Policies & FOIA

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

The Illinois Freedom of Information Act provides that “all persons are entitled to full and complete information regarding the affairs of government and official acts and policies of those who represent them as public officials and public employees consistent with the terms of this Act. Such access is necessary to enable the people to fulfill their duties of discussing public issues fully and freely, making informed political judgments and monitoring government to ensure that it is being conducted in the public interest.”  5 ILCS 140/1 Section 1. 

The Library is committed to providing citizens and taxpayers access to applicable public records under the Act. The request must be in writing and may be submitted by facsimile, U.S. mail, special carrier, or email. Forms are available at each of the Library facilities as well as online.

While not a requirement, the form is intended to assist the requester in the specifics of the request. There is no requirement under the Act to respond to oral requests or to provide information other than what already exists in records.

You can expect a response within five business days (21 days if the request is for commercial purposes).

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request form