Cook Memorial Library, Historic library building in Libertyville, Illinois.
The Cook Memorial Library is a Victorian building in Libertyville that was originally built as a private residence and now serves museum functions. The main structure displays ornate architectural details and formal reception rooms, while a newer library facility was added behind it to house expanded collections.
The building was constructed in 1878 as a private residence for contractor Ansel B. Cook and was converted into a public library in 1921 through provisions in his will. This transformation marked a turning point in the building's use and shaped its community role for decades to come.
The building is maintained by the Libertyville-Mundelein Historical Society as a house museum presenting local heritage through exhibits and guided tours. The rooms preserve the feel of a 19th-century private home, giving visitors insight into how people lived during that era.
The original Victorian building is accessible to visitors today, while the actual library collection is housed in the modern facility behind it. Those wanting to explore the historic rooms should know that guided tours offer the best way to learn about the architecture and furnishings in detail.
The house still preserves the personal belongings and furniture of the original Cook family, showing how wealthy families lived during that era. This authentic setting allows visitors to picture exactly what daily life was like in that period.
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