Helen Plum Library Foundation Newsletter – Spring 2026 Update

Dear Friends of the Library and Foundation,

Spring has sprung!

If the launch of the Helen Plum Library new seed library doesn’t leave you hopeful for warmer temps, maybe this newsletter can help you shake the winter doldrums. We’re pleased to share the following Foundation milestones, community partnerships, and events on the horizon:

Book Bike

We’ve made a significant contribution toward Helen Plum Library’s new book bike, scheduled to roll into service this summer. This mobile literacy hub will bring books, programs, and storytelling straight to neighborhoods, parks and community events, helping reach readers wherever they are. A big thank you to our supporters, you’ve made this library-on-wheels possible.

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A Fresh Perk For 2026

As a reminder, since January, all library visitors have been able to enjoy free coffee, thanks to a coalition of generous local-business foundation partners. It’s a small gesture with big impact—look for the coffee station in The Hub area, near the stairs on the first floor.

A heartfelt thank you to the following local businesses for their support in January through March:

• Starbucks, 201 W. Roosevelt Rd

• Qawah Tea House, 406 E. Roosevelt Road

• Iowa Coffee Roasters (Small Batch Coffee Supplier)

If you get the chance, please help us repay their generosity with a visit the next time you’re in their neighborhood.

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Dine Out Day: A Delicious Debut

Our first-of-the-year Dine Out Day fundraising event was this past February 18th, at Lombard-favorite Rosemary And Jeans and what a turnout! Thank you to everyone who joined us - supporting literacy AND local business is a winning combination.

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Bundle-Palooza

Our annual magazine sale, offering a year’s bundle worth of your favorite magazines for $5 each, was a hit again this year. From 144 bundles down to three? At that rate, we’ll keep doing it until you tell us to stop.

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Coming Events

Our next events are coming up soon, including:

• April 11th - Pop-Up Book sale at Helen Plum Library  

• May 19th and June 9th - Lombard Farmer’s Market booth

 And as the weather warms, you’ll see Foundation volunteers and our new book bike at a variety of village events. We’re excited to be part of:

• Lilac Parade

• Local parks and sports events

• Lombard Farmer’s Market 

If you see us out and about, please say hello to our volunteers and check out the book bike. We’d love to chat, share updates, and hear your ideas for how the Library can serve you best.

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None of this would be possible without the generous support of community partners, local businesses, and you—our readers, patrons, and volunteers. If you’d like to get involved, there are many ways to help:

• volunteer with the Foundation 

• participate and spread the word about our events

• share ideas for programs and partnerships

• and, of course, donations are always welcomed

Stay connected with us on Facebook or more updates, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events. Together, we’re building a better, more connected Lombard.

Contact us at info@thehplf.org to learn about 2026 volunteer opportunities, dates, and events where you can make a difference.

Warm regards, 

The Helen Plum Library Foundation Team