McHenry County Libraries encourage visits with the Library Lover’s Expedition

HUNTLEY – In February, McHenry County Youth Librarians are encouraging residents to get out and discover the wealth of resources available in county libraries. To celebrate Library Lovers Month, the McHenry County Library Lover’s Expedition begins February 1 and is open to all residents of the county and surrounding areas. A library card is not required to participate.

Every library in McHenry County offers materials to check out, but their offerings are not limited to books and movies. “We are hoping people will venture out and explore more of McHenry County. Obviously, we love libraries, but we want everyone else to realize how many amazing things you can do at each library. We also want to get the message out that most library cards can be used at any public library in Illinois to get a variety of materials (please see each library’s policies for circulation),” Seanine Brady, Youth Librarian, Crystal Lake Public Library. Visitors participating in the Library Lovers Expedition can play skee ball, complete scavenger hunts, browse a 100-year-old butterfly collection, say hello to library cats or fish, and so much more. “Though most people want to stay home during the winter, we hope that the idea of visiting Nemo and his friends, playing the piano, or picking up some STEM kits will entice individuals and families to brave the cold month of February. There are plenty of great activities at all of the libraries for all ages.” Kate Tripp, Head of Youth Services, Woodstock Public Library.

Participants register at any of the 11 participating libraries where they will receive a passport listing the libraries to visit, a lanyard and a button unique to that library. Libraries may be visited in any order. At each library, participants should present their passport to receive another button, collecting a total of 11 unique buttons. Upon completing the Expedition, participants will be entered into a drawing to win one of 11 baskets containing gift cards from local McHenry County businesses. Participating libraries include Algonquin Public Library, Cary Area Public Library, Crystal Lake Public Library, Harvard Diggins Library, Huntley Area Public Library (reopens Feb. 7), Johnsburg Public Library, Marengo Union Library District, Nippersink Public Library, River East Public Library, Wauconda Area Public Library, and Woodstock Public Library. The program ends February 28. Gift basket winners will be notified beginning March 7.

For more information, call any of the participating libraries or check their websites or Facebook pages.