Why This Project and Why Now?
Built in 1931, the Library building has served Lake Forest residents well for decades. It is a beloved informational and cultural resource with outstanding art and architectural elements. However, time has taken a toll:
- The building’s infrastructure is aging, which limits library functionality and occupies staff time that would be better spent serving the public.
- There have been intermittent renovations in the building's nearly 90-year lifespan, resulting in areas that are difficult to navigate and do not address the need for improved accessibility.
- The Lake Forest community's expectations of modern libraries have outpaced the capacities of the building, which lacks adequate and flexible space to support the level of library materials, programs, services, and meeting rooms that are expected of a high-functioning library today and into the future.
These limitations severely restrict the Library's ability to fulfill its mission and to continue serving the Lake Forest community with excellence.
Stay Informed
The Library Board's work with HGA and The Hodge Group is conducted at special or regular board meetings that are open to the public. See www.lakeforestlibrary.org/board.
Overview of Project to date
Read the Full Timeline in the Executive Summary
2016
May: Library Board implemented new operational strategy
2017
May: Community Assessment completed
September: Library Board adopted new mission statement and new Strategic Plan
November: RFQ for Architectural Services issued
November: Dome wrapped to protect murals and library interior
2018
March: Retained HGA, Inc., architectural and engineering firm
April: HGA facilitated community and staff forums
September: HGA delivered feasibility study
September: Library issued RFP for capital campaign counsel
October: Library updated City Council
November: City advised Library to hold and enter triage period
December: Dome wrapped a second time to protect murals and library interior
2019
January: HGA delivered dome restoration report
January: Elevator service restored after four months
March: Redesign of Phase 2 of McKinley Road Development impacts Library’s potential expansion parcel
June: Updated the Mayor and City Administrators on Capital Improvement Project
August: Retained The Hodge Group (THG) as capital campaign counsel
November–December: THG interviewed philanthropic community
December: Incorporated The Lake Forest Library Foundation and filed for 501(c)(3) status
2020
January–February: THG interviewed philanthropic community and City Government
March: THG delivered feasibility report on philanthropic and government support
April: Building program assessment completed
April: Annual report shared with City Council and City Administrators
April: IRS awarded 501(c)(3) status to The Lake Forest Library Foundation
June: Annual report shared with stakeholders
April–August: Library Board and HGA work through pre-design and program study phase
July–August: Seat the Board of The Lake Forest Library Foundation
July–August: HGA, Library, City Administration, and HPC/Lake Forest Preservation Foundation hold subcommittee meetings
October: Introductory presentation to City Council at the Council's meeting on October 19
Read the Full Timeline in the Executive Summary
Comments Welcome