The Pick Museum of Anthropology invites the public to the opening reception of its newest exhibition, Push Factors: Perspectives on Guatemalan Migration, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Jan. 28 in Cole Hall, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb.

Jan. 25-26 

10 a.m. 

Dynamic Cover Letter Workshop 

Goodwill industries, 1037 S. Anne Glidden Road, DeKalb 

Free 

Cover letters are usually the first thing prospective employers look at before reviewing resumes. Learn steps to writing and formatting an effective, concise and convincing cover letter. View different styles and formats that highlight job qualifications. For general inquiries email chamber@dekalb.org.

Jan. 26 

Story Time 

10 a.m. 

Sycamore Public Library, 103 E. State St., Sycamore 

Free 

Conversation and activities are planned to encourage the development of early social and literacy skills for independent children 3-6 years old.

Jan. 28 and Feb. 4 

STEM from a Galaxy Far, Far Away 

9 a.m.-noon 

Northern Illinois University STEM Classroom, Swen Parson Hall 146, DeKalb 

$60 

Students will learn all about the science of Star Wars as they create their own handheld “hologram projectors,” explore the science behind The Force, and even build their own working light sabers. Suggested for children 7 and older. This is a two-part course. Both will take place at the same time and location. Register and get more information at niusteamworks.com or (815) 753-1272.

Jan. 28 

Exhibit Opening and Reception for Push Factors: Perspectives on Guatemalan Migration 

11 a.m.-2 p.m. 

Cole Hall, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb 

Free 

The Pick Museum of Anthropology invites the public to the opening reception of its newest exhibition, Push Factors: Perspectives on Guatemalan Migration. The reception will include marimba music and Guatemalan cuisine. Push Factors is designed to be a starting point for community dialogue on migration issues prevalent in popular discourse today. Photographs depicting life in Guatemala following the country’s 36-year civil war highlight how circumstances led to mass migration. The exhibit, which will be on display until May, also incorporates contemporary Guatemalan textiles, scenes of Maya spirituality and ritual preparation for migration, and documentary video of K’iche Maya weavers as they contend with global markets. For more information, visit the museum’s website, www.niu.edu/anthro_museum.

Jan. 30 

How to File Your Taxes on Your Own 

11 a.m. 

Goodwill industries, 1037 S. Anne Glidden Road, DeKalb 

Free 

Bring your tax documents and learn how to file your federal and state taxes free of charge on your own. Staff will walk you through the My Free Taxes website. You must bring: All W2s, 1099s, Social Security information for everyone on the taxes, interest info, deductions or items you will claim on your taxes. Reservations are required. Contact Programs@goodwillni.org or call (815) 748-7155.

Jan. 31 

Harry Potter Half Birthday Party 

5 p.m. 

Sycamore Public Library, 103 E. State St., Sycamore 

Free 

Muggles and wizards alike are welcome to join in the Harry Potter fun in celebration of the famous wizard’s half birthday. Enjoy Harry Potter-themed snacks, trivia, crafts, games, photo booth and more. Wear your favorite Harry Potter costume. Get your picture taken with Hermione Granger. All ages welcome, no sign-up required.

Jan. 31 

Cabinets and Furniture Painting Techniques Class 

6:30-8:30 p.m. 

Urban Grace, 255 E. Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb 

$89 

Learn how milk paint will transform your kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities or furniture into historic reproductions. Call (815) 748-7115 or go to urbangraceathome.com for more information.

Jan. 31 

Mel Brooks Film Series 

7 p.m. 

Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. Second St., DeKalb 

$8 for adults; $6 for students and senior citizens 

“Young Frankenstein” is this week’s movie in the Mel Brooks Film Series that is being held on Tuesdays through Feb. 28. The film is an affectionate parody of the classic horror film genre, in particular the various film adaptations of Mary Shelley‘s novel, “Frankenstein,” from the 1930s.