When the planning began several years ago for a new library, a commitment was made to bring all the positive elements of the current Gail Borden Library to the new building. Those elements were identified as a feeling of being at home in the building, ease of access and location of services, ample natural light, and the friendly, dedicated service to which our patrons have become accustomed over many decades.

In our new building that was completed in October of 2003, the spirit of the Gail Borden Library has been retained, and indeed enhanced, with materials and services that only a new building could provide. Our new building and services are very exciting, and we are pleased to inform you of just some of the many highlights of the new Gail Borden Library.

First Floor

• The Computer Center offers 60 computers, each with high speed Internet access, electronic resources and a word processing software package, as well as a dedicated training room with hands-on access for 10 persons. 

• Two Meeting Rooms are available for library programs and community groups. 

• A Concession Area offers refreshments for library users who want a break from study or simply to relax and enjoy conversation with a friend.

• An expanded browsing area with comfortable seating distinguishes the New Book Areas - the latest reads in fiction, nonfiction, large type, and Spanish. 

• Preschoolers and school-age children delight in the variety of activities and materials selected for them. The Youth Center and Early Learning Center  provide a space for creative play as well as a room to read and learn. An enclosed patio is featured for outdoor programming. 

• An enlarged Audiovisual Area features CDs, Videos & DVD's, computer software, video games, and recorded books available in cassette, CDs, Playaways, as well as downloadable media. Portable CD players are available for checkout to use in all areas of the library.

• Persons on the go will find a convenient drive-up window for the pick-up and return of materials.

Second Floor:

• The focal point of the second floor is the River Room, a spacious area with views of the Fox River. A quiet sanctuary for reading, contemplation, and study.

• A Genealogy Area, adjacent to the microfilm machines, contains the treasure trove of materials for tracing family histories. 

• Teens have a special place reserved for them in the Young Adult Area, with books, magazines, and comfortable seating.

• Ample space has been provided for the rapidly growing Large Type collection.

• The general collection of Fiction and Nonfiction books has adequate space for growth as we meet the needs of our growing population.