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Mini & Mighty Youth Library

While We Grow Bigger and Better!

Row of five architectural renderings of the new Youth Services.

Exciting changes are coming! As the Reimagine Your Library project continues, our Youth Services spaces will soon begin a full transformation!

During this construction phase, Youth Services will move to a temporary Mini & Mighty Youth Library — a smaller space with a curated collection and the same friendly staff ready to help. To prepare for the move, Youth Services will be closed from Monday, April 13, to Sunday, April 19, while staff pack, relocate materials, and set up the new temporary space.

When the youth services phase of the project is complete, families can look forward to major enhancements with more room for books, play, storytimes, and hands-on learning.

Key Dates

Youth Services Closed

Monday, April 13 — Sunday, April 19 

Mini & Mighty Youth Library Opens

Monday, April 20

What’s Happening

Mon, April 13 — Sun, April 19

Youth Services will temporarily close to move in and set up the Mini & Mighty Youth Library located in the Middle School Room across from the Brenner Room.

During this time:

  • Youth materials will be available only by placing holds.
  • Once you receive notification that your items are ready to check out, you will find them in the holds pickup area, near the Membership Services Desk. 
  • Browsing youth materials will not be available. Browsing will resume when the Mini & Mighty Youth Library opens Monday, April 20.
  • No youth materials are due at this time; all youth item due dates have been extended until April 19. 
  • All scheduled youth programs are canceled from Monday, April 13, to Sunday, April 19. Programs will resume as scheduled starting Monday, April 20, in the Brenner Room (unless otherwise noted).
  • A temporary youth activity table with games, puzzles, and coloring supplies will be available in Adult Services. 

Need help placing a hold or finding an item? Our staff is happy to help!

Monday, April 20

Youth Services will reopen in its temporary location as the Mini & Mighty Youth Library (middle school room across from the Brenner Room).

This space will feature:

  • A carefully curated selection of books (board, picture, fiction, graphic novels, holiday, etc.), DVDs, video games, magazines, special collections, and materials.
  • Full access to our digital collection.
  • Same friendly staff, ready to help you find what you need!
  • Easy access and help to locate items from other libraries through the shared catalog.
  • Mini & Mighty Youth Library will be open during all regular Library hours.

What You Can Expect

The Mini & Mighty Youth Library will offer:

  • Storytimes continue — see the schedule
  • Curated youth collection with books (board, picture, fiction, graphic novels, holiday, etc.), DVDs, video games, magazines, special collections, etc.
  • Youth programs continue in the Brenner Room
  • Study rooms available to reserve in Adult Services
  • Public computers available in Adult Services
  • Full access to our digital collection
  • Friendly staff ready to help you find anything!

The Mini & Mighty Youth Library will be open during all regular Library hours.

Unlock Access to 1.2 Million+ Items

Easy access and seamless borrowing at 31 libraries in the shared CCS catalog with 1.2 million+ titles. Options include:

  • Quick delivery of items to HPPL for check out by placing holds — return them here too!
  • Your HPPL card is already registered at all CCS libraries; nearby options include Glencoe and Northbrook. Remember to bring your card!
  • You can also register and use your HPPL card at Highwood and Deerfield Libraries (check reciprocal borrower requirements).

Need help finding a book or placing a hold? We’re here for you!

Try Nearby Libraries Too! We encourage you to take advantage of the many libraries in the area that also offer dynamic kids spaces and collections!

Ready to explore another library? Ask us!

Why Is This Happening?

For the health and safety of patrons and staff, the existing youth spaces must be completely cleared of furniture and materials while construction is underway.

This temporary move allows crews to work efficiently and helps ensure the shortest possible disruption to library services.

What Families Can Expect in the New Youth Spaces 

We’re excited to reimagine Youth Services with thoughtful improvements designed to give kids and families more room to discover, learn, and enjoy the library together. When construction is complete, the refreshed spaces will offer new opportunities for reading, creativity, and connection. 

Highlights will include:

More room for books 

A 25% increase in collection space means even more children’s and family favorites to explore.

Expanded space for early learning and programs 

With 50% more room for storytimes and hands-on activities, we’ll have greater flexibility for engaging programs and shared experiences. 

New Releases Area

An easy-to-browse spot featuring the latest children’s books and popular new titles. 

Youth Commons 

A welcoming area where kids can play games, work on homework, or spend time together, with flexible seating and tables for small groups. 

Study Rooms 

Quiet rooms designed for independent study, tutoring sessions, or collaborative work. 

Reading Nooks 

Cozy corners for curling up with a book or settling in for focused reading. 

Together, these updates will create a more welcoming, flexible, and engaging Youth Services area for families and young learners. 

FAQs

What if we can’t find what we are looking for in the Mini & Mighty Youth Library?

We can help you get it from another library. Just ask!

Will summer reading still happen?

Yes! Summer reading will run from June 5 to July 31, just like previous years. Watch for details coming soon.

When will the new youth services space be open?

The current estimate is fall, though construction timelines may change based on project progress, materials availability, and installation schedules.

Where can I find more information about the expansion project?

Find more information and project details here.

Where can I find updates about the youth area project?

For detailed updates, subscribe to, HPPL Pals — Programs for Youth & Teens, weekly email HERE.

We're Here to Help

Need help finding a book, placing a hold, or navigating nearby libraries? 

Just ask — our staff are always happy to help. 

Thank you for your patience and enthusiasm as we build the next chapter of your Library!