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Immigrants and the 96th Illinois Infantry
2026-05-26 19:00:00 2026-05-26 20:00:00 America/Chicago Immigrants and the 96th Illinois Infantry Immigrants made up 43% of Union forces in the Civil War. Historian and author Diana Dretske shares how her research on a portrait of soldiers revealed the untold story of the 96th Illinois Infantry. Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B

Tuesday, May 26
7:00pm - 8:00pm

Add to Calendar 2026-05-26 19:00:00 2026-05-26 20:00:00 America/Chicago Immigrants and the 96th Illinois Infantry Immigrants made up 43% of Union forces in the Civil War. Historian and author Diana Dretske shares how her research on a portrait of soldiers revealed the untold story of the 96th Illinois Infantry. Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B

Lake Villa District Library

AS Program Room A/B

Immigrants made up 43% of Union forces in the Civil War. Historian and author Diana Dretske shares how her research on a portrait of soldiers revealed the untold story of the 96th Illinois Infantry.

ADULTS (ages 18 and up)

Book sale and signing will follow the program.

AGE GROUP: | Adults |

EVENT TYPE: | History & Genealogy | Education & Learning |

TAGS: | America250 | #synchronous | #lvdl | #adult |

Lake Villa District Library
Phone: 847-356-7711
Hours
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Mon, May 11 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Tue, May 12 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Wed, May 13 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Thu, May 14 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Fri, May 15 9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, May 16 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Sun, May 17 12:00PM to 5:00PM
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About the branch

Connect with Lake Villa District Library and discover all it has to offer---best-selling books, award-winning movies and music, access to digital content and activities for people of all ages. Plus free Wi-Fi and space to meet, study and work.

First established in 1949, Lake Villa District Library serves Lake Villa Township and those who live within the township’s boundaries; including the communities of Lake Villa, Lindenhurst, portions of Round Lake Beach, Round Lake Heights and Antioch. The population served is approximately 40,000.

Please let us know if you or someone in your party requires accommodations.

Photographs or videos may be taken at library programs and events. Please notify library staff if you do not wish to be photographed.

