Des Plaines, Ill. (March 19, 2026) — Oakton College’s innovative efforts to transform traditional library spaces into inclusive hubs for student learning and collaboration have caught the attention of local business leaders.
Oakton was among the recipients of the Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Community Enhancement Awards, presented during the City of Des Plaines Mayor Andrew Goczkowski’s Annual Address to Business on March 19.
The award recognized the Learning Commons at the Des Plaines campus for enriching educational opportunities in Des Plaines and the surrounding communities. The Learning Commons, which opened in January 2026, centralizes key student services in a single location: library services, tutoring, first-generation student support, technology assistance and access to Oakton’s archives.
“The Learning Commons represents Oakton’s commitment to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where students can access the resources they need to succeed,” said Joianne L. Smith, Ph.D. “We are honored that the Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce and Industry recognizes how this space supports student success and strengthens our community while advancing Oakton’s vision of building just and thriving communities.”
The Mayor’s address was held at Oakton’s Des Plaines campus and was attended by more than 100 business and community leaders. Following the address, attendees toured the award-winning Learning Commons.
The cutting-edge space features focus rooms, huddle rooms, pop-in pods, a library classroom, prayer and meditation rooms, sensory spaces and a variety of general study areas to support both individual and group learning.
A similar Learning Commons at Oakton’s Ray Hartstein Campus in Skokie opened in 2024. Both projects are key components of the College’s $63 million Master Plan Update, approved by the Oakton College Board of Trustees in 2022, which aims to modernize campus spaces and expand student-centered services.
Oakton is committed to strengthening the Des Plaines and surrounding communities while providing innovative learning environments that enhance student success and support local businesses. To learn more about the Learning Commons at both campuses, visit Oakton's Library page.