Multi-library program series wins award

Illinois Libraries Present is the recipient of the Illinois Library Association’s 2023 Hugh C. Atkinson Memorial Award for Interlibrary Cooperation, which is awarded annually in recognition of exceptional resource-sharing initiatives that benefit library users in Illinois.

Illinois Libraries Present (ILP) is a collaboration among Illinois public libraries that presents high-interest online presentations with A-list authors and other notable public figures. Guest speakers have included authors Mary Roach and Jenny Lawson, New York Times puzzle editor Will Shortz, Oscar-winning actress Marlee Matlin, and Olympic medalist Kristi Yamaguchi and hairstylist/TV personality Jonathan Van Ness. 

The ILP initiative began in 2021 to build on lessons learned during the pandemic, including the benefits of resource sharing. Vernon Area Public Library has been a member since its inception.

By bringing together public library resources, ILP offers access to presenters that would otherwise be difficult for any individual library to offer. More than 200 Illinois public libraries participate.

Steering committee member Alexandra Skinner noted, “ILP strives to affirm the role of libraries post-pandemic as vibrant centers of humanities learning, conversation and connection. ILP does not just elevate one library, but a community of Illinois libraries.” 
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The fall speaker lineup includes Pulitzer Prize–winning author Colson Whitehead, National Endowment for the Arts Fellow Stephen Graham Jones, and Netflix “Bake Squad” star Maya-Camille Broussard. Find details and information on the Vernon Area Public Library calendar of events at VAPLD.info/calendar.