Darien Library goes wild with Big Run program

Updated: May 10, 2012 12:04PM

Petting a porcupine is probably not the best idea but kids will enjoy touching Wilson, the friendly groundhog from Big Run Wolf Ranch in Lockport. John Basile, president of the nonprofit, federally-licensed educational program, will bring Lupey the porcupine, Wilson, Kirby the skunk, a coyote and a wolf to the Indian Prairie Public Library, 401 Plainfield Road, Darien, for hourlong programs at 6:30 and 7:45 p.m Friday, May 18.

“I bring each animal out, one at a time,” Basile said. “We talk about everything you’d want to know about a groundhog [and the other animals] — behavior, what they eat. Then I’ll take questions.”

Basile also will talk about Big Run Wolf Ranch, which is dedicated to educating the public about North American wildlife through outreach programs and open houses.

“About three-quarters of our animals are rescues,” he said.

Reservations are required.

For details, call (630) 887-8760, ext. 264, or visit indianprairielibrary.org.

Gone fishin’

There will be prizes for the largest catches, most catches and most unusual catches at the fishing derby for kids ages 5 to 14 from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 19, at Willow Pond, Plainfield Road and Adams Street, Willowbrook. Rods will be provided to the first 20 kids who register; others can bring their own equipment. Parents can assist. The cost is $5 for residents, $7 for nonresidents and includes bait, snacks, cold drinks and fishing tips.

For details, call (630) 323-8215 or visit willowbrookil.org.

Fun at the Ford

Music will fill the community room of the Thomas Ford Memorial Library, 800 Chestnut St., Western Springs, when Steve Justman plays Friday at the Ford from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 18. The singer/guitarist will perform country and folk songs.

For details, call (708) 246-0520 or visit fordlibrary.org.

Don’t wait to celebrate

Kids can start honoring their mothers early at the Everyone Has a Momma Storytime at the Oak Brook Barnes and Noble, 297 Oakbrook Center, at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 12. You’ll hear Toni Buzzeo’s Stay Close to Mama and Me and My Mom! by Alison Ritchie. A themed activity will follow.

For details, call (630) 684-0586 or visit barnesandnoble.com.

Such a deal!

Your children can do some serious shopping at bargain prices at the Kids’ Outdoor Flea Market from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 12, at the Veteran’s Memorial Pavilion in Fishel Park, Grove Street near Main Street, Downers Grove. Kids ages 6 to 13 will sell toys, sports equipment, games and collectibles.

For details, call (630) 963-1304 or visit dgparks.org.

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