Sen. Linda Holmes supports SB3111 mandate for county law libraries to match courthouse hours

Sen. Linda Holmes (D-42nd) cast her vote in favor of SB3111, legislation mandating county law libraries operate during the same hours as courthouses, on May 31, 2026, as part of the 104th General Assembly. The measure received unanimous approval in the Illinois Senate, passing by a 57-0 vote, according to the Illinois Senate.

The official description for the bill reads: "COUNTIES CD-COUNTY LIBRARY."

The following overview is drawn from the actual text of the bill and aims to clarify its mandates.

SB3111 stipulates that county law libraries must stay open whenever the courthouse is open unless exceptions are made because of operational needs or decisions by the county board. The legislation ensures that library facilities are fully accessible to licensed attorneys, judges, county officers, and the general public. Facilities may also offer self-help centers and legal support both in person and online. Additionally, the bill authorizes county treasurers or relevant offices to keep and oversee county law library fees in the County Law Library Fund, disbursing funds per established procedures.

The legislative progress for SB3111 recorded the action: 'House Committee Amendment No. 1 Senate Concurs.'

Holmes earned her Bachelor of Arts from National College of Education in 1984.

A member of the Democratic Party, Holmes has represented the 42nd Senate District of Illinois since first being elected to the State Senate in 2007, succeeding former state senator Phyllis Petka.

Legislation in Illinois goes through a detailed review and voting process, starting with a bill's introduction in either chamber, then committee scrutiny, followed by debates and chamber votes, ultimately reaching the governor, who may sign or veto. The General Assembly runs on a biennial cycle, with thousands of proposed bills and only a select number becoming law each session.