By Andrea Tiberi
October is here, and with it comes the season so many people love—crisp autumn days, cozy fall vibes, and a dash of scary excitement! The Aurora Public Library District is embracing the October spirit with two upcoming programs that blend eerie tales with local history, highlighting some of Aurora’s most iconic landmarks. For those who can’t or don’t want to brave the cold, dark nights for a ghost tour, this is the perfect alternative.
If you’re looking for a chance to experience thrilling stories without leaving the warmth and safety of the library or even your own home, local ghost tour guide Diane Ladley is sure to deliver. Ladley, also known as America’s Ghost Storyteller, is the author of two books (Haunted Aurora and Naperville’s Haunted Memories) and the founder of Haunted Hometowns ghost tours in Naperville, Aurora and Elgin. “Diane gives ghost tours in downtown Aurora that are especially popular in October, but not everyone wants or is able to see the sights on cold, dark nights,” says Librarian Megan Cavitt. “You can enjoy a spine-tingling tale from the safety of the library or even at home on Zoom!”
This initiative was sparked by the success of past library programs on the supernatural, which focused on broader themes like Chicago or Illinois history. However, Cavitt was inspired to make this one as local as possible. “There’s a lot of fun history right under our noses if we know where to look!” she says. Not only will attendees get to hear thrilling ghost stories, but they may also learn new and fascinating details about Aurora’s rich history, including places like the Paramount Theatre and the Two Brothers Roundhouse. “I’m a regular at the Paramount, and I especially love old theaters, so I’m excited to hear more about what the building has seen over nearly one hundred years in operation.” adds Cavitt. This program invites attendees to consider how the history of their own community intertwines with the supernatural.
For those interested in digging deeper into the mysterious, the library is also offering a Meet a Paranormal Investigator program on Wednesday, October 30. Investigator Carl Crooks will discuss the tools and techniques used while investigating ghosts, show evidence from various haunted locations in Illinois, and explain the theories and philosophies behind ghost hunting and paranormal investigation work. You can also find Crooks at the Santori Library’s monthly Paranormal Discussion Group. This group of open-minded individuals meets on the second Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m. for a lively discussion on paranormal and metaphysical topics. If this sounds like you, please join us!
APLD is embracing the fall spirit, ready to celebrate the season with cozy events and a touch of spine-chilling fun! With their combination of history and scary, these programs promise to be exciting events for the community. Our Haunted Aurora program is on Monday, October 14 at 6 p.m. at the Eola Road Branch and also virtually via Zoom. Registration is requested. The Meet a Paranormal Investigator program is on Thursday, October 30 at 6 p.m. at the Santori Library. No registration required. To learn more about these events and register, please visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/events or contact the library at 630-264-4117,
— Aurora Public Library District