The
Voice
Section B
Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora
June 4, 2015
1
Grand Opening/Open House, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. June 14
The Richard and Gina Santori Library open house will be June 14. The view is from the west side parking lot. An artist’s rendering of the Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora served as the guide for several years. The view is from River Street on the east side of the building. June 14 is the grand opening. Submitted graphic
Inside: • New Santori part of APL
See page 2
• Santori naming Christmas present
See page 5
• Children’s Center by Kiwanis Club
See page 6
• Ample Teen Space
See page 7
• Richard Williams poem
See page 11
Ron Langstaff photo
2
The
Voice
Section B
Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora
June 4, 2015
New Santori just part of the Aurora Public Library Welcome to Aurora Public Library! The Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora is new and our downtown flagship location at 101 S. River Street. Our system is made up of three locations and a Bookmobile. The Eola Road Branch, 555 S. Eola Road, is on the city’s East Side; the West Branch, 233 S. Constitution Drive, is on the city’s West Side; and the Express Center, 1100 Church Road, is home to the Bookmobile and the Outreach Services van that provides services to senior citizens, the homebound, and preschool students. What’s new at all Aurora Public Library locations? • Ereaders: Nook, Nook Color, or SimpleTouch devices can be checked out with your library card. They come preloaded with a variety of adult, teen, and children’s titles. • “Internet on the go”: Mobile hotspots can be connected to up to 10 devices for Internet service anywhere. • Google Chromebooks: Borrow a new, fast computer to use inside our library locations. • Download ebooks, learn a foreign language, listen to audiobooks or renew library books on your smartphone or tablet. Learn how to use these free resources by visiting the Computer Assistance/Information Desk at any location. • Hoopla: Thousands of movies, television shows, CDs and audiobooks are available for mobile and online access through the library’s partnership with hoopla digital. Enjoy thousands of titles from major Hollywood studios, record companies and publishers through instant streaming or temporary downloading to smartphones, tablets and computers. • Mobile app: Want to renew a book, place a movie on hold or download an Ebook? There’s an app for that. Aurora Public Library has a mobile app that puts the library at your fingertips, instantly tapping into library resources anytime and anywhere.
One
Vooice
Amy Roth
• Overdrive Media Stations: We have expanded our digital services with OverDrive Media Station, an in-library tool that allows customers to browse and sample the library’s digital collection of Ebooks and audiobooks from a touchscreen monitor. Digital titles are available any time, any where by visiting aurorapubliclibrary.lib.overdrive.com. Customers can browse the library’s website, borrow titles with a library card, and read selections on devices including iPhone, iPad, Nook, Android phones and tablets and Kindle. • Zinio: This service allows customers to download and read magazines on computers and mobile devices. Unlike downloadable ebooks and audiobooks, there are no due dates or checkout limits. • OneClickdigital lets you check out audiobooks online. • Technology workshops are held in a classroom setting, or get one-on-one assistance through Book a Librarian or Ten Minutes with a Techie. Professional librarians will help you with your electronic gadget, your job search, navigating government websites, or finding information about local businesses. Ask at any Reference Desk. The Richard and Gina Santori Public Library, 101 S. River Street, is a state-of-the-art center for technology, information, literacy, creativity and community. Here are just a few examples of what Aurorans can do at this library, which will open at noon June 15, 2015: • Record and edit music in the digital media lab. • Design and manufacture items with a 3D printer.
Index of section advertisers listed All-A-Electric .................................................page 4 Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry ........... page 5 Aurora Montessori ........................................ page 5 Aurora Pancake House ............................... page 10 Batavia Public Library ................................. page 3 Baum Property Management....................... page 6 City of Lights Dental..................................... page 7 Coffman GMC ................................................ page 3 Colleen’s Flower Basket................................ page 9 Compounder, The .......................................... page 6 Fox Valley Homebrew ................................... page 7 Fox Valley Veterans Breakfast Club ........... page 9 GreenLife Media Group project ............. back page Healy Chapel ............................................... page 10 Jake’s Bagels & Deli ..................................... page 7
Johno’s ............................................................ page 6 Kenny Corn .................................................. page 10 Kiwanis Club of Aurora ................................ page 6 Konen Insurance ........................................... page 3 Linda Chapa LaVia, state representative... page 4 Mens Cuts ...................................................... page 7 Mother’s Pancake House ............................ page 10 Paul & Bills .................................................... page 7 Reuland Food Service ................................... page 7 Tecalitlan ....................................................... page 6 The Voice .................................................. pages 3, 8 Waubonsee Community College .................. page 6 S&S Metal Recyclers II ................................. page 9 Stephanie Kifowit, state representative ..... page 9
This Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora section Illinois Press is produced by: IVERSARY 150TH ANN
2015 Member
The
Association 1865-2015
Voice Publications, Inc. 314 N. Lake St., Suite 2 Aurora, IL 60506
Phone: 630.966.Voice(8642)
Fax: 630.225.5232
Email: news@thevoice.us
• Research ancestors in the local history and genealogy room. • Improve school skills in the early literacy center. • Collaborate on tech projects in the Tom and Marilyn Weisner Family Computer Lab. • Borrow a laptop and work in a study room or at the laptop bar. • Meet with clients in our conference rooms. • Build reading and social skills at storytime. • Check out books, movies, and music in English and Spanish. Cool new spaces and things to do at the Santori Library: In the MakerSpace, northwest side of first floor: • 3D printer: Single extruder Cube Pro that uses PLA plastic to print 3D models of anything that you can imagine. • Laser Cutter: Epilog Mini 24 with a 40 watt laser. It is capable of cutting and etching a variety of material including wood, fabric, and acrylic. • Arduino Kits: Create, build and invent something new with Arduino Kits. A practical and hands-on experience on building simple to complex projects with Arduino. • HP Z5400 Plotter Printer: Create posters, photos, canvases, backlit prints, indoor signs, POS posters, line drawings, and maps. Hands-on workshops will be available. • Oculus Rift: Access to virtual reality headset that will allow gamers to step inside their favorite games and virtual worlds. In the Public Computer Area, south side of second floor: • More than 40 public computers, Training Lab and Family Lab. Plenty of power and seating for customers with their own devices. One-on-one assistance available. In the Media Lab, second floor, next to the Teen Space: • With iMacs audio/video creation hardware and software will allow users to make their own podcasts, movies, and more. Access to lots of new technology will be at customers’ fingertips. • Digital Video/Sound Recording: Use your own camera or the library's camcorder to capture your own creation in our Media Lab utilizing a green screen, lighting and Yeti microphones. • Video Capture: Convert and preserve those old VHS or 8mm tapes into a digital recording to share. Hands-on workshops will be available. • Picture Scanning: Scan your pictures and preserve them digitally. • Slide Scanning: Convert your old 35mm slides to a digital file. (VHS to DVD / cassette to CD or MP3 file) • Hands-on workshops along with one-on-one assistance will be available for these new technologies. What cool things can I check out at the Santori Library? Digital cameras, portable hard drives, tripods, Gopro cameras, selfie-sticks, digital stylus pens. Amy Roth is the public information officer for the Aurora Public Library.
