Blog

I’m Vanessa, the graphic designer here at Skokie Public Library. One of my responsibilities is to design the materials for our Summer Reading program, including various visual components, the reading log, and our exhibit space.

When we first started talking about possible themes for this year, I wasn’t a big fan of “Read to the Rhythm.” I thought it sounded a little corny. But when the librarians talked about the connection between rhythm and poetry, I started to get excited by the idea.

I realized that rhythm is ubiquitous: our footsteps, clocks ticking, kids jumping rope; breathing. Listening for this rhythm, recognizing it, hearing it, then, is really about paying attention. When we read, we learn to pay attention. And this, I think, is one of the greatest things that reading offers us: a way to be present in the world, to pay attention.

So when we imagined a fun, new way for patrons to think about rhythm, it was clear that we needed to create an aural experience. That is where the Sonic Wall came from. The exhibit—across from the stairs on our ground floor, with eight listening stations each with its own focus, like poetry or clapping or atypical rhythms—invites visitors to stop and listen. Through this exhibit, my hope is that the sights and sounds of Summer Reading inspire visitors of all ages to look up, listen, pay attention and read to the rhythm.

All of the selections you'll hear are available to check out!
Take a look at our playlists:

Weird and Uneven Tempos (includes complete listings for both the "Time and Time Again" and "Weirdo Tempo" exhibit stations)

Thump Bang Clap (includes complete listings for both the "Handmade Meter" and "Thump, Bump, Bang, Crack, Drum" exhibit stations)

The Versatile Voice (includes complete listings for the "Speaking the Beat," "Poetic Pulse," and "Vocal Variations" exhibit stations)

Childhood Cadence