The mission of River Valley Church is to lead people into an authentic, life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ.
What you’ll find at River Valley Church is a place where you can make life-changing relationships and find your purpose in life. You’ll also experience dynamic worship, inspirational messages and your children will love our fantastic programs designed just for them. We’re a relaxed church and we’re passionate about living our lives for God. There’s a place for YOU at River Valley Church!
MISSION:
The Springfield City Library actively connects with its diverse community and provides effective resources and a safe space for all. Our Library is a hub for free access to information and technology, social and civic engagement, and support of personal enrichment, well-being, and lifelong learning.
VISION:
The Springfield City Library is the center of city life and culture. The Library is vital to a safe, healthy, educated, and thriving community. We embrace our diversity and celebrate learning, creativity, and innovation.
VALUES:
We Are:
Welcoming
We honor the diverse cultures and life experiences of all. We are committed to breaking down barriers to access and ensuring equity of access in an environment of respect, courtesy, and inclusion.
Trusted
We are a safe, nonjudgmental space. We deliver responsive and effective experiences, services, and collections for all, provided by valued, caring, and professional staff.
Connected
We are a leader in the community, partnering with agencies to provide and promote services and programs that genuinely impact the community. We are the city’s hub: the place to collaborate, learn, and inspire.
Innovative
We approach all that we do with passion and a learning mindset. We are adaptable and forward-thinking as we embrace change and strive for continuous improvement.
In 1955, an enthusiastic group in Hillside received a charter to organize as the Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber's first undertaking was to start a Public Library for Hillside. The Illinois Library Association promised 1,000 books to be put at the disposal of a Library as soon as space could be found. A local resident also donated many books from her own collection.
On St. Patrick's Day, 1962, the library reopened under the sponsorship of the Kiwanis Club. Within two hours, 168 library cards were issued to children and another 75 became cardholders the next day. At this time, the Friends of the Library was formed to support library service by volunteering as librarians and to acquire more books for the library. Fund drives were started and the library fund was created to establish a permanent service.
In 1976, the Public Library building at 405 Hillside Avenue was completed and is continuing to serve its 8,155 local residents today with holdings of approximately 50,000 titles and a variety of media from books to DVD's, from computers to comics.