Staff Picks

Planning your 4th? We can help!

Image: "RedishPinkish" by iwishmynamewasmarsha used under CC BY-NC 2.0 / Cropped from original

Growing up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, July 4th was always the actual start to summer; the lakes would finally be warm enough to swim in, you could usually count on not needing a jacket during the day, and the tourist traffic in town would finally increase to a steady stream instead of a trickle.

Kids playing in lake

My son and his cousins playing in the lake.

With the June we’ve had this year, I’m having flashbacks to those childhood days as here we are, closing in on the 4th, and we’re only now getting some steady warm weather! For me, the 4th of July has always meant beautiful sunny days, barbecues, parades and fireworks at dusk. 

We get to spend this 4th of July with my husband’s siblings and their families this year, so I am already looking for great ideas to keep the kiddos entertained and great recipes for big groups.  If you’re still planning your 4th, we have lots of resources here at the library to get your holiday all set.  Below is just a small selection of some of the items we have to help plan your holiday weekend, and don’t forget to check out our Quick Picks magazines on the first floor where we have many great cooking and entertaining publications!  Here’s to a fabulous 4th, and we’ll see you at the City of Des Plaines Fourth of July Parade!

Star-spangled Crafts by Kathy Ross

Star-spangled Crafts

by Kathy Ross

Fireworks! DVD

Fireworks!

This NOVA program explores the history of fireworks as well as the secretive science behind these dazzling displays. My 8 year old loves to know how things work and this video is a great way to give kids some insight on the magic!

FamilyFun magazine

FamilyFun (Zinio)

June 1, 2015 issue

Food Network magazine

Food Network (Zinio)

July 1, 2015 issue

The Summer Table by Lisa Lemke

The Summer Table

by Lisa Lemke