News

Why is the library’s drive-up book drop unavailable?
In February, the access door staff use to empty the book drop unexpectedly broke. Staff are currently unable to open the access door to retrieve items.

Are you removing the drive-up book drop?
No; the drive-up book drop is an important service that makes the Library more accessible to patrons, and we are committed to continuing to offer it. Our current book drop has reached the end of its useful lifespan and it needs to be replaced. We have ordered a replacement unit and are waiting for it to be delivered and installed.

The drive up book drop on Oak Avenue is temporarily out of service. We are hoping to have a replacement installed as soon as possible. While the drive-up drop is out of service, you can use the exterior book drop by the main entrance of the Library or return your materials inside the building. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

Are you a friendly and customer service-oriented individual who can think on their feet and thrive in a fast-paced, people-focused environment? We have a job opening in our Youth Services and Circulation Departments that you may be interested in.

Lake Bluff Public Library received recognition as one of the nation’s Star Libraries in the 2022 Library Journal Index of Public Library Service, as announced by Library Journal earlier this December.

The Library Journal Index of Public Library Service ranks libraries on a variety of metrics, including circulation, program attendance, Wi-Fi usage, and library visits. Of the more than 5,300 libraries eligible for this award in 2022, only 258 received a star ranking. The Lake Bluff Public Library received four stars, ranking it as one of the top 20 libraries nationwide in its budget category. This is the first time that the Library has earned this recognition in the fifteen years of the award.

The Lake Bluff Public Library Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Renee Grassi as the next Director of the Lake Bluff Public Library, effective January 2023. Ms. Grassi will join the Lake Bluff Public Library from the Dakota County Library where she oversees the Youth Services Department of nine library locations serving the greater Minneapolis-St. Paul area in Minnesota.

“We are so looking forward to Renee joining our Library team,” said Board President Kathy Meierhoff. “It is clear that Renee has a strong sense of the culture of Lake Bluff. She is a team-oriented leader who brings a wide set of experience and skills that will help enhance the excellence of our Library.”

Has this ever happened to you? You know you want to read something, but you’re just not sure what. Maybe you want something that’s just like that great book you read a couple weeks ago, or maybe you’re looking to branch out and try something new.

If this sounds familiar, we have good news: the Library can help! Below are some great reader’s advisory resources that can help you navigate the wild world of what to read next:

In-Person Reader’s Advisory
We have a number of trained reader’s advisors on staff. Come in and talk to one of our staff members working at the reference desk upstairs (or at the main desk in the Children’s Department if you’re looking for youth materials) and we’ll see what we can find for you.

Calling all movie lovers: did you know that you can stream movies using your Lake Bluff Library card? We offer a couple of great movie streaming services that are sure to impress even the most discerning cinephile.

Hoopla

What’s all the hoopla about Hoopla? Where do we start? Hoopla has a huge movie library that ranges from classic films all the way to titles just released this year. In addition to a really impressive movie library, you can also use Hoopla to checkout eBooks, eAudiobooks, comics, and music. You can check out up to 8 Hoopla titles per month, and every title is always available—no waitlists, no overdue fines, no worries!

Service Spotlight: Autorenewal at the Library

Did you know that we have autorenewal at the Library? This improvement launched in June of 2020 and the announcement kind of got lost in the shuffle of the pandemic, so we like to remind everyone about it every so often. Here’s how it works:

Creativebug is a database that offers unlimited access to online video arts and crafts workshops and techniques where you can learn everything from sewing and needlework to painting and ceramics. You’ll even get access to JOANN’S exclusive online learning community. So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to Creativebug today and sign up for an account using your Lake Bluff Library card number.

Fall is here and Sunday hours are coming back! The Library will be open from 1pm to 5pm on Sundays beginning this Sunday, September 11. In addition to our regular services, we've also got a special Grandparents' Day Storytime scheduled for that day. We look forward to seeing you!