11/12/2025

Dear Friend,
We hope this message finds you well as we approach the end of another wonderful year here in Lake Bluff. As members of the Friends of the Lake Bluff Library, we are dedicated to supporting our Library in its mission to provide vital services and resources to our community. We’re reaching out to ask for your continued support to help ensure our public Library remains a vibrant and enriching cornerstone of Lake Bluff life.

Our Lake Bluff Public Library is more than just a building filled with books. It’s a vibrant hub of learning, creativity, and connection for patrons of all ages. From story time for toddlers to tech workshops for seniors, from quiet study spaces to lively community events, the Library continues to evolve to meet the needs of our community.

Thanks to your support, the Friends have recently funded numerous activities and programs, including:

• A book repair machine to extend the life of well-loved books.
• A new magazine display, wayfinding signs, and modern display fixtures to improve the Library’s usability and browsing experience.
• Programs for all ages, from early literacy to lifelong learning and special events.
• Professional development funding for staff to attend the 2026 American Library Association Conference in Chicago ensuring the latest ideas and best practices benefit our community.
• Strategic planning consultant to create the most comprehensive 5 year plan to guide Library wide decisions.

To continue offering beloved programs and activities the community loves, and to ensure the Library remains safe, welcoming, and well-maintained, we need your help. Every contribution, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference. Your donation can help support:

• New and ongoing programs like movie night in the park and participation in the 4th of July parade
• Technology upgrades that keep our Library current and accessible, such as 24/7 book access lockers and increased digital resources
• Essential building improvement and repairs such as upgraded HVAC and ADA compliant access

This year, there are several meaningful and fun ways you can support:

• Direct donations to the Friends of the Library, funding Library requests as they arise.
• Bench sponsorships to replace 10 aging wooden benches around the Library grounds - $1,000 each includes a personalized commemorative plaque.
• Engraved bricks in the Library brick garden, which can be personalized for you or funded for the Library - $150 each.
• NEW canvas Library tote bags – now available to purchase for yourself or as a gift ($25 each), or sponsor one for the Library as well ($50 for both).

Your generosity has always been the cornerstone of the Lake Bluff Library’s success. While only 2.5% of your tax bill supports the Library (compared to 6.0% in some nearby suburban libraries) our community continues to show extraordinary commitment. Every contribution, no matter the size, directly impacts the Library, its patrons, and the entire Lake Bluff community.

We hope you’ll take a moment to support us today with a gift to the Friends. Please also check if your employer offers matching gifts to double your impact.

Together, we can ensure that the library remains a cornerstone of our community for generations to come.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Friends.

With sincere gratitude,

The Friends of the Lake Bluff Library
Margaret Abel, Claire Abrahamson, Mary Dahlmann, Edye Draegert, Brittany Dressler, Wendy Engelland, Cris Graham, Eva Javier, Ken Kasel, Linda Kennett, Eileen Laack, Liz Mayer, and Missy Romanoff