Envision a building where stories come alive. This is the Des Plaines Public Library. It stands as a beacon of knowledge and community spirit in Des Plaines Illinois.
The Des Plaines Public Library’s story began long ago. Its roots trace back to 1896 when the idea of a library was first proposed. Though initially rejected it didn’t deter the residents. In 1904, the Tabard Inn subscription library emerged in a local drugstore. F.C. Walton supported it. Then, in April 1905, the community voted to establish a Free Public Library.
Dr. Clarence A. Earle contacted Andrew Carnegie for funding. Carnegie granted $5000 for construction. The first Library Board convened in 1906. They met in the Village Hall on Ellinwood and Lee Streets.
The first Des Plaines Public Library opened in 1907. It stood on the corner of Miner Street and Graceland Avenue. Sarah Weeks served as the first librarian. She earned $10 per month. The library started with 725 books. It opened on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
In 1936, the city planned a new municipal building. The library moved temporarily to the former Des Plaines State Bank. The new Municipal Building opened in 1937. It housed the library in the west wing. The library boasted 7000 books and modern equipment. A children’s room opened in the basement in 1951.
A new 16000-square-foot library broke ground in 1957. This was at Thacker Street and Graceland Avenue. The Colonial Williamsburg-style building opened in 1958. Additions followed in 1970 and 1974. In 1969, the library introduced a bookmobile. It served city neighborhoods biweekly.
In 1990, the bookmobile evolved into a Mobile Library. It made numerous stops including schools and senior centers. In 1997, discussions began for a new library downtown. Ground broke for the current library on April 15 1999.
The Des Plaines Public Library opened on August 14 2000. The four-story building spans 82000 square feet. Lohan and Associates designed it. Leopardo Construction built it. Its north face features aluminum panels. They depict open books in binary code that spells out “Des Plaines Library”.
Inside you can see artworks by Fred Nagelbach and others. Community donations funded these pieces. The Friends of the Des Plaines Public Library support programs through book sales. In 2004, they gifted a bronze sculpture of young Abraham Lincoln.
The Des Plaines Public Library celebrated its centennial in 2007. It loans over one million items yearly. The library also provides downloadable materials. While mobile library service ended in 2012, the library continues to evolve. Renovations in 2015 created new spaces for teens and programs.
Today the Des Plaines Public Library stands at 1501 Ellinwood Street. It serves 35000 cardholders. In 2021, it circulated 666541 items. The Des Plaines Public Library remains a cornerstone of the community. It is a place for learning discovery and connection.