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What are Illinois Library Systems?
Illinois Library Systems
work with the Illinois State Library, with other Library Systems,
and with local libraries to create a seamless statewide network
of cooperative library resource sharing for the benefit of all
residents of the state.
Illinois Library Systems were created by the General Assembly
under the Illinois
Library Systems Act in 1965 in order to "encourage
cooperation among all types of libraries in promoting the sharing
of library resources." The Act also provided for "a program
of state grants designed to establish, develop and operate a
network
of library systems covering the entire state." Library System
funding is part of the annual appropriation of the Illinois
Secretary
of State, who also holds the title of State Librarian.
Illinois Library Systems:
- Provide a wide range of education opportunities for the more
than 30,000 employees working in libraries and for local library
governing officials.
- Facilitate excellence in library services
by providing consulting services, bringing library workers together
to share best practices, and organizing leadership projects.
- Help libraries of all types explore new technology and new ways
of working in a safe environment.
- Utilize new technologies to make information portals, digital library services, and electronic
resources available to all Illinois residents and businesses.
- Provide physical delivery of library materials to member libraries.
- Support automated catalogs which make the collections of Illinois
libraries accessible online and available for sharing with citizens
of Illinois.
- Manage sharing of materials between libraries through
Interlibrary Loan and Reciprocal Borrowing.
- Save tax dollars by providing cost-effective cooperative services to reduce duplicative
costs and by negotiating discounts.
- Facilitate communication among library workers and with the general public regarding the
value of libraries today and tomorrow.
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