Warren-Newport Public Library Streamlines Services to Meet Changing Needs
The Warren-Newport Public Library District (WNPL) is committed to providing exceptional library services tailored to the evolving needs of our community. As part of this commitment, WNPL has discontinued bookmobile service.
The bookmobile has served our community for over 50 years, and the WNPL community appreciates its historical role. However, usage statistics show a significant decline in bookmobile checkouts in recent years. During the months the library operated the bookmobile last fiscal year, each community stop averaged only 2.7 visitors. Bookmobile checkouts equaled just 0.6% of total library circulation of physical items during this time.
Bookmobile services have been on the decline nationwide. In Illinois alone, the number of bookmobiles has decreased from 29 in 2003 to 19 in 2023. Several local libraries, including Indian Trails, Des Plaines, and Palatine, have also discontinued their bookmobile programs.
WNPL is dedicated to serving all members of our community. By reallocating resources previously used for the bookmobile, WNPL is investing in new services and improvements that better meet current needs. This includes:
- A new maker space, The Workshop, opening later this month
- Lobby stops at residential facilities
- Early literacy visits to preschools and childcare centers
- Additional staff for community programs
- Future improvements to the library’s layout and design for better user experience
“The bookmobile has been a valuable resource, but libraries are evolving, and we must adapt to best serve our community,” said Executive Director Ryan Livergood. “By focusing our resources on services that are in high demand, we can better meet people where they are and provide the most valuable experiences possible.”
For those who cannot easily access the library, WNPL offers a free Doorstep Delivery service. Visit WNPL’s website at www.wnpl.info to learn more about their services and upcoming events. The WNPL team looks forward to serving you.
For more information, contact the Warren-Newport Public Library administration office at 847-244-5150, ext. 3008.
The Warren-Newport Public Library District, founded by volunteers in 1973, serves a population of approximately 67,000 within a 55-square mile area that covers all or most of Warren and Newport townships, including Gurnee, Wadsworth, Park City, Wildwood, Grandwood Park, Old Mill Creek, and portions of Grayslake, Millburn, Lake Villa, Libertyville and Waukegan.
