Making a Freedom of Information Act Request
To make a FOIA request, please complete the Request for public records in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act form. To see a complete FOIA public service directory for the City of Berwyn, click here.
You can submit the completed request in person or by mail to:
Margaret M. Paul, City Clerk
City of Berwyn
6700 W. 26th St.
Berwyn, IL 60402
The request can also be emailed to mpaul@ci.berwyn.il.us.
What is the Freedom of Information Act?
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a law that provides access to public records upon written request. The act defines “public records” as: “[A]ll records, reports, forms, writings, letters, memoranda, books, papers, maps, photographs, microfilms, cards, tapes, recordings, electronic data processing records, electronic communications, recorded information and all other documentary materials pertaining to the transaction of public business, regardless of physical form or characteristics, having been prepared by or for, or having been or being used by, received by, in the possession of, or under the control of any public body.” [5 ILCS 140]
As a public library, many of our records can be accessed with a FOIA request. Some records are exempt from disclosure by the act, or by other state or federal statutes. You can read the general provisions of the Freedom of Information Act on the Illinois General Assembly website. Note: This link will open in a new tab.