library HISTORY

1891
The Ladies Library Association began a small reading room above the Farmers and Merchants Bank on the northeast corner of Main and Curtiss. In 1895, it held 600-700 volumes.

1911
Following a successful referendum for a tax-supported library, a small-frame building on the southwest corner of Main and Curtiss became the library's second home. Circulation in November of 1912 was 1,520.

1915
With financial help from the Carnegie Foundation, a new brick building on the corner of Forest and Curtiss opened its doors. Total cost: $11,250.

1956
To accommodate heavy usage by a booming population, a ‘wrap-around' addition expanded the Carnegie building. Again, usage grew.

1977
Following a 1975 referendum, the old library building was razed and the collection moved to temporary quarters just east of the library. In the fall of 1977, a new 40,000 square foot building opened. In 1983, the second floor was redesigned, and the Reference Department moved upstairs.

1999
In 1996, residents approved an $8.2 million referendum to reconstruct and update the library by adding an addition. The new 67,738 square foot building opened in February of 1999.

2014
A strategic plan was announced in 2012 that included a building renovation scheduled for 2014. The $2.4 million renovation plans called for more study spaces, upgraded technology, improved WiFi, enhanced display of items, and a café space that welcomes food and drink.

2016
In the library's 125th anniversary year, more than 542,008 visitors checked out over 1,036,494 items.

2025
The Downers Grove Historical Society honors the library by naming it as a Historical Site.

Present
The library continues to discover, grow, play, and learn with the community!