Upcoming Events

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Storytime
Mon, May 11, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Passport Pals - Morocco
Mon, May 11, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
KIDS (kindergarten – grade 5): No suitcase needed—explore a new country with fun activities!
Lake Villa District Library Board Meeting
Mon, May 11, 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - Administrative Conference Room
Regular meeting of the Lake Villa District Library Board of Trustees.
Mario Kart Club
Mon, May 11, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YA Program Room
KIDS & TEENS (kindergarten – grade 12): Mario time... oh yeah! Drop in to race against other gamers!
Future Ready Job Search: Strategy, Tools, and Technology
Tue, May 12, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Navigate today’s fast-changing job market with confidence. Learn to target your search, network effectively, leverage job fairs, stay organized, and use AI to uncover new opportunities.
Job Center on the Move
Tue, May 12, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Villa District Library
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Job seekers can meet with a Job Center representative for one-on-one support with their job search, career transition, grant-funded training, and resume assistance. Drop in.
Senator Mary Edly-Allen Mobile Business Hours - Illinois State Senator for the 31st District
Tue, May 12, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - Lobby - Entrance Tables
Staff from State Senator Edly-Allen's office will be available to answer questions and provide assistance with state issues, programs, and services.
Kids Board Game Night
Tue, May 12, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Bring your family and get ready to play!
Genealogy 101: Start Your Family Tree with Ancestry.com
Wed, May 13, 10:00am - 11:30am
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Use LVDL’s Ancestry.com subscription to begin your genealogy journey. See a demo of this resource and get a chance to research your own family history. Ideal for beginners!
Chicka Chicka Book Club - "The Day the Books Disappeared" by J. Ho & C.K. Pritchard
Wed, May 13, 4:30pm - 5:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
KINDERGARTEN – GRADE 1: Join us to read and discuss "The Day the Books Disappeared" by Joanna Ho and Caroline Kusin Pritchard. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the Youth Desk.
Lake County Art League Critique
Wed, May 13, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
See a Lake County Art League critique session where a professional artist offers feedback to artists participating in the Spring Membership show. Ribbon awards will be presented to outstanding works.
Teen D&D Club
Wed, May 13, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
TEENS (grades 6–12): Calling all adventurers for character building, campaigns and more!
LVDL Writers Group: Join others interested in writing!
Wed, May 13, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Meeting Room
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): We'll talk craft; discuss writing-related questions; and celebrate big and small victories in terms of process, production, and publication.
Storytime
Thu, May 14, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
An Introduction to Chinese Papercut Flowers Session 1
Thu, May 14, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Educator Yvonne Wolf introduces the art of Chinese papercutting. Use design templates to create traditional seasonal flowers in the Chinese world such as the iris, lotus, and chrysanthemum.
Art Inspirations - Henri Matisse
Thu, May 14, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
KIDS (kindergarten – grade 5): Make art inspired by great artists!
An Introduction to Chinese Papercut Flowers Session 2
Thu, May 14, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Educator Yvonne Wolf introduces the art of Chinese papercutting. Use design templates to create traditional seasonal flowers in the Chinese world such as the iris, lotus, and the chrysanthemum.
Storytime
Thu, May 14, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
A Visit from Lake Villa Fire Department - *OUTDOORS* Bring your own blanket / lawn chairs
Fri, May 15, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Say “hi” to Lake Villa firefighters and explore a fire truck! *If it rains, we'll reschedule.*
Storytime
Sat, May 16, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Saturday Session - Craft Club
Sat, May 16, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Make a craft and meet new friends!
Colormania: Coloring for Adults
Mon, May 18, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Coloring is a fun way to relax and unwind. Join us to reduce stress, increase mindfulness, and exercise your creative side. Coloring sheets and supplies provided. Color your stress away!
Bookworm Buddies - "Secret of the Pink Pokémon" by Tracey West
Mon, May 18, 4:30pm - 5:15pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Meeting Room
GRADES 2–3: Join us to discuss "Secret of the Pink Pokémon" by Tracey West. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the Youth Desk.
Page Turners - "Wildfire" by Rodman Philbrick
Mon, May 18, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YA Program Room
GRADES 6-8: Join us to discuss "Wildfire" by Rodman Philbrick. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the Youth Desk.
Audrey Hepburn
Mon, May 18, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Leslie Goddard portrays Audrey Hepburn in 1989, as she shares stories of her childhood during WWII, Hollywood fame in Roman Holiday and Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and her work with UNICEF.
Murder & Mayhem: All The Sinners Bleed by S.A. Cosby
Mon, May 18, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Meeting Room
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): LVDL's monthly mystery book discussion that meets on the fourth Monday of the month.
Learn to Play Mahjong Session 1
Tue, May 19, 11:00am - 12:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Mahjong originated in ancient China and is played around the world today. Learn the rules of Mahjong and basic strategy. ⁠Get hands on experience with instructor Xinming Guo through this class.
Registration opens Tuesday, May 12 2026 at 10:00am
