Robot Invasion
FIRST robotics is taking over the library Saturday, May 31, from 12:30 to 4:30pm! The robots have a puzzle for you: can you crack the BINARY code to release the key to the treasure? Explore the world of FIRST robotics and what it has to offer. Try your hand at programming, or maybe driving is more your speed. Maybe design and build is where it’s at? Check it all out and decide for yourself. Local area FIRST teams will be on hand to answer all these questions and more!

Level Up at Your Library: Summer Reading Fun for Everyone
Play is one of the ways we learn to relate to others, to think in new ways, and to foster friendships, new and old. “Level Up at Your Library” is this year’s all-ages summer reading program based around puzzles and games. Whether you’re playing with STEM concepts, learning to play an RPG, or how to code video games, Level Up at Your Library reminds us that libraries are not just a space for knowledge, they are a space for fun!

From June 2 through July 31, kids, teens, and adults can earn badges and prizes for reading materials from FDL and for attending library events. Engaging programs for all ages are scheduled throughout the summer, such as building your own board game, game-related crafts, an escape room, and more! We’ll also have family favorites like story times and movie matinees, as well as a lineup of exciting presenters to share animals, music, science, and fun! 

Participants earn a variety of fun incentives for their achievements, and everyone who finishes the challenge is entered into raffles for stellar prizes, including games, gift cards, packages from local businesses, and more! Aside from all the fun, summer reading is especially important for students to prevent the “summer slide” so they don’t fall behind when returning to school in August. Readers can register and track their progress online at fondulaclibrary.beanstack.org, on-the-go with the Beanstack app, or on a reading log from the library. Visit fondulaclibrary.org for event registration and details, and follow FDL on social media for more updates and summer surprises!

Music in the Park
The library is proud to announce the return of its Music in the Park series on the first and third Thursdays, June through August, from 6:30 to 7:30pm. The community is invited to enjoy a wide variety of live music.  

Hosted in Levee Park on the outdoor stage, attendees are encouraged to support nearby restaurants and businesses and bring dinner or snacks to the event. Lawn chairs and blankets are also encouraged. Adult Services Manager and event coordinator Laura Warren-Roberts says, “The library is excited for the return of this series and to provide an opportunity to enjoy local musicians in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.”

With all featured acts based in central Illinois, the 2025 lineup includes: 

June 5: Emily the Band (indie alt-pop anthems)

June 19: Dennis Glavin (acoustic)

July 3: Black Velvet (pop & rock)

July 17: James Herr Trio (classic songwriters tribute)

August 7: Goodnight Gracie (alt-rock, pop, blues, & more)

August 21: Now and Zen (classic & contemporary hits)

For more information about events, materials, or services, please visit fondulaclibrary.org, or call us at (309) 699-3917.