• Family research in Wegman History Room • Dunham Fund grant provides artwork
see page 4
see pages 5, 11
• Helpful hints to Santori elements
see page 6
• Parking suggestions for visitors June 14
see page 7
• Aurora Public Library history
see pages 8-11
The
Voice
Section B
Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora
June 4, 2015
Eva hopscotches to Santori: Aurora Public Library Director Emeritus Eva Luckinbill hopscotches toward the Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora and leads the way for Teen Advisory Board members who are moving the first books May 29 from the Main Library to the Santori Library. The hopscotch drawing was made by chalk artist Dean Wicklund with help from Teen Advisory Board members. Ron Langstaff photo
Congratulations to The Santori Public Library!
Congratulations to the citizens of Auroraa an anndd th and the he tru ttrustees rustees u tee tees and employees of the Richard and Gina SSantori too i Aurora Public Library! brary! br y! We may sit in our library ibrary rryy and yet be in all quarters te of the earth. – John hn Lubbock ubb ubbo bbock
The Difference is Service! 630-897-4239
www.konen.com
2570 Beverly Drive, Suite 100, Aurora Excitement! Expansion! Excellence!
Our Congratulations! to the newest in Aurora: June 14 celebration
The Voice
314 N. Lake St., Suite 2, Aurora Phone: 630-966-Voice(8642) Email: community@thevoice.us
¤ £ £¤ ª £ £ Š ¤ ¤¡¦£¤ £ and employees of the Batavia Public Library
3
4
The
Voice
Section B
Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora
June 4, 2015
Family history research in Wegman History Room Family history research is available in the new Wegman Local History Room of the new library in Aurora. The Emma and Robert Wegman Local History Room on the second floor of The Richard and Gina Santori Public Library is the place to research family history or to find out about the history of your home. For those who want to look at an old yearbook or meet one-on-one with someone experienced in conducting genealogical research? This is the place to do it. Following are some frequently asked questions that may help you get started in your research, the
Santori Library is the place to do it. I am just beginning to research my family history. Is there any way I can get assistance to get off to a good start? Our staff members will provide what assistance we can. Because our time is limited by a host of other duties, it might be more advisable to attend one of our Genealogy Walk-In Assistance sessions. Our volunteers have more than 50 years of experience in conducting genealogical research, and the sessions take place two to three times each month at the Santori Library and the Eola Road Branch with morning and some evening times available.
(630) 393-1100 - Fax (630) 393-1144 24 Hour Emergency Service 229 W. Galena Blvd., Aurora, IL 60506 320 S. Cornell Ave., Villa Park, IL 60181
The benefit of using this service is that our volunteers will work one-on-one with you to help find the answers you are seeking. My great uncle died in Aurora in 1965. Can I get a copy of his obituary? Under many circumstances, this should be possible. We may, however, need to ask for further information. The Genealogy/Local History staff members are compiling a searchable database of obituary and death notice articles, and while far from complete, it is possible for us to immediately identify the pertinent date and page of The Aurora Beacon to consult. In addition, there are indexes and a database of local burials which may provide a firm date of death. The “Find a Grave” website, “Social Security Death Certificate Index” and other web sources can give us clues on where to look. Given the amount of time necessary to go through a single reel of microfilm, we are generally limited to a search window of only one month, and it is an unfortunate fact that not all local deaths were reported, particularly the further back in time one goes. I live a block away from the Eola Road Branch. Do I have to come to the Santori Library to do my research? That depends, but if you are looking into the past lives of ancestors from the immediate area, Santori will be the most helpful destination. The ancestry.com database is accessible at all Aurora Public Library facilities, and our Genealogy WalkIn sessions are held two to three times per month at the Eola Road Branch as well as the Santori Library. If you need to use microfilm, however; consult with the City Directories, or access other historical materials with a very regional focus, the collections at Santori are many times larger than similar items at any of our branches. I recently purchased an older home in Aurora. How do I find out who lived there in the past? Frankly, one of the first questions you will be asked is why you are interested in finding this information. It is our experience that 80% to 85% of those seeking their house histories are doing so beSee page 11
Communities In Schools of Aurora congratulates the members of the Aurora Public Library Board and Staff on the Grand Opening of the Richard and Gina Santori Aurora Public Library! We are proud to be a partner of the Aurora Public Library as we work to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life!
