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John Kokoris
John Kokoris
Book an experienced Illinois traveler
Book an experienced Illinois traveler
& library professional
& library professional
A lifetime spent driving, camping, hiking, biking, and dining across the state—and more than a decade of library experience—make John a natural guide for patrons looking to learn more about their state or plan an affordable weekend getaway. He also works at a library by day, so he is guaranteed to be drama- and hassle-free. Library programmers, see my "bio" section below for a brief introduction script.
Library Programs
Library Programs
Southern Illinois Travel & Lore:
Southern Illinois Travel & Lore:
Exploring Shawnee National Forest
Exploring Shawnee National Forest
Illinois traveler John Kokoris will share secrets to a successful visit to the Shawnee National Forest, including landmarks, trails, lodging, and food. He'll also share a bit of the region's fascinating history. From waterfalls to BBQ to the Big Muddy Monster, Southern Illinois has something for everyone. (Handout here.)
Mississippi River Adventures
Mississippi River Adventures
along the Great River Road
along the Great River Road
Illinois traveler John Kokoris will share insider tips to help you explore the Upper Mississippi from Galena to St. Louis. Learn where to go, what to do—and all about the mighty river's storied past. We'll discuss architecture, food, events, and more. Your Great River Road trip starts here! (Handout here.)
Route 66
Route 66
from Chicago to St. Louis
from Chicago to St. Louis
You don't have to drive all the way to California to enjoy Route 66 during its 100th anniversary year! Take a long weekend to explore the cool towns, great food, interesting history, and quirky roadside attractions that line the Mother Road from here to The Lou.
Lincoln Lore & More:
Lincoln Lore & More:
Exploring Central Illinois
Exploring Central Illinois
Venture beyond the cornstalks that line the highway with Illinois traveler John Kokoris. We'll follow in Lincoln's footsteps, learning about his life before he became president and discovering charming towns, great books, and beautiful art along the way. (Handout here.)
Discover Northern Illinois
Discover Northern Illinois
and Driftless Wisconsin
and Driftless Wisconsin
From the scenic Rock River to the undulating landscape in the state's northwest corner, untouched by the glaciers that flattened most of our state, this region is truly beautiful. Midwestern traveler John Kokoris will even guide us across state lines to discuss attractions in Wisconsin and Iowa. (Handout here.)
Great Graves of Illinois:
Great Graves of Illinois:
Illinois' Most Storied Cemeteries
Illinois' Most Storied Cemeteries
Join Illinois traveler John Kokoris for a look at the graves of great Illinoisans and notable monuments to lives well lived. We'll also look at art and literature inspired by these storied cemeteries. The perfect fall program for cemetery lovers, road trippers, and history buffs alike. (Handout here.)
Upcoming Talks:
Chicago Public Library Walker Branch (Morgan Park): Great Graves, Saturday, Oct. 25, 2 p.m.; register
River Forest Public Library: Great Graves, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2 p.m.; register
Ela Area Public Library (Lake Zurich): Great Graves, Oct. 30, 7 p.m.; register
Also unavailable to present on: 9/17–22, 10/5, 10/18-24, 10/28, 11/11-13
Past programs this year:
Winter programs in Elmhurst, Rolling Meadows, Wilmette, Riverside, Geographic Society of Chicago,* Hinsdale, Geneva, Putnam County, Elgin, and Lake Zurich.
Spring programs in Evergreen Park, Eisenhower, Schaumburg, Batavia, Naperville, Clarendon Hills, Frankfort, Lake Zurich, Brookfield, Hinsdale, Palos Park,* Winnetka, Schaumburg, South Holland, and Morgan Park.
Summer programs in Homer Township, Carol Stream, Wilmette, St. Charles, Bensenville, Genoa, Deerfield, Palos Heights, Putnam County, Park Ridge, Elmhurst, Western Springs, Barrington*, and Hinsdale.*
Fall programs so far in Glencoe (x2), Winnetka, Palos Park,* Carol Stream, Homer Township, and Hinsdale.
* Denotes non-library/private events.
Next year:
Next year:
Encore Village Schaumburg: Mississippi River Adventures, Friday, Jan. 30, 1:30 p.m. (residents)
Wauconda Public Library: Central IL Travel & Lincoln Lore, Monday, Feb.16, 7 p.m.
Rolling Meadows Library: Mississippi River Adventures, Tuesday, April 28, 7 p.m.
Bartlett Public Library: Central IL, Monday, May 4, 7 p.m.
Westmont Public Library: Central IL Travel & Lincoln Lore, Thursday, May 7, 6:30 p.m.
Town and Country Public Library (Elburn): Thursday, May 14, 7 p.m.
Cary Area Public Library (pending): Wednesday, Aug. 19, evening
Naperville Public Library: Great Graves, Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026, 1 p.m.
Also unavailable to present on 4/23–27
Presenter Bio
Presenter Bio
For introductions: John Kokoris is a lifelong Illinois enthusiast. He grew up camping in Northern Illinois, went to school downstate, and travels across the state with his family whenever he can. His mission is to spread his love for the Land of Lincoln far and wide.
Extra, unnecessary information: A library employee in Chicago's western suburbs, John has also served on library boards in Forest Park and Elgin and enjoys exploring our state's many wonderful libraries in his spare time. His areas of interest include Lincoln lore, Native American history, conservation, and infrastructure. He's fascinated by the varied and strange histories of the state's small and forgotten places. His favorite Illinois-related books include Herndon's Life of Lincoln, Spoon River Anthology, The People Yes, Cahokia Jazz, and The WPA Guide to Illinois.
John's programs offer history, culture, and travel plans alongside photos, maps, and humorous anecdotes.
Illinois Familiarity Score:
10/10 (Expert Status)
Contact John
Contact John
Reach out to inquire about booking me, or if you've attended a program, to ask questions or provide feedback. Thank you for your interest!
Testimonials
Testimonials
John has been invited to speak multiple times at Hinsdale, Ela Area, Geneva, Elmhurst, and Homer Township libraries.
From attendees (via survey):
"Presenter did an fantastic job of providing highlights to each location discussed. Enunciation and volume of speaking were excellent."
"John was so well-versed and so entertaining about Southern Illinois, makes me want to visit. Hope he has many more presentations."
"The presenter, John, was both knowledgeable and entertaining. This is a rare combination!"
From Hinsdale Public Library's Adult Services Manager:
"John is genuinely the most knowledgeable person about Illinois that I have ever met, and our patrons really loved the program. It included a powerpoint with maps and beautiful photos, several handouts, and even a curated Southern Illinois Spotify playlist."
Photos & Finds
Photos & Finds
Scenes from the places we'll discuss at my programs.
Scenes from the places we'll discuss at my programs.
I have visited over 100 Illinois libraries. Here are just a few!
I have visited over 100 Illinois libraries. Here are just a few!
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