Eureka Library getting hands-on with tech and gardening classes

By Holly Eaton for Chronicle Media

Eureka Public Library will host a 3D Printer Open House on June 27. Visitors will see how the library’s new 3D printer works, learn about the computer design programs and see examples of completed pieces.

Technically, there’s a lot happening this summer at Eureka Public Library, from 3D printing to interactive poetry.

Two classes remain in the University of Illinois Extension’s summer series, STEAM. Extension 4-H Youth Development Educator Alcha Corban will host free interactive workshops for fifth – seventh graders on June 24 and July 1, from 2 – 2:30 p.m. both days.

At the June workshop, visitors will create interactive poetry using the invention computer program, Makey Makey. In July, Corban will help participants make art with the use of paper circuits and LED lights. Both classes are limited to 15 students.

For adults, the library will host the U of I Extension Woodford County Master Gardeners, who will present a free program on hydrangeas.

The Tuesday, June 25 program begins at 6:30, and visitors will learn about growing and tips and find answers to the often-asked question, “Why doesn’t my hydrangea bloom?” in a program presented by McLean County Master Gardener Ellen Culver.

“Hydrangeas are the flowers you grow in your landscape to make the neighbors envious,” said University of Illinois Extension Educator Kelly Allsup.

Hydrangeas come in many forms and colors and are easy to grow with the right placement and care. Hydrangeas prefer morning sun and afternoon shade. Hydrangeas need room to grow and should be pruned at the correct time depending on the species.

Hydrangeas do not do well during drought and require at least two inches of rain or supplemental watering to stay happy.

Hydrangeas are a popular and color addition to home gardens but experts will speak at the Eureka Library on growing and caring for them.

“There is a hydrangea (or two) for every garden,” said Culver.

For those who are more tech inclined, the library recently purchased an Eris 3D printer and will host two open houses to show visitors how the printer works, the computer programs involved in 3D printing, and examples of printed pieces.

The first open house is June 27 from 5 – 8 p.m. A teens-only 3D printer open house is set for July 1, from 6 – 8 p.m. Registration is not required for either night.

The next monthly Writer’s Circle is June 20 at 6:30 p.m., and library staff also are encouraging photography through the library’s Summer Reading 2019 Photo Contest. Readers have until July 22 to snap a photo of a favorite reading spot and either email the photo to eurekaplinfo@gmail.com, or drop off a printed photo at the library. Winners be given a $15 Eureka Business Association gift check.

On July 20, 1969 Neil Armstrong took man’s first steps on the moon. The library is joining with the nation in honoring and celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing this summer

Eureka residents can join in a a Smithsonian Live Webcast, “Apollo 11 Anniversary Event” on Monday, July 15 at 3 p.m.

Additional July events include Baby Bookworms, Make & Take Cards Night, Celestial Pour Paintings and a Smithsonian Live Webcast, “Apollo 11 Anniversary Event.”

The Eureka Public Library will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing with a few programs in June and July. Learn about the history of the space race through images and video footage from the Apollo Program. (Photo courtesy of NASA)

Eureka Public Library will assist card holders with exploring the state this summer by being eligible for discounts at participating museums and cultural attractions throughout Illinois.

By joining the Explore More Illinois initiative, the library gave readers discounted access to such places as the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Museum in Springfield and the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Visit the library’s website, www.eurekapl.org and click on the Explore More Illinois Link to reserve free passes and discounts. Library card number and four-digit PIN are required.

An events schedule may be found on the library’s website and printed calendars are available at the library at 202 S. Main St. To register for an event, contact the library at 309-467-2922.