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Preserving History with Geoffrey Baer

Live via Zoom
2026-10-20 19:00:00 2026-10-20 20:00:00 America/Chicago Preserving History with Geoffrey Baer Tag along for a special conversation with Geoffrey Baer, beloved Chicago historian, for an engaging look at the people, places, and stories that define Chicago. Registration is required. Zoom -

Tuesday, October 20
7:00pm - 8:00pm

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Tag along for a special conversation with Geoffrey Baer, beloved Chicago historian, for an engaging look at the people, places, and stories that define Chicago. Registration is required.

Tag along for a special conversation with Geoffrey Baer, beloved Chicago historian, storyteller, and host of numerous PBS programs exploring the architecture, history, and hidden stories of the city and surrounding region. Known for bringing local history to life, Baer has helped audiences connect more deeply with the places and communities around them.                                                                                                                                                                  

Perfect for librarians, archivists, educators, history lovers, and lifelong learners, this event offers an engaging look at the people, places, and stories that define Chicago. Whether you're passionate about local history or simply curious about the stories hidden in your own community, you'll leave with a renewed appreciation for the power of preserving and sharing the past.

Shermann "Dilla" Thomas, an Emmy Award-winning Chicago historian, cultural worker, and social media educator, will join Geoffrey in conversation. Known for making Chicago history accessible and engaging, Dilla has amassed more than 40 million views across social media and become a leading voice in telling the stories of the city he proudly calls home.

This event is made possible by Illinois Libraries Present (ILP), a statewide collaboration among public libraries offering premier events. ILP is funded in part by a grant awarded
by the Illinois State Library, a department of the Office of the Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). 

ILP is committed to inclusion and accessibility. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Closed Captioning are provided for all events by default—no special request needed. If a patron needs accommodations not listed, the member library should email illinoislibrariespresent@ila.org.

