Illinois Libraries Present

Steve Burns – Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Marissa Bode – Tuesday, October 21, 2025
J. Kenji López-Alt – Tuesday, November 18, 2025
Jonathan Eig – Tuesday, January 13, 2026
R.L. Stine – Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Percival Everett – Thursday, March 19, 2026
Cristina Henríquez – Thursday, April 16, 2026
R.F. Kuang – Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Illinois Libraries Present is a statewide collaboration among public libraries. The collaboration is designed to bring virtual events with bestselling, esteemed, and diverse speakers to library patrons across the state. 192 Illinois libraries have joined Illinois Libraries Present. Working together allows libraries to bring speakers to their communities that might not be possible due to budget constraints or production capabilities.
This event is made possible by Illinois Libraries Present (ILP), a statewide collaboration among public libraries offering premier events. ILP is funded in part by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a department of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).
ILP is committed to inclusion and accessibility. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Closed Captioning are provided for all events by default—no special request needed.
If a you needs accommodations not listed, please email the library at stjosephtownshiplibrary@gmail.com and Susan will contact ILP.

Join Illinois Libraries Present for a nostalgic and intimate hour-long conversation with Emmy-nominated actor Steve Burns, best known as ‘Steve’ from the beloved Nickelodeon show Blue’s Clues.
Beyond the iconic blue paw print and memorable striped green shirt, Burns has built a unique career in entertainment, encompassing acting, directing, music, and, new this fall, a podcast which “listens back” – Alive with Steve Burns.
This special interview offers a closer look at Burn’s journey, from the early fame of Blue’s Clues to his personal growth and creative evolution. Arionne Nettles, a Chicago based storyteller and cultural reporter, will join Steve in conversation.
This event is made possible by Illinois Libraries Present (ILP), a statewide collaboration among public libraries offering premier events. ILP is funded in part by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a department of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).
Register Here!
ILP is committed to inclusion and accessibility. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Closed Captioning are provided for all events by default—no special request needed.
If a you needs accommodations not listed, please email the library at stjosephtownshiplibrary@gmail.com and Susan will contact ILP.