Large and very nice library. As the parking is near the Metra, I recommend allowing yourself extra time to find parking if attending an event here. The parking fills up fast. They offer various community programs. Clean library and clean bathrooms. read more

Excellent. Very kind service!! Very patient and knowledgeable. Thank you for coming. read more

For our family, winters are for library-hopping because it's warm and educational. Downers Grove Public Library is conveniently located in the downtown area so one can simply spend an hour or two at the library and then take a quick stroll to the nearby restaurants for a lunch or dinner. The library is clean, spacious, and well-lit. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly. We would normally stay for about two hours so our girls could choose books to be read to and spend quality time with the extensive play sets. To name a few, they have a wholesome section of outfits/roles for pretend play, a huge café with pretend food, light board, train set, and puzzles. read more

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This library is truly a community resource. The librarians in the children's room are so welcoming and provide excellent programs for our granddaughters. We also use the book discussions and programs led by dedicated librarians. There is a genuine sense of community by everyone in the library...from social work interns to collecting food and supplies for those in need. We are thankful for the support as seniors and grandparents. Thank you! read more

This is a great public library in Downers Grove. The parking lot is right downtown and always has spots available even though it's next to the train station. There are hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of selections of books and you can find all sorts of music and different types of media here. The librarians are extremely kind and the vibe is what you would typically expect from the library. It is nice and quiet to do study work and there is plenty of meeting rooms to collaborate with a group. I enjoy coming here every so often for various types of reasons. It is very comparable to other public library's in the area in terms of how much you can find in the place. If you're looking to study or find some good books this is the place to be. read more

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2.0 star rating11/29/2018 I was in the library for the first time. While somewhat nice, librarians good, the whole place has a musty smell. From my experience this is indicative of dampness &/or mold. Definitely could use some unscented damp rid throughout. fema.gov/pdf/rebuild/rec... ala.org/alcts/preservati... "I am afraid that if you smell mold, there is mold somewhere. It may be that there is some part of your structure that did not get dried quickly enough and now there is a mold problem. You need to have someone come and thoroughly look behind walls and under carpets (and many other places) for mold. This is for the safety of the collections (if there is an active mold outbreak somewhere, it will impact the collections eventually) and the staff. Mold sensitizes people's system and then becomes an allergen, which can lead to serious health problems, so this is an issue you want to be sure to get to the bottom of." UPDATE: It has become a less musty on 09/19/19 Thursday. Thank you. UPDATE: As of 09/24/19 Tuesday, the musty odor is back with a vengence. We have had rain since 09/19/19 Thursday, so DG Library, do you have leakage? INQUIRY Sent 10/06/19 & 10/10/19: Cindy K., Where would I be able to view &/or obtain a copy of the IAQ reports that you stated were done on DG Library? read more

I was in the library today to study for only a half hour before I had to leave. It's too noisy and always has been. There's a couple talking in the corner, cell phones are going off and the desk area (upper level) is always loud with conversations and a woman was EATING POTATO CHIPS. I asked if it was permitted to eat in the library, and was told snacks are acceptable. What happened to the librarys of my youth? If you were talking in the library in my home town you were given a warning and then kicked out. No one made a peep. I need that. I guess I'll only come here to browse but I'll find another place to do work. :/ read more

Get a card, sign in online and explore the awesomeness of the library. You can search for books, movies, music and magazines; old and new. The best part is if this library doesn't have your items, chances are it is within the network. That other library will ship that book or whatever to your library and send you an email that it's ready for pick up. An absolute no brainer. Why not 5 stars you ask? Because they now have self-checkouts. I detest them for the fact that those things are taking jobs and replacing humans. I will not contribute to a robot uprising. read more

Downers Grove Public Library - More than I expected today - Libraries Near Me - Downers Grove, Illinois

