Schedule

"Mr. Illinois"

today!


A professional portrait of John clutching the Illinois Flag

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

The overlook at Little Grand Canyon

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.

Statue of Joseph Smith and Brigham Young outside Nauvoo Temple

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.

Statue of Lincoln the Rail-Splitter at New Salem State Park

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.

Fall programs: 

Southern Illinois Travel and Lore, Joliet Public Library, Wednesday, September 18, 7 p.m.

Southern Illinois Travel and Lore, Geneva Public Library, Wednesday, September 25, 7 p.m.

Southern Illinois Travel and Lore, Orland Park Public Library, Thursday, September 26, 6:30 p.m.

Southern Illinois Travel and Lore, Three Rivers Public Library (Minooka Branch), Tuesday, October 1, 6 p.m.

Southern Illinois Travel and Lore, Park Ridge Public Library (in person OR virtual), Tuesday, October 8, 2. p.m.

Southern Illinois Travel and Lore, Eisenhower Public Library (Harwood Heights), Thursday, November 14, 7 p.m.


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.

Central Illinois Travel: Lincoln Lore and More, Wilmette Public Library, Thursday, February 6, 1 p.m.

Central Illinois Travel: Lincoln Lore and More, Riverside Public Library, Thursday, February 13, 7 p.m.

Central Illinois Travel: Lincoln Lore and More, Hinsdale Public Library, Tuesday, February 18, 7 p.m.

Mississippi River Adventures, Geneva Public Library, Wednesday, February 19, 6:30 p.m.

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.

Mississippi River Adventures, Evergreen Park Public Library, Thursday, March 6, 7 p.m.

Mississippi River Adventures, Schaumburg Township District Library, Wednesday, March 12, 6:30 p.m.

Northern Illinois and Driftless Wisconsin, Batavia Public Library, Thursday, March 27, 7 p.m.

Mississippi River Adventures, Naperville Public Library (virtual only), Thursday, April 3, 7 p.m.

Mississippi River Adventures, Frankfort Public Library, Sunday, April 14

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)

A map showing John's familiarity with each county. Strongest regions are northern Illinois and southernmost Illinois, and along the northern portion of the Mississippi River.

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):

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

Scenes from the places we'll discuss at my programs.

I have visited over 100 Illinois libraries. Here are just a few!