History :

The Friends of the Indian Trails Public Library District were founded in 1976 for the purpose of promoting library services and programs in the community. At that time, the library was located on Jenkins Court and seeking support for the expansion of library services in the rapidly growing communities of Wheeling and Buffalo Grove. The Friends began a series of used book sales to assist the library in purchasing needed equipment and materials. In 1981, the Indian Trails Public Library District building on Schoenbeck Road was opened and the Friends undertook a capital fundraising campaign to help furnish the new building.

In 1982, the Friends launched their first formal annual membership drive. During the ensuing years, the Friends have supported the library by sponsoring visits from children's authors, by purchasing materials for the foreign language and large print collections, by funding summer reading club and parade giveaways, and by assisting with surveys, long-range planning, and other special projects. To raise funds, the Friends sponsored Used Book Sales, an annual Book Review, Silent Auctions, special programs and much more.

In 1994, members of the Friends worked along with library trustees and patrons to win a building expansion and renovation referendum.

In October, 1998, the Friends donated $40,000 to the library for the expressed purpose of furnishing and equipping the Library Meeting Room and the Staff Lounge.

The newly expanded and remodeled building celebrated its Grand Re-Opening in November, 1998. During these ceremonies, the Friends were recognized for their continued support of the library.

Purpose :

The Friends of the Indian Trails Public Library District are an independent organization made up of patrons of the library district and others who assist the library in promoting library services to the villages of Wheeling, Buffalo Grove, and portions of the City of Prospect Heights.

The Friends support the library by:

raising awareness of library programs and services

presenting programs to promote library use

sponsoring fundraising activities

acting as liaisons to individuals and groups in the community

serving as library advocates in the community and at the local, state and federal levels.