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America 250 is a nationwide celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Join us throughout the month of July for a variety of programs for all ages that explore our nation’s history, highlight diverse voices and experiences, and reflect on the ideals that continue to shape our country. Plus, discover themed booklists for kids, tweens, teens, and adults curated by library staff.
Events
All Ages
Pop-Up Program: Patriotic Glasses
Wednesday, July 1 – Friday, July 3 • All locations
To celebrate America's 250th birthday, drop by any of our library locations to make a pair of patriotic glasses that you can wear for the Fourth of July.
Monday, June 1 – Monday, August 31 • Central Library
Illinois is home to many influential people throughout history, including presidents and first ladies. From June 1 through August 31 visit the second floor of our Central Library for an exhibit on four presidents and three first ladies who called Illinois home. This display will feature the legacy of Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, Ronald Regan, Barak Obama, Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Betty Ford.
Village of Schaumburg's 70th Anniversary Exhibit
Monday, July 6 – Monday, August 31 • Central Library
Throughout 2026, the Village of Schaumburg celebrates 70 years since its incorporation on March 7, 1956. Guided by the motto Progress Through Thoughtful Planning, it has grown from a small farming community into a vibrant village where families, businesses, and culture thrive. Join the celebration this summer with a special exhibit featuring a timeline of Schaumburg’s journey from its early roots to today.
Town Square Concert: Mellencougar
Monday, July 6 • 6:45-8:15 p.m. • Town Square
Join us as we celebrate America 250 and Schaumburg’s 70th anniversary with Mellencougar, bringing the timeless, all-American rock of John Mellencamp to Town Square. Big hits, big energy, and a night worthy of two historic milestones.
Youth
Art Adventures: Fourth of July Craft
Thursday, July 2 • 1-1:45 p.m. • Central Craft Room • 2-5 years with caregiver
Celebrate the upcoming holiday with a Fourth of July craft while supplies last.
Celebrate America's 250th Birthday
Monday, July 13 • 3-4:30 p.m. • Hanover Park • 5-12 years
Celebrate America's 250th birthday with a bingo game, crafts, and cupcakes. Children aged 5-7 must have a caregiver present.
Teen
Drop In Activity: Write to Represent
Wednesday, July 1 – Friday, July 31 • Central Teen Space • 12-19 years
Your voice matters! Hone your persuasive writing skills and share your opinions with elected officials. Stop by the Teen Place throughout July to write a letter to your state and national representatives.
Adult
Revolutionary War Resources for America’s 250th Birthday
Tuesday, July 14 • 6-7 p.m. • Central Rasmussen North
The American War of Independence generated immense amounts of paperwork, including military/government correspondence, strategic maps, muster rolls, loyalty oaths, and pension files, to name but a few. Tina Beaird marches participants through time to discover what types of records still exist to help you trace your patriot ancestors.
W.F.K. Travers’ Lincoln Portrait
Wednesday, July 15 • 7-8 p.m. • Online
Art historian and educator Mallory Mortillaro shares the fascinating story behind a nine-foot-tall portrait of Abraham Lincoln, praised by those who knew him as one of the most lifelike depictions ever created, now currently on loan to the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery.
Stars, Stripes & Ribbon: An Adult Craft Night for America’s 250th
Monday, July 20 • 7-8 p.m. • Hoffman Estates
Tonight we're going to craft like it's 1776! Celebrate America's 250th birthday and create a unique flag door badge out of ribbon. Participants will take home their completed craft and a birthday swag bag.
Senior Social Hour Lunch and Learn: The American Revolution
Wednesday, July 22 • 1-3:30 p.m. • Central Rasmussen Room
In honor of America's 250th birthday, come watch a two-hour segment of PBS's popular documentary THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION and stay for a quick wrap-up discussion afterwards. Lunch will be provided during the screening.
Thursday, July 23 • 6:30-8:30 p.m. • Central Rasmussen Room
Celebrate America's 250th birthday by testing your US history knowledge through the years. The top three scores get a prize. Play on a team or by yourself.
Lynn Rymarz Presents Martha Washington: Our Founding Mother
Wednesday, July 29 • 7-8 p.m. • Hanover Park Branch
Everyone knows George Washington is called the Founding Father of our nation, but what about his wife Martha? Hear her story and the role she played in becoming our nation’s Founding Mother.