www.cisaurora.org
Wishing Great Success to The Santori Public Library from
Linda Chapa LaVia State Representative 83rd District
8 E. Galena Blvd. Suite 240 Aurora, IL 60506 630-264-6855 630-264-6752 (fax)
229-E Stratton Building Springfield, IL 62706 217-558-1002 217-782-0927 (fax)
E-mail: chapa-laviali@ilga.gov Paid for by Friends of Linda Chapa LaVia
The
Voice
Section B
The bronze statue of Marie Wilkinson will move to the Richard and Gina Santori Public Library from its Main Library moorings on Benton Street and Stolp Avenue. Amy Roth photo
Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora
June 4, 2015
5
Daisy Porter-Reynolds, left, executive director of the Aurora Public Library, and Eva Luckinbill, executive director emeritus, receive books May 29 from the closed Main Library conveyed by the Teen Advisory Board members. Ron Langstaff photo
Santori Library naming Christmas 2013 present An early Christmas present came to the Aurora Public Library December 23, 2013, when it was announced that the Main Library would be known as the Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora. John Savage, Aurora Public Library Board of Directors president, announced Dr. Gina Santori would make a donation of $3 Million to the library to establish a technology endowment to ensure that the downtown library and its branches would have the financial ability to provide the latest technology into the future. The gift allowed the new library’s Teen Space to have tablets, laptops, music and broadcasting equipment available to inspire creativity and give teens the tools they need to achieve their dreams. Dr. Santori and her late husband, Richard, both were dedicated to life-
long learning. Richard Santori passed away in 2010. He was the owner of several auto dealerships both in and around Aurora, including Valley Honda, Valley Imports, and Valley Mazda Volkswagen. He served on committees for the Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce, Community Counseling Center and the New York Street Business Association. He was an active member of the Chicago Area Automotive Dealers Association and served on the board of the University of Chicago Foundation. He served in the Army and Air Force Reserves as a pilot. Gina Santori of Lisle, a physician and surgeon who is on staff at RushCopley Medical Center in Aurora, now practices only on a pro bono basis assisting patients with complications from diabetes. She received her M.D.
degree from the University of Illinois and her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from the College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago. Dr. Santori is the national black belt champion in Shotokan Karate 11 times over. She ice skates competitively, is a ballroom dancer, and has commercial pilot licenses for both sea and land. She guides the charitable
Innovative technology
"A modern library is much more than books. It is about innovative technology, the ability to collaborate and to be able dream and discover. I'm proud to say, the new Santori Aurora Library has all that and more." —John Savage, president, Aurora Library Board
Dunham Fund grant provides new artwork When you tour the Santori Library, you will notice artwork and sculpture adorning the outdoor plaza, John C. Dunham Atrium and walls. The artwork was funded through a $250,000 Dunham Fund grant to support the arts and education. During a late Summer 2014 press conference at the construction site of the Richard and Gina Santori Public Library, the Dream Catcher sculpture to be displayed in the atrium was unveiled. Dream Catcher artist Jerry Savage’s visionary concept combines art and science technologies and represents the transition of the printed word to the information highway. “Human beings have an intrinsic sense of beauty and truth,” Savage See page 11
foundation that was started by her late husband to support educational opportunities at The Santori School in Prey Veng, Cambodia, and for scholarships for college and university candidates in the United States in the field of aviation, medicine and science. “My husband, a self-taught man, was never afforded the education that he held so dear,” Dr. Santori said. “He studied each morning with the reading of encyclopedias to act as his curriculum. It served him well in his life and he mentored others with his generosity of knowledge and time.” The current Main Library opened in 1904 and was built with a $50,000 grant from philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The Main library building, on Stolp Island, was remodeled in 1969. —Aurora Public Library
ENROLL TODAY AND GET $75 OFF TUITION.* • Authentic Montessori curriculum for ages 18 months to Kindergarten • Nationally certified Montessori teachers • Full complement of Montessori equipment
A unique way to learn. A PROUD, LONGTIME PARTNER OF THE AURORA PUBLIC LIBRARY.
• Half-day, school-day, and full-day enrollment options
Aurora Montessori School 3180 N. Aurora Road • Aurora, IL 630.898.4346
Montessori.com *See school for conditions of offer and further details. Offer expires 7/15/15. Coupon Code: 2015-75. La Petite Academy, Inc. is an equal opportunity provider and employer. ©2015 La Petite Academy, Inc. BMU44
6
The
Voice
Section B
Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora
June 4, 2015
Helpful hints as a guide to Santori elements What are some of the elements of the Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora? Kiwanis Children’s Library: The Kiwanis Club of Aurora donated more than $100,000 for the naming rights to the Children’s Center. The children’s area is 13,000 square feet, more than three times the space of the Children’s Department at the Main Library on Benton Street. ‘Ask Me’ Desk: Stop by the Ask Me Desk for all of
RECEIVE 10% OFF YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE
35 S. Broadway, Aurora
(630) 892-8059
200 E. Butterfield Road, North Aurora (630) 892-6180 Coupon must be presented when ordering. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires June 30, 2015
your questions. If we can’t provide an answer, we will refer you to someone who can. Self Check/DVD Dispensers: Let us show you how to check out on the self check and the DVD dispensers. All you need is your library card and PIN (Personal Identification Number) Early Literacy area: • Play area with soft play equipment • Developmentally appropriate books for birth to age five in English
use their laptops/tablets while their children enjoy the early literacy area Computers (Regular/AWE): Six computers with Microsoft OfSee page 9
Johno’s
Main Surplus
65 E. Downer Place, Aurora 630-897-6929
Congratulations on your Achievement!
The Kiwanis Club of Aurora sponsors the Children’s Center. Ron Langstaff photo
From
Congratulations on a job well done! Our new library will be second to none for generations to come!
and Spanish • Age appropriate educational toys • Alphabet and counting manipulatives Laptop Bar for parents: A comfortable place for parents to
340 Marshall, Unit 100 Aurora, IL 60506 Tel: 630.859.0333
Larry J. Frieders, Pharmacist larry@thecompounder.com
Too Many People Take Too Many Drugs
of Aurora Kiwanis Club Congratulations on the completion of a stateof-the art library that certainly will meet the first Kiwanis Object, “to give primacy to the human and spiritual rather than to the material values of life.”
K
At Waubonsee, you’ll find an educational experience unlike any other. Just bring your imagination, enthusiasm and dreams, and we’ll help you achieve beyond what you thought possible.
CLASSES START SOON! ENROLL TODAY: www.waubonsee.edu
Sugar Grove Campus Rt. 47 at Waubonsee Dr. Sugar Grove, IL 60554 (630) 466-7900
Aurora Campus 18 S. River St. Aurora, IL 60506 (630) 801-7900
Copley Campus 2060 Ogden Ave. Aurora, IL 60504 (630) 585-7900
Baum Property Management
Professional Management of Condo and Homeowner Associations Let us give you a free no obligation quote! 540 W. Galena Blvd., Aurora • 630-897-0500 www.baumprop.com • mikeb@baumprop.com
Plano Campus 100 Waubonsee Dr. Plano, IL 60545 (630) 552-7900
WCC does not discriminate based on any characteristic protected by law in its programs and activities.
