Stop #1: Front Entrance
Welcome to the Riverside Public Library!
Designed by architects Conner, O’Connor, and Martin in 1930, the Library is a striking example of the Tudor Revival style, featuring native limestone and a handcrafted tile roof. In 1972, the Illinois Department of Conservation recognized it as an Illinois Historic Structure. On January 4, 1993, the Village of Riverside designated it as Riverside Landmark #1.
The Library’s groundbreaking took place on October 4, 1930, and its cornerstone remains visible at the lower left of the front door. Above the entrance, you will find the Edward Bulwer-Lytton quote:
"There is no past so long as books shall live."
Look upward to see one of our six grotesques. While frequently called gargoyles, true gargoyles function as waterspouts, whereas these sculptural creatures serve as decorative elements. This large sculpture is called, “The Thinker”. Four smaller ones that line the building’s east side join the two large grotesques, modeled after those at Notre Dame in Paris.
Exploring the Grounds
Walking down the sidewalk in front of the building toward the western corner, you will find our stone Reading Circle anchoring the garden, both installed in 2006. The circle is a peaceful spot used by all ages. It was donated by the Law Offices of Cassiday, Schade and Gloor LLP in memory of attorney Morgan Milne Strand, a Riverside resident killed in a train accident. The garden was a collaborative project between the Riverside Garden Club, the Olmsted Society, and the Friends of the Library.
As you examine the building’s edge, see if you can spot the original architect’s marking stone. From this vantage point, you can also view the exterior of the Friends of the Library Terrace, a 1980s addition that seamlessly blends with the historic structure, offering a warm glow on winter nights.
Image from Bats at the Library (Brian Lies, 2008)
A Literary Connection
For many, this view is also familiar from Brian Lies’ beloved and award-winning picture book, Bats at the Library. Although he was not a Riverside resident, Mr. Lies grandparents lived here and he visited the Library frequently as a child. As an adult, he returned to meticulously recreate its details, from the majesty of the exterior right down to our lamps, for his bestselling book. In October 2008, he joined the community for “Batoberfest,” a special event with story times, bat related activities and a book signing. Images of Lies’ famous bats illuminated the Library’s exterior, echoing the book’s pages.
We will now continue our tour of the building’s exterior. Please walk back past the front entrance, toward the side parking lot. We’ll continue the tour in the side parking lot.
Stop #2: Exterior Building East
The first library in Riverside may have truly been the passion project of Miss Gould, a dedicated resident who, in 1922, opened the Book Corner shop where she both sold books and maintained a popular circulating collection. However, the push for a public library began in earnest around 1925 when members of Riverside American Legion Post #488 discussed the need for a library to house World War I records and memorabilia – a vision that ultimately never materialized.
The Legionnaires found strong allies in the Riverside Women’s Club, which pledged $10,000 toward the construction of a library. Their efforts culminated in an April 21, 1927 referendum, when voters overwhelming approved the idea to fund a library by a margin of 1,422 to 431.
A second bond issue referendum on April 17, 1929, authorized $75,000 for construction. This crucial vote came just four months before the onset of the Great Depression—raising the question of whether the library would have come to fruition had the planning process taken any longer.
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On February 8, 1930, voters settled on the library’s location along the banks of the Des Plaines River, choosing this scenic site over other proposed locations, including various parks and the triangular plot of land beside the Water Tower. Today, it is impossible to imagine a better spot.
Architectural Highlights
From this vantage point, spot the four often-overlooked small grotesques lining the four windows closest to the ramp. This collection of beasts and animals manages to be both welcoming and delightfully wicked at the same time. Look up, and you will spot the second of our large grotesques, “The Learner”, keeping a watchful eye on Township Hall.
Also remarkable is how seamlessly the Library’s back addition blends with the original structure. From the limestone work to the roofline to the windows, the carefully executed design complements the historic 1930 building. If you were not familiar with the Library’s history, you might find it difficult to tell where the original ends and the modern begins.
Before you leave the area today, we encourage you to take a walk along the river path to the west of the Library. From there, you can take in the beauty of the back of the building, particularly striking in the evening.
Please enter the building to continue the tour.
Stop #3 Great Room
Welcome to the Library Great Room
The Riverside Free Public Library was dedicated and opened to the public on Easter Sunday, April 5, 1931. To commemorate the occasion, Robert Somerville, the first Library Board President, commissioned artist Edgar Cameron to paint the striking mural above the fireplace, depicting Marquette and Joliet’s landing at the Chicago Portage. This historic artwork remains a defining feature of the room.
