Illinois quick hits: Layoff announcements; Freedom Caucus criticizes library association
December 4, 2025/
Layoff announcements
According to the latest Illinois Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act notices, 1,138 employees across the state will be losing their jobs in the coming weeks, 714 of the job losses are in downtown Chicago, including 487 layoffs at Norvax, LLC.
Freedom Caucus criticizes library association
The Illinois Freedom Caucus says the selection of former Illinois Federation of Teachers President Dan Montgomery to lead the American Library Association is another example of how once venerable organizations have become become radicalized.
In a statement, the Freedom Caucus said the ALA “was already headed down a dark, drag queen-laden path,” and the appointment of Montgomery only cemented its radicalization.
The promotion of American libraries should be nonpartisan, the group said.
‘Sportiest’ park named
According to a survey by SportsBookReview.com, Montgomery, Elgin and Edwardsville are home to Illinois’ sportiest parks.
Stuart Sports Complex in Montgomery topped the list, followed by Elgin Sports Complex and Plummer Family Park in Edwardsville.
Community Events
TuesdayDecember 9, 2025
WednesdayDecember 10, 2025
Pajama Storytime with Santa (Session #1)12:30 amPajama Storytime with Santa (Session #2)1:00 amPajama Storytime with Santa (Session #3)3:30 pm(Ages 0-2): Baby Storytime4:30 pm(Ages 0-2): Baby Storytime10:00 pmHigh School: Winter Reindeer Decoration10:15 pm(Gr. 3rd-5th) Bluestem Book Club - "Nell of Gumbling"
ThursdayDecember 11, 2025
12:30 amClassroom Kitchen with Chef Kristyn - Virtual Program4:00 pmChildren's Finger Painting4:30 pmChildren's Finger Painting5:15 pmPilates - In Person with Nancy Richmond - MCPLD card holder priority6:30 pmOpen MahJong9:00 pmFamily History Exploration: A One-on-One Taster Session9:30 pm(Gr. 4th-8th): After School Bingo
FridayDecember 12, 2025
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