Doesn't matter what time, day or even month it is. There is always empty seats for studying. I usually study at the school library, however, I come here during final week since the school library is packed. Not to mention the bad BO (I know it's final week, but damn people, shower). Anyhow, this library is right next to a Peet's Coffee, perfect for those who are in needed of a coffee recharge. They open late on the weekdays (till 9 PM), but closed early on the weekend (5 PM). Not so sure about the parking tho, I usually park my car at Peet's Coffee and walk over (free parking after 11 A.M.) The only downside is that the chairs do not have cushions, so your butt will go numb after a few hours of sitting. read more

Downers Grove Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Downers Grove, Illinois

The Downers Grove Library website lists a notary service. This is actually not a library service, it is individual library staff members that perform the service at their will and the library does not mandated their availability. Library management told me that it is left to the individual staff member to decide if they have time, or if they feel like performing the service. I waited 20 minutes and no one came forward to notarize my letter! I guess the didn't feel like doing notary that day! It's not a library service if individual staff members perform the service at their will and convenience. Don't waste your time, their notary is a joke. read more

I adore my library! The employees are wonderful, more than a few of the employees know my name. Excellent and diverse selection of books, movies, and music. The programs and workshops are stellar and a good way to meet your fellow Downers Grove neighbors. Children and adults alike appear to enjoy this library. My only complaint is that this library seems to be perpetually "under construction". The dust, unavailable equipment and construction tape is getting old. read more

A nice large library with mostly everything you need. Everyone here is helpful and friendly. The are a couple of grumpy and quirky exceptions who live on the second floor who give the library a bit of an unwelcoming, policed vibe. Glad to know I'm not the only one who noticed this after reading other reviews. Last time I came here I got a lecture from one the previously mentioned upstairs people that I had to pull up my mask (which was halfway down my nose but still covering it) with an explanation why (and I work in healthcare). If I brought that up I imagine it would have gotten weird. I generally go out of my way to go to another large local library to avoid all of this, but I'll go here if I'm in a hurry. read more

I loved coming here growing up because it was always clean and inviting and organized. Unfortunately things have taken a turn. Lately within the past 3-4 years a whole area of the upstairs is homeless people hanging out because well, they have no where else to go. It doesn't bother me.. but what does bother me is the smell. It has made an impact on the cleanliness and where I feel safe studying upstairs. I try to avoid that side of the library. read more

I have never been much of a library person. There have been times it has been utilized as most have entered one at least once in their lifetime. I wish all libraries were like this one when I was growing up, I would have gone more often. LOL.. Staff very professional and willing to help. Very knowledgeable as well. Great BIG library with it all, books obviously, computers, private rooms, dvd's, etc.. read more

One of my favorite study spots in the west burbs. There are always open tables to study at, easy to find parking. It consists of two floors and lots of different selections of books/medias to check out. You are allowed closed containers of drinks but no food is allowed! Chairs can be a little be uncomfy since they're wooden but still manageable. They do have decent size room for quiet studying but everywhere else in the library, you are allowed to whisper. Only complaint for me is the hour of operation..opens until 9 PM on weekdays and 5 PM on weekends. I wish it was open a bit later, especially on weekends. read more

At least eight lovely private study rooms open to public to focus in, as well as two conference rooms available for booking.

I love talking books! I went to a discussion here on Hemingway's A Moveable Feast as part of the Big Read. It was fabulous! The people there were all smarter than me and knew tons about Hemingway. They inspired me to learn more. What a fabulous group and discussion leader this library gathered together. I have signed up for their event updates and hope to meet more book geeks in the future. We will recognize each other by our glasses and goofy literary based t-shirts. If they served snacks, this place would be heaven on earth. Downers Grove Public Library, you have great books and know how to use them. read more

