For students in grades 9-12

In the southeast corner of the Main Library’s second floor is an after-school destination intended specifically for library patrons in grades 9-12. The space features colorful tables and chairs, comfortable and flexible furniture, and a big-screen TV. ‘The space is perfect for us!’ “This space is perfect for us!” says Oak Park and River Forest … Read more

Know Your Elected Officials

Updated September 6, 2023. For residents of Oak Park, Illinois, find a list of current elected officials who represent you in local, state, and federal government. Elected officials for the Village of Oak Park Follow the links below to find a list of names and contact information: Elected officials representing Oak Park in Illinois state … Read more

A Library for Everyone

Striving to Support Positive Experiences Library Board approved as Rules of Behavior on June 1, 2011. Revised February 15, 2012. Revised February 24, 2015. Revised September 15, 2015. Revised October 23, 2018. Approved revision as “A Library for Everyone” on October 26, 2021. Revised April 25, 2023. Introduction The library is committed to serving everyone, … Read more

Special Collections

Special Collections Specific cultural and heritage collections that reflect the unique values and enduring legacies of Oak Park, including the following collections: Edgar Rice Burroughs, Ernest Hemingway, Frank Lloyd Wright, Grand Army of the Republic, local authors, Philander Barclay Photograph, and more.

Fund Balance Policy

Library Board approved April 19, 2006. Revised June 23, 2020. Library funds not assigned in the General Fund (Operating Fund) or special purpose funds such as the Art Fund, are referred to as unassigned funds. The unassigned fund balance serves three purposes: It provides a working cash buffer to fund library operations prior to receipt … Read more

Jobs

Our library strategically prioritizes equity, anti-racism, engagement, learning, and stewardship. We serve a diverse population at our three locations and out in the Oak Park community. Our vision is to empower every voice in our community, and our mission is to share the information, services, and opportunities that fulfill Oak Park’s aspirations. Please note: It may take a moment for available jobs to … Read more

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Library Board approved November 16, 2004. Revised January 24, 2023. Introduction The Oak Park Public Library is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating and supporting a work environment that is anti-racist, diverse, equitable, and inclusive for the benefit of our staff, our collections, our programs and services, our patrons, and our community. … Read more

Growing readers in the Irving Bookworm Garden

Kids planting in garden beds

A book-themed garden at a local elementary school? We can dig it! Since spring 2019, the Bookworm Garden at Irving Elementary School has been growing pollinator-friendly flowers, fruits, and veggies. And with a different children’s book featured in each raised bed, this garden also nurtures a lifelong love of reading in the students who work … Read more

Investing in our greatest resources

Library Assistant checks in books at the front desk of the Main Library

To better serve our community, now and into the future, we routinely commit to investing in two of Oak Park’s two greatest assets: library staff and library space. In 2018, the Board of Library Trustees approved a 2019 budget that enables us to do two important things this year. One is to take a big-picture … Read more