Gail Borden Library's South Elgin branch to celebrate 5th anniversary with party, concert

After welcoming almost a quarter of a million people through its doors since opening five years ago, the Gail Borden Public Library's South Elgin Branch is holding a party Wednesday to celebrate the anniversary.

The branch, which opened in July 2016 as South Elgin's first library, will host the family celebration at Panton Mill Park from 6 to 8 p.m. The park is on North Water Street, just west of the Fox River.

The festivities will include a concert by the Chicago songwriting duo Wendy and DB, who describe their music as "edutainment" with "upbeat lyrics and funky beats for all ages." The concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Other activities included games and prizes, free treats and a bedtime story. Families are encouraged to bring blankets and chairs, along with a picnic dinner to enjoy during the concert.

At approximately 4,275 square feet, the branch in a condo unit within a larger building at 127 South McLean Blvd. is about half the size of the Rakow Branch on the west side of Elgin.

Craig Pearce, communications specialist with the village who described himself as "an old public library guy," said the village is happy to have branch.

"They've opened their doors for a variety of our gatherings and we've been able to provide them outreach opportunities to meet people at our parks and events," Pearce said. "When people look for a great place to live, they'll often consider the conveniences of getting to work, to their place of worship, to their schools and to their library; all the elements of a stable community. It's great knowing we now check all of those boxes."

"The Gail Borden branch library simply makes South Elgin a better place to call home."