Skip to main content
Font size options
Increase or decrease the font size for this website by clicking on the 'A's.
Contrast options
Choose a color combination to give the most comfortable contrast.

Swedish Roots in Chicagoland (Zoom)
2026-11-05 19:00:00 2026-11-05 20:00:00 America/Chicago Swedish Roots in Chicagoland (Zoom) Swedish American Museum Curator Sarah Hawkinson shares why Swedes came to America in the 19th century, what the journey was like, and how Swedish immigrants helped shape Chicago and the Midwest. Lake Villa District Library -

Thursday, November 05
7:00pm - 8:00pm

Add to Calendar

Swedish American Museum Curator Sarah Hawkinson shares why Swedes came to America in the 19th century, what the journey was like, and how Swedish immigrants helped shape Chicago and the Midwest.

ADULTS (ages 18 and up)

People have been immigrating to America for centuries. With each new wave, different cultures and ideas have shaped the country into what it is today. From 1850 to 1930, 1.3 million Swedes left their homes for America. During this time, many settled in Chicago, bringing with them their Swedish culture and traditions. In Chicago, Swedes created a new home for themselves in Andersonville. Although many Swedish businesses have closed, the Swedish American Museum (which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year!) continues to uphold and honor Swedish history, heritage, and culture in Andersonville.

Virtual programs are presented via Zoom.  Don’t have access to Zoom at home?  Watch virtual programs at LVDL.  Email cmccully@lvdl.org to make arrangements.

This program is presented in partnership by multiple area libraries. 

AGE GROUP: | Adults |

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

TAGS: | #virtual | #synchronous | #adult |

Lake Villa District Library
Phone: 847-356-7711
Hours
Skip Opening Hours widget
Mon, Oct 12 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Tue, Oct 13 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Wed, Oct 14 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Thu, Oct 15 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Fri, Oct 16 9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, Oct 17 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Sun, Oct 18 12:00PM to 5:00PM
previous
this week
next
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

