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Building the Magic

The Challenges Behind Disneyland’s Creation
2025-07-10 19:00:00 2025-07-10 20:00:00 America/Chicago Building the Magic Explore the numerous difficulties Walt Disney and his team faced while bringing Disneyland to life in California. Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room B (R117B)

Thursday, July 10
7:00pm - 8:00pm

Add to Calendar 2025-07-10 19:00:00 2025-07-10 20:00:00 America/Chicago Building the Magic Explore the numerous difficulties Walt Disney and his team faced while bringing Disneyland to life in California. Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room B (R117B)

Ela Area Public Library

Meeting Room B (R117B)

Explore the numerous difficulties Walt Disney and his team faced while bringing Disneyland to life in California.

Explore the numerous difficulties Walt Disney and his team faced while bringing Disneyland to life in California. From financial struggles and skepticism from investors to the logistical challenges of transforming orange groves into a world-class theme park, the journey was anything but smooth. We’ll also delve into construction setbacks, budget overruns, and the infamous opening day disasters. Join us to uncover the incredible perseverance and innovation that turned Disneyland from a risky dream into a global icon. 

AGE GROUP: | Teens | Older Adults | Adults |

EVENT TYPE: | Lectures and Performances |

TAGS: | |

Ela Area Public Library
Phone: 847-438-3433
Fax: 847-438-9290
Hours
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Mon, May 04 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Tue, May 05 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Wed, May 06 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Thu, May 07 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Fri, May 08 9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, May 09 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Sun, May 10 12:00PM to 5:00PM
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Upcoming Events

