ALGONQUIN, IL – The Algonquin Area Public Library District (AAPLD) is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its founding in 1921. In celebration of this milestone, AAPLD is hosting special programming, virtual and in-person events, and digital activities to earn prizes.
“The last 100 years give us plenty of reasons to celebrate,” said Sara Murray, Executive Director of AAPLD. “Our community has grown and changed, and so have we. AAPLD has played a large role in the defining moments of many people’s lives, my own included. Our future’s so bright, and we’re happy to celebrate with everyone both virtually and in-person.”
Then and Now
The Library was organized and established entirely by the members of the Algonquin Women’s Club. The clubwomen began collecting for a library fund in 1918, and the Algonquin Public Library first opened to serve the public on February 23, 1921. The Village Hall council room on Main Street was the Library’s first location, and opened with 265 books and a $600 book fund. In 1976, a new library building was opened at 115 Eastgate Drive. This building was renovated to serve as a branch location when a new Main Library was built across town at 2600 Harnish Drive in 2001.
One hundred years later, AAPLD receives more than 250,000 visitors each year and circulates more than 600,000 physical and digital items from a collection that now includes sewing machines, STEM kits, and streaming content. The 30-square-mile district now encompasses parts of Algonquin, Lake in the Hills, Cary, and Barrington Hills.
A Year of Celebrations
AAPLD kicks off its centennial celebration in February 2021, inviting the community to celebrate all that has been achieved together over the last century.
- Programming – Decade-themed programming is offered each month for the year, spanning from 1920 to present. Enjoy entertaining storytimes for children or informative seminars for adults.
- Giveaways – For a limited time, patrons who visit the Library can pick up party bags with party blowers and favorite treats from the 1920s.
- Passport of Activities – Through an online platform called Beanstack, the community will be able to log activities all year long to earn special prizes.
- #FlashbackFridays – Each Friday, AAPLD will highlight a special memory or event from the Library or community to show how much the organization has grown since its humble beginnings.
“In its early days, the Library was recognized as ‘one of Algonquin’s outstanding community assets.’ We strive to remain an asset to the community and continue our tradition of exceptional service,” said Murray. “We will adapt to changing needs and interests, but AAPLD will continue to be the space to be who you are and explore who you can become.”