Ready to uncover a treasure trove of knowledge right here in Hinsdale? We are standing before the Hinsdale Public Library. This isn’t just a building full of books. It is a community hub with a rich history.
The Hinsdale Public Library has a mission to celebrate lifelong learning. It also fosters community connections. This is done through innovative educational and cultural experiences.
The story of the Hinsdale Public Library goes back further than you might think. It goes back to 1887. That’s when the Hinsdale Library Association was created. The association had 150 paying members and 150 books. It moved three times. These moves were all within various commercial buildings.
In 1893, the tax-supported Hinsdale Public Library was born. It absorbed the collection, assets, and staff of the Library Association. The Hinsdale Public Library opened in August 1893. The Public Library continued moving around. It shared space with businesses. It relocated six times between 1893 and 1929. Finally, the Memorial Building was completed in 1929. This gave the Hinsdale Public Library its first permanent home.
Over the years, the Hinsdale Public Library grew. It needed more space. One of the directors of the Library Association was D.K. Pearsons. He donated his home and part of his estate to the library. This helped fund an addition in 1957. The Pearsons Wing is now home to the Village of Hinsdale offices.
The library needed even more room. In 1988, another addition was built. It was on the west side of the Memorial Building. The library and the village swapped office spaces.
The Hinsdale Public Library has moved 11 times. It survived fires. It built two additions. Today, the Hinsdale Public Library is at 20 E. Maple Street. It offers a spacious Quiet Reading Room. It also has a Youth Services Reading Cabin and a Teen Lounge.
The Hinsdale Public Library enriches lives with collections and programs. They have access to over 25,000 e-book titles. They also offer same-day new releases of books, movies, and TV series. Storytimes are available for young children. Adults can enjoy “The Big Read” program.
The Hinsdale Public Library provides many services. Subject specialists help you find information. There are expert-led discussions for groups. One-on-one technology instruction is available. Enjoy free Wi-Fi. Use wireless printing and copiers. The library also offers homebound delivery.
Lisa Knasiak, the Assistant Director, ensures the library meets its mission. She helps patrons find information in old newspapers. This is much faster with digitized archives. The Community History Archive fosters community connections.
The Hinsdale Public Library truly is a place for lifelong learning. It is a place for community. It is more than just a building. It’s a vital part of Hinsdale. The Hinsdale Public Library is a place where the past, present, and future connect.