At the main library’s goodbye party in November of 2001, dozens of Oak Parkers penned a fond farewell, some of which ran in Wednesday Journal. Five years later, here we go again:
“I remember returning from an out-of-town trip once to see the figures of our sculpture, Unity and Growth, coming down Lake Street on a flatbed truck to the destination on the Main Library terrace. It was a surprising and wonderful sight.”
Barbara Ballinger
Retired OPPL director, 2001
“I personally wish that the sculpture was on the grounds instead of inside the library. I feel it is a little constrained where it is now, and being outside would show if off to better advantage.”
Barbara Ballinger, 2008
“We live in South Oak Park, so we usually go to the Maze [Branch]-however, the main library’s staff makes it seem just as small and friendly. We look forward to the new incarnation.”
Lisa Browdy, 2001
“I would admit to being a little skeptical about the project … but it has grown on me over the years and I really like how they have organized it-if you know what you want you exactly know where to go to find it.”
Lisa Browdy, 2008
“A community’s investment in libraries reflects its priorities. We are pleased to be part of a community that makes its libraries so inviting and accessible.”
David Browdy, 2001
“What I really like is when we are out at concerts in Scoville Park, and I see all the residents out there playing and enjoying themselves, and I look over and see this beautiful library looking over the community, its seems to me to say the right things about Oak Park.”
David Browdy, 2008
“I am sorry to see this building go. I was here when Scoville Institute was here. I am looking forward to the next building. I love to come to the interesting programs.”
Julia Loebel, 2001
Lifetime member of the Oak Park Art League
“I think it is the most wonderful thing that has happened to Oak Park, really. They have a lot of things going on all the time-exhibits and movies and lectures, music, and, of course, the library itself.”
Julia Loebel, 2008
“I am looking forward to the new library building. The present structure has many memories for me. It came into being at the time of our family’s arrival in Oak Park. It is well to remember that the OPPL encompasses more than just a building or buildings, but a whole community spirit.”
John Hayes, 2001
Former library trustee, Friends of the Library board member
“I think the library has fulfilled all the expectations that we had. The building has won numerous architectural awards, and it is very flexible-a real gem for the community and used by everyone.”
John Hayes, 2008
“As a resident of Oak Park and as a staff member for three years, I will fondly remember the ’60s structure at 834 Lake St. I look forward to Building for the Future and take pride in our community of supportive library patrons!”
Bonnie Jurkowski, 2001
OPPL Technical Services Assistant
“The library listens to library patrons and staff to know what people want and need. With our new strategic plan, everything is being re-evaluated for improvement. Fresh ideas and creative thinking are helping our building to evolve into a world-class library, and the possibilities are endless with this beautiful space. …”
Bonnie Jurkowski, 2008