Winnetka, Northfield Library Removing 8,000 Items to Enhance Collection

Since mid-August, Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District has been weeding out books to ensure its collection is up-to-date, while also making space for a new reading area. 

“Our patrons want more popular materials and want us to provide better access to non-print materials and current technologies, ” said Juli Janovicz, Interim Library Director in a news release. "In the next few months, we will implement tenets of the strategic plan by creating inviting spaces for our residents while continuing to provide exemplary service.” 

Librarians are removing 8,000 items that are out-of-date, in poor condition, or have not circulated in four years. Each book was evaluated by librarians so major classics in a genre will be retained even if they have not circulated. 

The bulk of the weeding project is expected to be completed in mid-October, according to Erin Maassen, public relations and marketing director for the library. 

Space formerly devoted to housing the books will be redeveloped into an inviting leisure reading space on the mezzanine level, and “will include a variety of comfortable seating options,” Maassen wrote in an email.

More than 200 boxes of books have already been picked up by Better World Books, an online book reseller that collects books libraries no longer need and makes them available for customers on their website.  

In addition to keeping books out of landfills, Better World Books will give a percentage of the profits to the Friends of the Library. Funds from the book sales will be used for space redevelopment. 

“Our goal is to improve patron satisfaction with our collections by shifting materials spending and addressing opportunities for greater service that improve digital access, increase popular materials, and enhance teen services,” Janovicz said.

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