The State of Illinois does not have universal public library service and as a result, approximately 1 million residents do not have public library service. Over the last 40 years, various studies and reports have researched how public library service could be brought to this unserved group. The reports and studies, posted on the Illinois Library Systems Web site, make very interesting reading.

The Lewis & Clark Library System consultants worked with our members seeking to extend public library services into unserved areas. We also worked with residents hoping to establish a public library or a public library district to serve their area.

In Illinois, an area unserved by a public library or a public library district can establish a library using the applicable method under the Illinois Compiled Statutes, 75 ILCS 5/2 et seq to establish city or village libraries and 75 ILCS 16/5 et seq to establish a library district.

What does a library cost? provides an overview of the expenses a newly established library will incur.

LCLS Resources for Special Libraries

• Grant Development
• Advocacy
• L2 Calendar of Events
• Expedition Extra
• LCLS Membership Directory

LCLS Special Interest Groups and Discussion Lists for Special Libraries

lcls@lclslists.org
This is a general list for members of all types to communicate about a variety of topics. We encourage all members and all staff to sign up for this list. LCLS staff also uses this list to send out announcements.

Resources for Special Libraries

External Organizations for Special Libraries

SLA-IL Chapter
The Illinois Chapter of the Special Library Association (SLA) provides many opportunities for the Special libraries in Chicago and the surrounding area. Opportunities range from networking dine arounds, to monthly chapter meetings, award, grant, and conference attendance opportunities, and the chapter’s newsletter, the Informant.