Learn to Play Mahjong Session 2
Tue, May 19, 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Lake Villa District Library
Mahjong originated in ancient China and is played around the world today. Learn the rules of Mahjong and basic strategy. ⁠Get hands on experience with instructor Xinming Guo through this class.
Registration opens Tuesday, May 12 2026 at 10:00am
Taste Test Tuesday: Veggie Straws
Tue, May 19, 4:30pm - 5:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
KIDS & TEENS (kindergarten – grade 12): Vote for your favorite veggie straws...after you taste a few, of course!
Own the Interview (Zoom)
Tue, May 19, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library
Reduce interview anxiety with smart preparation. Learn how to build a Story Vault of accomplishments, craft confident opening lines, and create a simple 90-Day plan that signals readiness.
Register
Knitters Night Out: All handicrafters are welcome!
Tue, May 19, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): If you knit, crochet, needlepoint or enjoy any other handicraft, here is a great opportunity to work on it at the library with new friends.
Books on Tap: Feeding Ghosts by Tessa Hulls
Tue, May 19, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
LakeHouse Restaurant
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Meet us at the LakeHouse Restaurant in Lake Villa. It's a book club with a twist!
Lunchtime at the Library: Sultana Disaster
Wed, May 20, 11:30am - 1:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
In April 1865, the overcrowded steamboat Sultana, carrying nearly 2,000 freed Union POWs, exploded near Memphis. Author Gene Eric Salecker recounts the tragedy & dispels long-standing myths.
Novel Thoughts - "El Deafo" by Cece Bell
Wed, May 20, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Meeting Room
GRADES 4–5: Join us to discuss "El Deafo" by Cece Bell. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the Youth Desk.
Teen D&D Club
Wed, May 20, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Meeting Room
TEENS (grades 6–12): Calling all adventurers for character building, campaigns and more!
Crystal Bowl Meditation
Thu, May 21, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Join Marian McNair for an interactive session on crystal bowl sound therapy. Marian blends her voice with the crystal bowls to create a calm and serene atmosphere to make for a remarkable experience. 
Fiber Arts Club
Thu, May 21, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
KIDS & TEENS (kindergarten – grade 12): Share what you’re sewing, knitting, crocheting, weaving or spinning!
Game Time for Adults
Thu, May 21, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Meeting Room
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Spend time together playing games and meeting others in the community. Play one of our games or bring your own to teach others. Come prepared to have some fun!
@Home Kit: D&D Starter Kit - First come, first served starting 9am!
Fri, May 22, All day
Lake Villa District Library
TEENS (grades 6–12): All kits are first come, first served starting 9am.
Chess Club
Sat, May 23, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Play the game, hone your skills and meet new friends!
Memorial Day Eve - Library Closed
Sun, May 24, All day
Lake Villa District Library
Library Closed for Memorial Day
Memorial Day - Library Closed
Mon, May 25, All day
Lake Villa District Library
Library Closed for Memorial Day
Finals Café
Tue, May 26, 2:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YA Program Room
HIGH SCHOOL (grades 9–12): Need a study break? Need snacks on demand? We’ve got you covered.
Immigrants and the 96th Illinois Infantry
Tue, May 26, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Immigrants made up 43% of Union forces in the Civil War. Historian and author Diana Dretske shares how her research on a portrait of soldiers revealed the untold story of the 96th Illinois Infantry.
Community Blood Drive
Wed, May 27, 1:30pm - 6:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ADULTS (ages 17 and up): Each pint of blood collected can help save up to three lives and will touch the lives of even more. Pay it forward and make an impact in our community!
Register
Organ/Tissue Donation Information Table - Illinois Secretary of State's Office
Wed, May 27, 1:30pm - 6:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - Lobby - Entrance Tables
Organ/tissue donors save lives, restore sight and improve the quality of life for recipients across Illinois every day. Learn more from the Illinois Secretary of State's Office. Drop in.
Finals Café
Wed, May 27, 2:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YA Program Room
HIGH SCHOOL (grades 9–12): Need a study break? Need snacks on demand? We’ve got you covered.
Teen D&D Club
Wed, May 27, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Meeting Room
TEENS (grades 6–12): Calling all adventurers for character building, campaigns and more!
Allendale Foster Care
Thu, May 28, 11:00am - 1:00pm
Lake Villa District Library
Come meet with a representative of Allendale to learn about fostering a child.
Essential 1920s
Thu, May 28, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Discover an era defined by novelty and modernity that broke with tradition. William Pack shares how culture and daily life changed radically, marking the shift from the Victorian to the modern world.
Found Art Contest - Deadline for submissions: May 31
Sun, May 31, All day
Lake Villa District Library
KIDS & TEENS (kindergarten – grade 12): Create a collage or sculpture out of objects you've found outside! Upload a photo of your creation here.
Storytime
Mon, Jun 01, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Knitters Night Out: All handicrafters are welcome!
Tue, Jun 02, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): If you knit, crochet, needlepoint or enjoy any other handicraft, here is a great opportunity to work on it at the library with new friends.
Representative Tom Weber Traveling Office Hours - Illinois State Representative for the 64th District
Wed, Jun 03, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - Lobby - Entrance Tables
Staff from State Representative Weber’s office will be available to answer questions and provide assistance with state issues, programs, and services.
Variety Show & Balloon Twisting - *OUTDOORS* Bring your own blanket / lawn chairs