Mike Baum PCAM, President
relationships - quality- ethics
The
Voice
Section B
The MakerSpace is attractive. See page 6.
Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora
Ron Langstaff photo
The Teen Space has 5,000 square feet.
June 4, 2015
7
Ron Langstaff photo
Ample Teen Space, Gaming Center, study rooms in Santori At 5,000 square feet, the Teen Space on the second floor of the Santori Library is more than 12 times the size of the teen area in the Main Library. All the furniture is movable so that the teens can separate and come together as they wish in an area all their own. Mobile desk: The teen librarian or another staff member will roam the Teen Space when teens are out of school and having fun in the space. The desk is mobile so that the teen librarian can focus her attention wherever she is needed. Events room: Events of all types for teens can be held in this room, but when it is not being used for teen programs/events or is not being used as an annex to the media lab, this space will be open to teens so they can work in groups, chill out in their own space and be themselves. Gaming Center: • Board and card games are available for free play.
• Teens can sign up to play the newest game systems, Wii U, Playstation 4 , and Xbox one, with a game of their choice. Laptop Bar for teens: A comfortable place for teens to use their laptops/tablets in a teensonly area. Two Study Rooms: • Study rooms are available for teens for group study and to work with tutors.
Book Stacks: • Yes! There are plenty of teen
books, including fiction, manga, graphic novels and series books.
June 14 parking suggestions offered Those attending the June 14 grand opening celebration may enter the Santori Library parking area off of River Street. Look for event parking signs. There are a limited number of handicapped parking spaces on the west side of the Santori Library near the plaza.
Parking garages are at River Street and Galena Boulevard and at Downer Place and Stolp Avenue. Limited onstreet parking may be available. The grand opening/ribbon cutting ceremony will begin at 1 p.m., and the library will be open for self-guided tours and other activities until 5 p.m..
Best wishes to Santori Library PAUL & BILL’S SERVICE CENTER 300 W. GALENA BLVD., AURORA
Let our Car Care Experts Keep Your Vehicle Running Like New!
Dr. Julie Lies-Keilty & Dr. Richard Bertoglio General Dentistry 1940 W. Galena Blvd. Ste.#11 Aurora phone: 630.892.7087 www.cityoflightsdental.com Trust, compassion, expertise! Defi ning the art of dental care!
LEARN HOW TO MAKE WINE Instructional Workshop $25/2 hours Saturday, June 27, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call to register 630-892-0742
14 West Downer Place, Suite 12, Aurora
Michele & Martha 630-896-6367
Celebrating 29 Years. Proud subscriber of The Voice newspaper 31 West Downer Place, Aurora in the Aurora Business Center
Cream Cheese
Flavor of the Month
Raspberry
220 N. Broadway, Aurora, IL Ph./Fax (630) 906-0332
8
The
Voice
Section B
Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora
June 4, 2015
Call for a public library in Aurora came early The following ran in The Voice May 16, 23, 30, 2013 as a three-part series. Beginnings are important. Rare is the child who does not ask, “Where did I come from?” or the religion without a story of genesis. With long-standing institutions such as the public library, we may forget that there was a time when they did not exist, but, of course, they too had their beginnings. In Aurora, the call for a public library came early. The discussion began in 1838, only a year after the town’s establishment. Burr Winton, one of Aurora’s local legends, was among the first to broach the issue. Born in 1801, Winton was the second white child born in his native Schuyler County, New York. He lived there until his late 30s, and worked in farming and carpentry. Upon hearing so much of the western country, Winton embarked on a 21day trek to Illinois by way of water and stage, and settled in Aurora in 1836. Eight families resided in the town at that time. Winton was a busy man in Aurora. He, worked as a carpenter and as sexton (caretaker) of the East Side cemetery. He owned a hearse, which he rented out, and he served as Aurora’s first postmaster. At that time, the tiny village was not up to the task of starting a public library. Winton and others organized a group called the Young Men’s Association. With each member paying $2 a share for the purchase of “popular and instructive works,” a library was established in Winton’s home on North Avenue. The Young Men’s Association accumulated about 600 volumes before combining, in 1859, with The Young Men’s Literary and Historical Society. The latter group had about 400 volumes in its collection prior to the merger. The resultant group became known as The Young Men’s Literary Association of Aurora.
One
Vooice
Frank Patterson Aurora Public Library volunteer
Although the library was not yet public, because only members could borrow books, the collection that eventually would pass to the Aurora Public Library was off to a grand start. The U.S. Civil War was a game-changer Beginning April 12, 1861, with Confederate forces firing upon Fort Sumter, S.C., the War Between the States drew young men away from their hometowns. With so many of Aurora’s local men gone off to fight, the Young Men’s Literary Association of Aurora ceased to exist and the fledgling
Burr Winton arrived in Aurora in 1838 when eight family settlers lived in the community. Winton, who became the first Aurora postmaster, organized the Young Men’s Association, which established a library in his home on North Avenue. Submitted photo
Extra! Get Your Hands on the Best Extra!! Deal Around!
