I've been a regular at the Northbrook Public Library for 20 years now, and honestly, it's been a joy to watch this place grow alongside our community. It has evolved from a quiet spot to grab a book into a true hub for creativity and connection. I like that Kate Hall, the director, is always looking for input from the patrons on how to make the library even better. One of the many things I love about NPL is their 'Library of Things.' Over the summer, I used their recording technology to digitize a bunch of old VHS tapes from the comfort of my home. Last night, I participated in a virtual glass fusion workshop. The materials pickup and drop off, and the class itself was all well-coordinated and user-friendly. I thoroughly enjoyed that class as well as others I have taken in the past, such as book-making. Additionally, I love the fact that I can put books on hold, and that either the NPL staff will pull the books for me, or other libraries will send them over to NPL. It's super convenient to then be able to just walk in the door and grab my books off the shelf. I seriously could go on and on about all the things I love here. The Northbrook Public Library is easily the best resource in Northbrook! read more

In the recent years, the reason of we going to the Northbrook Public Library is to watch movies in the auditorium. The library has showings of Oscar contender movies every year for card holders for free! My hubby and I saw La La Land and A Star is Born (Lady Ga Ga's version) from there. Other than Oscar contenders, they also have classic and even first-run films! Last Sunday, I heard that the library would be showing the movie Everything Everywhere All at Once on March 15, as I was very curious about this movie, I immediately went on their website to register. It used to be very easy, however, after several unsuccessful trials, I called the library and talked to a friendly lady named Liz. She checked and told me that since I had not used the library card for more than 3 years, it had mysteriously disappeared from their system. She suggested that I went to the library to get a new card with my drivers license. So, I did. It was the first time that I went to the library in years! I had noticed that the long checkout table had been replaced by 4 self-checkout stations, and there were 2 small "front desks" at both sides of the library. The young man, Nolan, at one of the front desks was friendly and polite, and it was a short wait for him to process a new library card to me. My hubby and I went to see the movie on Wednesday, since it had become an Oscar Best Picture winner, it was a full house. The auditorium is on the first floor, it had been renovated in 2015, and has 212 stadium seats. Like the rest of the library, it is always clean and comfortable. Food and drinks (except water) are not allowed inside the auditorium. Since it is not a review of the movie, I would not get into it, but I would highly recommend it! The Northbrook Public Library was a very important part of the growth of our daughter. Since her kindergarten years through her childhood, my husband took her to the Northbrook library to borrow 7 books every Saturday. He read one book to her a day, later she read by herself, that were 365 books a year from the library! I remember that our daughter's Second grade teacher once told us that her English "blossomed", and I believe all those story book reading helped a lot! Before we had Google and the Internet, my hubby used to borrow travel books and local maps of our destinations from the library as well! He couldn't have done his travel planning without the library in those years! I saw exhibitions of artwork inside the lobby, it also brought back memories of my daughter having her artwork exhibited in the library through her school as well. I feel thankful for an excellent public library in our town. Our property tax money has been put to good use! read more

See all

I came here to use their Collaboratory Lab to do laser engraving on my glass wine bottles! It's awesome and it's free! If you are a Northbrook resident, you can make an appointment two weeks out and you have a total of 1.5 hrs to finish your project! They are very helpful, the staff that helped me was Kate and she was very patient with me! We couldn't decide what font I want and finally after 1/2 hour, we picked one. During the pandemic, only Northbrook residents are allowed! I am very pleased how all the bottles turned out! read more

See all

Really beautiful and clean library with lots of parking surrounding the building. I loved seeing the film poster for People Will Talk on display! Awesome layout to this location. read more

There's always something happening at Northbrook library. They are really kid focused and have many programs to encourage reading. Great incentives to grab a book instead of a device. Today, they invited Dave DiNano from the traveling reptile show. It was totally informative, funny and just a great time and a great experience for kids. A couple of huge snakes including an anaconda, a tortoise a frog and a tarantula spider. Got a chance to touch them as well, so that was pretty neat! I think I need to think twice next time about knocking down the spider webs (at least that is what I'll tell my wife haha). read more

Northbrook Public Library - Traveling Reptile show with Dave DiNano. What an experience! - Libraries Near Me - Northbrook, Illinois

