Deerfield Library Sets New User Record

The now has more than 19,000 registered collection borrowers setting a new record, according to .

“It’s the first time we have hit 19, 000,” Pergander told the Library Board on Wednesday night at its regularly scheduled meeting.

She also said the library circulated 39,348 items from its collection last month, making it its highest November in four years.

Pergander attributed the record rise to not only the popularity of the library’s comprehensive literature and media services but strong support by local adults, many who are college educated, and their inquisitive children who live in the community.

Another factor according to Pergander is the growth of reciprocal borrowers—those who live outside the immediate area but under Illinois law are entitled to free reciprocal borrowing from any library in the state when displaying a current in-state library card.

“We in Deerfield issue anywhere from 140 to 180 new library cards every month,” Pergander said.

Library card privileges for Deerfield residents are free (paid for by Village taxpayers). The cards are good for three years before renewal is required. A government-issued photo identification card showing local residence is required to obtain a card.

Cards are also available to residents of unincorporated Deerfield, Riverwoods and Bannockburn, however since taxpayers in those areas do not support the Deerfield Public Library a nominal charge is made based upon property value.

Non-Deerfield residents should bring a copy of their property tax records and governmental residential ID to the library’s circulation desk when applying for a library card.

“Your library card is like a gift card and it's a good deal. It has important value in accessing music, movies, adult and children’s books, magazines, reference consultation, use of computers, access to e-publications, and a host of other services all at no charge to local residents,” Pergander said.