The Lake Forest Library has completed another phase of its long-term building rehabilitation project and is now preparing for the next chapter of improvements.
Last month, the library finished restoring its courtyards, marking the latest milestone in the ongoing renovation of the nearly 33,000-square-foot building that opened in 1931. With the outdoor spaces now reopened, library officials are turning their attention to renovating several interior rooms.
“This community is very passionate about historic preservation — not only preserving and maintaining, but also enhancing these spaces for the next century,” Library Executive Director Ishwar Laxminarayan said.
The courtyards were part of the original Deerpath Road building, but years of exposure to the elements caused deterioration of the walls, brick pavers and landscaping, according to library officials.
Work began last July and included excavation, drainage improvements, electrical upgrades and tuckpointing. The project also resulted in reconstructed walls, new foyer doors, updated furniture, improved landscaping and new bluestone pavers that raised floor levels and improved ADA accessibility.
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With warmer weather arriving, Laxminarayan said he has already noticed increased use of the courtyards by patrons reading, working on electronic devices and spending time with their families.
“Outdoor spaces are getting very popular,” he said. “We’re really fortunate to have these outdoor spaces, and people like to sit out and read.”
Laxminarayan estimated the restoration cost between $1.7 million and $1.8 million, with a few final bills still pending.
The library’s next major project will focus on several interior spaces, including the foyer, rotunda, Friends Reading Room, Reference Room, Reference Annex and entrance vestibule.
Laxminarayan said the goal is to make the rooms more flexible and adaptable for multiple uses and special events. That would include replacing fixed furnishings with movable furniture and making other improvements throughout the building.
Potential upgrades include enhanced lighting and acoustics, new carpeting, additional electrical outlets, ADA-accessible desks and a second fireplace.
“We are trying to address customer needs,” Laxminarayan said.
Library officials have been gathering feedback from both staff and residents, and an architect has already been selected for the project.
The renovation is expected to cost approximately $4.5 million and would be funded through existing reserves and a planned fundraising campaign. Laxminarayan said construction could begin in late fall and take six to nine months to complete.
The work follows the 2023 repair of the building’s dome and the subsequent restoration of murals in the rotunda painted by noted artist Nicolai Remisoff.
As the library looks ahead to its centennial anniversary, future improvements being considered include expanded programming and event space, enhanced group study rooms, improved staff areas and additional parking.
The library is also preparing for leadership changes.
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Laxminarayan announced in April that he plans to retire later this year. He said he hopes to spend more time with family, gardening, and traveling.
Board member Robert Shaw told the City Council recently that the search for Laxminarayan’s successor has already begun.
In addition, two new trustees will join the library board. JoAnn Desmond and John “JJ” Johnson did not seek re-election after serving their customary terms. Residents Edward Cragwall and William Parthun have been appointed to the board and will begin their terms July 1.
The Lake Forest Library recorded nearly 170,000 visitors between May 2025 and April 2026. The library employs 52 people and operates with an annual budget of approximately $5.8 million.
Daniel I. Dorfman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.