I recently moved to an unincorporated section of Northbrook. I went to get a library card. Filled out an application, showed my ID, and was told I would have to pay 15% of my rent to be able to use the library, each year. I was also asked to see a copy of our lease. I was absolutely in shock! Last I heard libraries are "public". We are seniors on a fixed income and have been library users for many years, even when we had been renting in Chicago and Evanston. There is not even a seniors discount here! My friends and fellow library users were simply aghast at this discrimination . It sounds to me like Northbrook does not want renters. Our landlord certainly pays taxes and some of that money does come from our rent. I would certainly hope that Northbrook would want people who live in its district, even if it is unincorporated ( which I never even knew what that meant before we moved here!) to read and continue to learn and grow by using a public library. Cheryl Stanton cherylmstanton@yahoo.com read more

One of the better libraries I frequent, mainly due to their CD (yes....CD) selection. But you can only checkout 15 at a time, and they're due back in one-week. The only thing else I don't like iz ALL the damn stairs! So, my lazy ass takez the elevator. read more

Northbrook Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Northbrook, Illinois

See all

Updated: I'm revising my original review to five stars as the library reached out to me, addressed the situation and brought it to a great resolution. As in my original review the staff at the library is great. I appreciate their efforts at getting this resolved. Original: First, I'd like to say the staff is very nice and helpful. However, I find myself in a situation with the library. My family and I have been going to this library for over five years. We checked out hundreds of books and always returned them. If we returned them late we always paid the fine. My son lost a book once and we paid the replacement cost. If we feel we made an error, we are quick to pay the fee. However, there have been two instances where their book return process was not 100% fool proof with my family. The first, they claimed that my son lost a second book. I know that was not true as I remember turning it in. They later found it and took the fine off. I turned in another book and they said it was never turned in. I know I returned it also. They said they did not record getting it. I feel I'm being called a liar despite our families history of being compliant with returning books, paying late fees and even paying replacement fees if we are in the wrong. I can't in principle pay for a replacement cost when I know I'd returned the book. I don't appreciate being looked at as a liar in spite of having a five year history of loyally returning books, paying fines, and paying replacement costs. I can't in principle pay for a fine where I did not do anything wrong. I'm very disappointed in the process where the people at the desk feel like they can't help me. read more

This library is spectacular. I was a bit overstimulated by my first visit. The building itself is large as are the inside spaces. It has a futuristic/modern look circa 1990s to the 2000s which makes it feel like you stepped into a movie of the near future shot in the nineties or perhaps a mall built in the 90s. The library has an impressive collection of popular media music, movies and even video games. I have yet to truly explore their book selection but I am optimistic I just popped in for roughly five minutes looking for a specific item read more

See all

This has been my favorite library since high school. First, i must admit that since then i have not checked out the new ones that have been remodeled or built in the area and there are a bunch that seem like they would be nice. The design of this place is great. Looks fantastic and is very functional. they have a great selection of readings including periodicals and listening materials. There are great study rooms for groups to provide a closer working area and still accommodate silence. Check it out for yourself folks, cuz its boss! read more

Review of the auditorium space. My first time to the Northbrook Public library, I recently attended a piano recital in the library auditorium. Aside from the fact that the modern building itself is gorgeous, the auditorium is state-of-the-art with stadium seating (chairs) and wonderful acoustics...for a library! Though the concert I attended was performed by young children, the more sophisticated and grown-up line up includes opera lectures and small symphony performances. I am also pleasantly shocked to learn they play first-run movies here (Hotel Transylvania just played yesterday...darn!). The space feels clean and new. The temperature is comfortable. The main doors open and close quietly, but it was still so easy to be distracted by those coming in and going out. With the entrance very near to the stage, I'm wondering if it could have been designed differently. Yep, I'll be back for more exploring without a doubt! And, I'll for sure see you at the movies! read more

Used the new collaborative lab and rcvd the best services from a library that I could have imagined. This definitely sets the bar for libraries and am glad that they are providing the services that they do. I wish that we could get more collaboration on services in more rural and poverty stricken areas in Illinois. Anyway, the staff are professional and knowledgeable and extremely friendly. read more

A very open floor plan that makes it a great place to study or get work done. They have very large windows on the second and third floors that bring in plenty of light. The periodical section also has printers and faxing available for a lost cost per page. You need to buy a card that only costs $1 that can be applied towards any copies or pages that need to be printed out. read more

