Elgin Public Library

Ranking: Value - 5 out of 5; Dad Fun Factor - 2 out of 5; Kid Fun Factor - 4 out of 5

Don't get the wrong message from the Dad Fun Factor score. This one is not about me. It's mostly about the boys. This is one great library. All hail the money Elgin gets from the casino. It really has made a big difference here. One of the great additions to the community, besides me, is the library. We go there weekly. I've tried to find a few books I'm interested in while there but apparently others have the same interest and I come up short. But the boys score it big every time. They are practically known by name in the audio/visual area. We can always find great movies that are top of their mind. Wiggles, Disney, you name it, we find it. We keep a healthy supply of music in the Yukon. The best part, and what makes the library special, is that we can keep movies for up to a week and music for a month. We're going tomorrow to get a copy of The Jungle Book. It's going to be great.

I can understand if you are a little uneasy going to a library. It's a little intimidating. Here are a few key benefits. One, it's free. Of course, not if you don't live in Elgin. But I'm hoping you have one where ever you are. Secondly, this library is right on the Fox River and has great grounds if you want to simply get out. Thirdly, the kids section is great. It has book and books and books. It also has a cool play area and fish. Nothing can entertain like fish. The play area isn't large but it's fun for little guys. I can pretty much chill and keep an eye on them at the same time. If you have the chance, check it out. I'm a big fan.

Check out their website at: www.elgin.lib.il.us. It's not too great but it's a good gateway.