Lake County Gazette

The Lake Bluff Public Library Board of Trustees has decided to keep the library’s current operating hours in place. The decision was made during the board meeting on August 19, 2025, following an extended review process that began with adjustments in November 2023. At that time, changes were implemented due to staffing levels, building usage patterns, and budget concerns.

Since January 1, 2024, when the initial “Pilot Hours” began, the library has modified its schedule several times and worked to improve staffing coverage. These pilot periods were extended as the board collected data on usage and gathered feedback from the community.

Board members and administrators noted that Sunday hours are frequently requested by residents. However, expanding hours would require additional resources for staffing and operations, which must be balanced against the current budget and other priorities such as building maintenance, programming, collections, and essential services.

“Reaching this decision wasn’t easy,” said Natalie Starosta, Library Director. “We take seriously our responsibility to be good stewards of public resources while providing the highest level of service possible. While we are maintaining the current schedule for now, our priority is to explore new and innovative ways to expand access. We will revisit our hours at a later date with the goal of restoring additional open time, including Sundays, when it is feasible to do so.”

The library plans to continue developing digital resources and offsite programs as alternative ways to serve more residents. Community members are invited to share their feedback with Natalie Starosta at the Lake Bluff Public Library.

Further information about services and programs can be found at https://lakeblufflibrary.org/.