Upcoming Events

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Lock Decoders (Grades 3-5)

4:30pm–5:45pm
Elementary
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Elementary
Program Type: General Interest
Registration Required
Event Details:

Grades 3-5. Use your detective skills and brain power to unlock as many locks as you can before time runs out. Follow the clues, solve the puzzles, and have fun!

AI Book Discussion: "The Alignment Problem: Machine Learning and Human Values" by Brian Christian

7:00pm–8:00pm
Adults
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Youth Program Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Discussion
Registration Required
Event Details:

Read and discuss Brian Christian's exploration of key questions surrounding the development of AI and machine learning. How do we ensure that these technologies align with human values?

Lock Decoders (Grades 6-8)

7:00pm–8:15pm
Teens
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: General Interest
Registration Required
Event Details:

Grades 6-8. Use your detective skills and brain power to unlock as many locks as you can before time runs out. Follow the clues, solve the puzzles, and have fun!

Preschool Storytime (9:30 am, Drop-in)

9:30am–10:00am
Early Childhood
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Youth Program Room
Age Group: Early Childhood
Program Type: Storytime / Early Learning

Preschool Storytime

Ages 3-5 without an adult. Get ready for school with Miss Emily by practicing the language, listening, and pre-reading skills needed for kindergarten.

Children attend this storytime independently (while their adult remains in the library), giving them an opportunity to practice being in a classroom setting.

Please choose between the 9:30 AM session or 10:30 AM session.

Disclaimer(s)

Tickets are required for Preschool Storytime

Tickets are free and are available to anyone on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the program. Attendance is limited to children within the intended age range listed in the program description.

Questions? Please contact the Youth Desk at 224-543-1486 or email EarlyLearning@VAPLD.info

 

Masks are encouraged

Masks are strongly encouraged at all indoor library programs. Masks are available on your way in if you need one. We respect each person’s right to decide what is best for themselves and their family, and we ask everyone to treat their fellow attendees with kindness and respect for the choices they make.

Preschool Storytime (10:30 am, Drop-in)

10:30am–11:00am
Early Childhood
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Youth Program Room
Age Group: Early Childhood
Program Type: Storytime / Early Learning

Preschool Storytime

Ages 3-5 without an adult. Get ready for school with Miss Emily by practicing the language, listening, and pre-reading skills needed for kindergarten.

Children attend this storytime independently (while their adult remains in the library), giving them an opportunity to practice being in a classroom setting.

Please choose between the 9:30 AM session or 10:30 AM session.

Disclaimer(s)

Tickets are required for Preschool Storytime

Tickets are free and are available to anyone on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the program. Attendance is limited to children within the intended age range listed in the program description.

Questions? Please contact the Youth Desk at 224-543-1486 or email EarlyLearning@VAPLD.info

 

Masks are encouraged

Masks are strongly encouraged at all indoor library programs. Masks are available on your way in if you need one. We respect each person’s right to decide what is best for themselves and their family, and we ask everyone to treat their fellow attendees with kindness and respect for the choices they make.

Starry Night Storytime (Drop-in)

6:00pm–6:30pm
Early Childhood
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Early Childhood
Program Type: Storytime / Early Learning
Event Details:

Ages 0-6 with an adult. Get out those last few wiggles during an evening storytime with Miss Julia.

Disclaimer(s)

Drop in to this storytime

No advance signup is required. Just claim an entry ticket when you arrive on the day of the program. Tickets are free and available to anyone on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the program. 

Attendance is limited to children within the intended age range listed in the program description. Except for Preschool Storytime, siblings are also welcome. 

Questions? Please contact the Youth Desk at 224-543-1486 or email EarlyLearning@VAPLD.info

Thirsty Thursdays: Books on Tap

6:00pm–8:00pm
Adults
Library Branch: Off Site
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Discussion
Event Details:

In your 20s or 30s and thirsting for intelligent conversation with excellent people? Meet for a book discussion at Half Day Brewing of Lincolnshire with excellent people over adult beverages and delicious food.

3D Printing Part 1: Basics

7:00pm–8:30pm
Adults
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Youth Program Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Technology
Registration Required
Event Details:

This is part 1 of a 3-part series. Sign up for each session separately.