For the area, this is definitely better than the Westmont or Clarendon Hills branches. Large, bright, clean, new and friendly staff. I am not familiar with the kid's section, but it looks fun! The adult books are well organized and everything is very easy to find. There are a bunch of computers both for library use (i.e. looking up titles) and for personal use. Cheap printing is definitely a plus if you're doing any work at the library. They also now have free Wifi for those who bring in their laptops - genius! They also have a weekly and monthly book section that showcases different titles, authors or themes. It's always well chosen and the suggestions are almost always great. Convenient to downtown Downers Grove shops and restaurants, as well. It's a great place to get your books and then hang out in town afterward. read more

Gorgeous library that exceeds all expectations of what a library should be. The building itself has a great mid-century modern feel while housing a massive amount of books, media and tech. Staff is very friendly and parking is abundant either in lots of on the street. read more

I am a life long DG resident and since having kids renewed my library card! I am so glad I did! The kids love the library and ask to visit often. We've dropped in on one free story time and I'm sure will go again as the weather cools off! My latest find and favorite is that I can borrow books for my Kindle! I commute and spend a lot of time with my Kindle, so this is HUGE! The best part is I can load them to my kindle from my computer, without making a trip to the library! There is a wish list so I can add books to remember for later and the wait list is great. Simply put your name on it and receive an email when a copy of the desired title is available. You then have 72 hours to log in and claim it! Seriously it doesn't get much better! read more

This is such a fantastic library hidden in the Village of Downers Grove! It carries all new releases (if you are lucky, you can get it right away; otherwise, your wait time is not long at all) and showcases a "New Exhibit" section each month that displays the new book releases for check-out. Their online renewal and requesting system is so easy to use. If they don't have a book or movie, they will order it for you with one click of your mouse. Their movie selection is mediocre, but I always request the movies I would like to see through SWAN. I may have to wait a couple of days to get it, but it would take just as long through Netflix. They offer many classes for free (taxes, computer based learning, etc.) and they also have entertainment throughout the month (music and guest speakers). Lastly, I would like to mention their children's area. WOW! There is a section for infants, toddlers, and tweens (the teens is upstairs). Everything is organized and there is so much you can check out for your little one (audio books, puzzles, board books, CDs, etc). There is also a "theater-type" area in the corner where there are tiny sized couches and chairs for kids to read and play. read more

I was never a big fan of libraries growing up (has ANYONE cracked the Dewey decimal system yet? I certainly haven't.) but the DG public library has changed my mind. Free wi-fi, movies, frequent author readings, live musical performances, a nice play area for kids, lots of CD's... None of this is a shock to anyone who has been a patron, but my son and I are there every week now. Nice job, DG! read more

GREAT library. Its very easy to access and has fantastic assortment of books, audio/visual material. You can request a hold through the internet from any of the SWAN libraries(this includes Beecher, Brookfield, Hinsdale, etc.). I like that I can check my account and search for books, A/V material online, you can even reserve a computer online. The website also has links pertinent to Downers Grove Village and DuPage County along with area for teens, children, adults. There are programs offered on different areas of interest all the time and, of course, book clubs. read more

The best public library! Excellent children's area and programs. Great service with online catalog, research, holds/reserations, reminders and online overdue fee payment. Excellent online database access for home users. read more

Great library, fantastic DVD/BD & CD selection. Love this place.

Decent library except bring headphones if you came here to focus, the help desk/librarians whatever won't stfu. Like this is your profession take a class on whispering? read more

I've used the public library for years. It's seen me through high school projects, college papers and independent research. They've reorganized it through the years but several things remain consistent: the staff is always very well trained, very friendly, and very helpful. The variety that the downers grove public library has is fantastic. Furthermore, as part of an exchange program with other libraries in the area, if they don't have the book but another location in the system does, they can get it for you. A caveat: A few of my more obscure research papers were challenging due to the lack of publications out on little-known historical events. While they do have a fantastic selection, be reasonable with expectations. I'm not going to quibble with the fact they didn't have literature on a very genre-specific topic that's almost completely obsolete. Other things of note, they have quiet rooms, study rooms you can book for group projects, a fantastic kids' area, a growing selection of DVD rentals, and always had a nice selection of audiobooks. read more