Skip Events widget
Storytime
Thu, Oct 15, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - Lobby - Entire Space
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Goodwill Great Lakes - AbilityOne Program - Supportive Employment For Individuals With Disabilities
Thu, Oct 15, All day
Lake Villa District Library - Lobby - Entrance Tables
Learn about the AbilityOne Program at Goodwill Great Lakes where individuals with documented disabilities are connected to meaningful, supportive employment opportunities at Naval Station Great Lakes.
Hidden Cemeteries
Thu, Oct 15, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Explore the hidden history of Great Lakes cemeteries with Dr. Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi. Learn about lost graves, how they were discovered, and what they tell us about life on the Great Lakes.
Coding Club - Dash Robot Costume Parade
Thu, Oct 15, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
KIDS & TEENS (kindergarten – grade 12): Discover, experiment, innovate — join us to explore coding, robots and more!
Game Time for Adults
Thu, Oct 15, 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!
Friday Fun - Play Time
Fri, Oct 16, 9:30am - 10:30am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
LITTLES (birth – age 5): Play with toys and friends, old and new!
Tai Chi - Mind & Body in Harmony
Fri, Oct 16, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Learn how the simple flow of Tai Chi can help you find inner peace, improve balance and coordination, and strengthen your body without injury or strain. 
Mythical Creatures Society - Werewolves
Fri, Oct 16, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
KIDS (kindergarten – grade 5): Delve into the realm of magical beings with fantastic activities!
Storytime
Sat, Oct 17, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Craft Club
Sat, Oct 17, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Make a craft and meet new friends!
LEGO Club
Sun, Oct 18, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Bring your brains and we'll supply the bricks!
Storytime
Mon, Oct 19, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Storytime
Mon, Oct 19, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Mary Shelley
Mon, Oct 19, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Debra Ann Miller portrays Mary Shelley. Author of Frankenstein, she survived loss, betrayal, and hardship to become one of literature's most enduring voices.
Google Docs & Drive
Tue, Oct 20, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Meeting Room
How do I save something to Google Drive? When should I use Google Docs? Stacy Freeman, from Links2Teach, shapes this class around your Google Docs and Drive questions. Google account required.
This event is full
Game Smorgasbord - Candy Land
Tue, Oct 20, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Try different versions of the game with family and friends while showing off your Candy Land skills!
Crafters Night Out - All handicrafters are welcome!
Tue, Oct 20, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Whether you knit, crochet, needlepoint, or enjoy any other craft, join us at the library to work on your projects and meet fellow crafters.
Books on Tap - The Bewitching by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Tue, Oct 20, 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: Ghosts of the White House - Haunted Histories and Presidential Spirits
Wed, Oct 21, 11:30am - 1:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Blending historical fact with folklore, Valerie Gugala explores the ghost stories, strange sightings, and supernatural legends tied to the White House.
Novel Thoughts - "The Fourteenth Goldfish" by Jennifer L. Holm
Wed, Oct 21, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Meeting Room
GRADES 4–5: Join us to discuss "The Fourteenth Goldfish" by Jennifer L. Holm. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the Youth Desk.
Puzzle Club & Swap
Wed, Oct 21, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ALL AGES: Connect with fellow puzzlers of all ages, complete jigsaw puzzles together and swap your new or gently-used jigsaw puzzles for a fresh challenge.
Storytime
Thu, Oct 22, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Teen Dungeon Master Training
Thu, Oct 22, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YA Program Room
TEENS (grades 6–12): Learn tips and tricks for leading your own epic DND campaigns!
Making Sense of Menopause (Zoom)
Thu, Oct 22, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Discover what to expect during menopause, how to manage symptoms, explore treatment options, and find trusted resources for support.
Register
A Gripping Gothic Ghost Story - The Darkness Surrounds Us
Thu, Oct 22, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Mystery author Gail Lukasik uncovers the bizarre true history behind her horrifying Gothic novel, The Darkness Surrounds Us, inspired by a Michigan island, a mysterious cult, and the 1918 Spanish flu.
Friday Fun - Art Start
Fri, Oct 23, 9:30am - 10:30am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
LITTLES (birth – age 5): Blend the rules and create a masterpiece!
Hot Takes
Fri, Oct 23, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
KIDS & TEENS (kindergarten – grade 12): Drop your wildest opinion and debate with family and friends!
Storytime
Sat, Oct 24, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Craft Club
Sat, Oct 24, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Make a craft and meet new friends!
Teen Service Hour
Sun, Oct 25, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YA Program Room
TEENS (grades 6–12): Looking for volunteer hours? Help us assemble craft kits and earn volunteer credit!
Storytime
Mon, Oct 26, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Storytime
Mon, Oct 26, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Murder & Mayhem - Holmes, Marple & Poe by James Patterson and Brian Sitts
Mon, Oct 26, 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.
Page Turners - "The Nest" by Kenneth Oppel
Mon, Oct 26, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YA Program Room
GRADES 6-8: Join us to discuss "The Nest" by Kenneth Oppel. Copies of the book are available for checkout at the Youth Desk.
Senator Mary Edly-Allen Mobile Business Hours - Illinois State Senator for the 31st District
Tue, Oct 27, 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.
Taste Test Tuesday: Utz Brand Snacks - for Teens
Tue, Oct 27, 4:30pm - 5:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YA Program Room
TEENS (grades 6–12): Try new foods and find new favorites!
Taste Test Tuesday: Utz Brand Snacks - for Kids
Tue, Oct 27, 4:30pm - 5:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
KIDS (kindergarten – grade 5): Try new foods and find new favorites!
Crafters Night Out - All handicrafters are welcome!