Learn how to use the free design software TinkerCAD to create your own 3D Prints. This class covers: 

Disclaimer(s)

Technology Training Resources

The library subscribes to services that offer courses in software, creative, and business skills. Click here to learn more.

Sunshine Squad: Tomorrow's Leaders

10:00am–10:45am
Early Childhood
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Early Childhood
Program Type: Storytime / Early Learning
Registration Required
Event Details:

Sunshine Squad

0-6 years with an adult. Help build a better, more compassionate world, starting with your own family! Stories and activities with Miss Kelsey focus on social-emotional development and cultural appreciation.

This program is free and open to all. Signup is required. Sign up online here, by telephone at 224-543-1486, or in person at the library.

Raising tomorrow's leaders starts with kindness, perseverance, and the ability to inspire others. Through books, songs, and a hands-on activity we will nurture these traits.

Disclaimer(s)

Adult must attend

For this session, child participants must be accompanied by an adult.

Seed Packing Social

1:00pm–3:00pm
Teens, Adults
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Teens, Adults
Program Type: General Interest
Registration Required
Event Details:

The Seed Library will return in March 2026. Help us prep with a hands-on seed-packing party to get ready for a season of growing, sharing, and sustainability. Drop in as you can or come for the whole two hours.

Disclaimer(s)

Adult must attend

For this session, child participants must be accompanied by an adult.

Games for Grown-ups

12:30pm–4:30pm
Adults
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: General Interest
Registration Required
Event Details:

Games for Grownups is available in-person or online. Select your format below.

Together 2s & 3s Storytime (9:30 am, Drop-in)

9:30am–10:00am
Early Childhood
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Early Childhood
Program Type: Storytime / Early Learning

Together 2s & 3s

Ages 2-3 with an adult. Share stories and learn sign language with Miss Sarah. Activities center around a letter of the day.

Please choose between the 9:30 AM session or 10:30 AM session.

Disclaimer(s)

Adult must attend

For this session, child participants must be accompanied by an adult.

Drop in to this storytime

No advance signup is required. Just claim an entry ticket when you arrive on the day of the program. Tickets are free and available to anyone on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the program. 

Attendance is limited to children within the intended age range listed in the program description. Except for Preschool Storytime, siblings are also welcome. 

Questions? Please contact the Youth Desk at 224-543-1486 or email EarlyLearning@VAPLD.info

Together 2s & 3s Storytime (10:30 am, Drop-in)

10:30am–11:00am
Early Childhood
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Early Childhood
Program Type: Storytime / Early Learning

Together 2s & 3s

Ages 2-3 with an adult. Share stories and learn sign language with Miss Sarah. Activities center around a letter of the day.

Please choose between the 9:30 AM session or 10:30 AM session.

Disclaimer(s)

Adult must attend

For this session, child participants must be accompanied by an adult.

Drop in to this storytime

No advance signup is required. Just claim an entry ticket when you arrive on the day of the program. Tickets are free and available to anyone on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the program. 

Attendance is limited to children within the intended age range listed in the program description. Except for Preschool Storytime, siblings are also welcome. 

Questions? Please contact the Youth Desk at 224-543-1486 or email EarlyLearning@VAPLD.info

Giving Back on MLK Day

1:00pm–2:30pm
Elementary
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Elementary
Program Type: Art / Craft, General Interest
Registration Required
Event Details:

Grades K-5. Engage with your community while honoring the legacy of Dr. King. Make no-sew blankets, cards and other crafts that will be donated to local organizations. Supplies and instructions provided.

Teen Service Club: Giving Back on MLK Day

3:00pm–4:00pm
Teens
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Teens
Program Type: General Interest
Registration Required
Event Details:

Teen Service Club

Meet new people, participate in a variety of community-service projects and earn volunteer service hours.

This teen volunteer program is offered several times a quarter: no library card required; no application or training; volunteer when it fits your schedule. Do what you can, when you can, and you'll make a positive difference in the world. 

This program is free and open to teens in grades 7-12. Signup is required. Sign up online here, by telephone at 224-543-1486, or in person at the Youth Desk in the library.

Grades 7-12. Engage with your community while honoring the legacy of Dr. King. Make no-sew blankets, cards and other crafts that will be donated to local organizations. Supplies and instructions provided.

