JOLIET, Illinois – Libraries in Joliet and Aurora faced heightened threats Thursday, casting a shadow over the peace these community havens usually provide.
Aurora’s Police Department had to respond in record time to multiple threats at three of its city libraries situated on S. River St., S. Eola Rd., and S. Constitution Dr. Evacuations were immediate and residents were gripped by a feeling of déjà vu, reminding them of the unsettling episodes earlier in the week.
Just days ago, Aurora, along with Schaumburg and Addison libraries, were jolted by similar online threats. These incidents had caused considerable anxiety, leading to rapid evacuations and investigations. The fact that Joliet’s library system also fell victim prompting evacuations to such a threat on the same day as Aurora has only heightened concerns about a possible targeted pattern.
According to Joliet police, nearby Troy Craughwell Elementary School was placed on a soft lockdown following the threat, originating online. That lockdown was lifted shortly after 3 p.m.
Authorities across all affected cities are collaborating closely to trace the origins of these threats. Meanwhile, community leaders are urging residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The motivation behind these threats remains unclear, but the sense of resilience and unity among the affected communities remains undeterred.
