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Image for event: Leon Gobczynski: Shooting with Stars

Leon Gobczynski: Shooting with Stars

Book Signing
2026-10-01 17:00:00 2026-10-01 19:00:00 America/Chicago Leon Gobczynski: Shooting with Stars We invite you to attend as Leon Gobczynski shares his memoir and experiences of an impressive basketball journey. No Registration Required. Effingham Public Library - The Cafe

Thursday, October 01
5:00pm - 7:00pm

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We invite you to attend as Leon Gobczynski shares his memoir and experiences of an impressive basketball journey. No Registration Required.

From the driveways of Teutopolis to the professional courts of Europe—witness the incredible journey of a basketball legend.

In Leon's Memoir: Shooting for Stars, Leon F. Gobczynski provides a raw and authentic look at a nineteen-year basketball odyssey that took him from a high school late-bloomer to a national champion in France. This isn't just a book about sports; it is a masterclass in the "Gobczynski Determination"—the steely resolve to believe in yourself when others doubt your potential.

Inside this memoir, you’ll discover:

The Making of a Scorer: Follow Leon through the formative "Wooden Bootie" years in junior high to his record-shattering senior year at Millikin University, where he became the second-leading scorer in the nation.

The Professional Frontier: Experience the grit of the MacGregor All-Stars tour and the high-stakes world of European professional basketball across Switzerland, France, and Belgium.

Life Beyond the Paint: A heartwarming account of a life shared with his partner, Rebecca, and the cultural immersions—from French cuisine to navigating the Swiss Alps—that shaped him into the man he is today.

The Elite Arena: Behind-the-scenes stories from NBA tryouts with the Houston Rockets and competing against legends like Moses Malone and Jack Sikma.

 
Whether you are an aspiring athlete, a lifelong basketball fan, or someone who loves a story of relentless perseverance, Leon’s voyage offers proof that even the most painful truths and "burns" can become the path toward your own "Second Service."

"To live dreams, you first must imagine them."

