Lake County Gazette

On July 10, 2010, Aspen Drive Library opened its doors for the first time, welcoming the Vernon Hills community into a modern space designed for connection, learning, and growth. What began as a solution to a growing population’s needs has become a beloved destination serving thousands each year.

The journey to Aspen Drive Library’s opening was years in the making. In the 1990s and early 2000s, the Cook Memorial Public Library District faced challenges due to a growing population, limited space at its Libertyville location, and increasing demand for library services in the southern part of the district. Despite several attempts to pass referendums to expand the library footprint in Libertyville, the need for additional space remained clear. To address these constraints, the district opened the Evergreen Interim Library in 2003 inside Vernon Hills Village Hall as a temporary solution while plans for a permanent library took shape.

Opening Day on July 10, 2010, was marked by eager crowds waiting to explore Aspen Drive Library. "The most rewarding time in my career was watching the community come through the doors of the new building for the first time," said Lauren Cerniglia, Assistant Director.

When Aspen officially opened in 2010, it quickly became an integral part of life in Vernon Hills. Since then, it has grown significantly by adding digital resources and creating programs for all ages. From launching The Workshop to adding study rooms and meeting spaces every change has been made with community needs in mind. Over years millions of books have been checked out thousands of programs hosted creating countless memories with patrons.

In June 2010 there were 9,935 visitors at Evergreen Interim Library; this number more than doubled to 22,749 visitors in July when Aspen Drive Library opened.

Aspen Drive Library quickly became so popular that finding an open seat was sometimes challenging especially in children’s department leading to major expansion completed in 2019. A 15,000-square-foot addition helped meet growing demand.

The original building measured 20,000 square feet from 2010-2019; after expansion, it now measures 35,000 square feet.

Over years Aspen Drive Library has teamed up with local organizations offering literacy programs job workshops cultural events Summer reading program sparked love of reading among young readers technology services helped bridge digital divide Aspen is place where people from all walks life come together learn create connect

As we celebrate this milestone we’re also looking forward We’re excited about what’s ahead from expanding digital physical services making our spaces even more welcoming No matter what future holds one thing stays same our commitment serving you being place where community can come together learn grow