The Lake Bluff Public Library Board of Trustees voted at the March 18, 2025 Board Meeting, to extend the Library’s current Pilot Hours through August 2025. The Board will revisit the issue at its July Board Meeting, where it will determine whether to reinstate Sunday hours or add additional evening hours starting in September, following Labor Day weekend.

This decision was a challenging one, as both the Board and Library administration are committed to increasing in-building utilization of Library services. However, during the initial six-month pilot and the subsequent two additional three-month extensions, evening usage of the Library remained low, and staffing challenges persisted. Given these factors, the Board opted to extend the pilot for another six months to allow for further evaluation of the Library’s financial status and staffing capabilities. This additional time will provide the necessary data to determine if sustainable support for expanded hours is feasible. 

In addition to staffing and operational costs, the Library must also address ongoing financial challenges related to facility maintenance and improvements. Ensuring the Library remains a welcoming and well-maintained space requires significant investment, and any expansion of hours must be balanced against these infrastructure needs. As the Board continues to assess the Library’s future hours, it must consider both the financial resources necessary for staffing and the long-term sustainability of the physical space. Balancing these priorities remains a key focus for the Library’s leadership.

Library Hours
Extended Pilot Effective April 1 through August 31, 2025
Mondays: 10 AM – 6 PM
Tuesdays: 10 AM – 6 PM
Wednesdays: 10 AM – 6 PM
Thursdays: 10 AM – 8 PM
Fridays: 10 AM – 5 PM
Saturdays: 10 AM – 5 PM
Sundays: CLOSED

The Library remains dedicated to serving the community and will continue to explore ways to enhance access to its resources. Community feedback is welcome, and are encouraged to share their thoughts on Library hours and services. 

Visit our Library Hours Pilot page for more information or contact Library Director, Natalie Starosta.