It’s that time of year when many parents, including myself, start to feel the weight of back-to-school season. Every day brings another task: buy supplies, find activities, schedule haircuts, all while trying not to get buried under stress! Luckily, the Aurora Public Library District is ready to make that transition easier for everyone.
First, let’s tackle those school supply lists. APLD has compiled information about back-to-school events all over Aurora offering free school supplies, and we’re sharing those details on our social media pages and flyers in our Children’s Departments. The library is also offering multiple programs where kids can personalize items they’ll use in the classroom. “Back-to-school is an exciting time for many children!” said Library assistant Ratna. “We want to give them fun, creative ways to celebrate.” Teens can decorate notebooks, folders, and pencil cases from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11 at West Branch, 233 S Constitution Dr., Aurora and Monday, Aug. 17 at Santori Library, 101 S River St., Aurora. Ratna will lead a ‘Back-To-School Art Studio’ at the Santori Library from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2 where children ages six to 11 can make personalized pencil holders and bookmarks. All materials (including the school supplies) will be supplied by the library, removing that burden from the parents.
Next up, everyone needs to be looking and feeling their best, and that means a fresh haircut. The ‘New Start: Back to School & Job Readiness Fair’ from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16 is a one-stop fair designed to help students (and job seekers) start the season strong. “The public library is meant to be a great community equalizer!” said business services librarian Chris. “We want to balance the scales so that all our customers have the opportunity to succeed.” Free services include haircuts from Scum Lounge and other local stylists, along with professional headshots, and information about resources in the community. “This event has some of the biggest energy! I look forward to meeting new people and discussing how the library can help them,” he adds.
Now that our children are ready, what about some strategies to help U.S. manage it all? Parents and caregivers face our own challenges as everyone adjusts to new routines. At ‘Building Strong Family Communication’ from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 11, educator Ricardo Castro will share strategies on how to strengthen communication with our children and navigate challenges as they arise throughout the school year. Or if your child is feeling anxious about heading back to the classroom, our ‘Supporting Children with Back-to-School Anxiety’ program from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, presented by Erika Garcia, LCSW, MSW, from Family Counseling Services can offer helpful solutions. These programs provide practical tools and remind families that they are not alone.
I know that back-to-school season can feel overwhelming, but it’s also full of possibilities! APLD is helping families focus less on stress and more on excitement. We hope to see you at one of our upcoming events as we welcome a new school year together. Visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/events or contact the library at 630-264-4117 to learn more.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.