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Image for event: Why Are We So Obsessed with True Crime?

Registration now closed

Why Are We So Obsessed with True Crime?

with Ryan Ervin
2026-04-23 18:00:00 2026-04-23 19:00:00 America/Chicago Why Are We So Obsessed with True Crime? Join Ryan Ervin in a discussion about why true crime fascinates us. Why are we horrified—yet hooked—by true crime? Explore the psychology of spectators, parasocial bonds, and the serial killer mindset Effingham Public Library - Workman Room

Thursday, April 23
6:00pm - 7:00pm

Add to Calendar 2026-04-23 18:00:00 2026-04-23 19:00:00 America/Chicago Why Are We So Obsessed with True Crime? Join Ryan Ervin in a discussion about why true crime fascinates us. Why are we horrified—yet hooked—by true crime? Explore the psychology of spectators, parasocial bonds, and the serial killer mindset Effingham Public Library - Workman Room

Join Ryan Ervin in a discussion about why true crime fascinates us. Why are we horrified—yet hooked—by true crime? Explore the psychology of spectators, parasocial bonds, and the serial killer mindset

Registration is required. 

AGE GROUP: | 61+ | 19-60 | 13-18 |

EVENT TYPE: | Community Conversation |

TAGS: | #True Crime | #Community Conversation |

Effingham Public Library
Phone: 217-342-2464
Hours
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We're closed Monday May 25
Mon, May 25 Closed
Tue, May 26 8:00AM to 7:00PM
Wed, May 27 8:00AM to 7:00PM
Thu, May 28 8:00AM to 7:00PM
Fri, May 29 8:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, May 30 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Sun, May 31 Closed
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About the branch

The Suzette Brumleve Memorial Effingham Public Library is the public library of Effingham, Illinois. We have over 50,000 books, magazines, and audio-visual materials and an annual circulation of over 250,000 items. We also offer a wide variety of programs and services. 