library fell into disuse. Thankfully, the cause was not abandoned. The townspeople came together to form yet another group, which was incorporated February 16, 1864 by the Illinois legislature known as The Aurora Library Association. A year later, that body took over the collection amassed by the Young Men’s groups and found rent-free space in the rear of the post office, which at that time occupied most of the first floor of the Aurora City Hall on Fox Street, now Downer Place, near Stolp Avenue. General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant April 9, 1865, at Appomattox Court House in Virginia to end the Civil War. To honor those who had served, a committee in Aurora was formed in 1869 to oversee the erection of a soldier’s monument. Funds were raised, but years passed without much progress. New inspiration came in 1874, when Fred O. White visited Foxboro, Mass.. There, he saw a beautiful memorial building that combined the idea of a soldier’s monument with that of a public library. White relayed his findings to the committee, which obtained photographs and plans of the Foxboro building. After review, the decision was made to build a similar structure in Aurora. Work was begun on about the first of June, 1877, and on Independence Day, 1878, the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) Memorial Hall on Downer Place was dedicated with speeches and fanfare, and then closed for more than two years. During that time, a meeting of two or three interested persons was held in the editorial offices of the Aurora Herald newspaper. Those persons proposed to take advantage of an 1872 law passed by the Illinois legislature allowing municipalities to levy a tax of not more than two mills for the support of a public library. After several adjournments, it was concluded that they would try to get the Aurora City Council to levy a library tax. They perceived councilman W.W. Bishop, the watchdog of the treasury, to be their major obstacle. Bishop reportedly was opposed to every measure to increase taxes. Therefore, they decided to ask him to be the one to introduce the ordinance, that See page 9
on i t p i r sc A sub o t si : a po e U SA s w it h in th ad e e h ol id ay ng m th B u yi ng fo r ri pa P re
li st ,
pa ge
Voice
23
Email:
et tt.nnet @aatt. ce@ ice voiic the_vo
liberty m and FFreedo on citizens depend ir voices the using 50¢
rost ack F mas, J Christ y rr e sM h Mis gic wit ay Ma Holid
The
• Solid Feature Articles by our Writers. • You are the story! Let us share your event.
ti ve
by selected the dren on the chil to turn Frost, to contest Jack , because as and e in a pho Voic fireworks clear, but Christm Merry ers of The and therelatively e crowd year, e to read . larg welcom day the istmas treeno parade this celed. Theallowed a ent’s holi e 22 Chr re was e can ., still governm expanded The expense, wer at 6 p.m See pag er 26 ting the city e 3 for a kmb star ic, , extr coo Nu pag of Mag e2 (See evening suming as tree Holiday days. ities.) Volum chilly, r, con pate in and the holi y commun reindee oot Christm e part Santa ings in man viewing live the 38-f Center wer truck follows- happen ing carols, and lighting th Island Aurora fire e Miss ne ally Sing cocoa, of the Nor on the him wer ter Cra tradition the Mid By Car season ities around ceremony ies and hot a outside Santa arrived and with seum day plaz nt. mun is a at the annual eve artment Mu as holiely. In com chilly air d istm Chr the of the Fire Dep squeeze Day closlights in k. The icipants Aurora, from the giving the win Thanksturning on n with a rs and part Center in particiwest, seriously, eve 0 observe th Island Friday, to taken re than 1,00 ide of Nor atre, last Mo a area outs mount The Para into plazfrom the across
ber 3, Decem
2009
kend. last wee alderntry m the cou h help fro mas tree over wit rist the on all ristmas, the Ch posed at in er e turned rry Ch switch for contest Weisn ts wer ss Me the e ligh and Mi flipped yor Tom the photo ason Crane er, ce/J for mas tre Frost a ma The Voi Christrora, Jack bert O’Conn Auror announced ow, In Au arge Ro many. Bel ners were Kennedy. at-l man delight of r the win and Airis to the uncil afte Bradford Co ase City side: ce, Ch Voi In e Th
Pay online at: t www.thevoice.us th i
52 issues
send check or money order to:
The Voice
Name_________________________________________
314 N. Lake St., Suite 2 Aurora, IL 60506 Phone: 630-966-Voice(8642) Email: community@thevoice.us
Address________________________________________ City_________________________State____Zip________
All for Only
$
us; e foc on 3,4,8 Pages alth cart informati • He tan impor se 5 paradi shop Page lb se to • Clo all DeKa in sm us s fill photo icipation es 20-22 ay lid Pag • Ho great ant with , safety akfast 6, 7 e bre reports Pages • Retire UAW fill the
00 18per year tiac. in Pon photo Parade P.R.O.U.D. ht Up The Lig es 3 and 21. See pag
00 30 for 2 years
$
The
Voice
Aurora Public Library history he may become father of the library. The ploy worked, and a tax of one mill (.001, or one-tenth of a penny) on the dollar was passed to support the public library. June 1, 1882, the Aurora Public Library opened its doors, in the G.A.R. building, but by 1883, it was already apparent that the building was not large enough. ”[E]very shelf was filled with books, and temporary provision became necessary,” according to a news report. From the beginning, the directors intended to have a reading room available for library patrons, but there was no space for such a room. The library was merely a collection of books to be checked out by the public. The solution to these problems came in 1885 when a 44’ x 54’ annex was added to the building. The collection was moved into the annex, and tables and chairs were placed in the original building to allow for a public reading room and meeting room for the G.A.R. veterans. Finally, it seemed the library had reached maturity.
Section B
Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora
9
from page 8
But Aurora had not. The city was still growing and the library was soon to feel the effects of that growth.
The history of the Aurora Public Library focused on the 19th Century in part one with its start in 1859 and
eventual inclusion in the G.A.R. (Grand Army of the Republic). Part two starts See page 10
The Aurora Public Library, after deliberation, was built on the south end of Stolp Island where Joseph Stolp Submitted photo once had cattle grazing. The project took two years to build and was opened August 22, 1904.
Helpful hints as a guide to Santori elements fice for reports and games such as The Magic School Bus and Tumblebooks Two types of AWE computers: The Early Literacy Station (ELS) is an all-in-one computer for children ages two to six loaded with educational programs in English and Spanish on reading, writing, science, geography, music and the arts. They have a colorful keyboard and a small mouse for a child’s hands. After School Edge computer is for ages six to 12. It includes educational software like I Love Science, Elemen-
June 4, 2015
from page 6
tary Britannica Encyclopedia, Math Blasters, and Eyewitness History of the World. Tom Hurrell – A True Kiwanian -- Storytime Room – for storytimes and other programs for children: • Lapsit/Toddler Storytimes • Spanish Storytime • Reading is Top Dog –children read to therapy dogs • Music Together • Lego Club Reuland’s Resource Room for
Congratulations on your next 100 years of providing endless learning opportunities! Stephanie A. Kifowit State Representative of the 84th District
Congratulations Santori Library! Our Best Wishes!