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Open Play & Learn at the Construction Site
Wed, May 06, 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room B (R186)
Design buildings, build bridges, and try... more
Design buildings, build bridges, and try out tools as you explore our pretend construction site! Recommended for ages 3-7. An adult must accompany their child(ren) in the room at all times.
Investing Fundamentals
Wed, May 06, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Financial Advisors Eric and Ethan... more
Financial Advisors Eric and Ethan Rosenbloom offer an excellent opportunity to learn about investing fundamentals and how to help ensure your financial security and success.
Crochet Club
Wed, May 06, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room B (R117B)
Whether you’re brand new to yarn crafts... more
Whether you’re brand new to yarn crafts or a seasoned fiber artist with a project in hand, all teens are welcome at this cozy gathering. We can show you the basics, and all supplies are provided.
(ESL) English as a Second Language - Inglés como Segundo Idioma
Thu, May 07, 9:15am - 12:15pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room B (R117B)
Free English Classes for adults at the... more
Free English Classes for adults at the library. Clases de Ingles gratuitas para adultos en la biblioteca.
Mother’s Day Rose
Thu, May 07, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Paint a laser-cut wooden rose engraved... more
Paint a laser-cut wooden rose engraved with a heartfelt message and turn it into a unique Mother’s Day gift. Kids, teens, and adults are all welcome. One session per person.
This event is full
Open Play & Learn at the Construction Site
Thu, May 07, 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room B (R186)
Design buildings, build bridges, and try... more
Design buildings, build bridges, and try out tools as you explore our pretend construction site! Recommended for ages 3-7. An adult must accompany their child(ren) in the room at all times.
Mother’s Day Rose
Thu, May 07, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Paint a laser-cut wooden rose engraved... more
Paint a laser-cut wooden rose engraved with a heartfelt message and turn it into a unique Mother’s Day gift. Kids, teens, and adults are all welcome. One session per person.
This event is full
Chair Yoga (Zoom)
Thu, May 07, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ela Area Public Library
Yoga is for every body! Join instructor... more
Yoga is for every body! Join instructor Isabel Raci in a gentle seated yoga and meditation session, perfect for seniors and those with limited mobility. Attend any or all sessions.
Itty Bitty Prom (ages 0-5)
Fri, May 08, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
It's prom season! Dress in your best to... more
It's prom season! Dress in your best to dance the morning away at this fancy formal. Imagine a classic high school prom scene--limos, corsages, the whole nine yards--but for little ones!
Super Mario Galaxy Gala
Sat, May 09, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Join Mario and friends for screen-free... more
Join Mario and friends for screen-free activities. Play Koopa Shell bowling, make an out-of-this-world craft, and more as you power up with this iconic video game character!
Open Play & Learn at the Construction Site
Sun, May 10, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room B (R186)
Design buildings, build bridges, and try... more
Design buildings, build bridges, and try out tools as you explore our pretend construction site! Recommended for ages 3-7. An adult must accompany their child(ren) in the room at all times.
Take Home Crafty A Kits - Macrame Plant Hanger
Mon, May 11, 10:00am - 9:00pm
Ela Area Public Library
Kits include supplies and directions.... more
Kits include supplies and directions. Kits are available for pick up in the Forge starting on the dates specified. One kit per person and available while supplies last. Ages 18+.
Senior Book Discussion (Zoom and In-Person) - "Everything Is Tuberculosis" by John Green
Mon, May 11, 10:00am - 11:30am
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Books are available in large print,... more
Books are available in large print, audio, and regular print formats.
Ela Township Social Worker in the Library
Mon, May 11, 3:00pm - 5:00pm
Designated table outside Forge.
Stop by to chat or find wellness,... more
Stop by to chat or find wellness, medical, or emergency resources for a family member or yourself.
Open Play & Learn at the Construction Site
Mon, May 11, 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room B (R186)
Design buildings, build bridges, and try... more
Design buildings, build bridges, and try out tools as you explore our pretend construction site! Recommended for ages 3-7. An adult must accompany their child(ren) in the room at all times.
Rotary Club of Lake Zurich - Rotary Club Meeting
Mon, May 11, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Thinking about joining the Rotary Club of... more
Thinking about joining the Rotary Club of Lake Zurich? Come to the meeting and get acquainted. Public is welcome.
Genealogy Interest Group
Tue, May 12, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Adult Computer Lab (R202)
Enjoy personal research time using the... more
Enjoy personal research time using the library's many online resources alongside others who enjoy this popular hobby. Bring your questions and share research strategies. Newcomers welcome!
Open Play & Learn at the Construction Site
Tue, May 12, 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room B (R186)
Design buildings, build bridges, and try... more
Design buildings, build bridges, and try out tools as you explore our pretend construction site! Recommended for ages 3-7. An adult must accompany their child(ren) in the room at all times.
Mini Beaded Plant
Tue, May 12, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Create a charming mini beaded plant using... more
Create a charming mini beaded plant using wire and a variety of green beads—no watering required. This is a 2-hour program.
