Recycle Holiday Lights at Plainfield Public Library Through Feb. 22

PLAINFIELD – Holiday lights that no longer work can be recycled at the Plainfield Public Library, located in downtown Plainfield at 15025 S. Illinois St., until Feb. 22. Residents should drop off their lights near the Library’s front door, next to the book return.

In the past three years, the Plainfield community has recycled 7,419 pounds of holiday lights through this program, supported by Elgin Recycling. As they have done every year, for each pound of holiday lights recycled, Elgin Recycling will donate a portion of its proceeds to the Library. This will be used to fund future environmental and “Go Green” events at the Library.

The following types of holiday lights are accepted: mini lights (or Italian lights), C7 lights, C9 lights, rope lights, LED lights, and extension cords. All colors and lengths will be accepted. Garland, live greens, wreaths or other non-recyclables are not accepted.

“As you’re putting up or taking down your holiday decorations this season, if some of your lights aren’t working anymore, bring them to the Library,” said Assistant Library Director Lisa Pappas. “We can help you recycle in an easy, convenient way. This is a great opportunity to not only help the environment, but to help contribute to Library programming as well.”

After the Library receives the lights, they will be recycled and repurposed, courtesy of Elgin Recycling.

The Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Residents can drop off their lights at any time, whether the Library is open or closed.

For more information about the Plainfield Public Library, visit www.plainfieldpubliclibrary.org or call 815-436-6639.