The Village of Northfield and the Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District are working together on an exciting project to expand and improve the Northfield Library through an Intergovernmental Agreement. This collaboration will allow the Library District to continue serving the Northfield portion of our district while creating more space, updated features, and an improved experience for visitors of all ages.
What’s Happening?
To meet patron needs, the current Library building at 1785 Orchard Lane will be expanded to approximately 10,000–13,000 square feet. The project will modernize the facility and create room for enhanced services, more seating, improved accessibility, and upgraded technology.
Who’s Responsible for What?
- Village of Northfield: Will oversee construction and fund the building’s exterior structure and site improvements.
- Library District: Will design and fund the interior spaces, including furnishings, finishes, and all features that support library services.
How Will the Project Be Funded?
The Village and the Library District are sharing the project costs and plan to use available funds for the improvement. There are no plans to pursue a referendum or increase property taxes to fund this project. To help fund the expansion, the Village may borrow funds from the Library District, to be repaid, with interest, through future rent discounts. Both organizations are committed to delivering a cost-effective project that benefits the community.
What’s Next?
The detailed design is still being developed. Before construction begins, the Village and Library District will agree on a final project budget and enter into a new long-term lease that keeps the Northfield Library in its current location. As part of the project, the Library District and the Village will hold community engagement sessions to solicit feedback as the design concepts take shape.
What This Means for You
The Northfield Library building hasn’t been renovated in 25 years and is no longer meeting the needs of our community. This expansion will give our community more space to read, study, and gather, and allow us to offer larger collections and improved meeting and program areas. It will also make the building more accessible, comfortable, and energy-efficient.
During construction, some temporary service adjustments or relocations may be needed, and we will share updates as plans progress.
This collaborative effort reflects our shared commitment to creating a vibrant, welcoming, and future-ready space for the community.
For questions or comments, please email northfieldexpansion@wnpld.org