We are thrilled to welcome you back to the Eastgate Branch of the Algonquin Area Public Library District! After months of transformation, the branch is officially open and ready to serve the community with its stunning new features and enhancements.
This reimagined space offers something for everyone:
- A brand-new look and plenty of seating and study areas
- An enchanting children’s area designed for play and learning
- Spacious program rooms for events and activities
- Wireless charging stations and geothermal heating and cooling
- A versatile FlexSpace and an outdoor patio
- Large windows that flood the building with natural light
- A convenient drive-up window, and so much more!
The Eastgate Branch holds a special place in our community’s history. Originally built in 1976 with a grand opening in 1977, it served as Algonquin’s only library for many years. As we approach 50 years of Eastgate, this much-needed upgrade arrives at the perfect time, providing a vibrant and modern facility to support learning, literacy, and connection.
We extend our thanks to the Village of Algonquin for their generosity in allowing us to offer library services at the Historic Village Hall during our temporary closure. Returning to our roots at Village Hall, where the AAPLD story began over 100 years ago, was a full-circle moment for us.
We appreciate your patience and support throughout this project. The excitement was energetic as families eagerly explored the vibrant new children’s area, library lovers admired the updates, and staff settled into their upgraded spaces.
This incredible transformation was made possible through the collaborative efforts of our dedicated Board of Trustees, hardworking staff, and the expertise of SMC Construction Services and Product Architecture + Design. Thanks to their teamwork, the project was completed on time and within budget, delivering a library our community truly deserves.
Executive Director Sara Murray shared, “We are so happy to reopen the branch with all of its new amenities and its colorful and useful spaces. We’ve all poured our hearts into this project to make it come together so nicely. It was much needed and well deserved, and we can’t wait for you to see it.”
Whether you’re a local resident or a fan of libraries, we invite you to stop by and experience the new Eastgate Branch for yourself. We’re confident you’ll agree, it was worth the wait!
