General Information

Mission Statement

The Oswego Public Library District exists to provide quality library service which will effectively meet the informational, educational, and recreational needs of district residents of all ages, with special emphasis on supplying popular materials, providing reference service, and assisting students of all ages in meeting their educational needs.

History of the Library

In 1899 the Nineteenth Century Woman's Club started with a market basket full of books that was carried to each meeting.
In 1928 the Rank building was donated to the Village and used as the Library.
In 1964 the Oswego Township Library was formed. The whole community worked to raise the $35,000 needed to build on the current site by holding bake sales, broom sales, garden walks, festivals and such.
In 1977 the Oswego Public Library District was created to serve residents of Montgomery, Oswego, Plainfield, and Bristol and Wheatland Townships.
Additions were added in 1981 and 1997.
In 2006 a library bond issue was passed for a new library building on Route 30 and the remodel of the Oswego campus.

Board of Trustees

The Oswego Public Library District is governed by seven elected officials serving four year terms. The Trustees set library policy and represent constituents. Board meetings are usually held at 6 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month. The meetings are open to the public.

Library Card

In order to obtain a library card, residents of the Oswego Public Library District must show proof of residency including a photo ID and an item that verifies name and current address. A driver's license with your current address is sufficient proof of residency. Other items to prove residency would include utility bills, checkbook, and/or rental/closing papers. In order to check out any library materials, you must have your library card with you.

Employment Opportunities

No openings at this time.

Freedom of Information Act

Sarah Skilton, Library Director, is responsible for responding to requests. Requests should be sent to her attention at Oswego Public Library District, 1111 Reading Drive, Montgomery, IL, 60538, or sskilton@oswego.lib.il.us. All requests will be responded to within five days after receipt of request; 21 days if the request is for commercial purposes. Fees for copies - first 50 pages are free and the library may charge .15 per page after 50 pages.

Donations

The Library accepts GENTLY used paperbacks and hardcovers. Please do not bring in items that have been in garages, attics or basements. The Library accepts one or two small boxes or bags at a time (weighing no more than 10#).

The Library DOES NOT accept encyclopedias, textbooks, series such as Time-Life, or Readers Digest Condensed books. We suggest donating these types of items to the Salvation Army or other organizations of that nature.

Memorials

Monetary gifts to purchase materials are a wonderful way to remember and honor a loved one. All efforts are made to acquire materials in keeping with the wishes of the donor. The library places a bookplate in the item noting the honoree and donor(s). If you are interested in making a donation, please contact Maureen Fisher at 630-978-1007 or mfisher@oswego.lib.il.us.