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 programmers, see my "bio" before for a brief introduction script.
Library Programs
Southern Illinois Travel & Lore:
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.
Mississippi River Adventures
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.)
Discover Northern Illinois
and 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. Midwestern traveler John Kokoris will even guide us across state lines to discuss attractions in Wisconsin and Iowa.
Lincoln Lore & More:
Exploring Central Illinois
Venture beyond the cornstalks that line the highway with Illinois traveler John Kokoris to explore the charming towns and beautiful scenery at the heart of our state—as well as the region's history as Lincoln's old stomping grounds. We'll spend extra time on Route 66 in honor of its 100th anniversary in 2026.
Great Graves of Illinois:
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.
Past programs this year:
Winter programs included: Elmhurst, Rolling Meadows, Wilmette, Riverside, Geographic Society of Chicago, Hinsdale, Geneva, Putnam County, Gail Borden, and Ela Area. Spring programs included Evergreen Park, Eisenhower, Schaumbrg, and Batavia.
This spring:
Mississippi River Adventures, Naperville Public Library (virtual only), Thursday, April 3, 7 p.m. (register)
Mississippi River Adventures, Clarendon Hills Public Library, Monday, April 7, (register)
Mississippi River Adventures, Frankfort Public Library, Monday, April 14, 7 p.m. (register)
Mississippi River Adventures, Ela Area Library, Wednesday, April 16, 7 p.m. (register)
Mississippi River Adventures, LSF Brookflield Public Monday, April 28, 7 p.m. (register)
Time Traveling Through Illinois, Hinsdale Public Library, Tuesday, April 29, 7 p.m. (register)
Mississippi River Adventures, The Center (Palos Park), Tuesday, May 6, 12 p.m. (register)
Mississippi River Adventures, Winnetka–Northfield Public Library District, Tuesday, May 6, 7 p.m. (register)
Time Traveling Through Illinois, Schaumburg Twp. District Library, Wednesday, May 14, 6:30 p.m. (register)
Northern Illinois and Driftless Wisconsin, South Holland Library, Tuesday, May 20, 7 p.m. (register)
This summer/fall:
Central Illinois Travel: Lincoln Lore and More, Homer Township Library, Monday, June 2, 6:30 p.m.
Southern Illinois Travel and Lore, Carol Springs Public Library, Thursday, June 12, 7 p.m.
Mississippi River Adventures, Wilmette Public Library, June 19, 1 p.m.
Southern Illinois Travel and Lore, St. Charles Public Library District, June 24, 7 p.m.
Mississippi River Adventures, Bensenville Public Library, June 26, 7 p.m.
Northern Illinois and Driftless Wisconsin, Genoa Public Library, July 8, 6 p.m.
Southern Illinois Travel and Lore, Deerfield Public Library, July 22 (virtual)
Central Illinois Travel: Lincoln Lore and More, Putnam County Library (I'll be virtual; guests hybrid); Tuesday, August 5, 6 p.m.
Mississippi River Adventures, Park Ridge Public Library, August 12, 2 p.m.
Northern Illinois and Driftless Wisconsin, Elmhurst Public Library, August 14, 10:30 a.m.
Mississippi River Adventures, Thomas Ford (Western Springs) Library, August 20, 7 p.m.
Mississippi River Adventures, private event, Tuesday, September 9, 11:30 a.m.
Great Graves, Homer Twp. Public Library, Thursday, Oct. 9, 6:30 p.m.
Great Graves, Carol Springs Public Library, Tuesday, Oct. 7, 7 p.m.
Presenter Bio
For introductions: 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. 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
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
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."