News

At the heart of every library is the belief that access to information—without barriers—is a foundational freedom. Literacy isn’t just about reading books. It’s about the power to think critically, to explore new ideas, and to participate fully in our community and democracy.

That’s why we are committed to representing a wide range of voices and perspectives in everything we do—from the materials on our shelves to the programs we offer. Everyone deserves to see themselves reflected, and to have the opportunity to learn from others’ experiences.

05/28/2025

On April 4, 2025, we shared an update about our transition to a new book vendor to improve the availability of new materials for our Library users. While this change is an important step forward, ongoing vendor backlogs—combined with continued budget cuts—have further impacted the timely arrival of new books.

In some cases, we’ve had to purchase titles at retail price due to delays with our discount vendors. This limits how many new materials we can afford to purchase and may lead to continued delays in availability.

Free and discounted museum passes with your Lake Bluff Library card

05/28/2025

By Julie Jurgens, Lake Bluff Public Library, Youth Services Librarian

Even though I grew up on a farm, I have a black thumb when it comes to plants (I’m still sad about my lack of cherry tomatoes the past two summers despite my best efforts), but thankfully when it comes to weeding books, I have much stronger skills.

Some of you might be saying, Weeding books? What does that mean? Well, that’s why I am writing to you today. 

05/21/2025

The Lake Bluff Library Board is committed to making Library governance more transparent, efficient, and accessible. At the May 20, 2025 Regular Board Meeting, the Board voted to consolidate all committee meetings into Committee of the Whole meetings, beginning Tuesday, July 1, 2025. This new structure will bring every Board member together in a single, open forum—allowing you to see every stage of discussion and decision-making.

Why this change benefits our community

Lake Bluff Public Library is pleased to announce that Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is now open for enrollment in Lake County, thanks to the Lake County Regional Office of Education Foundation (LCROEF). This program delivers a free, high-quality book each month to every child from birth to age five—no matter the family’s income—to foster a lifelong love of reading.

04/14/2025

Dear Friend,

As we said in November, there has been so much change and excitement at the Lake Bluff Public Library, and it only continues in 2025. We are so excited to welcome Natalie Starosta as the new Library Director. 

The Friends of the Lake Bluff Library is a dedicated group supporting our local library in its mission to provide vital services and resources to our community. We are proud to philanthropically support Lake Bluff Library. 

04/04/2025

The Lake Bluff Public Library is in the process of transitioning to a new book vendor to improve the availability of new materials for our patrons. Over the past six months, we have experienced longer-than-usual delays in receiving new books, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

We appreciate the patience and understanding of our community as we make this change. The new vendor will help streamline our ordering process, ensuring that new materials arrive more quickly and reliably in the future.

03/20/2025

The Lake Bluff Public Library Board of Trustees voted at the March 18, 2025 Board Meeting, to extend the Library’s current Pilot Hours through August 2025. The Board will revisit the issue at its July Board Meeting, where it will determine whether to reinstate Sunday hours or add additional evening hours starting in September, following Labor Day weekend.