Upcoming events

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Story Time
Tue, May 26, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for stories, songs and lots of fun! No Registration Required.
Apron Creations & Sweet Treats
Tue, May 26, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
PLANT THE SEED OF HUMBLENESS WEEK Decorate an apron and enjoy a dirt cup treat! Ages 5-10. Registration Required.
This event is full
Anxiety/Mood Support Group
Tue, May 26, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room
This group offers a welcoming environment to discuss anxiety and mood and learn coping tools through shared experience and support. No Registration or Library Card Required
HSHS St. Anthony's Parkinson's Disease Support Group
Wed, May 27, 12:30pm - 1:45pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Those with a Parkinson’s diagnosis, caregivers and anyone interested in learning more about this disease are welcome to attend. No registration is required.
LEGO Freeplay
Wed, May 27, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us at the library to delve into the world of LEGOs, by using your imagination to create independently or with others.
Toddler Time - Outdoor Tot with Ms. Lisa & Ms. Sara
Thu, May 28, 9:30am - 10:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us outside for a colorful, hands-on play session featuring water play, bubbles, and sidewalk chalk art! No Registration Required.
Apron Creations & Sweet Treats
Thu, May 28, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
PLANT THE SEED OF HUMBLENESS WEEK Decorate an apron and enjoy a dirt cup treat! Ages 5-10 Registration Required.
This event is full
Adulting 101 Series: Financial Literacy - For Teens
Thu, May 28, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Prepare for adulthood with this four-part Life Hacks series for teens! Learn real-world money skills like budgeting, credit cards, money management, and more! Registration is required.
Encore Story Time
Fri, May 29, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for an encore performance of our regular Tuesday Story Time fun! No Registration Required.
Seniors with Attitude Group
Mon, Jun 01, 10:30am - 11:30am
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Join the Seniors with Attitude group for their monthly meeting. Linda Hubbartt, Senior Services Executive Director, will give a presentation on the offerings provided by Senior Services of Effingham.
Bridge Club
Mon, Jun 01, 12:30pm - 3:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Come join Bridge Club! Beginners are welcome, along with all levels of expertise. No Registration Required.
Cancelled
T1D Talks
Mon, Jun 01, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library
T1D Talks is a support group for those with Type 1 Diabetes and parents of children with T1D. We meet the first Monday of each month to share support, knowledge, and awareness. Registration required.
Monday Night Free Fit Club - With Amy Propst
Mon, Jun 01, 6:00pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Join us for a free community fitness class. These sessions are accessible for all fitness levels.
Story Time
Tue, Jun 02, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for stories, songs and lots of fun! No Registration Required.
Club Maverick
Tue, Jun 02, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Our cognitive program promises to offer socialization, reminiscing, fail-free games and music. No Registration Required.
Card Class - with Nancy
Tue, Jun 02, 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Come join Nancy at the Library as she guides you through the process of making a greeting card by hand. Nothing says "thoughtful gift" like something handmade.
Family Trivia Afternoon
Tue, Jun 02, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Join us for an afternoon of fun and friendly trivia! Test your knowledge with questions covering everything from Disney and history to song lyrics and more. Registration is required.
Anxiety/Mood Support Group
Tue, Jun 02, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room
This group offers a welcoming environment to discuss anxiety and mood and learn coping tools through shared experience and support. No Registration or Library Card Required
Full Steam Ahead! - With Ralph Rounds
Wed, Jun 03, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Get ready to put your taste buds to the test as we explore apples in this STEAM program!
This event is full
Illinois Creoles, French Canadians, & Louisiana Cajuns - Illinois a Continental Story with Dennis Stroughmatt
Wed, Jun 03, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Journey through Illinois Creole culture with stories, French traditions, and lively Creole Fiddle music, exploring the living ties between Canada, Illinois, and Louisiana. Registration Required
Local Writers Group
Wed, Jun 03, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room
Connect with fellow local authors to share your work, exchange feedback, and offer advice to one another. All book genres are welcome, including poetry. No registration required.
Board on a Thursday: Tween/Teen Edition
Thu, Jun 04, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Effingham Public Library
Bored on a Thursday afternoon? Join us for Board on a Thursday in the teen room! Play a variety of board games, make new friends, and cure your boredom! No registration required. Ages 10-18.
Fossil Detectives - with Douglas Hart Nature Center
Thu, Jun 04, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Join us for a prehistoric adventure filled with giant dinosaurs, fossil discoveries, and hands-on fun! Craft and live animal experience included! Registration Required.
Adulting 101 Series: Career Readiness - For Teens
Thu, Jun 04, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Prepare for adulthood with this four-part Life Hacks series for Teens! Explore career options while learning workplace expectations, job searching skills, and interview tips. Registration required.
Safe Sitter Class
Fri, Jun 05, 9:00am - 2:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Safe Sitter® prepares students in grades 6-8 to be safe when they’re home alone, watching younger siblings, or babysitting.
Encore Story Time
Fri, Jun 05, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for an encore performance of our regular Tuesday Story Time fun! No Registration Required.
Dungeons & Dragons Club - With DM Kat & DM Tony
Sat, Jun 06, 9:30am - 12:30pm
Effingham Public Library
Join Dungeon Master Kat & Dungeon Master Tony to learn and play Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition in a fun and welcoming environment! Registration Required.
This event is full
Chair Yoga
Sat, Jun 06, 10:00am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Join us for a relaxing chair yoga session. Registration required. Contact amanda@effinghamlibrary.org with questions.
Silly Fruit Bird Magnet Craft Kit - Take and Make Craft
Mon, Jun 08, All day
Effingham Public Library
Sign up to get a cute bird craft kit! Each apple- or orange-shaped bird includes everything needed to make an adorable magnet. Ages 5-9 Registration Required.
Bridge Club
Mon, Jun 08, 12:30pm - 3:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Come join Bridge Club! Beginners are welcome, along with all levels of expertise. No Registration Required.
Story Time
Tue, Jun 09, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for stories, songs and lots of fun! No Registration Required.
360 Creatives Group
Tue, Jun 09, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Bauer Room
Come with your favorite crafting project to work on any kind of art or crafting project while enjoying the company of others. From coloring to quilting, we want to see it all.
Anxiety/Mood Support Group
Tue, Jun 09, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room
This group offers a welcoming environment to discuss anxiety and mood and learn coping tools through shared experience and support. No Registration or Library Card Required
Paint with Rita
Wed, Jun 10, 10:00am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join Rita Feldhake for some painting fun! Ages 5-8 Registration Required.
Registration opens Wednesday, May 27 2026 at 8:00am
Paint with Rita
Wed, Jun 10, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join Rita Feldhake for some painting fun! Ages 9-12 Registration Required.
Registration opens Wednesday, May 27 2026 at 8:00am
Toddler Time
Thu, Jun 11, 9:30am - 10:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for toddler-friendly activities with rotating themes, such as Tot Dance, Busy Tot, Chef Tot, Tot Art, & Tot Fit. No Registration Required.
Board on a Thursday: Tween/Teen Edition
Thu, Jun 11, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Effingham Public Library
Bored on a Thursday afternoon? Join us for Board on a Thursday in the teen room! Play a variety of board games, make new friends, and cure your boredom! No registration required. Ages 10-18.
Ag in the Classroom
Thu, Jun 11, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join the Effingham County Farm Bureau for a fun Colors On Your Plate event! Registration Required.
Registration opens Thursday, May 28 2026 at 8:00am
Evening Tech Drop-In
Thu, Jun 11, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Bauer Room
New Evening Tech Help! Have a problem with your computer, cell phone, or other electronic device? Stop by to see Erich Metzelaars, IT Consultant to solve your tech issues! No Registration Required.
Book Sale
Fri, Jun 12, 9:00am - 2:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room,Workman Room
The book sale features new, lightly used and vintage books in a wide array of categories.
Encore Story Time
Fri, Jun 12, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for an encore performance of our regular Tuesday Story Time fun! No Registration Required.
Book Sale
Sat, Jun 13, 9:00am - 12:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room,Workman Room
The book sale features new, lightly used and vintage books in a wide array of categories.
Dungeons & Dragons Club - with DM Barry
Sat, Jun 13, 9:30am - 12:30pm
Effingham Public Library
Join Dungeon Master Barry to learn and play Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition in a fun and welcoming environment! Registration Required.
Registration is now closed
Daytime Book Discussion
Mon, Jun 15, 10:30am - 11:30am
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room
Join us for a book discussion about the book "A Painted House" by John Grisham. Contact lisa@effinghamlibrary.org with questions. No Registration Required.
Bridge Club
Mon, Jun 15, 12:30pm - 3:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Come join Bridge Club! Beginners are welcome, along with all levels of expertise. No Registration Required.
Monday Night Free Fit Club - With Amy Propst
Mon, Jun 15, 6:00pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Join us for a free community fitness class. These sessions are accessible for all fitness levels.
Stars, Stripes, and Story Time - with The Daughters of the American Revolution
Tue, Jun 16, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for stories, songs and lots of fun with The Daughters of the American Revolution to celebrate America's 250th Birthday! No Registration Required.
Grandparents Raising Granchildren Support Group
Tue, Jun 16, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
A supportive group for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. Share experiences, find encouragement, and connect with others who understand the unique joys and challenges of this role.
Create Your Own Constitution - with The Daughters of The American Revolution
Tue, Jun 16, 3:00pm - 3:45pm
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join The Daughters of The American Revolution for a fun and interactive program celebrating America 250 and a chance to create a Constitution of your own! Registration is required.
Registration opens Tuesday, June 2 2026 at 8:00am
Teen Advisory Board
Tue, Jun 16, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Effingham Public Library
Hey Teens, this is a great opportunity to gain leadership and volunteer experience, build your resume, make new friends, earn community service hours, learn new skills, and to make a difference.
Anxiety/Mood Support Group
Tue, Jun 16, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room
This group offers a welcoming environment to discuss anxiety and mood and learn coping tools through shared experience and support. No Registration or Library Card Required
Read to Therapy Dog: Sadie
