LLC Loves libraries! In celebration of National Library Week we’re giving you a look inside some of our favorite libraries. Going beyond the books to the amenities, programs, and features that make them our favorite places.
I have many fond memories from my childhood of time spent at my local library. To this day, the library remains one of my most favorite places to visit and it’s usually one of the first things I seek out when I move to a new area. Luckily for me, my daughter shares my love of visiting the library, but it’s always a struggle to get her to leave when it’s time to go home! Sometimes I think she’d sleep there if she could! I am thrilled that we live so close to the Lake Villa District Library, as it’s a beautiful library filled with all kinds of awesome things.
I love how this library has rolling cart baskets available to borrow as soon as you step in the door–no more lugging arm loads and bags full of heavy books around while browsing! We usually head out to the kid’s section first, so let’s start there! Nestled in the far left corner of the building, the kid’s area is spacious with lots of big windows, and comfy seating.
There is a large Lego table in the middle which is perfect for the little ones to play with while the parents sit nearby in the big chairs.
Also located in this area is an entire wall full of bagged activity kits, all neatly organized. Bins of board books sit underneath so little hands can have easy access to find the books they want to look at.
My daughter’s favorite table is here as well – a light table with magnetic building blocks. She could have easily spent all the time we had right at this table!
I really love how the books are categorized and set up here as well – it is very easy to find the type of book or age group you are looking for. They have an amazing collection of DVDs and games that you can rent as well. (And be sure to check out the Adult DVD area which has both movies and complete series available! Who needs RedBox when you can come rent from the library for free!!).
Near the front of the kid’s area near the librarian’s desk there is a wall of computers for the older kids to use, and tables that have iPads. My daughter was thrilled to see the iPads and quickly found some new apps to try. We also found a few fantastic educational apps that are new to us to add to our iPad at home.
I have found that all the staff that I have encountered at the Lake Villa District Library departments have been phenomenal. Everyone here is very friendly, always willing to help, and has been so kind to my four-year-old. They have the best selection of DVDs for both kids and adults in any library that I have been in, including the newer releases. There is also a great display of new books, with multiple copies available.
The library also offers many extra programs, which are a real treat! Throughout the week there are storytimes offered for children ages three months to storytimes that can be enjoyed by the entire family. Special programs and classes include crafts, music, science and writing classes. My daughter took a fun kid’s yoga class, and we have taken animals there for a show with Animal Quest. The library staff is always mixing things up and putting together fun and unique workshops here. Check the calendar often so you can register early for the ones you want to attend.
Teen can partake in color and chat nights, and game nights, as well as other specialized events (a Steampunk event is coming up soon). If you have a teen that may want input into activities at the library, they may wish to join the Teen Advisory Board to help generate some new ideas. There are also plenty of adult classes and workshops offered as well, including book clubs, knitting groups, gardening, computer and business classes, just to name a few!
My favorite (which we have been to and loved) – is family board game night! They have over 70 board games to play and they even provide snacks and drinks! It’s a drop-in program so you don’t even have to register. It’s an all-around fun night for all ages.
There is lots of fun to be had at the Lake Villa Public Library!
Lake Villa Public Library
1001 East Grand Ave., Lake Villa | (847) 356-7711 | Facebook
Have you been to the Lake Villa District Library? Let us know about your visit in the comments section below.
Wow! What a great article! LVDL is an amazing library for everyone!