Tuesdays at Ten | History of Libraries in the CU Area

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.

Our libraries are the bedrock for community education and provide an invaluable opportunity for personal growth. Join the Champaign County History Museum to explore the 150-year history of our local institutions, including our very own Champaign Public Library and The Urbana Free Library, and more. Both of these libraries date back to the 1870s and were among the first public libraries in the state of Illinois. Learn about their beginnings, expansions, and more about how they continue to serve our community today.

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.