A GREAT library. Big as hell, lit up like xmas tree and impressive structure to see all lit up at night. front desk crew on ground floor are real hit and miss, sometimes old and grumpy, sometimes real nice and friendly. self check out machine needs help, apparently you have to have 'the touch'. Great programs featured like most in Chi. Took the kids to see Guardians of G'hoole in the library theater (seriously a small theater) for free. Nice. It's good to feel good about your tax dollars like this :-) read more

The library is one of the best parts of Northbrook! The librarians are super knowledgeable and friendly. They are great at making book suggestions and stay current on what is hot. The kids section is phenomenal and they even post book suggestions by age to help parents keep kids on track with age appropriate reading. They also have some puzzles and games which can be checked out. The library is currently being renovated so it will become even more fantastic! read more

My study haven. This library has a small 'cafe' with vending machines and tables, so you don't have to starve during a marathon study session. You're free to bring in whatever food you want, as long as you don't eat it in the actual library. However, bottled drinks are allowed in the library! They have tons of 'study rooms' that you can reserve ahead of time. Also, they even have this dedicated 'quiet room' with no laptops allowed, if you're hardcore like that. Other than that, the other study carrels and tables are situated by the huge windows, so I can enjoy some sunlight (while it lasts.) They have a wonderful selection of books and the interior/staff are just so inviting. Also - you can link your Chicago Public Library card to the Northbrook Library system, so you can check out anything you want! read more

Probably one of the coolest library's you will ever see! Very sleek modern architecture, I couldn't believe that this was a library the first time I saw it! They have a great selection of books, Blu Rays, DVDs, CDs, and even VHS tapes. They also offer free screenings of current movies! read more

I don't know why all the good reviews. I miss the old library with the 2 stair cases in the loby. Only 1 entrance and 1 elevator. 3rd floor is small and not much study space. Only 1 row of computers (like about 10) and 45 minute limit. The WIFI sucks. Can never connect and limited ethernet ports. They still use B routers and refuse to upgrade. I know it sounds silly but I spent 2 hours with the lady and she said well everyone else can connect. Plus I'm afraid of heights and loby has no space to sit and use computers only 2nd and very small 3rd floor. Not the place to study. The new glenview public library building opening today 10/09/2010 is much better even though no 3rd floor more spacious and place to sit. But at least Northbrook has clean bathrooms. read more

Northbrook Public Library not only has a great collection, but their reference librarians can find the answer to any question for you. Just email them. I've asked about whether women still rode sidesaddle in Edwardian England and they found two great articles that said they didn't. (Julian Fellows should have such a team.) They will find anything you want to know. They've got a great selection of online databases for any research need (business, academic, or fun). Also they offer a free gentle yoga class on Fridays at 10:30 am. The teacher is the best I've ever had. (Tied for best, but the other #1 I've had is in London. Too far off.) You should get there early because it fills up. I want to try out their 3D printer and wish they'd get a YouMedia lab like the Chicago Public Library that allows people to create podcasts, films, books, etc. with the equipment they have. Northbrook PL is growing and doing some remodeling. Through all the dust and confusion the librarians are still providing wonderful service. read more

A place of solace and knowledge. I never have to subscribe to any of the nature/environmental magazines because NPL has all of them! There is a quiet room (no cell phones or computers allowed) which helps in those times when you can't seem to focus. Extensive books and materials collection- better than my University library (sad to say, isn't it?!). Great views on the second floor..love all the floor to ceiling glass windows. Good for spacing out or 5 minute mind breaks. read more

I think this library is IDEAL as a place to work. It's enormous, super light, generally quiet. PLUS, there is a place downstairs where you can eat your lunch, which I find very helpful. Even an adequate little coffee machine. Staff is wonderful. There are some other great public libraries nearby--Glencoe and Highland Park both have great character--but it's such a luxury to have so much space and quiet. I can't say enough about this place. Parking is easy. Nice places right nearby to eat lunch if you want. Amazing. read more

I move a lot and I've had library cards in every place I've lived which includes two town in NH, Manhattan, three towns in MA, a town in NJ, and two in FL. This library is absolutely the best library I have ever been a member. Lots of tables and study places, a book selection that is well thought out, very quiet, every service under the sun, a modern comfortable feeling. I wasn't happy that DVDs are a dollar each, but what I realized after is that it keeps people from ravaging the movie selection and now what I'm looking for is usually available (Orange County Florida's library were horrible for this). I love this library and rave about it to anyone I know who would care. read more