1-800-FLOWERS
The Flower Basket
Open until 7 p.m. now Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
www.FLOWERBASKETINC.com 302 N. Lake St. • Aurora (630) 892-7673
Educators and Parents: Access to: • Ellison Die Cuts • Laminator • Button maker • Charges for laminate and other supplies used Two Study Rooms: • Study rooms are available for children and may be reserved by way of the Library’s Online Room Reservation system. • For group study and for tutors. Make and Take Craft area: • Drop-in crafts offered during open hours. Book Stacks and AV shelves • Fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, paperbacks, Robert Herget Memo-
rial Parent Resource Collection, board books, audio books, etc., series books.
Ecology Tech Inc
STATE CERTIFIED SCALES
M-F 7:30 - 4:30 Sat 7:30 - 12:30
CONTAINER & TRUCKING SERVICES
www.ssmetalrecyclers2.com 2
10
The
Voice
Section B
Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora
June 4, 2015
Changes along the way in the Aurora Public Library include the East Reading Room, above, from January 1952, and the size of the library was almost tripled in the 1969 with a $500,000 renovation project Submitted photos that included a new three story entrance.
Aurora Public Library history with the beginning of the new century. October 15, 1900, Dr. William A. Colledge, pastor of the People’s Church and president of the library board, wrote a letter that would shape the Aurora Public Library for more than a century. The letter was written to none other than Andrew Carnegie, the steel magnate, who was using his vast fortune to build libraries throughout the English-speaking world. In that letter, Dr. Colledge told of how the existing building was not large enough for the city’s fast-growing population, and he asked the great philanthropist for a new library building for Aurora. Months passed without a response, but in January 1901, the reply arrived. Mr. Carnegie would give $50,000 if the city obtained a site for the building and if the library tax would be continued. Surprisingly, the tax does not seem to have been an issue. The problem can be summed up with the real estate broker’s mantra: “Location, location, location.” Everyone, it seemed, had land to sell or donate to the city. The heirs of Samuel McCarty, who had given Lincoln Park (now McCarty Park) to the city, agreed to relinquish all rights in the property should the library be built there. Mr. and Mrs. J. O. Mason offered a lot at the corner of Lincoln Avenue and New York Street. Charles Kilbourne offered an ambitious vision for building a huge civic center complex at the south end of Stolp Island and encompassing the two
from page 9
smaller islands south of Stolp Island. His vision placed the library at the very south end of the smaller islands, with those islands to be enlarged and connected by a landscaped drive through a little park. His plan included a new high school, following the consolidation of the East Aurora and West Aurora school districts, and new buildings for the YWCA, YMCA and the Woman’s Club, should they wish to opt in. There were many ideas and offers on the table, including a proposal to move the G.A.R. building to a site south of City Hall, to free the site of the present library for the new library. Amid all that, the east vs. west rivalry was at its height. At a January 1902 meeting of the Committee of the Whole, the issue was put to rest. Addressing the crosstown rivalry, Aurora mayor George Alschuler scolded the councilmen: “This library location squabbling has become child’s play. This East Side and West Side talk is becoming monotonous. There is nothing to it. We are one great big city and we ought to work to the interests of that city alone and not for one side of the river or the other.” Following the mayor’s speech, alderman Puffer moved that the meeting be opened to allow anyone who wished to speak on the issue, to do so. The motion was carried unanimously. After many passionate words, the council chose to leave the decision to the Library Board, which chose the site donated by the Stolp family. The new library would be built on the south side of the island, where Jo-
Congratulations and Best Wishes from
2290 West Galena Boulevard Aurora (630) 264-2526
332 W. Downer Place Aurora 630-897-9291
seph Stolp’s cattle once grazed. No sooner had one conflict been settled, when a new one began. The location had been chosen, but now the design of the building came into question. It was the staff members of the Aurora Daily Beacon who asked, “Shall we build for the future?” in the newspaper’s February 4, 1902 edition. It appears the Library Board was to build a one-story library building, but, in a series of articles, the Beacon editors insisted that a two-story building “of plain and substantial design and of sufficient capacity can be built for $50,000.” Undoubtedly, the planned one-story building would have suffered the fate of its predecessors, by moving quickly into obsolescence. The two-story building served the city for many decades in its original form, and continues to do so today, in its modified form. The new Carnegie-funded library was opened August 22, 1904. Finally, Aurora had a library building with enough space to serve its community as well as to allow for future growth. Important phases included various aspects. Outreach services began in 1909 with the opening of Aurora’s first branch library at Oak Park School on the city’s northeast side. A newspaper article dated May 1, 1909 reported: “It has been a long journey for the people there to reach the library on the island and now books are kept at the school house and loaned to the children and their parents under the
20%
Discount with this ad
370 Division Drive Sugar Grove 630-466-1330
same conditions as the books at the central building. “This is one of the most important phases of library development and tends to bring within reach of all the taxpayers the privileges which have been denied them. The system will be extended as fast as possible.” The prediction proved true. From 1919 through 1936, four more library branches were established in Indian Creek School, Brady School, Abraham Lincoln School and Bardwell School. Library branches were established, including four in schools from 1919 to 1936. The Aurora Public Library system was in full bloom, but every garden needs maintenance. In 1941, the library board embarked upon an 11-year remodeling of the Main Library building. The project began with redecoration of the main floor, including the children’s department. Work on the second floor began January 1952 and was completed in August 1953, which created three new departments: The Art and Technology Department, the Periodicals Department, and the Music Department. The $100,000 pay-as-you-go project made “the Aurora library one of the finest and most modern in this area,” according to The Aurora Beacon-News, and the project was “completed without extra expense to the taxpayer, or special levy or bond issue.” A Traveling Branch: In the 1950s, postwar prosperity and the baby boom brought federal dollars to pubSee page 11
Congratulations Santori Library! We are a few blocks away and have an excellent menu!
