Library Welcomes Public to April 19 "Coffee with a Cop"

On April 19, Chief of Police John Bucci and other members of the Algonquin Police Department will meet community members in an informal, neutral space to discuss the goals and vision for the police department and the community, build relationships, and drink coffee. This program returns to the library due to the community’s positive response to previous Coffee with a Cop events.

Community members of all ages are invited to attend. The event will be from 4:30 to 5:30pm on Tuesday, April 19 at the Algonquin Area Public Library, Harnish Main Library, 2600 Harnish Drive in Algonquin. Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for residents to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Algonquin’s neighborhoods.

Much of the interaction between the public and police department representatives happens only during emergencies or emotional situations—situations that are not always conducive to relationship building with the community. In addition, some community members may feel hesitant to approach officers on the street. Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed interaction.

Coffee with a Cop is a national initiative supported by The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. Similar events are being held across the country, as local police departments strive to make lasting connections with the communities they serve. The program aims to improve relationships between police officers and community members, one cup of coffee at a time.

Questions? Please contact Outreach Librarian Virginia Donahue at virginia.donahue@aapld.org or 847-458-3144.

The Algonquin Area Public Library District has 23,049 cardholders and serves more than 40,000 residents in a 30-square-mile area including Algonquin, Lake in the Hills, Cary, and Barrington Hills.