I happen to like classical music, and the Northbrook Public Library has an excellent collection. I generally know what I want because I've played in several orchestras in the past and I'm a regular listener to NPR and WFMT, but the staff are quite knowledgeable about classical composers and are more than happy to help you choose something if you don't know that much about the music. They have an extensive CD collection that goes well beyond the stuffy, obscure chamber music that a lot of people generally associate with classical music. If you are looking to acquire or build your classical library and don't know where to start, this is an excellent way to listen and find out what you like before spending a lot of money. Another cool thing to do is to go to the library and check out several different versions of the same piece; preferably one with which you are familiar. You'd be surprised how much different the same piece of music can sound when performed by different orchestras, different conductors, or different musicians. Tempo variations, room acoustics, and recording techniques can also make the difference between a dull rendition and one that lifts you to another plane. read more

Northbrook Public Library - The west entrance is currently closed due to construction. - Libraries Near Me - Northbrook, Illinois

best library to date. fiber wifi. lots of books/stacks. good lighting, easy parking. i could go on and on.

Love this place! It's staffed with very friendly, helpful people who will gladly make suggestions of books or movies based on what you tell them you like. They have loads of book club titles, newly released books, award winning authors and an amazing array of movies, magazines and study materials. Lots of glass and natural light, great expansive views...and dedicated quiet zones for you hardcore crashers. There's a teeny cafe-ish area on the first floor, with vending machines and a few chairs and tables, so you can break from your studying or research, or your kids...and have a nice cup of machine brewed coffee! They offer lots of interesting programs for kids and adults...even current event discussions to keep you connected with people who may share your interests. One could easily spend an entire afternoon in this place...and it's walking distance to lots of shopping if you need a distraction. read more

Its hard to believe that the current Northbrook Library is almost 15 years old, it still looks and functions like a brand new facility. This library has everything, an extensive selection if magazines, CDs, DVDs, foreign language tutorials and it's all surrounded by 360 degree views of the treetops from floor to ceiling windows. The lighting is ideal for a library. Sunlight is EVERYWHERE, and when needed indirect lighting gives the library a warm feeling. Study rooms, 4 individual computer rooms complete with scanners that are usually available, plenty of computers, and combined printer/ copier make this an ideal location to use as a printing office. The entire perimiter of the library offers an extensive assortment of comfortable seating, study stations and a variety of large tables complete with treetop views and tons of natural light. For those who tire of the dark, dreary basement of a nearby, newly renovated library, come to Northbrook! read more

Don't go to this library if you're looking for quiet reading, studying, working. People treat it as one giant group study area and tutoring. The only pure quiet room does not allow laptops so the messaging the library provides is completely absurd. They have great events for kids and a great kids area; however, he staff does not enforce any of the rules of a library. read more

I have been coming here to study, and so far, it hasn't been too hard to focus. The library is large, bright, and reasonably quiet. There are three floors, free wifi, quiet study areas, and tons of resources if needed. The bathrooms are very clean, and the facility is fairly new. The people that come here have been respectful to others every time I have visited. read more

Front desk is always nice when I bring my little ones but the staff in the kids zone could use some improvements, it is after all for kids there is no need for rudeness. Otherwise it's great!!! read more

I am one to never write reviews, but today I have to. My daughter went to the library to study. She had everything planned out because it was the day she was going to work on her final for summer school, which was due the next day. She had reserved a study room to try and get work done. On her way to meet up with her friend who was going to join her, she made a decision to lightly jog down one hall. They warned her to never do it again and she did not. While in the study room, she was reading her paper out loud to herself and was told to not talk. The librarian who told her this was, Kate (I'm not sure of the last name...it might have been Hall). I thought this was unfair when there were people around her talking on the phone and listening to music. She facetimed me off her phone to prove this. I told her that if she has an issue with noise, she should move and not argue with the librarian. While on her way to a quieter area, I had called her and her ringer was off. She was asked to leave by the same librarian, Kate. I found it very disrespectful because I was on the phone with her the whole time and heard all the response from the librarian. I'm very disappointed in this and will never be coming here myself and will not encourage my daughter to come either. I called the library asking what my daughter had done wrong that lead to this, but they simply dialed random numbers and hung up. I witnessed this while sitting on a bench right next to the front desk. They proceeded to laugh. I truly wish no one goes through this experience ever. Also, just to let you know, the Wi-Fi at the library was very slow as well. I definitely do not recommend for people to come to this unwelcoming enviornment. __ Thanks. read more