Wed, Jun 03, 6:30pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - Outdoor - Pavilion, Lawn, Path
ALL AGES: Witness amazing feats of juggling, magic and comedy performed by the RCJuggle Team! Stick around after the show for balloon twisting. *If the weather is unpleasant, we’ll move indoors.*
Storytime
Thu, Jun 04, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Animal Explorers - Platypus
Thu, Jun 04, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
KIDS (kindergarten – grade 5): Don't miss these fun activities about the animals you love!
Storytime
Thu, Jun 04, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
The World Cup: Why is Football Called Soccer? - A History of the Most Popular Sport in the World
Thu, Jun 04, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
From its origins in England to its present global popularity, Dr. John F. Lyons discusses the history of football/soccer through movie clips, photos, and newspaper reports from around the world.
Friday Fun - Dance Party
Fri, Jun 05, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
LITTLES (birth – age 5): Dance the morning away with friends!
Great Decisions: Today's Nuclear Age
Fri, Jun 05, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room B
An opportunity to learn, participate in thoughtful discourse, and reach informed opinions on the issues in America's foreign policy process. Reading materials available at the Adult Services Desk.
Chalk Party
Fri, Jun 05, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - Outdoor - Pavilion, Lawn, Path
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): We need to chalk about sidewalks… *If it rains, we'll reschedule.*
Congressman Brad Schneider Neighborhood Office Hours - U.S. Rep. for Illinois's 10th Congressional District
Fri, Jun 05, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Library Lobby
Staff from U.S. Representative Schneider's office will be available to assist with federal issues such as Medicare, Social Security, Veteran Services, passports and immigration.
Neighborhood Hours with State Rep. Joyce Mason's Office - Illinois State Representative for the 61st District
Fri, Jun 05, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - Lobby - Entrance Tables
Staff from State Representative Mason's office will be available to assist with state issues such as unemployment, utility assistance, SNAP and Medicaid.
Coding Club - Technology Petting Zoo
Fri, Jun 05, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
KIDS & TEENS (kindergarten – grade 12): Join us to discover, experiment and innovate!
Storytime
Sat, Jun 06, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Kindergarten Readiness - Shapes
Sat, Jun 06, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
PRESCHOOL (entering kindergarten next year): Join us for fun stations where your child can practice skills and concepts for kindergarten.
You're invited! It's time to celebrate! - It's the grand opening of our outdoor space.
Sun, Jun 07, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - Outdoor - Pavilion, Lawn, Path,Outdoor - Reading Room
Please join the LVDL Board of Trustees to celebrate the grand opening of our newly constructed outdoor space.
Storytime - *OUTDOORS* Meet us on the patio!
Mon, Jun 08, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - Outdoor - Patio
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun! *If the weather is unpleasant, we’ll move indoors.*
Theme Day Parade: Hat Day - *OUTDOORS* Meet us on the patio!
Mon, Jun 08, 10:00am - 10:30am
Lake Villa District Library
ALL AGES (fun for everyone): Dress up to match today’s theme, Hat Day. Wear your favorite hat. Show off your theme day look in a parade around the library! Meet outside on the Patio.
Passport Pals - Peru
Mon, Jun 08, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
KIDS (kindergarten – grade 5): No suitcase needed—explore a new country with fun activities!
Lake Villa District Library Board Meeting
Mon, Jun 08, 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - Administrative Conference Room
Regular meeting of the Lake Villa District Library Board of Trustees.
Pajama Movie Night - "The Parent Trap" (1998)
Mon, Jun 08, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Get cozy and watch a movie on our big screen. Pillows, blankets, and PJs are welcome!
Teddy Bear Picnic - *OUTDOORS* Bring your own blanket / lawn chairs
Tue, Jun 09, 10:00am - 11:00am
Lake Villa District Library - Outdoor - Pavilion, Lawn, Path
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for a snack, books and songs! Bring a teddy (or another loved stuffie) and a beach towel or picnic blanket. *If the weather is unpleasant, we’ll move indoors.*
Summer Acting Spotlight
Tue, Jun 09, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Build acting skills through fun, guided exercises that boost confidence, expression, and stage presence. Explore characters, spark imagination, and perform in a supportive space. No experience needed.
Chopped Craft Challenge
Tue, Jun 09, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
KIDS (kindergarten – grade 5): What can you create with our mystery craft supplies?
Teen Craft & Snack - Mosaics and Mac-N-Cheese
Tue, Jun 09, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YA Program Room
TEENS (grades 6–12): Make a craft and meet new friends while enjoying the snack of the month!
Best Books for Summer & Fall
Tue, Jun 09, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Discover your next great read! The Good Book Fairy, local book influencer Lauren Margolin, shares her favorite upcoming book picks for this summer and fall.
Baseball Party
Wed, Jun 10, 11:00am - 12:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Batter up! Step up to the plate to celebrate America’s pastime.
Chicka Chicka Book Club - "The Quacken" by Justin Colón
Wed, Jun 10, 4:30pm - 5:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
Going into KINDERGARTEN – GRADE 1: Join us to read and discuss "The Quacken" by Justin Colón. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the Youth Desk.
LVDL Writers Group: Join others interested in writing!
Wed, Jun 10, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Meeting Room
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): We'll talk craft; discuss writing-related questions; and celebrate big and small victories in terms of process, production, and publication.
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