Prospect Heights Public Library

The Prospect Heights Public Library, located in Prospect Heights, Illinois, is a vibrant and dynamic community hub that offers a wide range of services, programs, and resources to residents of all ages. With a rich history dating back to 1961, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, providing a welcoming and inclusive environment that fosters a love of learning, creativity, and connection.

History and Mission

The Prospect Heights Public Library was established in 1961, with the goal of providing access to information, education, and entertainment to the residents of Prospect Heights. Over the years, the library has grown and expanded its services, always striving to meet the evolving needs of the community. The library’s mission is to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment that fosters a love of learning, creativity, and connection, while promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement.

Services and Programs

The Prospect Heights Public Library offers a wide range of services and programs for residents of all ages, including children, teens, and adults. The library’s collections include over 100,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs. The library also provides access to digital resources, such as online databases, e-books, and streaming services. In addition to its collections, the library offers a variety of programs and services, including storytime sessions for children, book clubs for adults, and technology classes for seniors.

The library also hosts a range of events and activities, including author readings, concerts, and art exhibits. The library's community room is available for rent, and is often used for meetings, workshops, and other community events. The library also partners with local organizations and businesses to provide additional resources and services to the community.

Facilities and Technology

The Prospect Heights Public Library is located in a modern, 25,000-square-foot building that was constructed in 2004. The building features a spacious atrium, a large community room, and a variety of study rooms and meeting spaces. The library is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including public computers, printers, and scanners. The library also offers free Wi-Fi and a variety of digital resources, including online databases and streaming services.

Sustainability Initiatives

The Prospect Heights Public Library is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The library’s building is equipped with energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, and the library has implemented a recycling program to reduce waste. The library also offers a variety of programs and services related to sustainability, including gardening classes and environmental workshops.

The library has also implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, including the use of energy-efficient appliances and the reduction of paper waste. The library's sustainability initiatives have earned it a number of awards and recognitions, including the Illinois Library Association's "Sustainability Award".

Community Engagement

The Prospect Heights Public Library is deeply committed to community engagement and outreach. The library partners with a variety of local organizations and businesses to provide additional resources and services to the community. The library also hosts a range of events and activities, including author readings, concerts, and art exhibits, to promote community engagement and cultural awareness.

Partnerships and Collaborations

The Prospect Heights Public Library has established partnerships with a number of local organizations and businesses, including schools, community centers, and non-profit organizations. These partnerships help to promote literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement, and provide additional resources and services to the community.

The library has also collaborated with local artists and musicians to host events and exhibits, and has partnered with local businesses to provide job training and employment services. The library's partnerships and collaborations have helped to establish it as a vibrant and dynamic community hub, and have earned it a number of awards and recognitions, including the "Community Engagement Award" from the Illinois Library Association.