AGE GROUP: | 61+ | 19-60 |

EVENT TYPE: | Community Conversation |

TAGS: | Zoom | History | Chicago |

Effingham Public Library
Phone: 217-342-2464
Hours
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Mon, Sep 14 8:00AM to 7:00PM
Tue, Sep 15 8:00AM to 7:00PM
Wed, Sep 16 8:00AM to 7:00PM
Thu, Sep 17 8:00AM to 7:00PM
Fri, Sep 18 8:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, Sep 19 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Sun, Sep 20 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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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
A free community fitness class. These sessions are accessible for all fitness levels.
This event is full
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
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.
Tot Puppet - with Ms. Sara & Ms. Lisa
Thu, Sep 24, 9:30am - 10:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Enjoy a fun-filled puppet show made just for little ones with Ms. Sara & Ms. Lisa! 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.
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
Wandering Widows
Sat, Sep 26, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
The Wandering Widows is a group of women seeking a community of others who share common experiences and look for fun activities to do together. No Registration Required.
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
A free community fitness class. These sessions are accessible for all fitness levels.
This event is full
Story Time
Tue, Sep 29, 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, 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
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
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.
Medicare Class - with Emily Garrard
Thu, Oct 01, 11:00am - 11:45am
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.
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.
Encore Story Time
Fri, Oct 02, 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, Oct 03, 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, Oct 03, 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.
Seniors with Attitude Group
Mon, Oct 05, 10:30am - 11:30am
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Seniors with Attitude meets monthly for fellowship, laughter, and fun. Everyone who attends will have a chance to win a door prize!
Bridge Club
Mon, Oct 05, 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, Oct 05, 6:00pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
A free community fitness class. These sessions are accessible for all fitness levels.
Story Time
Tue, Oct 06, 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, Oct 06, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
To kick off our first month our cognitive program promises to offer socialization, reminiscing, fail-free games and music. We will play music bingo and offer prizes! No Registration Required.
Card Class - with Nancy
Tue, Oct 06, 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Get crafty with Nancy at the Library and learn how to create a handmade greeting card from start to finish. Nothing says “thoughtful gift” like something handmade.
Registration opens Tuesday, September 22 2026 at 8:00am
Anxiety/Mood Support Group
Tue, Oct 06, 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
Creepin' Through the Pages - Frights, Folds, and Fun
Wed, Oct 07, 10:30am - 11:30am
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Create a charming witch figure using old book pages, folding and shaping the paper into a unique handmade decoration. A fun and creative craft that gives forgotten book pages a magical new life.
Local Writers Group
Wed, Oct 07, 5:30pm - 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.
Busy Tot - With Ms. Sara
Thu, Oct 08, 9:30am - 10:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Toddler-friendly fun awaits with rotating themes like Tot Dance, Busy Tot, Tot Art, and Tot music. Each session offers opportunities for movement, creativity, and play. No Registration Required.
Evening Tech Drop-In
Thu, Oct 08, 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, Oct 09, 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.
DIY Hangout
Fri, Oct 09, 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Teen Room
Join us for crafts and snacks. This session is for our Teens! Snacks will be provided. Ages 11-16. Registration required
Clothing Swap - with Johanna Stice
Sat, Oct 10, 9:30am - 11:30am
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Refresh your closet without spending a dime! Bring gently used clothing you’re ready to part with and swap it for something new-to-you. Registration required.
Dungeons & Dragons Club - with DM Barry
Sat, Oct 10, 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
Cancelled
Chair Pilates - with Karie
Sat, Oct 10, 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.
Shuffle Class
Mon, Oct 12, 9:00am - 9:45am
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Get moving with us in our exciting new fitness class! This is a low impact cardio class that is choreographed to oldies music with some light arm exercises for muscle strength. Registration Required.
Read to Therapy Dog: Sadie
Mon, Oct 12, 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
Read to Therapy Dog: Sadie
Mon, Oct 12, 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
Read to Therapy Dog: Sadie
Mon, Oct 12, 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
Read to Therapy Dog: Sadie
Mon, Oct 12, 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
Bridge Club
Mon, Oct 12, 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, Oct 13, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for stories, songs and lots of fun! No Registration Required.
Mobile Justice Tour - with Land of Lincoln Legal Aid
Tue, Oct 13, 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.
360 Creatives Group
Tue, Oct 13, 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, Oct 13, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library
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, Oct 14, 10:00am - 11:30am
Effingham Public Library - Bauer 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.
Totally Untidy Sensory Play
Wed, Oct 14, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for squishy, mushy, messy fun at the library! We will have fall themed activities including pumpkin guts slime, apple sorting, corn bin, ear of corn painting, and pumpkin hammering.
The Haunted Page, Tricks & Tales for October Eves - With William Pack
Wed, Oct 14, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
Edgar Allan Poe, Ray Bradbury, M.R. James, and Shirley Jackson provide the inspiration for 60 minutes of spine-tingling bizarre magic, spell-binding stories and macabre humor. Registration Required
Sculptures on the Avenues
Fri, Oct 16, 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
Encore Story Time
Fri, Oct 16, 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.
Feel Good Friday - End your week with creativity and relaxation!
Fri, Oct 16, 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 Kat & DM Tony
Sat, Oct 17, 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
Book Signing - Mark Boggs
Sat, Oct 17, 11:30am - 12:30pm
Effingham Public Library - The Cafe
Meet the author of Faun’s Rite, a fantasy adventure about an unlikely young Faun chosen for a dangerous quest. Meet the author. Get your copy. Have it signed!
Daytime Book Discussion
Mon, Oct 19, 10:30am - 11:30am
Effingham Public Library - Luttrell Room
Bring your thoughts and questions about "A Man Called Ove" by Fredrik Backman for a lively book discussion with fellow readers. No registration required.
Bridge Club
Mon, Oct 19, 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, Oct 19, 6:00pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library - Workman Room
A free community fitness class. These sessions are accessible for all fitness levels.
Story Time
Tue, Oct 20, 10:30am - 11:00am
Effingham Public Library - Children's Programming Room
Join us for stories, songs and lots of fun! No Registration Required.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group
Tue, Oct 20, 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.
Caregiver Support Group
Tue, Oct 20, 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, Oct 20, 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, Oct 20, 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Effingham Public Library
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
Preserving History with Geoffrey Baer - Live via Zoom
Tue, Oct 20, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Zoom
Tag along for a special conversation with Geoffrey Baer, beloved Chicago historian, for an engaging look at the people, places, and stories that define Chicago. Registration is required.
Register
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