HUGE selection, great kids play area...low late fees...a nice area where you can buy donated books for a few cents. I love this library! (I used to work here, they are great to work for as well) read more

I really like this library - way better than the Clarendon Hills Library we used to use. The kids section is great with a little door they can enter through, a Thomas Train, and a step-up lounging area for the kids. There are computers there for the kids too. And the adult books are well organized in that I can generally locate the book I;m looking for with the 3 little kids in tow in less than 5 min. read more

Great library but there is NEVER any freaking parking. No matter what time of day all the spots are full from people taking the train or at other shops. So youre better off going somewhere else. Even on the weekend its ridiculous. Figure it out DG. read more

I really wish I could give this library over 10 stars! The librarians are so friendly especially Fred, who works upstairs. Whenever you have a question, the librarians are always there to help you. I love this place!!! read more

two words - great. library. what i really love is how this library carries a large assortment of progressive books. also, because this library is so huge they almost always have what you're looking for. if they don't have it, you can request it from other libraries and the delivery usually only takes a few days. and holy crap! their magazine/dvd/cd section is really impressive too! hubs and i can easily find a few good things here and never leave empty handed. read more

The Downers Grove Public Library has a great collection of books, compact discs, and videos. It is a fun place to browse or sit down and read a book. The layout is nice--circulation desks and children's department on the main floor; adult services on the second floor. The adult services floor is fairly quiet and peaceful and there are study rooms available. There are a few reasons I would not give this library 5 stars, however. Perhaps some are beyond the library's control. First of all, the drive-up book drop is located in an inconvenient spot. The driver of the vehicle cannot drop his books into it, as it borders the passenger side. So, basically, you need to get out of your vehicle to drop off books, climb into your passenger seat, or bring a passenger to toss them in. Secondly, it is almost impossible to get a spot in the parking lot. If you do, be prepared for someone waiting for your spot when you back out. Parking is a nightmare at this library. Lastly, the library could really use a self-checkout machine. It can be irritating waiting in line, especially if you are behind someone checking out a hundred children's books. All in all, it is a pretty good place though. Just some quirks. read more

The DG library is AWESOME!!! They have or can get EVERYTHING! The kids area is so cute with the mouse house and mini furniture. They offer terrific lectures, music, and art exhibits too! They can order most any DVD for you as well! read more

Love my library where people are extremely helpful. I can usually always find the book or audio CD I'm looking for and if not, someone always tracks one down for me to get in rather immediately. They have an array of audio books I can listen to on my commute to and from work, a great selection of stuff I love reading and it's great b/c the operating hours always work with my schedule. read more

Love it here! Best atmosphere. I love having an entire little table to myself next to the windows up stairs. Outlets everywhere. Everybody is friendly & bathrooms are also nice. Such a character to this place. Love going here to study, I don't dread it when I know I'm coming here! read more

Most librarians are great, but the lack of toys for little ones, and seats. Ny child tried to help put away books and one librarian was so rude to a 3year old how she spoke down to him and reacted was so unnecessary it made my son cry and I stepped in. Doesn't matter if your putting books away if a child doesn't put it back in the right spot you encourage and thank them for trying and show them not talk down. Doesn't the library do checks on the employees. read more

being from westmont and having a pretty small library there, i used to spend hours at the downers grove library. in jr. high i used to rent cd's and burn them for myself since i couldn't buy them, and they have a great selection of anything you could be looking for. i'm an avid reader, and love just wandering down a random aisle to find a book i've never heard of, check it out and see if it's good. there's nothing more relaxing. read more

A nice big library that has good off seating throughout the library for private reading or internet. Plenty of computers and various sectionas all over make this one of the better modern big suburban libraries in the area. The staff is very helpful and take their job seriously helping the public in what is a public library. read more

Absolutely love this place. The children's programs are the best. Ms. Diane is a joy.