Costumed babies, toddlers and parents gathered at the Vernon Area Public Library in Lincolnshire on Oct. 23 for the annual Lil' Trick-or-Reading program, which reached its capacity of 30 children, not counting the families and caregivers who came with them.
The Friday morning event opened with story time in the Meeting Room and then moved into a parade of trick-or-treating stations set up around the library. Children were encouraged to wear costumes, and many parents joined in. One parent came dressed as a banana, while a toddler nearby snacked on a real banana during the stories.
Two morning sessions were offered for children from infant to toddler ages. Early Literacy Librarian Kelsey Cole-Burns said the program begins with a "not-so-spooky storytime where children are gently introduced to the holiday," followed by the costume parade. She noted that fall weather is often cold, rainy and unpredictable, and said the event gives families an indoor space to keep little ones warm while showing off their outfits.
The program has been part of the library's offerings for more than five years. "The library serves as a community center, bringing together all ages and abilities," Cole-Burns said. She added that combining that comfort with the guidance of library staff helps the youngest children learn and grow, and that the library is proud to offer such a special program to them and their families.
Older siblings also took part, collecting Halloween-themed giveaway items handed out by staff members, who were in costume as well. Kelly Womack, the library's accountant, dressed as Cleopatra. "I am Cleopatra or I will answer to your majesty," she said with a smile, adding that getting to do fun events like this is one of the best parts of working at the library.
Parents described the morning as a chance to socialize and celebrate. Cathy Cooper of Lincolnshire said her children love the library and enjoy socializing with other kids there, and she praised the librarians. Corey Schwartz of Lincolnshire, who attended with Jeremy Schwartz and their children Parker, 2, and Riley, 2 months, said it was nice to have parents and children get together for "a little holiday fun before Halloween."
For some families it was a first. Ellie Wang of Buffalo Grove attended with her mother-in-law Ling Ling, visiting from Tokyo, Japan, and her daughter Riley, almost 11 months. "It's the first time being here and the first costume," Wang said, calling it "really cute." She said her mother-in-law is new to Halloween and curious about it. Tim Choh of Buffalo Grove, dressed as a banana, said the event "makes him happy" for his 11-month-old son Atlas.
Others are regulars. Rachael Quinlan of Buffalo Grove, who sat with her son Jack, 2, said they come to story time almost every week. Marla Jargal of Buffalo Grove, whose daughter Nova, nearly 2, wore a pink princess gown and wings, said story time is very special for her child and thanked the library for its events throughout the year.
The Vernon Area Public Library District was founded in 1974 and serves 44,000 residents of Lincolnshire, Prairie View, Long Grove and parts of Buffalo Grove, Vernon Hills, and unincorporated Vernon and Ela townships in Lake County. The library is at 300 Olde Half Day Road in Lincolnshire.
