Schedule
"Mr. Illinois"
today!
John Kokoris
Experienced Illinois traveler & 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.
Library Programs
Southern Illinois Travel & Lore
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
John 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!
Northern Illinois & Driftless Wisconsin
Feeling a need to "head for the hills?" 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. We'll even cross state lines to discuss attractions in Wisconsin and Iowa.
Central Illinois Travel: Lincoln Lore & More
Venture beyond the cornstalks that line the highway to explore the charming towns, award-winning restaurants, and beautiful parks that fill the heart of our state—as well as the region's history as Lincoln's old stomping grounds.
Additional Topics Under Development
More presentation options will be available in 2025.
Great Graves of Illinois: Visits to the State's Most Storied Cemeteries (Book for Fall '25)
Weekend Trips for Families within Three Hours of Chicago
St. Louis and Southwestern Illinois:
The Illinois River Scenic Byway
Winter/Spring programs:
Mississippi River Adventures, Elmhurst Public Library; Thursday, January 9, 10:30 a.m.
Southern Illinois Travel and Lore, Rolling Meadows Public Library; Thursday, January 30, 7 p.m. (register by email or phone)
Central Illinois Travel: Lincoln Lore and More, Wilmette Public Library; Thursday, February 6, 1 p.m. (register)
Central Illinois Travel: Lincoln Lore and More, Riverside Public Library; Thursday, February 13, 7 p.m. (register)
Central Illinois Travel: Lincoln Lore and More, Geographic Society of Chicago, Tuesday, February 18, 1 p.m.
Central Illinois Travel: Lincoln Lore and More, Hinsdale Public Library; Tuesday, February 18, 7 p.m. (register)
Mississippi River Adventures, Geneva Public Library; Wednesday, February 19, 6:30 p.m. (register)
Northern Illinois and Driftless Wisconsin, Putnam County Library (I will be virtual; guests hybrid); Tuesday, February 25, 6 p.m.
Mississippi River Adventures, Gail Borden Public Library; Thursday, February 27, 7 p.m. (register)
Mississippi River Adventures, Private Library Staff Program, Friday, February 28, 9:30 a.m.
Mississippi River Adventures, Evergreen Park Public Library, Thursday, March 6, 7 p.m. (register)
Northern Illinois and Driftless Wisconsin, Eisenhower Public Library (Harwood Heights), Tuesday, Mar. 11, 6:30 p.m. (register)
Mississippi River Adventures, Schaumburg Twp. District Library, Wednesday, March 12, 6:30 p.m.
Northern Illinois and Driftless Wisconsin, Batavia Public Library, Thursday, March 27, 7 p.m. (register)
Mississippi River Adventures, Naperville Public Library (virtual only), Thursday, April 3, 7 p.m.
Mississippi River Adventures, Clarendon Hills Public Library, Monday, April 7, evening
Mississippi River Adventures, Frankfort Public Library, Monday, April 14, 7 p.m.
Mississippi River Adventures, Ela Area Library, Wednesday, April 16, 7 p.m.
Time Traveling Through Illinois, Hinsdale Public Library, Tuesday, April 29,7 p.m.
Mississippi River Adventures, Winnetka–Northfield Public Library District, Tuesday, May 6, 7 p.m.
Time Traveling Through Illinois, Schaumburg Twp. District Library, Thursday, May 15, 6:30 p.m.
Northern Illinois and Driftless Wisconsin, South Holland Library, Tuesday, May 20, 7 p.m.
Central Illinois Travel: Lincoln Lore and More, Homer Township Library, June 2, 6:30 p.m.
Presenter Bio
John Kokoris has lived in Illinois his whole life. He grew up camping in Northern Illinois, went to school downstate, and travels across the state with his family whenever he can. 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.
John's 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.
His mission is to spread his enthusiasm for Illinois far and wide: We live in a beautiful state rich with history and opportunity. His programs offer history, culture, and travel plans alongside photos, maps, and humorous anecdotes.
Illinois Familiarity Score:
10/10 (Expert Status)
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
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."