Tuesdays at Ten | Historic Buildings & Businesses of Urbana

Join us at the library for coffee, socializing, and learning something new.

This summer, we'll celebrate our library’s 150th anniversary during Tuesdays at Ten with a dive into library and local history. We have a lineup of experts ready to share stories, old and new.

As settlers first came to an area known simply as "Big Grove" in the 1820s, a community began to form. In 1833, the new city of Urbana would be chosen as the county seat. Much like its sister city, Urbana was shaped by the railroad and the entrepreneurs who built their businesses in the heart of downtown. As the community nears its 200th anniversary, we will explore the history of some of the buildings and businesses that have graced its historic downtown.

About the presenter: Will Best has served as the museum manager at the Champaign County History Museum for the past three years. He assists in genealogical research, curation, and collections work to steward the community's history.

Tuesdays at Ten | Summer 2026

• June 2, Libraries: Global Reach - Local Touch
• June 9, The History of Children's Literature
• June 16, Women’s Baseball in Illinois and the Midwest
• June 23, Historic Buildings and Businesses of Champaign
• June 30, Learn Your Story: Researching and Resources
  
  
• July 7, The Egyptian Trail: Early Roadways in Champaign County
• July 14, History of Libraries in the CU Area
• July 21, From Urbana to Hollywood in the 1920's
• July 28, Historic Buildings and Businesses of Urbana

Adults | Social, Presentation, Discussion

Main Library, Robeson Pavilion Room A & B

The Library is committed to making events accessible for all. To request an Americans with Disabilities Accommodation, please complete this form, or contact us by email at info@champaign.org, by phone at 217/403-2000, or through chat. Learn more about accessibility at the library.