The Wood Dale Public Library has two Free Little Pantry locations. 

The outdoor cabinet by the Library’s front entrance is always accessible. The small pantry in the lobby is located across from the Small Meeting Room and is accessible during the Library’s operating hours. The pantries are stocked with non-perishable, unexpired food items. Library staff do not monitor who takes from or gives to our Little Free Pantry. Everyone is encouraged to “take what they need, and leave what they can.”

In 2017, Andrew Welmers launched the Free Little Pantry as an Eagle Scout project at the Wood Dale Public Library, embodying the spirit of giving back to the community, and in 2022, Fenton High School students Jesse Krebascha and Jacob Meyerchick further strengthened this legacy by repairing and refreshing the pantry with donated paint from EarthPaint, ensuring it continues to serve as a vital resource for those in need.

• Canned goods such as canned fruit, vegetables, proteins, etc.
• Dry foods such as pasta, cereal, protein bars, oatmeal, spices, etc.
• Unexpired, non-alcoholic beverages such as water, juices, etc.

• Perishables such as bread, milk, eggs, fresh/frozen meat, etc.
• Unsealed baked goods like homemade pastries or open packages of bread, etc.
• Open food containers, jars with broken seals, etc.
• Prescription or over-the-counter medications
• Clothing, shoes, toys, office supplies or other miscellaneous household goods

• When outdoor temperatures drop below freezing, please bring all bottled or canned goods inside and leave them in the indoor pantry to prevent freezing and damage.
• During warm weather, bring all temperature-sensitive food inside (i.e., chocolate, sealed baked goods, baby food, etc.) to the indoor pantry to preserve freshness.

Please note: while we make every effort to make sure food is fresh, please be cautious and check for expiration dates and spoilage. The Library is not liable for any harm caused as a result of expired items, food allergies, or other concerns.