Something special is arriving at the Aurora Public Library District this summer, and it’s designed to get visitors of all ages asking questions! In partnership with DuPage Children’s Museum, we are proud to welcome a traveling version of one of the museum’s most beloved exhibits: The Questioneers: Read. Question. Think. PLAY! This exhibit brings engaging stories, memorable characters, and hands-on fun right to our community.
The Questioneers got their start as a beloved children’s book series written by local author Andrea Beaty and illustrated by David Roberts. The titles feature characters like Rosie Revere (an engineer who invents a flying gizmo for her great-great aunt Rose), Sofia Valdez (a community activist who took on city hall to build a new park), and Aaron Slator (an illustrator who uses art to find his voice). In 2021, the series was transformed into an exhibit at DuPage Children’s Museum in Naperville. Now a version of these interactive displays is coming to APLD for a limited time only.
“We created the traveling version of The Questioneers: Read. Question. Think. PLAY! to bring the joy of curiosity, creativity, and hands-on discovery beyond the walls of DuPage Children’s Museum and directly into communities,” shared Kimberly Stull, president & CEO, DuPage Children’s Museum. “Libraries are natural partners in inspiring imagination and lifelong learning, and we’re thrilled to share this experience with Aurora families in a way that feels accessible, playful, and deeply engaging for children of all ages.”
Starting June 12, APLD will host a 600-square-foot, bilingual, experience across two library locations. Designed with interaction in mind, each display invites you to get involved! Visitors can test Rosie Revere’s flight tube, construct bridges and arches with architect Iggy Peck, concoct recipes with scientist Ada Twist’s Smell-o-matic Machine, and much, much more! “We’re so excited to welcome The Questioneers: Read. Question. Think. PLAY! exhibit to the Santori Library and West Branch,” said executive director, Michaela. “This exhibit inspires every budding architect, engineer, scientist, mathematician, leader, and artist to solve everyday mysteries and to think more critically about their world.” While you explore each station, remember to fill in your Questioneers passport (available at Santori Library and West Branch). Turn in your completed passport to be entered to win a special prize, perfect for any curious learner!
We’ve also planned a series of children’s programs inspired by The Questioneer characters and our Summer Reading Adventure ‘Plant a Seed, Read’. You can put your observational skills to the test with a Questioneers themed scavenger hunt, create fruit and vegetable printed art, and build a balloon-powered car! “By connecting the exhibit with our Summer Reading Adventure, we hope to inspire creativity, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning,” added Monica.
We are thrilled to offer this interactive experience and create a place where learning and fun come together! Step into the world of The Questioneers June 12 – July 31 at Santori Library and West Branch. For more information about library programs, visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/events or contact us at 630-264-4117. What will you discover?
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.