The Vernon Area Public Library District serves a population of approximately 42,000. It is a 32 square mile area that includes all or parts of Buffalo Grove, Lincolnshire, Long Grove, Vernon Hills, Prairie View, Riverwoods, Indian Creek and unincorporated Vernon Township.

The library was originally established in 1974. Its first location was a classroom in Adlai Stevenson High School. From there it moved to a temporary building in the high school parking lot. In 1979 the library moved into a 10,000 sq. ft. facility in Prairie View. 

Currently the library holds a collection of approximately 255,000 items including books, DVDs, CDs, computer software and video games. The library subscribes to 530 magazines  and newspapers. The library brings materials to nursing facilities in the area. Homebound residents who can’t go out are welcome to call for services.  

The Vernon Area Library District card may be used to borrow books at any of the 43 North  Suburban Library System public libraries and Chicago Public Library.  On March 20, 1990  the residents of the district showed their support for the construction of a new library.  Voters approved a referendum for the sale of $6.9 million in general obligation bonds to finance the construction of a new library to be built on a site next to the existing library building. They also approved additional property taxes to pay for furnishings, books and other operating expenses.

On September 15, 1993 the Vernon Area Public Library opened to the public at 300 Olde Half Day Road in Lincoinshire. The 50,000 sq. ft. building is designed to meet the needs of a growing library district. The library has a 16,000 sq. ft. Adult Services department, 12,000 sq. ft. Youth Services department, and shelves for over 250,000 items.