321 N. N La Lake ake Street 630-859-1122
The
Voice
Aurora Public Library history lic schools for the development of their own school libraries. This windfall for schools presented a problem for the branch libraries, many of which were housed inside school buildings. Two branch libraries already had closed in the 1940s. The Abraham Lincoln Branch Library closed November 1944, and the collection at the Alice Doty Wernicke Music Branch at 512 Main Street, now East Galena Boulevard, was moved to the Main Library in February 1946. Now the East Branch Library, at Indian Creek School, and the Brady Branch Library were facing their demise. In April 1953, librarian Eleanor Plain wrote a letter to the Illinois State Library, to make a formal request for the loan of a bookmobile. Plain wrote: “We were recently informed by the East Side Board of Education that the room which houses our East Branch Library would be needed for school purposes. It is impossible to find another location in this area for a branch and a bookmobile would en-
Section B
Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora
Dunham Fund grant provides new artwork
new three-story entrance containing the main stairway and an elevator. Because bricks could not be found to match those of the original structure, the entire exterior was covered with a gray limestone facing on a black granite base. The basement, which had been used to store paper documents, was cleared, because those documents were transferred to microfilm. The newly- created space allowed room for the Children’s (now the Young People’s) Department, which previously had been on the main floor. The 1990s: The Aurora Public Library added two branch libraries in the 1990s. The Eola Road Branch opened in 1993 and shared the Eola Community Center building at 555 Eola Road with the Fox Valley Park District. In 1998, the West Branch opened at 233 S. Constitution Drive, and shared a building with Washington Middle School. Going Forward: The 21st Century already has brought a number of changes to the Aurora Public Library, with many more changed in anticipation.
The Eola Road Branch was expanded in 2003. In 2010, a minivan, or “Mini-B” (for Mini-Bookmobile) which it is called by library staff members, began operation. The Mini-B delivers library books and materials to the home-bound. Now, any Aurora resident who cannot make it to the library, or even to the bookmobile, can register to have books, music, and movies brought to their door. That same year, the library acquired land at the southwest corner of Benton and River Streets, the former location of The Beacon-News building, as the site of the new main library. The Express Center was opened September 17, 2012 at 1100 Church Road. In addition to books, readers, audio books, DVDs and magazines, the Express Center provides Internet access to patrons. Ground was broken May 1, 2013 at the site of the new main library building on River and Benton Streets, which will feature the latest available technology and a built-in adaptability to help serve future generations of Aurorans.
from page 5
ceived his BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and his MFA from the University of Southern California. His work has been included in many prominent exhibits nationally and internationally, and has been widely collected. Savage has received numerous awards, including the Guggenheim and Ford Foundation grants. John Clark was a student of Savage’s at University of Illinois and is a principal of Cordogan Clark and Associates, an international architecture firm with offices in Aurora, Chicago and China. Just like Savage, Clark has received numerous awards and his work is part of the permanent collections at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design. The grant provided for other artwork that is on display in the Santori Library. This artwork was created locally for an art contest called The “Art of Technology” competition. “It is amazing what the Dunham Fund has done for Aurora,” said Todd Drafall, past president of the
Family history research in Wegman History Room cause they suspect their home may be haunted! The Genealogy/Local History staff members have consulted a variety of house history research materials, and we have compiled the findings into one handy reference guide. The end result can be found under the “House Histories” link on the Genealogy/Local History portion of the Aurora Public Library website. The greatest help we can provide for this kind of research is our collection of City Directories which dates back to 1858-1859. Not all years are covered, however, and some issues may be missing. A list of our City Directories is included in the “Collections” link of the Genealogy/ Local History pages of the library’s website. One should note that for any address that existed before 1929, house numbers had been changed the previous year, and the 1929 volume indicates both the former and new address. All of the directories since 1895 allow you to look up addresses by street name, and will tell you who lived in the house at the time of the canvass. Before that date, you will need to skim the entries to see
11
from page 10
able us to serve not only this district but other areas as well. Our Board has had a bookmobile in mind for several years ... this would appear to be the right time to try one.” The request was approved. The East Branch closed in August 1953. One month later, the Aurora Public Library rolled out bookmobile service with a 1945 Chevrolet-adapted bus loaned by the State of Illinois. The new traveling branch was not immediately recognizable to all Aurorans. The first monthly report told of a lady who entered the bookmobile, handed a dime to the librarian on board and asked to be let off at Fifth Street. The library purchased that first bookmobile from the state of Illinois in November 1955 and has owned and operated a bookmobile ever since. Growing wings: The Main Library building underwent its most dramatic change in 1969 when a $500,000 renovation project took place which completely changed the look of the building and almost tripled its size. Wings were added to the sides of the original building, as well as a
said. “The library is the perfect location for the Dream Catcher because the library is available to all. The oval shape of the sculpture is a symbol of our universe and connects to a globe that represents human intelligence and problem-solving technology. It is a visual metaphor of our connection to knowledge and expanding technology.” “This powerful piece celebrates literacy and learning,” said John Clark, who collaborated with Savage in developing the piece. “It symbolizes our amazing digital age where traditional sources of information are transformed into new ones. The endowment being made possible by Dr. Gina Santori supports emerging and modern technology. The Richard and Gina Santori Public Library is really the perfect location for this inspiring piece.” The design of the Dream Catcher has been donated by Savage and Clark. Savage was a professor with the School of Art and Design at the University of Illinois Champaign/Urbana from 1963 to 2001 and continues as Emeritus Professor. He re-
June 4, 2015
from page 4
who lived in a particular place, and it is very timeconsuming. In conjunction with this question, we are often asked whether we have any photographs of the house in question, and it must be noted that the library has very few historical photos that do not involve the library. For assistance in finding any existing images, you will be referred to the Aurora Historical Society. Once you have names of former residents, it may be possible to find obituaries to give you more information on who these people were, or perhaps track descendants who may have pictures that would be of interest to you. Our “House Histories” link will provide contacts to other agencies in the area who can give additional information about your property. How much do you charge for your services? At this time, anything that our staff members can send to you by E-mail is free. It may be subject to change as the department looks into ways of funding replacements for broken microfilm reels. Should it be necessary to print and mail information, we charge $3. per question.