 

Wiggling Ones (9:30 am, Drop-in)

9:30am–10:00am
Early Childhood
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Early Childhood
Program Type: Storytime / Early Learning

Wiggling Ones

Ages 12-24 months. Add 30 minutes of joy to your week. Giggle, sing, and play along with your little one, other families, and Miss Julia.

Please choose between the 9:30 AM session or 10:30 AM session.

Disclaimer(s)

Drop in to this storytime

No advance signup is required. Just claim an entry ticket when you arrive on the day of the program. Tickets are free and available to anyone on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the program. 

Attendance is limited to children within the intended age range listed in the program description. Except for Preschool Storytime, siblings are also welcome. 

Questions? Please contact the Youth Desk at 224-543-1486 or email EarlyLearning@VAPLD.info

Wiggling Ones (10:30 am, Drop-in)

10:30am–11:00am
Early Childhood
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Early Childhood
Program Type: Storytime / Early Learning

Wiggling Ones

Ages 12-24 months. Add 30 minutes of joy to your week. Giggle, sing, and play along with your little one, other families, and Miss Julia.

Please choose between the 9:30 AM session or 10:30 AM session.

Disclaimer(s)

Drop in to this storytime

No advance signup is required. Just claim an entry ticket when you arrive on the day of the program. Tickets are free and available to anyone on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the program. 

Attendance is limited to children within the intended age range listed in the program description. Except for Preschool Storytime, siblings are also welcome. 

Questions? Please contact the Youth Desk at 224-543-1486 or email EarlyLearning@VAPLD.info

English Language Learners Conversation Group

11:00am–12:00pm
Adults
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Youth Program Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: ESL
Registration Required
Event Details:

Practice your English conversation skills with a librarian and other non-native English speakers.

Author Spotlight: Nature, Art, and Service as Medicine with Journalist Julia Hotz

1:00pm–2:00pm
Adults
Library Branch: Online
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: General Interest
Event Details:

Be sure to jump start your new year with us as we chat with journalist and author Julia Hotz about her book The Connection Cure: The Prescriptive Power of Movement, Nature, Art, Service, and Belonging.  

Disclaimer(s)

Online webinar

This event takes place online using a videoconferencing platform such as Zoom. After you sign up, you'll get an email with a link to join on your computer, phone, or tablet. You may also be able to call in by phone to listen without video.

Secrets to Restorative Sleep

7:00pm–8:00pm
Adults
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: General Interest
Registration Required
Event Details:

Discover how sleep impacts your health and daily life with wellness coach Debbie Friend. Learn about insomnia, sleep apnea, the effects of sleep disturbances, and practical tips for better rest.

Novel Night Book Discussion: "Hello Beautiful" by Ann Napolitano

7:00pm–8:15pm
Adults
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Quiet Reading Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Discussion
Registration Required
Event Details:

Discuss this year's One Book One Community selection, Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano.

To learn more about One Book and to see other related programs, visit 1book.org.

Intro to Python: Part 2

7:00pm–8:30pm
Adults
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Youth Program Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Technology
Registration Required
Event Details:

This is part 2 of a 3-part Python series.

Learn, practice, and experiment with the basics of Python in this three-part, hands-on class. This class covers:

Disclaimer(s)

Technology Training Resources

The library subscribes to services that offer courses in software, creative, and business skills. Click here to learn more.

Baby Rhyme Storytime (Drop-in)

9:30am–10:15am
Early Childhood
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Early Childhood
Program Type: Storytime / Early Learning
Event Details:

Ages 0-14 months. Literacy starts with the littlest ones! Grow your baby's brain with songs, rhymes, and books with Miss Kelsey.

Disclaimer(s)

Drop in to this storytime

No advance signup is required. Just claim an entry ticket when you arrive on the day of the program. Tickets are free and available to anyone on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the program. 

Attendance is limited to children within the intended age range listed in the program description. Except for Preschool Storytime, siblings are also welcome. 

Questions? Please contact the Youth Desk at 224-543-1486 or email EarlyLearning@VAPLD.info

Paint with Paper: A Portrait Collage Workshop (4 pm)

4:00pm–6:00pm
Adults
Registration Required
Library Branch: Vernon Area Public Library
Room: Meeting Room
Age Group: Adults
Program Type: Art / Craft
Registration Required
Event Details:

REGISTRATION OPENS ON DECEMBER 7,  the One Book One Community kickoff.