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Lake Forest Library Board selects Ishwar Laxminarayan as Executive Director

April 11, 2023 – LAKE FOREST Ill – The Lake Forest Library Board voted unanimously in favor of selecting Ishwar Laxminarayan as the next Executive Director of Lake Forest Library effective May 1, 2023.

Dome repairs to begin at Lake Forest Library

March 8, 2023 – LAKE FOREST Ill – On August 10, 2022, the Lake Forest Library Board approved prioritizing repair and restoration work on the dome and interior rotunda as a first step of the Capital Improvement Project to enhance and revitalize the Library. Work on the dome begins in March 2023, and Lake Foresters can expect to see scaffolding as soon as March 9. Scaffolding and construction are expected to have minimal impact on Library services and building access. For updates, please stay tuned to www.lakeforestlibrary.org/dome.

Lake Forest Library Board appoints David Seleb as Interim Director

December 16, 2022 – LAKE FOREST Ill – The Lake Forest Library Board announced at its December 13 meeting the appointment of David J. Seleb as Interim Library Director. Seleb will take over in early January 2023 from Catherine A. Lemmer, who is retiring after having served as Executive Director since May 2016.

Lake Forest Library named a 4-Star Library by Library Journal

December 12, 2022 – LAKE FOREST Ill – Lake Forest Library earned a 4-Star Library designation in the 15th edition of the Library Journal Index of Public Library Service 2022. The LJ Index spotlights the best of the best across America by rating U.S. public libraries on selected per capita output measures such as circulation, library visits, resource use, and program attendance.

Lake Forest Library Director to Retire

October 28, 2022 — LAKE FOREST Ill — The Board of Lake Forest Library announces that Catherine Lemmer, Executive Director, will retire at the end of the calendar year to pursue other opportunities. During her six-year tenure, Ms. Lemmer transformed library operations and services. Notable accomplishments under her leadership include the development and implementation of operational policies, a focus on transparent financial reporting, and numerous technology upgrades. These advancements include the launch of RFID and self-check services, migration to integrated cloud platforms, transition to faster and more reliable fiber internet, expanded wireless connectivity, and installation of new computers for both patrons and staff. Her passion for delivering engaging library services led to the creation of new programs and collections, robust community partnerships, and enhanced community collaboration and communications.

Lake Forest Library awards President's Volunteer Service Awards to two teens

June 15, 2022 – LAKE FOREST Ill – Lake Forest Library was honored to present President's Volunteer Service Awards to two Lake Forest teens for outstanding service to our community.

Library Board approves contracting with WJE for dome work

Lake Forest Library Board approves contract for dome investigation, repair, and restoration services

December 15, 2021 – LAKE FOREST Ill – On Tuesday, December 14, the Lake Forest Library Board approved a Professional Services Agreement with Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) for investigation and design services for the repair and restoration of the dome.

Bestselling author Jamie Ford to present during “Lake Forest Reads” 2021 One Book, One Community program

September 9 2021 – LAKE FOREST Ill – Bestselling author Jamie Ford will pay a virtual visit to Lake Forest on October 7, 2021, to discuss his novel—and this year’s featured Lake Forest Reads title—“Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet.” For details and to register for events, visit www.LFReads.org.

Lake Forest Library Board approves prioritizing the dome and rotunda as a first step of the Capital Improvement Project

Posted August 10, 2021. As a first step of the Capital Improvement Project (CIP) to enhance and revitalize Lake Forest Library, on August 10 the Library Board approved prioritizing repair and restoration work on the dome and interior rotunda, and appointed the Library Board Building Committee to investigate next steps and solicit feedback and recommendations from the City of Lake Forest, qualified experts, Lake Forest Library patrons, and community organizations at future dates to be determined.

2021 Read Between the Ravines featured author is Michelle Kuo

February 17, 2021 – LAKE FOREST Ill – Lake Forest Library and Lake Bluff Public Library are proud to present their joint nonfiction reading program called Read Between the Ravines. This Two Communities, One Nonfiction Book program brings together Lake Forest and Lake Bluff with the purpose of enhanc...

Starting February 15, Lake Forest Library resumes Carry Out service and brief visits

Lake Forest Library is again open for brief visits by the public to browse the collections, check out items, copy and print documents, and more! Masks over your nose and mouth and social distancing are required while in the building. Please do not visit in groups. Hours the building is open start...

Lake Forest Library named a 3-Star Library by Library Journal

Lake Forest Library earned a 3-Star Library designation in the 13th edition of the Library Journal Index of Public Library Service. The LJ Index spotlights the best of the best across America by rating U.S. public libraries on selected per capita output measures such as circulation, library visits, resource use, and program attendance.

Service Update: Lobby Pick Up Only at Lake Forest Library Beginning November 23

(Service expired) Service Update: Foyer Pickup Only at Lake Forest Library beginning November 23

November 21, 2020– LAKE FOREST Ill – Due to the rapid rise in cases of COVID-19 in Lake County and surrounding areas, the Lake Forest Library building will be closed to the public for all services other than Foyer Pickup starting Monday, November 23.  The Library is taking this action with the gu...

(Service expired) Lake Forest Library shifts to Carry Out Only service to facilitate compliance with IDPH recommendation

To decrease the positivity rate and spread of COVID-19, the Illinois Department of Health is recommending that individuals limit their actions to essential activities for three weeks starting November 16. Essential activities include work outside the home, COVID-19 testing, visiting the pharmacy, an...

Lake Forest Library plans Phase 4 reopening July 20

July 2, 2020 – LAKE FOREST Ill – Lake Forest Library is excited to announce a planned reopening of the building for express service and limited computer use beginning Monday, July 20. We're calling this phase Lake Forest Library Lite: many of the Library services and resources you love, with quick and speedy service for limited numbers of patrons throughout the day.