I have heard people suggest that there is no need for librarians now that everyone has easy access to the Internet. In fact, Downers Grove Public Library patrons asked a record 85,000 questions in 2008. Many of those questions started out “I have spent 2 hours searching the Internet and couldn't find…. Can you help me?” Even if it is not convenient to visit or call the library during our usual business hours, every page of our web site offers the option to Ask a Librarian -- a path to a variety of opportunities to get help or recommendations from library staff. Using email or instant messaging you can ask for help finding everything from information on a particular topic to recommendations of a good book to read. Responses to most queries will be sent or posted during regular library working hours. However for those times when you need information “right now” try Ask Away Illinois to contact a live librarian 24 hours per day. The Ask Away librarian will not always be a Downers Grove Public Library staff member, but he or she will always be a trained librarian who is experienced in helping library patrons find information. We hope you will take advantage of the opportunity to Ask a Librarian through our website, and that you will find it the place to go when you need to know.

Welcome

Welcome to the new web site of the Downers Grove Public Library (DGPL). This blog will be my opportunity to talk about the services and programs of the Downers Grove Public Library, and to inform patrons about issues that affect this library or public libraries in general. As a local public library, we are unique because we focus specifically on the needs and interests of the residents of Downers Grove. While we cannot afford to be open 24 hours per day, seven days per week, we can provide patrons with access to many of our personalized services 24/7 through our website. These services include your library’s collection of reference resources in online databases; recommendations of great websites; suggestions of good books, movies, and recordings; and even a variety of opportunities to interact with library staff directly. Future posts will focus on each of these topics. We hope you will take advantage of the services we offer through the new website, and that you will find it the place to go when you need to know.