We're excited to embark on a new Collection Revitalization project in 2025-26 to improve your access to the collections you love most.
If you've visited the lower level of the library recently, you'll have noticed that this work is already in progress! This past summer, we reorganized and consolidated our adult non-fiction shelving to make it easier to access our collections. This fall, we're updating and refinishing the lower level "North Room" that formerly housed the 900s range of books, with plans to establish "new" collections and furnishings from the first floor in this space.
On the first floor we plan to establish new locations and furnishings to better promote and display our newest and most popular materials. We also plan to relocate your hold materials back to the Circulation lobby at the main entrance for the first time since 2020, adding even greater convenience and staff support to this service. These projects will continue to take place through the fall and into 2026, when we plan to wrap this up with improved spaces on the first floor and lower level.
As a result of this project, access to some spaces, services, and collections will be impacted from time to time. We'll keep this page updated with the information you'll need to make the most of your visit in the coming months.
Lower Level Updates
In September, the library contracted professional asbestos abatement in the currently-vacant North Room. That work was safely completed the week of September 15, and staff were able to proceed with additional updates to the space. In October, the North Room and adjacent hallway and staircase were closed while new carpeting was installed and the walls were repaired and painted.
This winter we're looking forward to outfitting the refreshed North Room with "new" furnishings and collections as part of the larger goals of our Collection Revitalization project. In the meantime, the room features additional tables and seating for study.
Book Donations
Recent improvements to the lower level impacted our ability to accept donations to Books Down Under, the bookstore run by the Friends of the Library. Books Down Under officially re-opened in November, and the Friends are once again accepting book donations, but wanted to remind you that there are always other organizations accepting books:
923 Ridge Rd., Wilmette, IL 60091
847-920-5303
Monday-Friday: 9 AM – 7 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 9 AM – 5 PM
New Trier Township, 739 Elm St., Winnetka, IL 60093
847-446-8202
and
North Shore Community Bank & Trust-Main, 1145 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, IL 60091
847-853-1145
*Children’s books only
7080 N. McCormick Blvd., Lincolnwood, IL 60712
800-570-3698 (call when you arrive)
Monday-Friday: 8 AM – 3 PM
Better World Books 24-Hour Drop-Off Bin
1703 Orrington Ave., Evanston, IL 60202
Outside the east entrance to Evanston Public Library-Main Branch
Salvation Army Donation Center
2424 Oakton St., Evanston, IL 60602
Monday-Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM
1-800-728-7825
Updated 11/03/25