Tue, Oct 27, 6:00pm - 8:45pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Whether you knit, crochet, needlepoint, or enjoy any other craft, join us at the library to work on your projects and meet fellow crafters.
Halloween Party
Wed, Oct 28, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ALL AGES (fun for everyone): Enjoy a spooktacular time of crafts, snacks and activities — plus compete in our annual costume contest for a chance to win $25 Amazon gift cards!
Storytime
Thu, Oct 29, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Morbid History
Thu, Oct 29, 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
From grand corpse larceny in medieval Venice to bizarre burials of the Habsburg royal family, award-winning filmaker Lorrisa Julianus takes you around the world with light-hearted spooky true tales.
Friday Fun - Trick-or-Treat Storytime
Fri, Oct 30, 9:30am - 10:15am
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
LITTLES (birth – age 5): Dress in your costume and trick-or-treat around the library!
Storytime
Sat, Oct 31, 9:30am - 10:00am
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Join us for stories, songs & fun!
Craft Club
Sat, Oct 31, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - YS Program Room A/B
FAMILY (kids & caregivers): Make a craft and meet new friends!
Eleventy-First Celebration
Sun, Nov 01, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ALL AGES (fun for everyone): Join us for Second Breakfast! Enjoy delicious breakfast favorites fit for a hobbit, while supplies last. Get a chance to meet Gandalf and take a photo!
General Election
Tue, Nov 03, 12:05am - 11:55pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
General Election
Crafters Night Out
Tue, Nov 03, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Meeting Room
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Whether you knit, crochet, needlepoint, or enjoy any other craft, join us at the library to work on your projects and meet fellow crafters.
Representative Tom Weber Traveling Office Hours - Illinois State Representative for the 64th District
Wed, Nov 04, 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.
Meet the Artist
Thu, Nov 05, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - Lobby - Program and Exhibit Area
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Join self-taught artist Uta Raina as she shares the stories and inspiration behind her paintings and the everyday places that capture her attention.
Swedish Roots in Chicagoland (Zoom)
Thu, Nov 05, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library
Swedish American Museum Curator Sarah Hawkinson shares why Swedes came to America in the 19th century, what the journey was like, and how Swedish immigrants helped shape Chicago and the Midwest.
Register
Great Decisions - U.S. Engagement of Africa
Fri, Nov 06, 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.
Neighborhood Hours with State Rep. Joyce Mason's Office - Illinois State Representative for the 61st District
Fri, Nov 06, 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.
Congressman Brad Schneider Neighborhood Office Hours - U.S. Rep. for Illinois's 10th Congressional District
Fri, Nov 06, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Lobby Table
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.
Fantasy Bingo
Fri, Nov 06, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ALL AGES (fun for everyone): Encounter a world of dragons, enchanted castles, and mysterious portals as you play Fantasy Bingo!
The Nine Meet & Greet
Sat, Nov 07, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B,Lobby - Entire Space,Outdoor - Pavilion, Lawn, Path
Calling all Middle-earth fans! Meet members of Wisconsin’s Lord of the Rings inspired costume group, the Nine. See their fan-inspired costumes and grab a photo with them! Drop in.
Lake Villa District Library Board Meeting
Mon, Nov 09, 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - Administrative Conference Room
Regular meeting of the Lake Villa District Library Board of Trustees.
Honoring the Brave: The Origins of Veterans Day
Mon, Nov 09, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Author Robert Girardi shares the history and evolution of Veterans Day from its beginning to the present day. Book sale and signing will follow the program. ​
Lord of the Rings Yoga Session 1
Tue, Nov 10, 4:45pm - 5:45pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Join Jeannie Christofalos of Nepenthe Yoga for a Lord of the Rings themed Vinyasa class with poses inspired by the realms of Middle-earth. Costumes are encouraged!
Registration opens Tuesday, November 3 2026 at 10:00am
Lord of the Rings Yoga Session 2
Tue, Nov 10, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Lake Villa District Library
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Join Jeannie Christofalos of Nepenthe Yoga for a Lord of the Rings themed Vinyasa class with poses inspired by the realms of Middle-earth. Costumes are encouraged!
Registration opens Tuesday, November 3 2026 at 10:00am
LVDL Writers Group: A "Novel" Experience - 10 Keys to Writing & Publishing a Novel
Wed, Nov 11, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Meeting Room
We'll talk craft; discuss writing-related questions; and celebrate big and small victories in terms of process, production, and publication.
Medicare One on One Appointments
Thu, Nov 12, 9:30am - 4:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Meeting Room
Meet one on one for 30 minutes with Illinois Department on Aging's SHIP Counselor, Mike Dressendorfer, to get your Medicare questions answered.
Registration opens Thursday, November 5 2026 at 10:00am
Bollywood 101 Dance Workshop
Thu, Nov 12, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Dive into the vibrant world of Bollywood dance! Fun meets tradition in this beginner-level workshop. Discover moves that encapsulate the heart of Indian culture & bring the joy of Bollywood to life.
Train Your Brain Online
Fri, Nov 13, 10:30am - 12:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): Learn about apps, games and tools you can use online (and offline) to keep your brain healthy and active over time. Presented by Wright to Learn.
Starved Rock History from a Native Perspective
Fri, Nov 13, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
ADULTS (ages 18 and up): From Native residents and early explorers to forts, legends, waterfalls, and beyond, Ho-Chunk Nation tribal elder Gerald Savage explores Starved Rock’s history.
Marquette University’s J.R.R. Tolkien Manuscripts
Sat, Nov 14, 10:30am - 11:30am
Lake Villa District Library - AS Program Room A/B
Did you know Tolkien’s manuscripts for The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings live only 50 miles from LVDL? Come learn about this amazing collection & gain a better understanding of Tolkien as a writer.
See all events