Friends of the Library

Why we want you to be a friend of the Oak Park Public Library...

The Library is an integral part of the cultural life of Oak Park, Illinois. It is the cornerstone of an informed democracy. It is the wit and wisdom of the centuries. It is entertainment and education. It is truly a resource to be cherished. The Oak Park Public Library is all of these things, and it is open to all - free of charge! We ask you to become a Friend, and enjoy the satisfaction of making a valued and recognized contribution, as well as the rewards of being a Friend of the Library.

Join Today

What We Do

In 1948 the Friends of the Oak Park Public Library began work to support the Library, building bridges between the Library and community, and raising funds to sponsor the programs and services that the Library could not otherwise afford. As part of our fundraising efforts since 1970 the Friends have sponsored one of the finest and largest book fairs in the Midwest.

The Friends have provided funding for many Library needs, such as heritage programming, materials for the Summer Reading Program, books and films for discussion groups, and the conservation of Ernest Hemingway's selected early papers. Your membership money supports the acquisition of furniture and collection materials for the Oak Park Public Library, funds the following programs throughout the year, and more:

  • Author programs
  • Barbara Ballinger Lectures
  • "Big Read"
  • Friends Film Series
  • Heritage programming
  • School's Out Series
  • Summer Reading Programs for Adults, Teens, and Kids
  • Teen Coffeehouse

Contact Us

Friends of the Oak Park Public Library
P.O. Box 3655
Oak Park, Illinois 60303-3655
708-445-6260 or 708-697-6930
friends@oppl.org

Friends Board Members

Chet Taranowski, President
Terry Vanderwell, Vice President
Eileen Kleps, Treasurer
Doris Adamczewski, Secretary
Doug Deuchler
Mary Davis Fournier
Philomena Harbaugh
John Hayes
Steve Kirshenbaum
Paul Koko
Amy Werthmann
Janet Kelenson, Library Board Liaison
Dee Brennan, Library Liaison
Jim Madigan, Library Liaison