Statement of Purpose
The Brookfield Public Library is an institution for the general education and recreation of the citizens of the Village of Brookfield, the citizens of Illinois, and of any person who requests library services.
Mission
The mission of the Brookfield Public Library is to create a cultural, educational, and informational center for the community by providing readily accessible and organized materials, programs and services that enrich the lives of residents of all ages.
Vision
Inform, Innovate, Inspire!
Staff
Kimberly Litland, Library Director
Christy Eyre, Partnerships and Public Relations Librarian
Debbie Griggs, Head of Reference and Electronic Services
Toni Hergenrother, Head of Technical Services
Kim Krueger, Head of Youth Services
History of the Library
The Brookfield Free Public Library was founded in 1913 as a result of the efforts of the Brookfield Women's Club. Funding for the original building was provided through a grant from Mr. Andrew Carnegie, and opened to the public in 1914. In 1986 the original building was razed, and the current structure was built. The interior of the library, including the basement, was completely remodeled in 1999, and refurbished in 2010. The current building offers 13,500 square feet of space.
Library services have changed in recent years to keep up with the rapid development of technology. In 1997 we offered the Internet to patrons for the first time, and added wireless in 2004. Due to increasing demand for computer access, the Library started loaning laptops for use within the building in 2007 and in 2010 extended the program to include laptops for home use. The library also circulates eReaders and Playaway Views, and provides chat and text reference.
Other hallmarks include the first annual Taste of Brookfield @ Your Library in 2006, and The Language of Conservation project in partnership with the Brookfield Zoo, Riverside Public Library, and Poets House.
In 2011, the Metropolitan Library System merged with other library systems to form Reaching Across Illinois Library System.