The Vernon Area Public Library District serves a population of approximately 42,900. It comprises a 29-square-mile area in Illinois that includes all or parts of Buffalo Grove, Lincolnshire, Long Grove, Vernon Hills, Prairie View, Riverwoods, and portions of unincorporated Vernonand Ela townships. On November 9, 2014, Volker Rose was invited to present a public lecture at the library. In the well-attended lecture Rose, who is working with major art institutions, such as The Art Institute of Chicago and Smithsonian Institute, explained how scientists are using high-energy X-ray instruments to solve mysteries behind art masterpieces, including artwork by Picasso. He particularly emphasized the importance of synchrotron facilities such as the Advanced Photon Source to unlock groundbreaking information about art, the artist, and our cultural heritage.