55 ILCS 5/5-31002
The purpose of this Division is to provide for the creation of county historical museum districts to acquire real property and collect and curate materials which help establish or illustrate the history of the county in such aspects as its exploration, settlement, development, activities in peace and war and progress in population, wealth, education, arts, science, agriculture, manufactures, trade and transportation. The museum district shall collect: printed material such as histories, genealogies, biographies, descriptions, gazetteers, directories, newspapers, pamphlets, catalogues, circulars, handbills, programs and posters; manuscripts such as letters, diaries, journals, memoranda, reminiscences, rosters, service records, account books, charts, surveys and field books; and other museum material such as pictures, photographs, paintings, portraits, scenes, aboriginal relics and objects.
The museum district shall provide for the preservation of and public access to such materials for examination and study; shall cooperate in ensuring the preservation and accessibility of the records and archives of the county and its cities, towns, villages, and institutions; and shall assist in ensuring the preservation of historical buildings, monuments and markers.
55 ILCS 5/5-31002