Vernon Area Library ranks among top in nation

Vernon Area Public Library is counted among this year's group of "Star Libraries" as designated by industry publication Library Journal. The distinction ranks the Lincolnshire library among the top 30 libraries in their category nationwide and among the top 3.5 percent of all public libraries in the U.S.

Each year, Library Journal compares libraries across the country and identifies the top performers. The annual measurement of public use includes a range of library services, including circulation, digital checkouts, library visits, program attendance and public internet access. More than 6,300 public libraries were measured for the 2019 index. The resulting rankings are used by the library industry to identify best practices and trends in library use.

Of those, the top performers — "Star Libraries" — are assigned three, four, or five stars, much like Michelin Guide ratings. The result is a short list of public libraries nationwide demonstrating the highest level of service use by patrons. Vernon Area Public Library District received a 3-star rating.

Locally, Palatine, Barrington, Ela Area (Lake Zurich), Cook Memorial (Libertyville), and Northbrook public libraries also received recognition this year. The Vernon Area Public Library District has been awarded Star Library status eight times in the past 10 years.

“It is always an honor to be recognized by Library Journal,” said Library Director Cynthia Fuerst. “Our staff and board work hard to provide the materials and services that our community wants, and that shows in the amount of use. Everyone appreciates seeing this objective measure that says we are doing a good job.”

The 2019 Star Library ratings are based on statistics collected from July 2016 through June 2017.