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

EVENT TYPE: | Book Discussion |

TAGS: | Basketball | #Local Authors |

Effingham Public Library
Phone: 217-342-2464
Hours
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Mon, Aug 31 8:00AM to 7:00PM
Tue, Sep 01 8:00AM to 7:00PM
Wed, Sep 02 8:00AM to 7:00PM
Thu, Sep 03 8:00AM to 7:00PM
Fri, Sep 04 8:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, Sep 05 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Sun, Sep 06 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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Club Maverick
Tue, Sep 01, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
For anyone facing Cognitive Impairment such as Dementia, Alzheimer's or Parkinson's or other neurological disorders AND their Care Partner looking for socialization, reminiscing, and connection
Card Class - with Nancy
Tue, Sep 01, 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.
This event is full
Anxiety/Mood Support Group
Tue, Sep 01, 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
Medicare Class - with Emily Garrard
Wed, Sep 02, 11:00am - 11:45am
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Learn what choices you have with Medicare! Emily will discuss Medicare parts A and B, Medicare supplemental coverage, delaying Medicare benefits, and Medicare eligibility. Registration Required.
Full Steam Ahead! - with Ralph Rounds
Wed, Sep 02, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Blast off into a fun STEAM adventure! Children will design and decorate their own rockets, then will participate in an exciting launch. Registration Required.
This event is full
Local Writers Group
Wed, Sep 02, 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.
Encore Story Time
Fri, Sep 04, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
This is an encore performance of our regular Tuesday Story Time fun! No Registration Required.
Dungeons & Dragons Club - With DM Kat & DM Tony
Sat, Sep 05, 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, Sep 05, 10:00am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Relax, stretch, and recharge with a gentle chair yoga session suitable for all ability levels. No experience necessary. Registration required. Contact amanda@effinghamlibrary.org with questions.
360 Creatives Group
Tue, Sep 08, 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, Sep 08, 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
360 Creatives Group AM
Wed, Sep 09, 10:00am - 11:30am
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Prefer crafting in the morning? We now offer an A.M. option! Bring along any art or craft project you’re working on and enjoy a relaxed morning creating alongside others.
Mobile Justice Tour - with Land of Lincoln Legal Aid
Wed, Sep 09, 2:00pm - 4:30pm
Mobile Unit in Library's parking lot
Visit the Land of Lincoln Legal Aid in their legal aid van that travels across central and southern Illinois, bringing free civil legal services directly to the communities that need them most.
Read to Therapy Dog: Sadie
Wed, Sep 09, 4:00pm - 4:15pm
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
Read to Therapy Dog: Sadie
Wed, Sep 09, 4:15pm - 4:30pm
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
Read to Therapy Dog: Sadie
Wed, Sep 09, 4:30pm - 4:45pm
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
Read to Therapy Dog: Sadie
Wed, Sep 09, 4:45pm - 5:00pm
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
Toddler Time
Thu, Sep 10, 9:30am - 10:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Celebrate the outdoors with an interactive play session full of bubbles, sensory and gross motor fun. It's the perfect way to explore, create, and make new friends! No Registration Required.
Evening Tech Drop-In
Thu, Sep 10, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Bauer Room
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.
Encore Story Time
Fri, Sep 11, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
This is an encore performance of our regular Tuesday Story Time fun! No Registration Required.
Dungeons & Dragons Club - with DM Barry
Sat, Sep 12, 9:30am - 12:00pm
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
Cancelled
Chair Pilates - with Karie
Sat, Sep 12, 10:00am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library
Chair Pilates sessions focus on stabilizing and strengthening the core - the body's powerhouse. All postures and movements are done with the support of a chair.  Registration required.
Seniors with Attitude Group
Mon, Sep 14, 10:30am - 11:30am
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Catch up with the Seniors with Attitude group at their monthly hangout where any senior is welcome! Everyone grabs a chance to win a door prize, and no registration is required.
Bridge Club
Mon, Sep 14, 12:30pm - 3:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Learn, play, and have fun at Bridge Club! From first-time players to seasoned experts, everyone is welcome to join in. No Registration Required.
DAR Story Time - with The Daughters of The American Revolution
Tue, Sep 15, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Explore fun stories about America, sing songs, and enjoy a craft with the DAR! No Registration Required.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group
Tue, Sep 15, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell 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.
Caregiver Support Group
Tue, Sep 15, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room
A support group offering caregivers a safe space to share, listen, and connect with others who understand caregiving challenges.
Teen Advisory Board
Tue, Sep 15, 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, Sep 15, 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
Playdoh Playtime - Meeting new friends while expressing creativity
Wed, Sep 16, 10:30am - 11:30am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Young children and their caregivers can meet new friends while expressing their creativity through hands-on Play-Doh fun. No Registration Required.
Medicare Class - with Emily Garrard
Wed, Sep 16, 5:30pm - 6:15pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Learn what choices you have with Medicare! We will discuss Medicare parts A and B, Medicare supplemental coverage, delaying Medicare benefits, and Medicare eligibility. Registration Required.
Murders and Mysteries Book Club
Wed, Sep 16, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room
Unravel the twists of Ashley Elston's hit thriller, Anatomy of an Alibi, at our upcoming book discussion.
Inside the Empire of AI with Karen Hao - Live via Zoom
Thu, Sep 17, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Zoom
Whether you’re excited about AI, cautious about it, or just trying to understand the hype, this event offers a look at one of today’s biggest technological shifts. Registration is required.
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Book sale
Fri, Sep 18, 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, Sep 18, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
This is an encore performance of our regular Tuesday Story Time fun! No Registration Required.
Book sale
Sat, Sep 19, 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 Kat & DM Tony
Sat, Sep 19, 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
Daytime Book Discussion
Mon, Sep 21, 10:30am - 11:30am
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room
Connect with local book lovers this week as we discuss the book "The Correspondent" by Virginia Evans. No registration required. Contact lisa@effinghamlibrary.org with questions.
Bridge Club
Mon, Sep 21, 12:30pm - 3:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Learn, play, and have fun at Bridge Club! From first-time players to seasoned experts, everyone is welcome to join in. No Registration Required.
Monday Night Free Fit Club - With Amy Propst
Mon, Sep 21, 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.
Homeschool Program
Tue, Sep 22, 10:00am - 11:30am
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Attention Homeschoolers! Be part of a new homeschool series! This month, we will create scrapbook pages! Please bring photos! Registration Required
This event is full
Special Fall Story Time - with Birth to Five Illinois
Tue, Sep 22, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Explore fall stories about apples and pumpkins, sing songs, and enjoy a craft with Selina from Birth to Five Illinois! No Registration Required.
Anxiety/Mood Support Group
Tue, Sep 22, 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
LEGO Freeplay
Wed, Sep 23, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Explore the world of LEGOs at the library, using your imagination to create independently or with others. No Registration Required.
Manhattan Short
Thu, Sep 24, 3:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Experience an in person, one day showing of MANHATTAN SHORT's 29th Annual Film Festival. Watch, and participate in this global event! Join us when you can-late arrivals are always welcome.
Encore Story Time
Fri, Sep 25, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
This is an encore performance of our regular Tuesday Story Time fun! No Registration Required.
Feel Good Friday: De-Stress Studio - End your week with creativity and relaxation!
Fri, Sep 25, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
End your week with creativity, relaxation, and a chance to recharge! Play-Doh takes center stage as a fun, hands-on way to unwind and express your creativity. Age 5-12
Dungeons & Dragons Club - with DM Barry
Sat, Sep 26, 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
Bridge Club
Mon, Sep 28, 12:30pm - 3:30pm
Effingham Public Library
Learn, play, and have fun at Bridge Club! From first-time players to seasoned experts, everyone is welcome to join in. No Registration Required.
Pokémon Club
Mon, Sep 28, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Bring your cards and hangout with other Pokémon fans! We will meet on the last Thursday every other month! Registration is required.
Monday Night Free Fit Club - With Amy Propst
Mon, Sep 28, 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.
This event is full
Teen Life Skills
Tue, Sep 29, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
A supportive, inclusive program that helps teens, including those with disabilities, develop confidence and everyday skills through engaging, accessible activities, preparing them for adulthood.
Registration is now closed
Anxiety/Mood Support Group
Tue, Sep 29, 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, Sep 30, 12:30pm - 1:45pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
This group supports individuals with Parkinson’s, caregivers, and anyone learning about the disease. Meet others to share experiences, find local resources, and discover practical daily coping tips.
Leon Gobczynski: Shooting with Stars - Book Signing
Thu, Oct 01, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Effingham Public Library - The Cafe
We invite you to attend as Leon Gobczynski shares his memoir and experiences of an impressive basketball journey. No Registration Required.
Family Bingo
Thu, Oct 01, 5:15pm - 6:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Enjoy a fun afternoon of Bingo with plenty of chances to win great prizes! This all-ages event is perfect for friends and families to enjoy together. Registration is required.
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