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Welcome to the Arcade Age Exhibit at the Elk Grove Village Public Library!

June 6 - August 30, 2025

Get retro at the Library this summer at the Arcade Age Exhibit!

Through engaging displays and interactive gameplay, the Arcade Age Exhibit tells the story of video arcade games--from the pioneers in the early '40s and '50s to the golden age in the late '70s and early '80s to its ultimate decline in the '90s. It's a story of the creative and innovative people who explored groundbreaking technologies, the games that sprung from their ingenuity, and a culture that was shaped by their developments.

From June 6 - August 30, 2025, the Library will transform part of its space into an arcade complete with unforgettable favorites such as Donkey Kong, Space Invaders, Tetris, and more. Make sure to check out this exhibit along with the fun themed programming we're offering this summer. Arcade games will be open for free play starting 30 minutes after the Library opens until 30 minutes before closing each day.

Exhibit curated by the Cradle of Aviation Museum.

Staff Picks

Videos

A tour of the Arcade Age Exhibit at its home at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City, NY.

Sue Heaton of EGTV Channel 6 interviews Elk Grove Village Public Library staff about the Arcade Age Exhibit.

About the Exhibit

When is the exhibit open?

The exhibit is open from June 6, 2025 until August 30, 2025 during the following hours:

  • Monday - Thursday 9:30 am - 8:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am - 6:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
  • Sunday 12:30 pm - 4:30 pm

The exhibit will be closed daily at 2 pm - 3 pm.

NOTE: Due to the Summer Concert Series, the exhibit with be open from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm on Tuesday, July 22 and Tuesday, July 29, 2025.

For what age is the exhibit recommended?

The exhibit is for all ages and adults.

Where does the exhibit take place?

The exhibit is located in the Quiet Study Room in Adult Services at the Elk Grove Village Public Library at 1001 Wellington Ave in Elk Grove Village, IL 60007.

What arcade games will be available?

  • Defender
  • Donkey Kong
  • Frogger
  • Mortal Kombat I
  • Ms. Pac-man
  • Pac-Man
  • Qbert*
  • Scramble*
  • Space Invaders
  • Street Fighter II
  • Tetris

*These games are backups in case our headlining games need maintenance.

Can I play the arcade games?

Yes! All arcade games on display are playable for FREE! No quarters needed.

Welcome to the Arcade Age Exhibit at the Elk Grove Village Public Library!