Also present on opening day was Miss Grace W. Gilman, the hired librarian, who reported that “a curious and delighted public” were entranced as they explored the beautifully designed interior.
Many of the room’s original architectural elements remain intact, including the walnut bookshelves lining the walls, the Patron Services desk, and the fireplace nook. In 2004, the Library received a gift from the estate of Grace A. Board, former staff member and Friend of the Library, which funded the installation of modern, custom lighting based on the design of the original 1930s lights. Though the lighting company has since closed, the legacy of our lighting lived on for a time - while in business, they continued to produce and sell our chandelier under the name “Riverside”.
Over the years, the Great Room has hosted a remarkable range of events. It served as the backdrop for an Oprah Winfrey book discussion on Ursula Hegi’s Stones from the River and was even featured in a recent episode of Unsolved Mysteries about the legend of Mothman. It has seen weddings, baby showers, and countless community and library celebrations, making it a true gathering space for Riverside.
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Walk toward the Fireplace Nook to continue your tour.
Stop #4 Great Room Fireplace
The fireplace nook remains a cherished feature where visitors of all ages enjoy a cozy seat by the fire. Originally wood burning, the fireplace was converted to gas on November 7, 2000 in memory of Mildred Van Cura, an avid mystery reader. A towering, exposed chimney lends grandeur and height, while the modest flicker of the fire, still lit daily in colder months, offers an intimate warmth.
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Within the nook hangs a depiction of the Portage to Chicago, hand-drawn and gifted by building architect, George O’Connor and installed for the 1931 opening.
Looking across the Great Room, you have a perfect view of the original Patron Services desk, mezzanine, and hand-hewn ceiling beams and vaulted ceilings which contribute to the room’s architectural character. The room’s quiet grandeur often leads first-time visitors to ask if the building was once a church.
As you explore the Library, you will notice a variety of stained glass windows, each designed to reflect themes of learning and discovery.
Throughout history, the Library has opened its doors to support the community and honor its residents. In 1937, it became a temporary location for Riverside Historical Society materials. In 1941, as part of the war effort, the Library was the local collection center for a national book drive providing reading materials to soldiers.
Today is no different. A near complete yearbook collection from Riverside Brookfield High School is housed on the shelves to the right of the fireplace. The childhood sled of prominent Riverside resident, Scuffy Gross, rests above the reference shelves to the left. Along the south wall hangs a Riverside Botanical Box, created by in 2022 by Olmsted Society, along with community resources like the Riverside Community Garden Seed Library and the Landscape Advisory Commission information stand.
Walk through the center arch into the atrium and continue your tour near the top of the stairs on the east side.
Stop #5 Main Level Atrium
In November 1984, voters approved a $1.5 million referendum (5,196 to 4,470) to fund a 12,500-square-foot expansion of the Library. Groundbreaking took place on April 14, 1985, and the newly expanded Library re-opened on September 7, 1986.
As a designated Landmark building, the Library’s original façade had to remain untouched so the expansion extended toward the riverbank. Architecture firm Frye Gillian Molinaro, in collaboration with contractor A.C.M. Associates, worked to ensure the addition blended seamlessly with the original structure - both inside and out. The Library’s original exterior walls and decorative window frames remain visible throughout the interior building, offering a glimpse into its past. During construction, the team carefully removed the original windows and relocated them to the new rear of the Library, while designers created and added additional stained glass to maintain the integrity of the design.
While the more modern ceiling beams echo the aesthetic of the original building, the distinct difference allows visitors to recognize if they are in the “old” or “new” library simply by looking up.
The decorative glass mobile is a centerpiece of the space, filtering light through the ceiling windows and adding a mid-century touch. Custom-built by the world-renowned artists at Riverside’s Higgins Glass Studio, it was installed in 2012 in memory of resident Margaret Andersen. On this side of the atrium, take a moment to look at the two rotating collections. Along the wall on the left are two displays managed by the Riverside Historical Museum. The hanging quilt is on temporary loan, donated by an unknown resident whose mother won it during Riverside’s 1975 Centennial. The glass case houses the Museum’s rotating display. To the right sits a cage featuring pieces by local found-object sculptor, Jim Eichorst, who frequently brings in new amazing creations that enchant visitors of all ages.
Walk across the atrium and note the painting of Frederick Law Olmsted, further honoring Riverside’s rich history, and a statue from the Library’s 75th Anniversary Gargoyle Decorating Contest, run by the Friends of the Library in 2005. A second statue resides in the Terrace.
Proceed into the Terrace to continue your tour.
