April is National Financial Literacy Month. There are several programs scheduled at branches throughout the city, and the IL State Treasurer’s Office has resources for different age groups as well as the disabled community.
Events
See events highlighted below, and view all events here.
Financial Workshops by Ronald Lawless from the Association of Financial Educators
These workshops will be presented by Ronald Lawless on behalf of the Association of Financial Educators at locations throughout the city.
Escape Debt Prison
In today's society, many Americans find themselves burdened by debt due to societal pressures and expectations. Living with debt can lead to stress and anxiety, but it's possible to take control of your financial situation. This workshop by Ronald Lawless will offer practical strategies to help you manage and reduce debt, empowering you to regain financial freedom.
Financial Planning Basics
Dive into the heart of financial freedom with our interactive workshop designed to guide you through the essential steps of the financial planning process. From setting realistic financial goals to crafting a personalized investment strategy, this workshop covers the fundamentals of savings, investments, and risk management. Engage in practical exercises, gain expert insights, and leave with a clear action plan to navigate your financial journey towards stability and prosperity.
Pensions, 401(k)s, and IRAs
If you would like to learn more about 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions, please attend this workshop where Mr. Ronald Lawless from the Association of Financial Educators will explain the differences between these retirement options and will discuss the benefits and tax implications of each. The presentation will address the Social Security Fairness Act, the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), and the Government Pension Offset (GPO).
Small Business Administration (SBA) Presents: Financial Literacy for Small Business Owners
4/14 Harold Washington Library Center at 10:00am
4/28 Sulzer Regional at 1:00pm
Whether you are a new business owner, are thinking about starting a small business, or have an existing one you’d like to improve, join the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and its resource partners for this session which will cover:
- The importance of managing your personal finances, including improving your credit score. This matters especially if you are looking to secure financing for your business.
- Financial terminology and an overview of the financial documents necessary for a successful business.
- Understanding your business cash flow and why you need to know your numbers.
- Counseling and funding resources available through the SBA
- Where/how to apply for small business loans
Credit Counseling Service of Northern Illinois series at Douglass
These programs all take place at the Douglass Library and are presented by Josúe Fernandez on behalf of the Credit Counseling Service of Northern Illinois.
Budgeting for Beginners: 4/8 at 6:30pm
This presentation covers the basics of budgeting.
Financial Wellness for Mental Health: 4/15 at 6:30pm
Learn about the connections between finances and mental wellness.
Savings and Investing Basics: 4/22 at 6:30pm
This presentation introduces the basics of investing.
Retirement Challenges: 4/29 at 6:30pm
Learn about budgeting during retirement.
Suggested Resources
FinWell Hub for Teens & Adults by the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office
The Illinois Financial Wellness Hub (FinWell Hub) is an online platform with dynamic tools and courses that provides free personal finance resources to all Illinois residents. FinWell Hub resources are available on-demand via internet browser on your computer or mobile device – no need to download an app.
Recommended Reading
Financial Literacy Books recommended by the BSTG department
Business and Money Online Resources
Check out these business and financial resources that you can access with your library card.
