The Iroquois Library, located in Iroquois, Illinois, is a vital part of the community, serving as a hub for education, entertainment, and socialization. With a rich history dating back to 1916, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of its patrons, providing a wide range of services and resources to support lifelong learning and personal growth.
History and Development
The Iroquois Library was established in 1916, with a initial collection of 500 books and a small reading room. Over the years, the library has undergone several expansions and renovations, including a major addition in 1995, which doubled the library’s size and added new amenities such as a children’s area, a meeting room, and a computer lab. Today, the library boasts a collection of over 15,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and DVDs.
Services and Resources
The Iroquois Library offers a variety of services and resources to support the community’s informational, educational, and recreational needs. These include:
- Free borrowing privileges for residents and non-residents
- Interlibrary loan services, allowing patrons to access materials from other libraries
- Computer and internet access, including Wi-Fi and printing services
- Programs and events for children, teens, and adults, such as storytime, book clubs, and author talks
- Research assistance and reference services, including online databases and digital resources
In addition to these services, the library also partners with local organizations and businesses to provide additional resources and support, such as:
| Partner Organization | Service/Resource |
|---|---|
| Iroquois School District | Summer reading programs and literacy support |
| Local Chamber of Commerce | Business resources and workshops |
| Area museums and cultural institutions | Passes and discounts for library patrons |
Community Engagement and Outreach
The Iroquois Library is dedicated to building strong relationships with the community, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among patrons. To achieve this, the library offers a range of programs and services designed to promote socialization, education, and personal growth. These include:
Children's Services: The library offers a variety of programs and activities for children, from storytime and book clubs to summer reading challenges and craft workshops. These services aim to promote early literacy, a love of reading, and social skills development.
Teen Services: The library provides a safe and welcoming space for teens, offering programs and activities such as book clubs, gaming events, and college prep workshops. These services aim to support teen literacy, education, and socialization.
Adult Services: The library offers a range of programs and services for adults, including book clubs, author talks, and workshops on topics such as technology, health, and wellness. These services aim to promote lifelong learning, socialization, and community engagement.
Future Directions
As the Iroquois Library looks to the future, it is committed to continuing its tradition of innovation and excellence. Plans are underway to:
- Expand the library’s digital collections and online resources
- Enhance the library’s physical space, including renovations to the children’s area and meeting room
- Develop new programs and services to support emerging community needs, such as STEM education and workforce development
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Iroquois Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9am to 8pm, Friday from 9am to 5pm, and Saturday from 9am to 1pm.
How can I get a library card?
+To get a library card, visit the library in person and provide proof of residency and identification. Library cards are free for residents and available for a small fee for non-residents.
What types of programs and events does the library offer?
+The Iroquois Library offers a wide range of programs and events for children, teens, and adults, including storytime, book clubs, author talks, and workshops on topics such as technology and wellness.