Stop # 6 Friends of the Library Terrace
Originally part of the 1984 addition, this terrace began as a screened-in space, which greatly limited its functionality. In 1998, the Library received an Illinois State Library grant of $33,305, supplementing $50,000 raised from the community, to renovate the existing space into a year-round Quiet Reading Room. The Library dedicated the newly transformed space on November 7, 1999.
Furnished with Stickley furniture purchase by the Friends of the Library, this space offers a peaceful retreat with expansive views of the Des Plaines River and its diverse wildlife. In 2020, the Village Landscape Advisory Commission received a grant and donations to purchase the nature viewer, allowing patrons of all ages to observe the river and its surroundings up close.
This space houses our Riverside Authors collection, a Higgins piece generously donated by former District 96 Superintendent, David N. Bonnette, and a display case highlighting memorabilia from the Friends of the Library, including vintage china, a samovar used at early library events, and past editions of Riversideopoly.
Honoring the Friends of the Library
On August 28, 2021, this space was rededicated as the Friends of the Library Terrace recognizing its long-standing commitment to the Library. It is no longer a Quiet Reading Room, though it remains a favorite spot to study or relax and read.
Founded on April 22, 1931, the Friends are one of the first of its kind in the nation. The first president, Mrs. Joseph Jaros, led the way for years of dedicated individuals who have supported the mission of the Library. From 1931 to now, the Friends play a crucial role in fundraising, supporting projects such as Summer Reading, purchasing new shelving, and funding specialty initiatives. Beyond financial support, the Friends are a vital presence at the Library - volunteering at events, managing our book sale, and hosting the best Bingo night of the year.
As you exit the south door of the Terrace (near the glass display case), turn right toward the southwest corner of the building to continue your tour.
Stop #7 Olmsted Collection and Library Stacks
Originally housed in a closet on the Lower Level, the Olmsted Collection, a collaboration with Riverside’s Olmsted Society, features new and rare books on topics including architecture, landscape architecture and gardening. This collection also includes microfilm copies of Frederick Law Olmsted’s papers, offering a deeper look into the visionary behind Riverside’s design.
We invite you to take a walk along the perimeter of the room, stopping at the center window seat to take in the view. Along the walls, you will find a variety of artwork donated over the years, primarily focused on the Library and Riverside.
You will find one particular gem in the Northeast corner - a mural created by Riverside Brookfield High School art students, originally installed at the Arcade Building at 1 Riverside Road. In the 1990s and early 2000s, the Arcade Building had fallen into disrepair and the community painted murals to reduce the impact of the visually declining piece of history. In 2010, when the building was purchased and restoration efforts began, this mural was removed panel by panel and relocated to the Library for preservation, ensuring that the community-created artwork and history of the Arcade Building remains a lasting part of Riverside’s story.
Just past the mural, turn right into the room that houses our DVD collection to continue your tour.
Stop #8 The Original Children’s Room
As you can see from the hand-hewn ceiling beams and perimeter walnut shelving, you have returned to part of the original footprint of the Library. Once home to the children’s collection and later mystery books, it now houses movies and audio materials.
The American flag dominates the vaulted wall. This flag flew over Mt. Suribachi in 2015 as part of the Reunion of Honor, commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima. It was donated to the Village of Riverside by US Marine Corps veteran and Riverside resident, Donald Farnham, and given to the Library for permanent exhibit.
This space also features a model of the Library, created as part of the 1985/6 expansion, along with the General Plan of Riverside, which hangs proudly on the wall. Also, note the two bookshelves lining the south entryway. The shelf on the right holds a small rare book collection focused on Riverside and Illinois history. On top of the shelf rests a flag, donated by the family of Elizabeth Pesak, to honor her service in the U.S. Navy WAVES during World War II. The shelf on the left honors Clarence and Avis Lossin, long-time residents and library users. Their descendants continue to play an active role in the Library, both as volunteers and staff members.
Continue your tour downstairs at the bottom of the atrium stairs. Elevators are located through the archway to the right of the American flag.
Stop #9 Lower Level Atrium
Similar to the upstairs, the limestone walls in the lower level mark the Library's original square footage. However, this area did not always house children's materials. In 1932, the Library Trustees approved hiring the first children's librarian, with the Friends of the Library covering the salary, and housed the children's collection upstairs in what is now the movie room. In fact, after the 1931 opening, 15 years passed before the Library integrated the lower level into the public space.
