The Oakton Library supports the college’s curriculum and is an essential part of the instructional program of the College. Library faculty develop and teach library instruction sessions customized to the goals of course assignments for on-campus and online courses. Workshops in effective online search strategies and successful research processes are open to all students. In addition, individual reference services and research consultations are available at the Des Plaines and Skokie campuses and online via chat and video conference. For availability, details and resources, visit www.oakton.edu/library.
Library Resources and Collections
The Oakton Library's resources include: access to searchable online databases containing articles published in over 27,000 magazines, newspapers, and research journals; a collection of more than 80,000 books; and a selective depository of U.S. government documents. Online resources are available to students through the library's webpage. A current Oakton College username and password is required for off-campus access to online resources by students, staff, administrators and faculty.
Library Circulation and Access
At both the Des Plaines and Skokie campuses, Oakton Library staff members provide circulation, textbook and technology reserve services for the library’s collection. Interlibrary loan services link the Oakton Library to more than 38.7 million items through more than 90 member libraries of the Council of Academic and Research Libraries in Illinois (CARLI) as well as collections throughout the U.S. via WorldCat.
Community Access
District residents are provided access and limited circulation privileges to the library’s collection at both campuses. A valid Oakton Library card is required for checking out books and materials. More information about services and course curriculum resources can be obtained at the reference desk at either campus.
Hours of Operation
Hours when classes are in session:
Monday through Thursday: 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: Library facilities closed; online services available.
Reference (research help):
On campus -- Monday and Tuesday: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Online only -- Saturday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; visit asklibrary.oakton.edu.
Hours change during summer sessions and when classes are not in session.
For more information, visit www.oakton.edu/library or call 847.635.1642 (Des Plaines) or 847.635.1432 (Skokie).