Enjoy the fresh air and explore all the outdoor offerings at the Wood Dale Public Library. 

Whether you’re here to relax, let the kids play, take a walk with a story, or learn about nature, our outdoor spaces provide a welcoming extension of your experience at the Library. Surrounded by shady trees and peaceful green areas, it’s the perfect spot to slow down and connect—with nature, with stories, and with each other.

Tucked behind the Library, the backyard area is a peaceful, family-friendly outdoor space shaded by towering oak and walnut trees. This inviting area is home to several key features: our StoryWalk®, the children’s play area, and a patio with benches, ideal for enjoying a quiet moment, a snack, or lunch with the family while surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. 

Our outdoor spaces are also a place to learn about and experience nature. Near the backyard, you’ll find our bioswale, which helps manage stormwater naturally while supporting local ecosystems. It’s planted with native grasses and flowers that not only look beautiful but also provide an essential habitat.

In front of the library is our Monarch Waystation, created as part of an Eagle Scout project by Jeffrey Martinez with the help of fellow scout members in Wood Dale Troop 65. This special garden is filled with milkweed and other nectar-rich plants that provide essential habitat for monarch butterflies during their migration. These spaces not only enhance the natural beauty of the Library grounds but also offer quiet moments of observation and learning about local ecosystems. Our Waystation is registered as number 48903 with Monarch Watch.

Just outside the Library, you’ll find several convenient features to make your visit easier and more enjoyable. A bike rack is available around the corner from the entrance for those arriving on two wheels, while an outdoor book drop allows for quick returns at any time. We’ve also installed electric vehicle charging stations in our lot, supporting sustainable choices in our community.