Joliet library’s Black Road Branch offers popular programs in woodland setting

More often than not, I find myself writing about the downtown branch of the Joliet Public Library. The original, the main, the one many of us grew up visiting. This month, it’s about time I highlight the special features of our Black Road Branch.

Many of you probably visit this location. Standing just west of Essington Road, the Black Road Branch, or “BRB” as we call it at the library, sits on the Rock Run Forest Preserve. Because of its location, we welcome wildlife visitors such as deer, squirrels and birds that come up to the windows and greet our patrons daily.

It’s tranquil and serene, and we even set up a bird cam in partnership with the local store Wild Birds Unlimited so you can check in on your furry or feathered friends throughout the week when you aren’t at the library. The green space around the building makes for easy access to fun outdoor activities and programs like petting zoos, science fairs and other educational (but fun) events.

Opened in 2002, the BRB was built to replace the quick-stop location in the Joliet mall. Today, with the growth of the west side of Joliet, BRB has become arguably the “busier” branch of our library. Besides location, what makes BRB special or different from the downtown location?

Programming: If you are looking for a lively program for your kids or yourself, BRB is where to find it. For adults, we offer monthly book groups that are sure to hook you on your next great read. For kids, our weekly storytimes run almost daily, and you are sure to hear squeals of joy as the little ones dance, jump, do a craft and listen to a story or two. Visit our events calendar at jolietpubliclibrary.libnet.info/events to check out all we have to offer. As always, programs are free!

Displays: This is something staff at the BRB does well – really well. The crafting skills of our staff are unmatched by anything I have seen in any other library. Over the summer, one of the youth staff members built a Big Ben replica that almost reached the two-story ceiling and included fine details throughout. The talent and effort staff put into their educational displays are worth the visit.

Rock Run Community Room: The library is used for many things. Most recently, through an online survey we discovered that one thing people want from us is a community space. The Rock Run Community Room offers just that – a place to gather for a stitch circle, puzzle, tutoring or homework. Pop in when you need to and stay a while.

Friends of the Library: The Friends of the Joliet Public Library sells books, audiobooks, CDs, DVDs and Blu-rays, all for $1 or less, throughout the year. The group also hosts two large book sales, one in the spring and one in the fall, at BRB. All proceeds from these sales go to fund library programming and equipment. Check them out.

Collection: The BRB circulates about 30,000 books per month. We also offer drive-up services, holds and interlibrary loans so we can get you what you need quickly and efficiently. Cruise through and pick up your hold – we are waiting for you.

Both library locations offer great services to our city. Where the downtown Ottawa Street Branch boasts a recent remodel, the Digital Media Studio and several study rooms, the Black Road Branch provides a woodland haven of learning, laughter and a sense of community. We hope to see you there soon.

To learn more about the Joliet Public Library, visit jolietlibrary.org or call 815-846-3124.

Mallory Hewlett is the communications manager at the Joliet Public Library.