Mae West: she shattered box office records and public sensibilities. She rocketed from Broadway to become the highest paid actress in Hollywood. Her one-liners scandalized the censors yet made her an icon. She rescued studios from bankruptcy and created stars. Meet the woman behind the wit. Who was Mae West, really? Find out....
In costume and in character, Martina Mathisen is Mae West.
The 1501 Ellinwood Street library building is the realization of a longheld dream of the library board, staff and community partners. Located in the heart of downtown Des Plaines, the four story, 82,000 square foot building represents the community's commitment to reading, lifelong learning, and a center for family activities. A grand central staircase and large windows provide a wealth of natural light and illuminate the building at night.