Once upon a time, there was a library director named Timothy Jarzemsky. When his Bloomingdale Library, 101 Fairfield Way, was filled with people eager to read and learn, he was happy.

One day, Jarzemsky decided to offer free tutoring services. He knew the constraints of commercial tutoring so he talked to his friend, Dr. John Butts, superintendent of Lake Park High School. They chatted with Christine Ward, Lake Park’s National Honor Society advisor. The trio created a win-win situation.

“Students need a community-based volunteering activity to fulfill certain NHS requirements,” Jarzemsky said. “Lake Park NHS juniors and seniors have agreed to volunteer to help other students with just about any homework assignment in a safe and supervised environment — the Bloomingdale Library.”

From 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, students through 10th grade can receive free assistance from a Homework Helper. Parents of children under age 8 must remain in the library. For details, call (630) 924-2740.

Congratulations to Jarzemsky, Butts and Ward for this true-life tale that ends in “happily ever after.”

Another bookworm tale
Students at the Glenbard high schools are collecting gently used books for Carol Stream Rotary Club’s Bookworm Angels project. The books will be donated to Chicago Public Schools. To share the gift of literacy, drop off books at any Glenbard school through Friday, Oct. 24. For information, call (630) 469-9100.

It’s tea time
The Carol Stream Historical Society is hosting its annual tea from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at the Historic Farmhouse on Lies Road, west of Gary Avenue.
“’Remember When — Memories’ is our theme this year,” said Society member, Barbara O’Rahilly.
Attendees are asked to show a small antique memento and share its special meaning. Tickets are $15 each. For reservations, call (630) 665-0686.

Civic-mindedness
Citizenship is the theme of this year’s Bloomingdale Character Counts Celebration, to occur at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 21, in Old Town Park, 111 Third St. The celebration applauds community efforts to develop strong character in youth.
A highlight of the event is presidential voting — among young and old alike. After revealing the (unofficial) election results, Randy Sater will lead everyone in the Character Counts Shuffle. For information, call (630) 529-3120.

Trivia night at St. Walter’s
Gather 10 smart friends and compete in Trivia Night, to be held at 7 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 25, at St. Walter’s School, 130 W. Pine St., Roselle.
The entry fee is $100 per team. Proceeds benefit the school. There’s a cash prize for the winning team. For details, call (630) 529-1721.