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To paraphrase a quote from the movie, Field of Dreams, “If you build it, they will come!” And come, they did—patrons of all ages flocked to the Glenview Public Library and through its doors on Opening Day, Saturday, October 9. More than 6,100 guests crossed the threshold in only four hours and an additional 4,000 patrons explored the new facility the following day. 36,500 patrons visited during the two-week celebratory period with just over 2,000 guests participating in the popular Festival of Programs, a full roster of special activities and staff-guided tours. The overwhelming response from the community was a true testimony to the deep interest in the new library and all that it has to offer.

The new Glenview Library represents a special legacy to the community. This legacy will grow and change to meet the everdemanding needs of a culturally diverse population in a rapidly changing technological society, while never losing sight of the fundamental elements of library service—to provide a solid core of research and casual reading materials, as well as functional spaces for the community to gather. Supported by the strength of its diverse collections and resources, the Library will grow in its role as a cultural center in the heart of downtown Glenview. To this end, flexibility and versatility of design were paramount in developing a facility that would continue to meet and sustain the Library’s mission in the years to come. Whether it be access to one of the many technology workstations, interactive programs for toddlers, or patron-friendly areas for the public to gather, a space has been provided to accommodate these needs.

While it is very gratifying to see the enthusiastic response from the public these past few weeks, we ask your patience, as the Library’s interiors remain a work in progress. Rather than delay the opening, the Library Board recognized that services could be provided concurrently with the finishing touches being applied by tradesmen and contractors. Punch list work is on-going and final deliveries of furniture and equipment, particularly the technology furniture, should be completed by mid-December.

Phase 3 of the building project, which includes the demolition of the old library building, the construction of permanent parking adjacent to the new library, and completion of the convenient drive-up services, has commenced. The structured parking will include 58 spaces at grade level and 65 spaces below ground, for a combined total of 171 dedicated library parking spaces, including those in the Library’s lot south of Glenview Road. The anticipated completion date is Spring 2011. In the interim, parking is available in the Library’s south lot and in designated spots along Railroad Avenue, south of Glenview Road. The Glenview Park District Administration Center lot and commuter spaces are also available to library patrons on evenings and weekends.

As we embrace the holiday season, I wish you and your loved ones a happy, healthy New Year...and urge you to explore your new library, if you are among those who have not yet paid us a visit.

Vickie L. Novak
Executive Librarian