Lil’ Trick-or-Reading Event at Vernon Area Public Library

The annual Lil’ Trick-or-Reading program at the Vernon Area Public Library in Lincolnshire was fully booked with 30 children on October 23. This engaging event did not just welcome children alone, but also their families and caregivers to partake in the festivities.

Festivities and Costumes

The Friday morning program started in the Meeting Room with story time. Afterward, the children enjoyed a lively parade, visiting various trick-or-treating stations set up across the library. Both children and parents were encouraged to wear costumes. Many embraced this opportunity, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Parker Schwartz, a 2-year-old from Lincolnshire, participated alongside his mother Corey Schwartz, delighting in the interactive activities.

Cathy Cooper, a local parent, expressed her family’s affection for the library: “We love it here so much, and my kids love it so we come here all the time.”

Atlas Choh, just 11 months old from Buffalo Grove, joined with his parents Tim and Ashley Choh. Tim added to the fun by dressing in a banana costume, mirroring the costume of another parent at the event.

First-Time Experiences

Ellie Wang from Buffalo Grove attended with her mother-in-law Ling Ling from Tokyo and Riley Wang, nearly 11 months old. The event marked Riley’s first Halloween costume experience. Ellie spoke fondly of Ling Ling’s curiosity about Halloween traditions, which she found delightful.

Structured Activities

Two sessions were held for children ranging from infants to toddlers. The Early Literacy Librarian, Kelsey Cole-Burns, described the event: “We start with a not-so-spooky storytime where children are gently introduced to the holiday.” Following was a costume parade unique within the warm, inviting confines of the library.

Kelsey Cole-Burns emphasized the value of the library as a community center that fosters learning and growth for the youngest community members in a comfortable and guided setting.

The Lil’ Trick-or-Reading program, running for over five years, is one of the ways the Vernon Area Public Library reaches out to families, affirming its commitment to the community.

Community and Fun

Older children often joined their younger siblings, collecting Halloween-themed giveaways from library staff who dressed up in costumes themselves. Kelly Womack, the library’s accountant, participated by wearing a Cleopatra costume. She shared her enjoyment, stating: “That is one of the best things about working at the library is that I get to do all of the fun stuff like this.”

The Schwartz family, including parents Jeremy and Corey Schwartz with their children, Parker and infant Riley, regularly attend library events. Corey appreciated the community feel, mentioning the joy in gathering with other families for some pre-Halloween fun.

Marla Jargal from Buffalo Grove expressed gratitude for the library’s hosting of such special events, noting its positive impact on her daughter Nova’s experiences.

Library Background

Founded in 1974, the Vernon Area Public Library District serves a substantial population of over 44,000 residents from Lincolnshire, Prairie View, Long Grove, and parts of Buffalo Grove, Vernon Hills, and unincorporated Vernon and Ela townships in Lake County.

The library stands as a beacon of community engagement and learning, promising to continue offering valuable programs like Lil’ Trick-or-Reading.