Illinois State Library Advisory Committee

The Illinois State Library was created in 1843 to provide books to General Assembly members and other state officials. The Library was placed under the jurisdiction of the Secretary of State, who was also designated State Librarian. In 1867, the Governor and Superintendent of Public Instruction were named as commissioners to aid in State Library management. Their duties became strictly advisory in 1921 and were assumed in 1939 by a State Library Advisory Committee whose members are appointed by the Secretary of State. In addition to providing library services for state employees, the State Library promotes, supports, and implements library development throughout the state.