So Long, Sparkles: Minooka Library Turtle to Get New Home

The Minooka library is getting ready to say goodbye to a good pal.

Sparkles the turtle, a longtime resident of the Minooka branch of the Three Rivers Public Library District, will move to a new home at the Stickney-Forest View Public Library later this month.

To celebrate Sparkles' time at the Three Rivers Public Library District, the Minooka branch, 109 Wabena Ave., will host a farewell open house for the turtle from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, May 4.

Estimated to be approximately 16 years old, the female red-eared slider has resided in the Youth Services Department since 2001, and has been a popular feature of the library for visitors young and old. 

Unfortunately, Sparkles has continued to grow beyond the limits of her current habitat, and the library decided that there is not enough space to expand her tank. 

“We are thrilled to have found Sparkles a home at another public library where she will still be able to be enjoyed by children and their families," Library Director Lauren Offerman said. "This was not an easy decision, but we have to do what is best for Sparkles."

Patrons can drop in at any time during the May 4 party to have a party and wish Sparkles well in her new home. She'll become the library turtle at Stickney-Forest View Public Library District,  6800 W. 43rd St. in Stickney.