You are invited to embark on a journey and discover the libraries that serve McHenry County!
From Feb 1 - March 31, 2026, your mission is to visit and explore the 15 participating public libraries in the McHenry Co area. It's free, no library card is required, and it's fun for all ages!
Register at any of the participating libraries (including BALibrary - complete list below). You'll receive a guidebook, map, and prize brochure, plus a collectible brag tag. Earn brag tags at every library you visit - each library has a unique design!
Visit the libraries in any order that works for you (do check their operating hours before making the trip). Follow the fun and learn more about the participating libraries on the MCLLE Facebook page, too!
Check out books and materials and enjoy fun activities at the libraries (you may have to to register your hometown library card to do so. Check each library’s circulation policies).
To finish: visit at least 12 of the 15 libraries, and you’ll be entered for a chance to win one of 15 gift baskets, each valued at $50, filled with gift cards from area businesses. Gift baskets will be on display at many of the libraries, so check 'em out!
Grand Prize: Visit all 15 libraries, and you’ll be entered into a drawing to win the grand prize basket valued at $150! Winners will be drawn and notified via phone or email after April 8.
NEW in 2026: can you solve the Case of the Missing Manuscript? If you can't resist a good mystery, get the details in the Library Lovers guidebook for 2026, and get on the trail! All correct entries will be submitted into a drawing for a surprise gift basket!
This Year's Participating Libraries:
Algonquin Area Public Library District
Barrington Area Library
Cary Area Public Library
Crystal Lake Public Library
Fox Lake District Library
Fox River Grove Memorial Library
Harvard Diggins Library
Huntley Area Public Library
Johnsburg Public Library
Marengo-Union Library District
McHenry Public Library District
Nippersink Public Library District
River East Public Library
Wauconda Area Public Library
Woodstock Public Library