Harriet M. Goodall was born in Marion, Illinois on October 19, 1898.  She passed away on January 9, 2002.  She was very proud that she had lived during three centuries.

Miss Goodall graduated in 1925 from the University of Illinois with a Bachelor of Science in Education.  She then accepted a job in a library in Gary, Indiana and worked there for three years.  After this exciting and fulfilling experience, she decided to attend Western Reserve University for one year of post-graduate study in library education.

Fortunately for all of us, Miss Goodall saw an ad for a children’s librarian at Hinsdale Public Library and came for an interview.  She moved to Hinsdale and began her new position as Head of Youth Services.  Miss Goodall worked here happily for 33 years until her retirement in 1963.

Miss Goodall was always interested in exposing young children to the joys of reading and loved being a part of the Hinsdale community.  Her dedication to education, the enrichment of young children, and libraries was evident in everything she did.

In 2002, Miss Goodall remembered the Hinsdale Public Library in her will.
The Harriet M. Goodall bequest funded the birthday bag initiative, which was developed to foster early literacy skills and a love of reading in young children.  The bequest also has allowed the Library to purchase new furniture and skill toys for the preschool area, and enhance the collection of beginning readers.

The staff of Hinsdale Public Library greatly appreciates Miss Goodall’s kindness.  We look forward to developing future library services and programs with her generous donation.

The Youth Services Department and
the Hinsdale Public Library Board of Trustees