Wed, Jun 17, 10:00am - 10:15am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Grab a book and enjoy some quiet time reading to therapy dog, Sadie. Ages 5-8 Registration Required
Registration opens Wednesday, June 3 2026 at 8:00am
Read to Therapy Dog: Sadie
Wed, Jun 17, 10:15am - 10:30am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Grab a book and enjoy some quiet time reading to therapy dog, Sadie. Ages 5-8 Registration Required
Registration opens Wednesday, June 3 2026 at 8:00am
Read to Therapy Dog: Sadie
Wed, Jun 17, 10:30am - 10:45am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Grab a book and enjoy some quiet time reading to therapy dog, Sadie. Ages 5-8 Registration Required
Registration opens Wednesday, June 3 2026 at 8:00am
Read to Therapy Dog: Sadie
Wed, Jun 17, 10:45am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Grab a book and enjoy some quiet time reading to therapy dog, Sadie. Ages 5-8 Registration Required
Registration opens Wednesday, June 3 2026 at 8:00am
The Power of Song in Democracy - With Chris Vallillo
Wed, Jun 17, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
A celebration of our country's 250th anniversary. A folk musician with American roots, Chris explores how music was used as a political and social tool throughout the history of our nation.
Murders and Mysteries Book Club
Wed, Jun 17, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room
Join us a book discussion about "The Bone Collector" by Jeffrey Deaver.
Board on a Thursday: Tween/Teen Edition
Thu, Jun 18, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Effingham Public Library
Bored on a Thursday afternoon? Join us for Board on a Thursday in the teen room! Play a variety of board games, make new friends, and cure your boredom! No registration required. Ages 10-18.
Bad Art Night - with the Teen Advisory Board
Thu, Jun 18, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Join the Teen Advisory Board in creating some bad art! Have some fun being creative without the pressures of making something beautiful. It’ll be a great chance to make some new friends!
Registration opens Thursday, June 4 2026 at 8:00am
Adulting 101 Series: Mental Health & Emotional Skills - For Teens
Thu, Jun 18, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Prepare for adulthood with this four-part Life Hacks series for teens! Learn how to manage stress, understand emotions, find support, and build confidence. Registration required.
Registration opens Thursday, June 4 2026 at 8:00am
Dungeons & Dragons Club - With DM Kat & DM Tony
Sat, Jun 20, 9:30am - 12:30pm
Effingham Public Library
Join Dungeon Master Kat & Dungeon Master Tony to learn and play Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition in a fun and welcoming environment! Registration Required.
This event is full
Cancelled
Chair Pilates
Sat, Jun 20, 10:00am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library
Join us for a relaxing Chair Pilates session with Karie. Registration required. Contact amanda@effinghamlibrary.org with questions.
Donuts with Dad
Sat, Jun 20, 10:00am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Whether it’s Dad, Grandpa, or a special grown-up join us for donuts, milk, and juice, then stick around to enjoy simple crafts and games Registration Required for Dad and Kids.
Registration opens Saturday, June 6 2026 at 8:00am
Bridge Club
Mon, Jun 22, 12:30pm - 3:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Come join Bridge Club! Beginners are welcome, along with all levels of expertise. No Registration Required.
DIY Hangout
Mon, Jun 22, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Teen Room
Join us for crafts and snacks. This session is for our Teens! We’ll be making Lego Succulents, friendship bracelets, and Pipe Cleaner Pals. Snacks will be provided. Ages 11-16. Registration required
Monday Night Free Fit Club - With Amy Propst
Mon, Jun 22, 6:00pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Join us for a free community fitness class. These sessions are accessible for all fitness levels.
Story Time
Tue, Jun 23, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for stories, songs and lots of fun! No Registration Required.
Anxiety/Mood Support Group
Tue, Jun 23, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room
This group offers a welcoming environment to discuss anxiety and mood and learn coping tools through shared experience and support. No Registration or Library Card Required
HSHS St. Anthony's Parkinson's Disease Support Group
Wed, Jun 24, 12:30pm - 1:45pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Those with a Parkinson’s diagnosis, caregivers and anyone interested in learning more about this disease are welcome to attend.
LEGO Freeplay
Wed, Jun 24, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us at the library to delve into the world of LEGOs, by using your imagination to create independently or with others.
Toddler Time
Thu, Jun 25, 9:30am - 10:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for a toddler-friendly puppet show with Ms. Laura! No Registration Required.
Sculptures on the Avenues
Thu, Jun 25, 10:00am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - The Cafe
Join the Effingham Tourism Office for a guided, walking tour through downtown Effingham. Discover the stories behind the city’s public sculptures. Starts in the library cafe Registration Required
Board on a Thursday: Tween/Teen Edition
Thu, Jun 25, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Effingham Public Library
Bored on a Thursday afternoon? Join us for Board on a Thursday in the teen room! Play a variety of board games, make new friends, and cure your boredom! No registration required. Ages 10-18.
American Flag Discovery - with Krista and Aaron Mette
Thu, Jun 25, 4:00pm - 4:45pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Join us for a fun and engaging program as we explore the story and meaning behind the United States flag. Registration Required.
Registration opens Thursday, June 11 2026 at 8:00am
Adulting 101 Series: Social Skills & Decision Making - For Teens
Thu, Jun 25, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Prepare for adulthood with this four-part Life Hacks series for teens! Learn communication skills, resolve conflicts, set goals, and handle peer pressure. Registration is required.
Registration opens Thursday, June 11 2026 at 8:00am
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