Lil’ Trick-or-Reading at Vernon Area Public Library
The Vernon Area Public Library hosted the annual Lil’ Trick-or-Reading program on October 23 in Lincolnshire. The event reached full capacity with 30 children, not counting their families or caregivers.
The program started in the library’s Meeting Room with story time and progressed to trick-or-treating stations. Children and parents dressed up in costumes, adding to the festive atmosphere. Parker Schwartz, aged two, from Lincolnshire stayed close to his mother Corey Schwartz while enjoying the event.
Amidst the costumes, one parent wore a banana outfit, while a child enjoyed an actual banana during the storytelling. Cathy Cooper, a parent from Lincolnshire, praised the event, noting, “We love it here so much, and my kids love it so we come here all the time. They have a blast socializing with other kids.”
Atlas Choh, an 11-month-old from Buffalo Grove, attended with his parents Tim and Ashley Choh. Tim, dressed as a banana, said the event made Atlas happy. Ellie Wang, along with her mother-in-law Ling Ling from Tokyo, came with Riley Wang, also nearly 11 months old. “It’s the first time being here and the first costume for Riley,” said Ellie Wang, describing the experience as charming. Ellie noted that Ling Ling was curious as she was unfamiliar with Halloween traditions.
The event featured two morning sessions for infants to toddlers. Early Literacy Librarian Kelsey Cole-Burns explained, “We start with a not-so-spooky storytime where children are gently introduced to the holiday. Then we follow it up with a costume parade around the library.” Cole-Burns emphasized the advantage of an indoor event, especially given the often cold and rainy fall weather, ensuring families stay warm while showcasing their costumes.
The Lil’ Trick-or-Reading program has been a staple for over five years. Cole-Burns highlighted the library’s role as a community center, combining community comfort with staff guidance to foster learning and growth in programs like Trick-or-Reading. The library serves 44,000 residents in areas including Lincolnshire, Prairie View, and Buffalo Grove, and offers this special program for young kids and their families.
Older children participated as well, collecting Halloween-themed items from staff who were also in costume. Nova Jargal, nearly two years old from Buffalo Grove, was spotted in a pink gown enjoying trick-or-treating, indicating the event’s appeal for children of various ages.
Library accountant Kelly Womack attended the event dressed as Cleopatra, expressing joy at being part of the library staff and participating in fun events like this one. Jeremy and Corey Schwartz of Lincolnshire attended with their children, delighting in the community atmosphere and holiday fun. Rachael Quinlan of Buffalo Grove, who frequently attends story time, appreciated the opportunity for community engagement.
Marla Jargal from Buffalo Grove, whose daughter Nova attended, emphasized the special nature of story time for her child. She expressed gratitude to the library for hosting such events, acknowledging their importance throughout the year.
The Vernon Area Public Library District, established in 1974, serves a broad region, providing valuable community services and events. For further information, visit their official website at Vernon Area Public Library.