One Small Step, a groundbreaking initiative from StoryCorps, brings people together to talk across differences. The Library is proud to be one of several locations across the country offering this civic initiative. Starting in March, engage in a variety of activities designed to foster connection through listening and conversation.
Download the One Small Step Brochure, which highlights related events and activities:
One Small Step SUMMER
at Irish Times - Saturday, July 18, 6:30 p.m.
Members age 21 and older are invited to engage in one-on-one conversations at Irish Times in this workshop inspired by StoryCorps’ One Small Step initiative. Enjoy free appetizers and refreshments in the outdoor tent area while participating in a thoughtful, respectful conversation with a neighbor, guided by trained facilitators and conversation prompts. Adult beverages will be available for purchase. Space is limited, registration is required.
Shadow a Legislator Teen Video Contest Winner
Click here to see the winner drawn by Illinois State Representative Abdelnasser Rashid on Saturday, April 25.
Community Questions Board Online and In Person
Respond to monthly questions located on the 1st and 2nd floors of the Library and online. Answers will be displayed online and at the Library. To see this month's question and submit a response online, visit the Community Questions Board webpage.
Join the National Conversation
One Small Step brings people with different views together to a record a 50-minute conversation, not to debate politics, but simply to get to know each other as people. All recorded conversations are stored in the StoryCorps archive and in the Library of Congress for posterity.
Interested in having a One Small Step conversation? Register today to get matched with a conversation partner at takeonesmallstep.org.
Civic Action Lab
In concert with the One Small Step initiative and in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States of America, the Library will be offering a civics education series throughout 2026, including conversation events, special speakers, documentaries and films, and more. Click one of the Civic Action Lab activities below to learn more and register.
- Teen Movie Club: Hamilton Sing-Along - Wednesday, July 1, 2 - 5 p.m.
- Teen Thursday Trivia: America 250 - Thursday, July 2, 3:30 p.m.
- Reel Independence: The Spirit of 1776 in Classic Hollywood - Monday, July 13, 7 p.m.
- Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a presentation on classic films set during the American Revolution, ranging from the historically faithful to the boldly romanticized.
- Abraham Lincoln and the Common Solider - Monday, July 27, 7 p.m.
- Historian Robert I. Girardi explores the unique, heartfelt bond between Lincoln and the Union troops.
- Benjamin Franklin: The Kite, the Key, and Other Tales - Monday, August 10, 7 p.m.
- A lively portrayal of Benjamin Franklin through the eyes of his son William, blending history, conflict, and music.
- Leslie Goddard Presents Eleanor Roosevelt - Monday, August 24, 7 p.m.
- Leslie Goddard portrays Eleanor Roosevelt in this living history presentation.
- Teen Wish Wall Creation with PIZZA! - Wednesday, August 26, 4 p.m.
- Create a wish wall by writing your wishes for the future of the country and enjoy free pizza with friends. Earn 1 volunteer hour.