Libertyville Civic Center Sees Increase in Renters

When Tammy Thompson planned her wedding, one of the choices she and her husband, Antone, had to plan was where to hold the celebration.

She discovered the perfect place around the corner from her Libertyville home.

Thompson said she was so pleased with holding her wedding and reception at the , she decided to hold her sister’s baby shower and will soon hold her son’s birthday party there, too.

“It’s a great place, especially when we live here and get a discount,” she said.

As families continue to celebrate special occasions but on a tighter budget, the has seen revenue increase as residents and nonresidents find the center an affordable and accommodating location.

Anne Carlino, director of the Libertyville Civic Center Foundation, said the center saw a 12 percent increase in income from leasing out the center for private parties in 2010 compared with a year ago. As of November, Libertyville Civic Center has seen an 8.5 percent increase in income from leasing out the space.

“It’s an affordable alternative,” she said. “Our rental rates are competitive.”

Room to Turn Dream into Reality

Carlino said the center features six rooms, including the banquet room that can hold 200 people. People may choose to hold private gatherings such as birthday parties, religious celebrations and showers. The rooms also can accommodate smaller events such as club meetings.

Prices range depending on the room size and the date of the event. Carlino added the center provides a discount to residents who live within the 60048 ZIP code.

Thompson said as they priced rooms, some locations charged a premium to bring their own food and provide drinks. But allowed her to bring food and a licensed bartender. The staff also was helpful, assisting in setting up and cleanup after the event.

“There was no additional charge to provide our own food. Our family is big into cooking,” Thompson said.

Convenient Parking, Location

Libertyville resident Julie Cashman also has chosen the civic center. Organizing both a funeral reception as well as her son Eric’s Eagle Scout reception, she said Libertyville Civic Center was a good choice because it was centrally located for their guests. She also complimented the convenient parking near the back of the center.

“It was great for the types of events we had,” Cashman said. “It was easy to get in and out.”

Carlino said she is pleased to see the center used more because that is the purpose of its existence — to provide a gathering place for the community.

“We’re happy to see people take advantage of what we offer,” she said.

Cashman agreed, adding her children have attended many events there from birthday parties to teen dances. The family sees the center as a valuable asset to the community.

“We feel fortunate to have it for our youth,” Cashman said. “It’s a great thing to have.”

Thompson recommends the center to others, adding a neighbor soon will be holding an event there. In addition to being affordable, she was able to bring her ideas and create the event desired.

“If you’re looking for an environment to bring your own dreams to reality, the Libertyville Civic Center gives you that opportunity,” Thompson said.

For information about rates and to reserve space, visit: www.LibCivicCenter.org or call: 1-847-918-8880.

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