills of local writers as well as arranges for visits from a variety of authors.
Book Reading with Local Author Hal Schweig
Join author and Skokie resident Hal Schweig as he discusses his new novel, The Strange Odyssey of Peter Sampson. Hear him read a portion from the book and talk about his experience with the publishing process. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and authographing. Registration is requested but not required. Walk-ins welcome! Sign up online or call 847.673.3733.
Wednesday, August 27 at 6:30pm in the Book Discussion Room
Book Discussions
Join Skokie Public Librarians as they read and discuss new books each month. Skokie residents can pick up copies of the book to be discussed beginning on the fifth day of the month preceding the discussion. All sessions are held in the Book Discussion Room.
To participate in a book discussion, sign up at the Readers' Services desk.
Great Books
Discussion Group
The Great Books Discussion Group meets the second Tuesday of every month (with the exception of January, February, July, and August) to discuss classic tales from literature. The Group meets in the Library's Book Discussion Room.
Call Corie Ginsberg at 847.673.1814 for more information.
Talking Books Discussion Group
People with visual impairments are invited to take part in this monthly Talking Books program. Led by librarian Gary Gustin, this group discusses fiction and non-fiction works. Prior to the discussion, Library staff mail out the Talking Books cassettes from the Library of Congress to all registered participants. Talking Books is held the fourth Wednesday of every month in the Book Discussion Room.
For more information on this program, contact Gary Gustin at 847.324.3163.
Wednesday, July 24 at 2:00pm in the Book Discussion Room
Literary Events Around Town
Anderson’s Bookshop: Calendar of Events
This popular independent bookstore, with locations in Naperville, Elmhurst, and Downers Grove, hosts a variety of author visits and book discussions.
Barnes & Noble: Stores and Events
Visit this site for a list of events taking place at nearby Barnes & Noble stores.
Borders Stores: Evanston Store Events
The Borders store in Evanston has frequent author visits and events. Check out this link for a list of activities.
Chicago Reader: Readings
The Chicago Reader provides a complete list of readings and author visits in the Chicagoland area. The list is updated weekly.
Nextbook Discussions
The Chicagoland Nextbook Writers Series is a project of Nextbook, the Chicago Public Library and the North Suburban Library System. The series promotes Jewish literature and culture through readings, talks and conversations with internationally acclaimed writers and thinkers. To learn more about Nextbook, please visit www.nextbook.org.
For more information on the Writers Series and book groups, please call 312.747.4074.
Skokie Review: Entertainment
The online Skokie Review calendar of events and activities includes information about author visits and storytelling. To view listings, chose "Books" or "Storytelling" from the Entertainment menu, or select "Library" from the Community menu.
Women and Children First: Events Schedule
This feminist bookstore, located at 5233 North Clark Street in Chicago, hosts regular events including discussion groups, author visits, and performances.