This event is full
Walk Pilsen’s Painted Streets: A Mural Tour with Luis Tubens
Tue, May 12, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Take a walk through Chicago’s Pilsen... more
Take a walk through Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhoods’ most iconic pieces of public art.
Books & Brews
Tue, May 12, 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Buffalo Creek Brewing
Join us for Books & Brews. We will meet... more
Join us for Books & Brews. We will meet in-person at Buffalo Creek Brewing in Long Grove. Contact readers@eapl.org with questions.
This event is full
Neurodiverse Meetup Group
Wed, May 13, 5:00pm - 6:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Amy, a librarian who identifies as AuDHD... more
Amy, a librarian who identifies as AuDHD runs a Neurodiverse Meetup Group. Open to adults 18+ with Autism level 1 diagnosis, ADHD, or otherwise identify as neurodiverse.
Open Play & Learn at the Construction Site
Wed, May 13, 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room B (R186)
Design buildings, build bridges, and try... more
Design buildings, build bridges, and try out tools as you explore our pretend construction site! Recommended for ages 3-7. An adult must accompany their child(ren) in the room at all times.
Casual Questing: A Masquerade of Echoes
Wed, May 13, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Want to try table top role playing games,... more
Want to try table top role playing games, but not sure where to start? With minimal character creation and all the prep work handled, you can dive straight into the fun, and enjoy a laid-back quest.
This event is full
Warm Up Lake Zurich Yarn Group (In-Person)
Thu, May 14, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A (R117A)
Join us for our monthly Yarn crafting... more
Join us for our monthly Yarn crafting meetings, have fun & socialize as we knit & crochet & discuss everything yarn. All levels welcome. (R)
Study Hall
Thu, May 14, 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room B (R117B)
Study rooms upstairs full? No worries!... more
Study rooms upstairs full? No worries! Study Hall is a relaxed, teen-only space to work. We’ll have snacks, whiteboards, chargers, and helpful tools to make studying a little less stressful.
Open Play & Learn at the Construction Site
Thu, May 14, 5:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room B (R186)
Design buildings, build bridges, and try... more
Design buildings, build bridges, and try out tools as you explore our pretend construction site! Recommended for ages 3-7. An adult must accompany their child(ren) in the room at all times.
Ela Library Quilt Talks (In Person)
Thu, May 14, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A (R117A)
Join us in our Quilt talks meeting to... more
Join us in our Quilt talks meeting to discuss and learn about fabrics and quilt making. All skill levels are welcome, "Show and tell" is always a fun feature! (R)
Genealogy One on One
Thu, May 14, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Study Room 9
Meet with librarian Kristen McCallum for... more
Meet with librarian Kristen McCallum for personalized genealogical research assistance.
This event is full
Open Play & Learn at the Construction Site
Sun, May 17, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room B (R186)
Design buildings, build bridges, and try... more
Design buildings, build bridges, and try out tools as you explore our pretend construction site! Recommended for ages 3-7. An adult must accompany their child(ren) in the room at all times.
Sewing Basics
Mon, May 18, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Forge Makerspace Room (R168)
Learn to use a sewing machine and create... more
Learn to use a sewing machine and create a simple project. All materials and equipment provided. Registration is limited to one class per person, per season. This is a 2-hr program.
This event is full
Memory Cafe
Tue, May 19, 10:00am - 11:30am
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A (R117A)
People experiencing memory loss due to... more
People experiencing memory loss due to Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive issues are invited to attend with care partners. For questions call BACOA at 847 381-5030.
Great Decisions
Tue, May 19, 1:00pm - 2:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A (R117A)
Great Decisions is America's largest... more
Great Decisions is America's largest discussion program on world affairs. We meet 8 times a year to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today.
Genealogy One on One
Tue, May 19, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Study Room 9
Meet with librarian Kristen McCallum for... more
Meet with librarian Kristen McCallum for personalized genealogical research assistance.
This event is full
Board of Trustees Regular Monthly meeting - Board of Trustees meeting
Tue, May 19, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Board of Trustees monthly meeting
Let's Make Vegetable Chop Suey
Tue, May 19, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Chef Jen from Lean Bellas Kitchen... more
Chef Jen from Lean Bellas Kitchen demonstrates how to make vegetable chop suey.
Babel-On with R.F. Kuang (Zoom)
Wed, May 20, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library
R.F. Kuang’s genre-bending fiction... more
R.F. Kuang’s genre-bending fiction broaches ordinarily serious topics from a satirical and fantastical perspective.
Register
Nonfiction Book Club - The House of my Mother by Shari Franke
Thu, May 21, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Join us every other month to discuss a... more
Join us every other month to discuss a wide range of nonfiction books. Light refreshments will be served.
Queer Book Club - Can’t Spell Treason without Tea by Rebecca Thorne
Thu, May 21, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A (R117A)
A welcoming and safe space to explore,... more
A welcoming and safe space to explore, read and discuss LGBTQIA+ themed books, while making a themed craft. Let’s celebrate diversity, creativity and the power of storytelling together!
