Oak Park's recreation centers were named (with one exception) for distinguished authors of children's literature.

1. Andersen Center
Hayes Avenue at Division Street
Phone: (708) 445-3388
Named after Hans Christian Andersen.
Originally named Watts Playground.
History: Developed in 1921; area is1.299 acres.

2. Barrie Center
Lombard Avenue and Garfield Street
Phone: (708) 445-3389
Named after James Barrie.
History: Developed in 1932; area is .911 acres.
In the depths of the Great Depression, Oak Park voters approved a $50,000 bond issue to fund the purchase and construction of Barrie Center.

3. Carroll Center
Kenilworth Avenue at Fillmore Street
Phone: (708) 445-3386
Named after Lewis Carroll.
Originally called Lincoln Playground.
History: Developed in 1921; area is 1.731 acres.

4. Fox Center
Oak Park Avenue at Jackson Boulevard
Phone: (708) 383-6908
Named after Park Commissioner William Fox.

5. Field Center
Woodbine Avenue at Division Street
Phone: (708) 445-3387
Named after Eugene Field.
Originally called Woodbine Playground.
History: Developed in 1924; area is 2.478 acres.

6. Longfellow Center
Ridgeland Avenue at Jackson Boulevard
Phone: (708) 383-6909
Named after Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.
History: Developed in 1920.

7. Stevenson Center
Lake Street at Taylor Avenue
Phone: (708) 383-6910
Named after Robert Louis Stevenson.
Originally called Pyott Playground. History: Developed in 1921; area is 3.334 acres.