Vernon Area named top US libraries

Vernon Area Public Library is counted among America's Star Libraries for 2021. The distinction places the Lincolnshire-based library among the top 4.5 percent of all public libraries in the United States.

America's Star Libraries is an annual ranking of public libraries conducted by trade publication Library Journal. Scores are based on volume of use, including visits, circulation, program attendance, public computer use and circulation of electronic materials. The resulting rankings are used by the library industry to identify trends and best practices.

More than 5,800 public libraries were assessed for the 2021 awards. Of those, the top 30 nationwide in each of nine budget categories were awarded three, four, or five stars, much like Michelin Guide ratings.

Vernon Area Public Library received three stars.

Other area libraries that received recognition include Barrington Area, Ela Area (Lake Zurich), Mount Prospect and Northbrook.

"It is an honor to be recognized by Library Journal," said Library Director Cynthia Fuerst. "We work hard to deliver for our community and that shows in how much residents use their library. It's always gratifying to see this objective measure that says we are doing a good job."

The 2021 scores and ratings are based on data collected from July 2018 through June 2019.

The full list of 261 Star Libraries, detailed explanation of the index measurements and information about trends are available at https://www.libraryjournal.com.