:books: Your Library Card Does More Than You Think—See What’s New This September!

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Hello Readers,

September is National Library Card Signup Month! If you’re reading this, you’re likely one of the 14,000 people with an O’Fallon Public Library card—and we want to say thank you! Your card is more than just a key to books; it’s a connection to learning, community, and discovery. Want to help us spread the word? Encourage a friend or neighbor to stop by and get their own card, or apply online. Discover more about this year’s initiative, along with the exciting perks and prizes, here.

Ryan Johnson

OFPL Director

Homepage

Program Highlights

Creative Writing Club

Join us for a welcoming, no-pressure space to write, connect, and spark inspiration—whether you’re polishing a project or just playing with words.

Grief Resilience Series

Find support and connection as we explore the many faces of grief through teaching, tools, and community sharing.

This Month’s Topic: The Weight We Carry — exploring hidden grief from lost identities, dreams, roles, and unspoken pain.

I-Cash:

Discover What's Yours

Do You Have Unclaimed Money Waiting for You? Representatives will be on-site to help you search the ICash database — a free program that connects Illinois residents with unclaimed money.

Learn More

Apply Here

Staff Picks

Sharon's Pick:

The Lost Bookshop

by Evie Woods

I recently read The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods and found it to be a magical, uplifting story. Blending historical fiction, fantasy, and romance, it moves between the 1920s and modern-day Ireland. In the past, Opaline escapes an arranged marriage and finds refuge in a Paris bookshop where magic lingers. In the present, Martha flees an abusive relationship and becomes a housekeeper in Dublin. Though unaware of each other, their lives are connected by invisible threads tied to the mysterious lost bookshop. Woods weaves a story of courage, choice, and self-discovery that left me smiling and hopeful.

Get the Book

Jo's Pick

The Guncle

by Steven Rowley

On a recent trip to visit my uncle in Palm Springs, I needed a book for the plane. A friend recommended The Guncle by Steven Rowley. It was a fantastic, fun read and on the nose with location and main character! GUP (Gay Uncle Patrick) is a middle-aged man in Palm Springs who unexpectedly spends a summer caring for his niece and nephew. The story is charming, mixing humor and heart while exploring family, grief, loss, and self-discovery. The Guncle Abroad picks up five years later with new characters and challenges, once again showcasing Rowley’s humor and heart. Both books balance lightheartedness with deeper emotional insight.

Get the Book

Owlfred's Corner

You can find this feature on our blog! Each month, Owlfred gets the scoop on one of our incredible library staff members with a fun Q & A session. This monthly feature is all about getting to know the people who make OFPL such a special place.

OFPL Blog

Additional Highlights

Medicare Q&A

Citizenship Prep Class

Shop OFPL

Shop Here

Looking for Children

and Teen Events?

Check out the new Kids & Teens Newsletter for all the latest information! Stay updated on events, programs, and exciting opportunities just for young readers.

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Event Calendar

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O'Fallon Public Library
120 Civic Plaza O'Fallon, IL 62269
Phone: (618) 632-3783