Danville Public Library and Museum Unveil Exciting Winter Programs

The Danville Public Library and the Vermilion County Museum are launching engaging programs this winter, offering a variety of activities and community events. The library’s Winter Reading Program, alongside the museum’s new exhibit on the Underground Railroad, aims to enrich local cultural and educational experiences.

Winter Reading Program at Danville Public Library

The Danville Public Library’s Winter Reading Program runs until February 16, 2026. Library marketing coordinator Kelli Carlton highlighted that this year’s theme is “Pixels & Pages.” The program features challenges for both teens and adults, as well as a separate challenge for children.

Participants can utilize the Beanstack app to log their reading minutes and earn rewards. For adults aged 13 and over, the aim is to accumulate reading minutes, with prizes available for reaching milestones of up to 100 hours. Children aged 0-12 are encouraged to develop a daily reading habit, earning prizes for consistent participation. Paper logs are available upon request at the library for those who prefer a traditional method.

New Exhibit at Vermilion County Museum

The Vermilion County Museum has launched a new exhibit titled “Journey to Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad,” which will be open until March 28, 2026. This exhibit highlights the stories of individuals who contributed to the Underground Railroad in Illinois, showcasing the efforts of freedom-seekers and conductors. The exhibit is sponsored by the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area, also referred to as Looking for Lincoln.

The grand opening is scheduled for January 15, 2026, from 17:30 to 19:00, where Heather Feezor from Looking for Lincoln will provide insights into the featured individuals and the exhibit’s development. The museum will also display a small exhibition focusing on African American history in Vermilion County during this period.

Vermilion County Tax Auction and Housing Renovations

On January 21-22, 2026, Vermilion Advantage will facilitate an online tax auction, allowing prospective buyers to bid on surplus and vacant land parcels. Mike Levin, the director of the Vermilion County Trustee Program, noted that the auction features a diverse selection of properties, including residential lots and single-family homes, with starting bids set at $1,000. This initiative aims to stimulate local economic growth and promote community development.

In addition to these events, the Vermilion Housing Authority is currently renovating the Mer Che Manor, a low-income public housing complex located at 723 N. Oak St., Danville. Executive Director Jaclyn Vinson reported that renovations include updating the building’s facade, which has been covered in plastic to allow work to continue despite winter conditions. The project, budgeted at $2.2 million, is expected to be completed by the end of summer 2026. Vinson confirmed that no residents were relocated during the renovations, and the complex consists of 93 units.

Senior Exercise Programs Available

For seniors looking to stay active, CRIS Healthy Aging and the Danville Family YMCA are offering free Fit and Strong classes aimed at fall prevention. This evidence-based program, developed by the University of Chicago, is designed specifically for older adults. Classes will be held twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from January 20 to April 14, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:30.

Participants can expect a supportive environment where they can improve their physical health while forming new friendships. Classes will include a combination of exercise and educational discussions, with a total of 24 sessions planned. Interested individuals can register by contacting the Danville YMCA at 217-442-0563 or reaching out to Claire at CRIS Healthy Aging at 217-902-4210.

These initiatives reflect the community’s commitment to enriching cultural, educational, and health opportunities for residents of Danville and the surrounding areas.