What is A Tapestry of Freedom at the Gail Borden Public Library?

A Tapestry of Freedom spotlights the faces, feelings and histories of freedom. Its goal is to promote harmony, unity and respect. Each month we celebrate a different theme, or thread, that makes up the fabric of our community. Private collectors, the Elgin Area Historical Museum, local artists, and people like you provide the displays. Look for special exhibits and programs:

February - Black History
March - Women’s History
April - Cultural Diversity
May - Local Preservation
February through May – Veterans History Project, the Civil War and Abraham Lincoln
April 17 through May 30 – Forever Free: Abraham Lincoln’s Journey to Emancipation

When can I visit the exhibit?

The exhibit is open to the public from February 2 through May 30 during regular library hours, Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sunday, 1 to 5:30 p.m. (The library will be closed on Easter, March 23, and Memorial Day weekend, May 25 and 26.)

Guided group tours start on Monday, April 21 by reservation only. To register, go to Plan Your Visit.

Why should I visit A Tapestry of Freedom at Gail Borden Public Library?

Take a trip that all can afford—it’s free!
Experience history through the eyes of people who were there—veterans, women, local residents and people of different cultures.
Let your children learn about history through hands-on activities such as a 19th century general store and a replica log cabin, being built February 12, Abraham Lincoln’s 199th birthday!
See rare historic documents and artifacts, many on loan from local residents.
Everyone in the community is invited. Our facility is handicapped accessible.

Who funded A Tapestry of Freedom?

Funding for this grant was awarded by the Illinois State Library (ISL), a Division of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), under the federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).

Forever Free

In panel reproductions of rare historical documents, period photographs, cartoons and memorabilia, this exhibit re-examines President Lincoln's views on slavery and his evolving approach to emancipation during the Civil War. "Forever Free: Abraham Lincoln's Journey to Emancipation" has been organized by the Huntington Library, San Marino California, and the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, New York City, in cooperation with the American Library Association Public Programs Office. This exhibition was made possible by major grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities, promoting excellence in the humanities, and the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission, created by Congress and charged with planning the national celebration of Lincoln's 200th birthday.

What will I see?

Click here to visit our photo gallery.

Do different elements of the exhibit and programs change?

Yes! You will experience something new every month.

How do I get to Gail Borden Public Library?

The library is located at 270 N. Grove Avenue, Elgin, IL 60120. Click here for directions. You can also call the library at (847)742-2411.

Who do I contact if I have a historic item or collection for display?

Please call Miriam Lytle at (847)608-5027 or email mlytle@gailborden.info.