About the Library

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.

The history of the Oswego Public Library began with the Nineteenth Century Woman’s Club, which started with a basket full of books carried to each meeting.

The Rank building, which had been the former post office, was donated to the Village and was used as the Library.

The community worked to raise over $35,000 by holding bake sales, broom sales, garden walks, and festivals, and the Oswego Township Library was formed. 

The Oswego Public Library District was created in 1977 to serve residents of Montgomery, Oswego, Plainfield, Bristol, and Wheatland Townships. 

Having seen the community grow to a population of over 60,000, the Board of Trustees approved the construction of a second campus. A library bond was passed for a new library building on Route 30. In August of 2009, the Montgomery Campus, located at 1111 Reading Drive, opened. 

In order to expand to meet the needs of the community, particularly the young adult population, the Board of Trustees approved the expansion and renovation of the Oswego Campus, adding more communal space and a second story.

The Library Board worked with local preservationists to renovate the historic Kohlhammer Barn, located at North Madison off Route 25, next to Waubonsie Creek. The barn was mentioned in Oswego’s survey of historic structures and now serves as a location for programs, events, and tours. 

With the population served growing to over 70,000 people in an area spanning over 52 square miles—including five townships, two villages, and an unincorporated area—the library has become a vital part of the community.

The Oswego Public Library system only exists due to the hard work and dedication of thousands of volunteers, patrons, staff, Board members, guests, and visitors. Services will continue to grow and change as the needs of the community continue to evolve.