On Feb. 1, the McHenry County libraries began hosting events in an attempt to get members of the community more interested in reading and learning. 

Events include special materials to check out, the ability to observe a 100+ year old butterfly collection, games and more. 

The goal is to get participants to visit all 13 libraries, after which they will be entered into a raffle to win prize baskets. In addition, visitors will be given a passport and bookmark at the location they register at and will be expected to collect stickers or ribbons from each library as proof of visitation. 

The Naturally McHenry County app is available for download to track progress digitally, as well as giving location details to all of the participating libraries. 

“In the beginning, our motives were to work together (all of the McHenry County Libraries) and encourage people to get back to libraries after the pandemic.” Said Brady Seanine, a member of the team that started the Library Lovers Expedition. “We wanted people to know they could use and check out materials at other libraries other than their own.”

The event pushes for people to explore the wonders of libraries across the county, as well as other areas of Illinois. Library cards can be registered at any library within the state in order to open up a larger catalog of materials to be checked out and used. 

“I think the library expedition is a great idea.” Adds MCHS librarian Cheryl Meyers. “Hopefully it will bring more people into the county libraries so patrons can see all the benefits provided by the libraries.” 

Library cards are not required to enter the expedition, but may be required to check out materials. The Library Lovers Expedition will continue through March 31.