Aurora Public Library Foundation. “This grant promotes collaboration in education and the arts, it provides a curriculum path for STEAM, and moreover, we are thrilled to be able to work with local artists.” The Dunham Fund was established by John C. Dunham in 1996, two years after his retirement as chairman of the board of Equipto, the company his father founded in Aurora in 1907. Mr. Dunham worked his way up from sweeping floors. Since the Fund became active in 2007, more than 150 grants have been made to area organizations engaged in providing education and to organizations assisting individuals to attain heights they may not have attained without the benefit of such assistance. The Dunham Fund honors the legacy of Mr. Dunham, who strived to make the world a safer and more comfortable place for mankind to live and prosper.
The Richard And Gina Santori Public Library We’re honored, and it is with pleasure we offer anew, To introduce Richard and Gina Santori to you. For their contribution, the library will be so named, And they will be honored again as the post is acclaimed. Aurora, the city, as well as all neighbors around, Will benefit greatly for having this edifice crowned. It serves as a tribute to values of civil respect, Upon which all those who will use it can aptly reflect. It’s also important to thank those who helped in this cause. No matter how much or how little, their help gives us pause. The ones who, behind the scenes, triggered this ponderous quest Are solemnly recognized here, with their efforts addressed. This is an achievement of which you can justly be proud; Your smile should be candidly broad, your applause long and loud. This building, its functions, its people, are meant here to serve; It’s now up to us to show forcefully that we deserve.
© Richard Williams
12
The
Voice
Section B
Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora
June 4, 2015 The Aurora Public Library sign installation of the Richard and Gina Santori Library is a signal that the June 14 open house draws closer. Original photo in May 7 issue.
*** SEE YOU AT THE PARTY / SECOND WEEK OF JUNE / AURORA IL*** SAT
Farmers Market Grand OpeniNG
6
103rd annual Farmers Market 8am -12 pm Know Your Farmer > Know Your Food Aurora Transportation Center (ATC) - 233 N. Broadway
SUN
Jason Crane/The Voice
Mid-American Canoe & Kayak Race
7
54th annual Fox River Paddling Event 8:30 -3 pm Riverside Party @ McCullough Park St. Charles > Batavia > Aurora
MON
COMMUNITY GARDEN TOURS
8
Meet Aurora’s Urban Farmers 6 -8 pm El Jardin - Claim St. and Union Ave Garden of Hope-Jardin L’Esperanza - 171 S. Lasalle St. Marie’s Community Garden 835-837 N Highland Ave
TUE
Roadmap to ENERGY INDEPENDENCE
9
Aurora Green Drinks 6:30 -8:30 pm Michelle Knox, Illinois Solar Energy Association (ISEA) BallyDoyle Irish Pub - 28 W New York St
WED
WHEN ARE “GREEN JOBS” COMING?
10
Aurora Downtown ’Hump Day’ 5 -8 pm Lisa Albrecht, Clean Jobs Act -SB 1485/HB 2607 Solar Thermal System Tour with Joe Hopp @ 7:00 Two Brothers Roundhouse - 205 N Broadway
THU
RAIN GARDEN BIKE TOUR
11
Meet at Aurora City Hall 6:30 -8 pm Eric Schoeny, City Engineer & Watershed Expert Fox River Bike Path - Clean Water Projects
FRI
WHERE DOES ALL THE ‘POO’ GO?
12
Fox Metro Water District 11:30 -1:00 Lunch-n-Learn! Wastewater Treatment Plant Tour RSVP to ecoweekevents@gmail.com
SAT
AURORA GREENFEST Eco-Celebration
13
Prisco Community Center 10 -4 pm Kids EcoVillage, Local Market & Trade Show
SAT
ELECTRIC BIKE, CAR & TRUCK SHOW
13
McCullough Park 10 -4 pm New Electric Bikes, Cars and a Recycling Truck!
SAT
Aurora Bike Club
13
Meet at River Edge Cafe 9:30 am -12 pm Bike the Fox River, Lunch at GreenFest Food Trucks!
LEARN MORE > AURORAGREENFEST.COM/ECOWEEK1
POWERED BY
GREEN PROJECTS ALLIANCE of FOX RIVER VALLEY AND FRIENDS!
A GreenLifeMedia Media Group Project a GreenLife Group project
The Ask Me help desk is inside the Children’s Department, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Aurora. See inside and see page 6. Ron Langstaff photo
Key: $10.8 Million grant In January 2013, Jesse White, secretary of state and state librarian, notified the Aurora Public Library it had been awarded a Public Library Construction Act grant of $10.8 Million in reimbursements for construction costs. The entire $10.8 Million was applied to the $28 Million cost of the new downtown public library. As of the end of May 2015, 90% of the grant dollars had been awarded. The final 10% will be released after the final report is delivered to the state in June, according to Bonnie Sebby, special projects librarian. Upon the announcement of the grant award in 2013, Eva Luckinbill, then-executive director, said, “The Aurora Public Library Board of Directors and I are extremely appreciative to secretary of state White and the Illinois General Assembly, including our local lawmakers state senator Linda Holmes and state representative Linda Chapa LaVia, for approving the program and releasing the funds. This grant will lower the bond debt for the construction of the new library, thereby lowering the amount Aurora taxpayers will contribute toward the new library and other improvements to the library system.” Luckinbill praised Sebby for her meticulous and professional work in
writing the grant and managing the application process. Brian Caputo, City of Aurora finance director, was instrumental in assisting the library with various fiscal compliance requirements for the grant. Jeffry Butler, then-president of the Aurora Public Library Board of Directors, said he had been cautiously optimistic about the possibility of the grant award since the library made the application in 2012. “I can honestly say that the new Main Library and receiving the grant is the highlight of my tenure on the board,” Butler said. “I am thrilled with the support of mayor Tom Weisner, the City Council, and library staff who have worked diligently toward the new library project.” The library purchased the site of the former Beacon-News at 101 S. River Street to build a new library in 2009. The firm of Cordogan Clark & Associates was chosen as the architectural firm for the project in 2010. Joining that firm on the project were R.C. Wegman Construction Company as the construction management firm, Schoppe Design Associates as the landscape architect, and KDI Design Interiors as the interior design firm. Owner’s representative on the project was Barbara Kattermann. —Aurora Public Library