Dear Friend,

As we said in November, there has been so much change and excitement at the Lake Bluff Public Library, and it only continues in 2025. We are so excited to welcome Natalie Starosta as the new Library Director. 

The Friends of the Lake Bluff Library is a dedicated group supporting our local library in its mission to provide vital services and resources to our community. We are proud to philanthropically support Lake Bluff Library. 

Did you know that our community’s generous donations have enabled us to make significant improvements to the library? This includes purchasing new furniture and updating computer stations, funding the summer reading programs and supporting various community events for the library, all of which have greatly enhanced the experience for our patrons. We are deeply grateful for your ongoing support, which has allowed us to keep the library a welcoming and valuable space for everyone.

Recently, maintenance challenges of an aging building, budget limitations and operational demands have resulted in the need for even more urgent support. The infrastructure needs are significant, particularly in bringing the building up to ADA standards and ensuring the safety and security of both the staff and the public. Due to budget shortfalls, the operating hours and staffing levels have seen significant decreases in the past year as well. Improving these issues will ensure that we continue to provide a safe, comfortable, and functional environment for our community to visit. You may be surprised to know that only 2.5% of your tax bill goes to the Lake Bluff Library while other suburban Chicago libraries receive as much at 6.0%.

Our library exists today because of the unwavering support of our incredible Lake Bluff community. Your generosity has always been a cornerstone of the Lake Bluff Library’s success, and we hope we can count on your support once more. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a direct impact to the library, its patrons and our community. Together, we can ensure the library remains a vibrant and valuable asset for everyone. 

The library is a gem in our community and is facing financial needs as our community grows. We need your help today.

Thank you for considering our request, and for your continued commitment to strengthening our community through your support of the library. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact the Friends.

With sincere gratitude,

The Friends of the Lake Bluff Library

Margaret Abel, Claire Abrahamson, Mary Dahlmann, Edye Draegert, Brittany Dressler, Wendy Engelland, Cris Graham, Eva Javier, Ken Kasel, Linda Kennett, Eileen Laack, Liz Mayer, and Missy Romanoff

Support the Friends

The Friends of the Lake Bluff Library is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by the law.

To donate, write in care of Claire Abrahamson, Secretary
Friends of the Lake Bluff Library
Lake Bluff Public Library
123 East Scranton Avenue
Lake Bluff, IL 60044

Please make checks payable to "The Friends of the Lake Bluff Library."

To make a donation directly from your bank account via Zelle, please use the Friends' email address: admin [at] friendslblibrary [dot] org.