General news

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.

We are happy to announce that patrons can now view Adult Zoom programs at the Library. Have a night out with friends or family, discuss programs with other viewers, and join us in the Spruth Room to view Zoom programs on the big screen. Seating is limited and will be first come for registered viewers, so be sure to sign up! Please call the library or use the online calendar to register. All registrants will receive a Zoom link before the program.

We are pleased to announce that we now offer access to full-text Chicago Tribune articles from 1985 to present day. You must have a Lake Bluff Library card number or be connected to the Library WiFi in order to use this resource. If you have questions or encounter any difficulty connecting, please contact the reference desk by email or call us at 847-234-2540.

In addition to the previously announced changes regarding masks, the Lake Bluff Library will be requiring all individuals ages 2 and up to wear masks while visiting the Children's Department, regardless of their vaccination status. This change mirrors the state's current requirements for schools. We appreciate your cooperation.

In light of the new guidelines from the Center for Disease Control and the new executive order from the Governor of Illinois, the Lake Bluff Library has made some adjustments to its practices regarding masks:

Starting April 5^th, the Library will be expanding its public hours:

• Monday - Thursday from 10am to 9pm
• Friday 10am to 6pm
• Saturday 10am to 5pm

As the Library moves back to its pre-pandemic operating schedule, you’ll also notice changes to some of the policies and services that have been put in place over the last year. Here are the changes you’ll want to be aware of:

• Public hours are scheduled for the following days and times:
  • Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 10am-6pm
• Curbside pickup and remote document services will continue on the following days and times:
  • Tuesdays, Thursdays from 1-6pm
  • Saturdays from 1-5pm
• Masks are required to enter the building during both public hours and curbside pickup hours.
• During public hours, the following services will be available:
  • Browsing and checkout
  • Public computer access

The Lake Bluff Public Library will be resuming limited public hours beginning Monday, February 8. Here is what you need to know:

Curbside Pickup Resuming 1/19

The Library temporarily suspended all in-building services on January 15, 2021 upon learning of a case of COVID-19 on staff. The staff member had no contact with the public and observed all safety protocols, including wearing masks and gloves during their shifts. They are now resting and recovering at home. No additional staff members have tested positive or are reporting COVID-like symptoms. Following the closure of the building, the Library had the building professionally cleaned and disinfected by a company that specializes in COVID-cleanup.

On Friday, January 15, the Lake Bluff Public Library became aware of a positive COVID case on staff. The individual wore a mask and gloves while working at the Library and had no contact with the public (for more information on the Library’s safety protocols, take a look at the Keeping the Library Safe section on our Curbside Pickup page). However, out of an abundance of caution, the Library is temporarily suspending all in-building services including Curbside Pickup effective immediately. We have hired a company to do a COVID specific deep clean of the Library building and we anticipate being closed through at least Monday, January 19.

Service changes are as follows: