On this page: Library Events & Activities | Community Events | America 250 Information
From the Director
As we celebrate the impressive longevity of our country this summer as part of America 250, we are reminded of the institutions that help make it so resilient. These include our schools, places of worship, civic organizations, local businesses, parks, and, of course, our unique public library system.
Tax-supported public lending in Libertyville began in 1921, when Cook Memorial Library opened in the Ansel B. Cook Home, just steps from what is now the Cook Park Library.
Today, your Library serves many roles through its two locations in Libertyville and Vernon Hills:
- Engaging Children: Libraries are often one of a child’s first introductions to learning and exploration, where stories spark curiosity and imagination. Our community is deservedly proud of its excellent schools, and the Library supports children’s growth beyond the classroom, offering a place to discover new ideas and develop a lasting love of learning.
- Lifelong Learning: The Library is a resource for those building new skills, learning English, and exploring a wide range of ideas and perspectives that support personal growth.
- Community Space: In a digital world increasingly shaped by screens and online engagement, the Library remains a truly shared public space, offering a place to connect with others and be part of a community.
These roles may look a bit different than they did a century ago, but our purpose remains the same: bringing people together around learning, opportunity, and a shared sense of community — values that have shaped American life for 250 years.
Join us this summer as we celebrate this important milestone!
— David Archer, Library Director
Library Events & Activities
View upcoming events in the event sidebar or click the buttons below for the full calendar.
Summer Reading
June 1–July 31 • All Ages
Make the Library part of your summer as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. We invite your whole family to become Library stars and EXPLORE our offerings, DO fun activities, and READ books.
Special 2026 Summer Reading t-shirts for adults and kids go on sale June 1 at the Check Out Desk and the Libertyville Farmers Market. Adult sizes are $10; youth sizes are $5. Cash only.
Sign Up
- Sign up starting Monday, June 1 online at cooklib.readsquared.com or in person at any CMPLD location. You’re also invited to sign up early at the After-Hours Summer Reading Kickoff Party for a chance to win an extra prize!
- Read books and/or complete activities to earn points. Tally 100 points to earn your prize!
- Once you reach the goal, pick up your finishing prize starting on June 15 at your indicated location.
LIFE: Ancestry Edition
June 1–August 31
Learn more about American genealogy records by playing a unique version of LIFE. All finishers will be entered into a drawing to win family history prizes! Pick up your game board and info packet at the Adult Information Desk at either Library location.
Community Events
Passport to the Parks
In partnership with the Vernon Hills Park District. Get started at cooklib.org/passporttotheparks.
Stars & Parks Adventure
In partnership with Libertyville Recreation and the Libertyville Historical Society. Get started at cooklib.org/starsandparksadventure.