Space to Read (ages 0-12) - Summer Library Program
Sat, May 23, All day
Ela Area Public Library
Reading is out of this world! Visit the... more
Reading is out of this world! Visit the Children's Desk to learn how you can earn prizes by completing reading and activity challenges this summer.
Holiday Closing
Mon, May 25, All day
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
The library will be closed all day.
Cancelled
Genealogy One on One
Tue, May 26, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ela Area Public Library
Meet with librarian Kristen McCallum for... more
Meet with librarian Kristen McCallum for personalized genealogical research assistance.
Chapter One: Creative Writing Workshop
Tue, May 26, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
Join us for an introduction to creative... more
Join us for an introduction to creative writing! This beginner-friendly workshop is designed for adults looking to explore the fundamentals of creative writing. No experience necessary!
Green Scene Garden Club
Tue, May 26, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Teen Lounge - Teen Lounge
Earn volunteer hours and check out our... more
Earn volunteer hours and check out our new raised garden beds! Help prep them for summer by planting seeds, crafting signs, and enjoying some hands-on garden time—rain or shine.
This event is full
Drop-In Craft - circle bugs
Sat, May 30, 9:30am - 4:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A (R187)
Stop by the Children's Department to... more
Stop by the Children's Department to design a unique craft project with the materials provided.
Space to Read (ages 0-12) - Summer Library Program
Sun, May 31, All day
Ela Area Public Library
Reading is out of this world! Visit the... more
Reading is out of this world! Visit the Children's Desk to learn how you can earn prizes by completing reading and activity challenges this summer.
Drop-In Craft - circle bugs
Sun, May 31, 12:30pm - 4:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A (R187)
Stop by the Children's Department to... more
Stop by the Children's Department to design a unique craft project with the materials provided.
German Storytime
Mon, Jun 01, 9:30am - 10:15am
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room B (R186)
Join Wochenendschule der Donauschwaben... more
Join Wochenendschule der Donauschwaben for movement, music, and fun! Enjoy a felt board story to learn German words for shapes, colors, and animals, then get moving with dynamic parachute activities.
Senior Scrabble Club
Mon, Jun 01, 10:00am - 12:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A (R117A)
Senior adults of all skill levels are... more
Senior adults of all skill levels are welcome. Refreshments and supplies will be provided.
LEGO Club (ages 6-12)
Mon, Jun 01, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A and B (R186-187)
If you enjoy building with LEGO bricks,... more
If you enjoy building with LEGO bricks, this program is for you! Create and construct using your own ideas or try one of our challenges.
Drop-In Storytime
Tue, Jun 02, 9:30am - 10:15am
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A and B (R186-187)
Stop by with your kiddo for a casual... more
Stop by with your kiddo for a casual storytime experience.
Civic Roots Workshop (ages 9-13) - What Is Civics?
Tue, Jun 02, 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A and B (R186-187)
Civic Roots is a nonpartisan, nonprofit... more
Civic Roots is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that provides engaging, age-appropriate introductions to constitutional and civil rights—empowering a new generation of informed citizens.
Alzheimer's Support Group
Tue, Jun 02, 7:00pm - 8:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - 2nd Floor Conference Room
This monthly drop-in event provides... more
This monthly drop-in event provides information and support to those in a caregiving role. For further information please contact Lisa Gaggiano at Ela Township 55+ (847) 438-9160.
Little Miss Ann Concert - **TICKETED EVENT**
Wed, Jun 03, 10:30am - 11:30am
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
Little Miss Ann is a nationally touring... more
Little Miss Ann is a nationally touring Filipina American musician with 7 award-winning albums. Dance, clap, and let your light shine at this upbeat, interactive concert!
Registration opens Monday, June 1 2026 at 9:00am
Volunteer Fair
Wed, Jun 03, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Ela Area Public Library - Meeting Room A and B (R117)
TBA
Crafternoon (ages 6-11) - torn paper spacescape
Thu, Jun 04, 4:00pm - 4:45pm
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room A (R187)
Enjoy an afternoon of crafting with... more
Enjoy an afternoon of crafting with friends and create your own one-of-a-kind project!
Registration opens Monday, June 1 2026 at 9:00am
Chair Yoga (Zoom)
Thu, Jun 04, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ela Area Public Library
Yoga is for every body! Join instructor... more
Yoga is for every body! Join instructor Isabel Raci in a gentle seated yoga and meditation session, perfect for seniors and those with limited mobility. Attend any or all sessions.
Baby Rock (3-12 months, non-walkers) - with Rock 'n' Kids
Fri, Jun 05, 9:30am - 10:00am
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room B (R186)
Get ready to wiggle and giggle with your... more
Get ready to wiggle and giggle with your tiny dancer! Baby Rock is a unique combination of sensory experiences with stimulating music and exercises to help strengthen and stretch your baby.
Registration opens Monday, June 1 2026 at 9:00am
Baby Rock (3-12 months, non-walkers) - with Rock 'n' Kids
Fri, Jun 05, 10:15am - 10:45am
Ela Area Public Library - Children's Program Room B (R186)
Get ready to wiggle and giggle with your... more
Get ready to wiggle and giggle with your tiny dancer! Baby Rock is a unique combination of sensory experiences with stimulating music and exercises to help strengthen and stretch your baby.
Registration opens Monday, June 1 2026 at 9:00am
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