Libraries


BARRINGTON AREA LIBRARY

The Barrington Area Library is located at 505 N. Northwest Hwy. in Barrington. Open seven days a week, the recently renovated library offers a museum-quality interactive children’s department, free Wi-Fi, a variety of computers for in-library use, dozens of online research services, plenty of space to work, study, read and relax, along with hundreds of thousands of books, movies, CDs and magazines for checkout. Visitors may enjoy technology and craft workshops, live concerts and theatrical performances, art exhibits, and lectures on a wide variety of topics.

In addition, Barrington Area Library cardholders may reserve public meeting and study rooms; use the MakerLab and digital studios; download free e-books, audiobooks, music and magazines; stream free movies; take free online courses; and use the library’s automated pick-up lockers. Library materials may be returned at the main branch and at dropbox locations around the community. For more information, visit balibrary.org.

ELA AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT

The Ela Area Public Library District is one of the few libraries in the Chicago area with no overdue fines. Serving residents in Lake Zurich, Hawthorn Woods, Kildeer and surrounding communities, the award-winning library connects thousands of visitors each year to information, ideas and experiences.

Along with providing educational opportunities, the library is committed to improving lives in the community. The state-of-the-art facility features dynamic, high-tech spaces for adults, children and teens; collaborative work areas; and a makerspace equipped with a 3D printer, scanner, sewing and crafting machines and various electronics and Silhouette Cameo Vinyl Cutters. There is a drive-up window, a quiet study area with fireplace, two media labs and dedicated spaces for preschoolers, emergent readers and teens.

The library’s mission is to share the joy of discovery. From lending telescopes and fishing poles to GoPro cameras and Wi-Fi hotspots, Ela Library provides many engaging tools for residents to experience something new. Attend a program, see an exhibit or enjoy a book on one of three outdoor patios.

For more information about the library, how to obtain a library card or attend a program, visit www.eapl.org.

FREMONT PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT

The Fremont Public Library, located at 1170 N. Midlothian Road in Mundelein, strives to Engage the Community, Inspire Creativity and Enrich Minds.

The library exists beyond its four walls by reaching out to the community in a variety of ways. We host concerts at the Tighthead Brewing Company in Mundelein, hand out books to kids participating in the free summer lunch program at the Mundelein parks, provide story times to preschools, and promote books to students in the three school districts we serve.

The library recently updated their technology capabilities by adding two Lulzbot 3D Printers, donated by the Fremont Library Foundation. 3D printing allows patrons the chance to create models, functioning prototypes, visual aids, real world products, educational materials, and art.

The library provides access to an array of online resources to help with research, learning, and information needs. Learn more about gardening, research your genealogy, get ahead in your career, or compare prices for a new car, with the tools you need. Most of these resources can be accessed at home, 24/7, with the use of your Fremont Library card.

Stop in today to explore all the Fremont Public Library has to offer. There’s something for everyone! For more information, visit www.fremontlibrary.org or call (847) 566-8702.

VERNON AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY

All are welcome at this vibrant library, located at 300 Olde Half Day Rd. in Lincolnshire. With lots of book displays and comfortable seating, the light-filled space resembles an inviting bookstore as much as the full-service library it is. Visitors will find a self-service café, study rooms, a quiet reading room with a fireplace, digital media lab and dedicated areas for tots and teens. In addition to popular books, movies and music, the library’s collection includes materials in world languages such as Russian, Spanish and Chinese. And there are no more late fees.

Vernon Area Public Library cardholders enjoy 24/7 access to e-books and audiobooks, digital magazines, streaming music and instant video for movies and television series.

The library hosts a variety of free classes, workshops and events including early literacy storytimes, book discussions, movie screenings, trivia nights, senior series and an annual TEDx event. Open seven days a week, the library serves residents of Lincolnshire and Prairie View as well as parts of Buffalo Grove, Long Grove, Riverwoods, Vernon Hills and unincorporated Vernon and Ela townships. Anyone with a card from an Illinois public library may borrow materials. For more information and a calendar of events, visit http://vapld.info.