The Sugar Grove Public Library District began in 1962 with a donation of slightly under 500 books, and became a public tax supported institution in 1963.  Grace McCannon was the first librarian, serving Sugar Grove from its humble inception in1962 through July 13, 1978. The first fully operational Library opened in 1980 in a 6,600 square foot facility at 54 Snow Street (today, this building houses the Sugar Grove Township, Senior Services, and Conley Community Outreach. 

Due to a growing population and the need for space, updated facilities, emerging technology and desires for programming and civic space. In 2004, voters voted YES for a new facility which opened in the current location at 125 South Municipal Drive in 2009.

The Library District purchased over 5 acres of land on Municipal Drive for well below market value. Initially free land was offered to the library. Neuman Homes as the developer terminated the projected Promenade project. A generous local benefactor offered free land, however this land was unimproved (water, sewer, electric) and in a location that would have been challenging. It was determined that it would actually cost more to take free land than to purchase developed land at a discounted price and in a location that would situate the Library by developing neighborhoods and other municipal services.  

As local neighborhoods continue to grow, the destination has proved a success as the local elementary school is in close proximity and families are easily able to walk and bike to the Library. The continued growth of Sugar Grove provides an influx of new residents eager to bring their families to the Library. 

In April 2023, voters approved a referendum for an increase in operating revenue in the equivalent rate of the expiring bond for the building construction that was paid off. 

In July 2024, The Library reopened on Fridays for the first time in over 10 years. Overall the library added 13 additional hours of operation and is open every day of the week now. 

As of July 2025, the Library District employs 20 staff members, 7 of whom are full-time. Visits to the library since expanding hours have increased on average 38%. 

Library Director Timeline: 

Grace McCannon, 1962-July 13, 1978

Pam Feather, 1978 - 1985

Beverly Holmes Hughes, 1985 - 2011 

Marilin Boria, interim, 2011-2012

Carol Dolin, 2012 - 2014

Shannon Halikias, 2014 - December 2021 

Genna Mickey, January 2022 - Current