Largely used for storage until 1939, the Lower Level had an inauspicious start. This changed in 1939 when Village staff needed temporary offices during the completion of WPA work on Township Hall. The Lower Level accommodated them until 1940 when the planning for a designated children’s space began in earnest. The new space officially opened on February 22, 1945.
The Library has always strived to incorporate nature into its spaces, with large windows providing views of the river. In fact, the Lower Level once housed a live fichus tree, which grew directly from the earth beneath the building and extended its branches into the space above (see photo). Sadly, in 2005 the tree’s health deteriorated, leading to its removal in November, but long-time or returning residents often recall the tree fondly.
As demand for youth and teen services grew over time, the Lower Level evolved to meet changing needs. In 2002, a Young Adult area was created. Then, in 2016, as youth collections began to overspill their space, adult fiction moved upstairs, and most on the floor was dedicated to Children and Youth Services. In early 2020, the Early Learner’s space became the first completed portion of a larger renovation vision.
With updates managed piece by piece, the space was never fully realized as a modern youth library until a March 17, 2020 referendum passed (2,047 to 752), securing $1.5 million to renovate the remaining portion of the lower level.
The first-stage of the full renovation, designed by architect Darren Schretter from StudioGC and built by contractor Lo Destro Construction, was completed and opened on July 1, 2021. This newly renovated space includes a dedicated teen space and multi-functional program room. Due to COVID restrictions, only Library Board members and select guests attended the reopening. However, an outdoor Renovation Celebration on August 28, 2021, allowed residents to celebrate with games, music, fun and a formal dedication of the David N. Bonnette/REEF Teen Room to honor their financial support of this space.
In this vibrant space, you can look up to admire the Higgins Glass mobile and view felt nature murals. The mural hanging at the behind the Children and Youth Services desk was donated in memory of resident Cindy Vitek.
Walk past the Program Room and into the Early Learners space to continue your tour.
Stop #10 Early Learners’ Area
In 2013, Library Trustees hired StudioGC as space planners, with particular focus on transforming an aging space into a more vibrant, functional area. It took six years of planning and fundraising to begin bringing this vision to life. The first stage of the plan culminated in the construction of the Early Learners area between September 2019 and February 2020.
Designed with the goal providing more than just a place for books and toys for our youngest patrons, the space brings nature indoors, with long windows set along the floor to provide an outdoor view for our smallest visitors. This natural view extends throughout the space in a variety of ways, including the nature-themed reading nook donated by Riverside Juniors, a river mural, and our signature trees that line the walls.
One of the standout features of this area is the stained glass window located next to the entryway. These panels were part of the original upstairs children's space, removed during a project to improve access to the elevator. After being carefully stored, it now brings a historical touch to the newly renovated area.
Heading back towards the stairs, head right when you get to the Children and Youth Services desk. At the bathrooms, turn right and walk toward the Foley Community Room to continue your tour.
Stop #11 Genealogy and The Spot
The Riverside Library holds a unique and strong tie to history, making it an ideal location for our Genealogy Collection. In December 2014, the Library entered into an agreement with the Czech-Slovak American Genealogy Society (CSAGSI) to house their substantial genealogy collection after they lost their space in a nearby town. However, the Genealogy collection is more than just a collection of books.
Staffed on Thursdays and Saturdays by volunteer genealogists who assist researchers and provide hands-on guidance, genealogy services also include access to research databases, like Ancestry. The Library is also proud to be a FamilySearch Affiliate site, offering an expanded catalog of documents. Over the years, the Library has received requests for help from people both near and far, further cementing our role as a vital genealogical resource.
In 2024, the Community Room became the Foley Community Room to honor Janice Foley, the Library Director and Riverside Person of the Year, for her 30 years of service. If you step inside, you’ll find The Spot, our newest addition. Though filled with creative technology like a Glowforge, Cricut, and sewing machines, The Spot is more about fostering a creative spirit. Visitors can reserve the space for specific projects, but, staff also host crafting programs, introduce children to 3D printing, run technology introduction classes, and offer a space for people to tap into their artistic side. Former Library Trustee, Patrick White, championed the creation of this space.
Though rolled out in a temporary state in 2023 with additional funding from the Friends of the Library, full renovation of The Spot, along with a new study room, was finished in December 2024 by DKersey Construction. This project marked the completion of the final phase of the lower level renovation, bringing a 10-year vision to life and adding another valuable service to the Library’s ever-growing community offerings.
This completes your tour. We hope you enjoyed learning more about our building, the Library, and our shared history. Please feel free to continue looking at all the treasures housed both inside and outside.
Thank you for your support of libraries and your love of art and architecture.
Main Level
Lower Level