I love this library. it is big and spacious and pretty. I've been coming here since I was 3 (when I first moved to Northbrook) - I remember all of the children's programs being really fun and cool. Hopefully they still have those (I'm 23 now). There are a lot of books, lots of dvds and cds.. They play an interesting selection of both new films and old classics. Whenever I bring out-of-towners to the library, they always rave about how nice it is. It has a little gift shop (it's always closed when I'm there though..) and an eating area. Lots of magazines. I love it! I always come here when I'm visiting home, it's one of the best places in Northbrook, and honestly the BEST non-university library I've been in. read more

I'll drive out of my way just to study at this library. Quiet study rooms, beautiful views, and free WIFI are only a few reasons to go here for some serious studying! They also have a nice little vending machine area where you can snack during study breaks. There's also a very nice auditorium where they show recent box office movies for the general public. read more

Best library in the whole northern suburbs. It has been around since the very early 1970's and at the time was architecturally innovative, and since then it has remodeled a few times, the last in the late 90's which added a whole 3rd floor. This is a place you can get lost in! The first floor is the lobby which contains the long checkout desk area (largely unchanged since the early days) and also the library's movie theater/performance auditorium. Here they have local performances of music and second run movies every saturday. The second floor is the main stacks and periodicals and the internet. There are some really nice librarians here and they are very laid back about internet usage. If you want to just sit down at a terminal, fine. If someone has it booked when you are there, you are gently reminded. The third (and newest) floor has fiction books and the audio visual dept which has cd's. movies, and some vinyl LP's. Sadly the majority of the NPL's original vinyl record collection was sold off during the 90's rehab. This record collection was huge, and years in the making. Sadly as I was informed by a library employee a few years ago , she had to fight to get the small amount of LP's that are still there. Don't forget to check out the small art exhibits on this floor. All in all I have been going to this library for years and it has been an oasis and a home away from home since I was a small child. Check it out! (hehe .. sorry!) read more

One of the only spots in Northbrook I truly do miss. Their selection of books, music, CD's, and DVD's is outstanding. The prices are reasonable and they would have 2 for 1 deals on DVD's multiple times a week. If you can't find it at Blockbuster or feel it's too expensive, then this is your substitute. They don't have all the new releases, but they are relatively up to speed with film. And renting the TV series for 1 week for a dollar, WHAT A STEAL!! read more

Thank you for the Summer Reading program! I wish somebody motivated me to read books like you motivate my son, he loved the prizes.

This library has almost everything. Their selection of books and materials are unparalleled. This is everything a library should be. There are so many free events and the staff is incredibly efficient. Highly recommended! It's such an oasis and a sanctuary. read more

My library in Northbrook is the best! They have wonderful free concerts, and the staff is extremely helpful and friendly. I especially commend the multi-media department, who go out of their way to find things you're looking for, and help with special reserve requests. Today I couldn't remember the name or who starred in a movie I wanted to see again, so I called and they were able to name the movie, and then went ahead and put it on hold for me! Great service. read more

The new building is nice and all, but I cannot believe they charge for DVDs (kids and adults alike), and bestseller books. This is supposed to be a public library, after all. read more

helpful staff....if in reading program, get free video rentals.....part of library exchange so access to anything is amazing.....local art so feels like an art gallery....open space....pond/ice rink behind it......large auditorium for events....just added teen hangout center .... read more

My most favorite library. I used to come here for high school and use their private study rooms for group projects. They have lots of seating for individual and group studying. Free wifi. Looks beautiful. It was great in high school but it's even better now that I have a kid and can use all their kid resources. They always have stuff for the kids to do: crafts, puppets, group reading, movies, etc. book club is also a lot of fun and they have very good prizes. The themes are also very cool because they decorate the area and have a wall of theme related books - very well thought out and fun. They also have a new area with iPads to promote early literacy. So cool! They have the good apps like in the Apple Store and strong internet connection. My kid loves it. The iPad section is new so it's our first time using it it usually my kid will play the puzzles, do the crafts, read books, go on a book hunt and play games on the computer. She's 4 and she can enjoy every part of the library. She loves it. read more