Five Hour Reading Logs will be available at the Children's Desk starting on Saturday, June 1. Beginning on Friday, June 7, readers may register at the library when they have completed the first Five Hour Reading Goal. Registered readers will get a Dig Into Reading folder with instructions on how to continue and earn more prizes, coupons and chances to win.  They may also choose a Mood Eraser when they register their first 5 hours of reading.

This reading challenge is for children pre-school age through going into 6th grade. Children keep track of time spent reading...with an adult or independently, it all counts. Pick up your time sheets at the library then bring them back to claim small prizes, certificates, and coupons for reaching goals of 5, 10, and 15 hours. To keep everyone reading and coming to the library throughout the summer we have planned some special events. Many of these events are free and open to the public. The prizes and materials for the reading challenge program are free for Sycamore Public Library cardholders. Non-cardholders or patrons from other libraries, please pay $5.00 to register and collect prizes.

Chris Fascione's comedic, interactive performance combines comedy, mime, juggling and storytelling. His show will both entertain and lead children into the world of books, promoting literacy and a love of reading. Recommended for families and grade school age children.

A dozen animals will be in the library for viewing.  Discussion and hands on time follows the presentation.  Furry Friends and their animals are certified through USDA. Owner Debra Moreland has had animals all her life and loves helping and educating people about animals. Girls Scouts will be on hand to help children line up for a chance to see the animals up close.

Magician and Children's Entertainer MORRIS TAYLOR is a professional who has performed magic all over the world.  His family magic show at the Sycamore Library will involve the audience and be filled with fun, puppets, and of course, great MAGIC that kids love!

Jan’s Clan presents a musical variety puppet show fllled with an amazing assortment of puppet characters performing well known popular songs!
 We are pleased to welcome back a spectacular show that entertains everyone from pre-schoolers through adults.

Regularly schedule weekly storytimes are held September through April. 

Tuesday 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. Toddlertime  Next:September 10, 2013 (Special Summer Toddlertime dates include June 11 & 25 and July 9 & 16)
 Active fun, music and stories for 18 month to 3 year olds. Caregiver participates in story room with child.       

 
Wednesday 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. Storytime
Next: September 11, 2013
Three to five year olds play with language, felt board, stories and a craft.
Caregiver not in story room but available in library

Thursday 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. Storytime
Next: September 12, 2013
Three to six year olds enjoy conversation, story sharing, and a simple craft.
Caregiver not in story room but available in library. 








Thursday Evening Storytime 7:00-7:30 p.m., Next: September 12, 2013Thursday Evening Storytime includes stories and activities for 3-6 year olds. Like our Storytimes on Wednesday and Thursday mornings, this is an independent Storytime, for children able to come into the story room alone, stay and participate for the half hour without their adult in the room with them. Parents and caregivers should stay nearby in the library and be available to the child. Though not required dress, we welcome pajama wearers.

When applying for a library card please bring the following:
Picture ID with current address.
If your ID does not have your current address, please bring Two (2) recent pieces of mail (example: utility bill) or 
Rental Lease or
Checkbook with current address.
If you live within the City Limits of Sycamore, you pre-pay for library service as part of your property taxes or rent and for this reason we need to see an ID with current address to issue a library card.

What about people who don't live within the City Limits?
Homeowners outside of the Sycamore City limits do not pay any property tax dollars to the Sycamore Library.
If you live outside of the City Limits you do have the opportunity to purchase an annual card at the same rate that is paid by residents on their tax bill.  Everyone in your household over 8 years old is entitled to a card when this fee is paid. To purchase a card, please bring a copy of your current tax bill so we can determine the amount it will cost you to purchase a card. Tax bill information can also be found on the DeKalb County website.
If you rent your home, the non-resident renters fee is ONE MONTH'S RENT x .15. Please bring a current rent receipt to apply for a card.

All  information you give us for a library is confidential and we will not share it with others.

However you pay for your library card, when you get a card you get full access to materials in the Sycamore Library, online resources, and you may reserve and have materials sent to Sycamore from PrairieCat libraries all over northern Illinois.