Every month, electric cooperative members across rural Illinois find Illinois Country Living (ICL) magazine in their mailboxes. In a world of smartphone apps, social media and increasingly short attention spans, print magazines like it have become a rarity.
For some, ICL is a quick flip-through over morning coffee. For others, it’s a keepsake. It’s often a dog-eared fixture on the kitchen counter — recipes marked and events circled — or a fun activity for families as they hunt for the hidden object or do the crossword puzzle. No matter how you read it, the magazine exists for one simple reason: it’s made for you.
Electric cooperatives are built on seven principles, and ICL is an extension of them. It’s not just a magazine; it’s a connection point. Whether you live in the heart of farm country, along a quiet rural road, or in a small town where everyone offers a friendly wave, your co-op wants you to be informed and involved.
Inside every issue, you’ll find stories of rural Illinoisans — farmers, small business owners, volunteers, veterans — possibly someone you know. They remind us of the best parts of Illinois and all the unique things it has to offer.
The magazine also works to help you live better and safer. Energy efficiency tips can lower your electric bill and make your home more comfortable. Safety articles explain how to stay clear of electrical dangers. The goal is simple: to give you information that makes a real difference in your everyday life.
Then there’s the fun stuff — recipes that become family favorites, a calendar full of events across Illinois, gardening advice, puzzles and photos taken by readers that capture the beauty of our state.
Most importantly, ICL is part of your cooperative membership. It’s delivered to your home because your co-op believes you deserve more than a monthly bill. You deserve transparency about how your co-op works, updates on projects and improvements, and a clear view of how your membership helps strengthen your community. The magazine keeps that conversation open.
In the increasingly fast-paced world we live in, ICL provides the perfect opportunity to slow down, read about rural Illinois and learn about your electric cooperative family. And, while I might be biased, I think that’s well worth opening the mailbox for, whether this is the first time you’ve received the magazine or you’ve been a loyal reader for decades
