Galesburg Public Library

Some answers to often asked questions!

How do I get a library card?
How do I reserve materials?
Is the library open today?
How do I access the Internet at the library?
Is there wireless access at the library?
Are there computers for use at the library?
How do I do after hours research?
How do I suggest a purchase?
How do I do genealogy research?
How do I reserve a meeting room?
How do I reserve exhibit or gallery space?
How do I become a volunteer?
How do I donate materials to the library?

Applications are available at the library. Photo identification and proof of current address must be presented at the time of application. A parent or legal guardian must provide identification and sign the application for individuals under the age of 18. In some cases, a tax bill may be required.

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Yes. If you have a current library card you may reserve materials that are checked out. Use the library catalog to reserve materials, or ask a Reference librarian for assistance.

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The library is open Monday through Thursday 9:00 am. to 8:00 pm. and Friday and Saturday 9:00 am. to 5:00 pm. The library is open 1:00 to 5:00 pm on Sundays during the school year. See a complete list of the holiday closings for more information about particular days.

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Yes. The library provides access to the Internet as part of its research and information services. Library users may use the Internet for educational and informational purposes. Each individual is permitted one hour of use per day. Access to the Internet is governed by the library's Internet Use policy. Individuals under the age of 14 must have an "Internet Registration and User Agreement" signed by a parent or legal guardian on file at the library. Forms are available in the children's room.

Library cards are nontransferable. You must log in with your own library card.

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Yes. The library offers wireless "WiFi" access to the library's Internet service for properly equipped laptops and other devices. When you use the wireless service in the library you are accepting the terms and conditions of the library's Wireless Policy.

Please note that library staff cannot help you if you have problems getting wireless access with your equipment.

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Yes. In addition to Internet access, the library has computers that have word processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation software.

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Yes. First, check out our Electronic Resources to see if any of the electronic databases are helpful in answering your question. Second, you can start your search for books and magazine resources with our online library catalog. Third, you might also check out the online resources listed at Web Stuff and the Teen Scene for help. Last, ask us your question by email.

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The library welcomes suggestions for additions to the library's collection. If you are a Galesburg resident, fill out our online Suggest a Purchase Form, call or stop by the reference desk during library hours.

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The library has local history and genealogy resources to assist researchers. Members of the Knox County Genealogical Society volunteer to assist researchers at the library on Wednesdays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. No appointment is necessary.

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The library welcomes the use of its two meeting rooms for educational, civic, cultural and public information meetings. The use of the meeting rooms is governed by the library's Meeting Room Policy. A meeting room reservation form must be completed and returned to the circulation desk at the library. Rooms will be reserved on a first come, first served basis. No room may be reserved more than four months in advance.

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The library welcomes educational and informational displays that support the mission of the library. All use of the library's gallery and display and exhibit space is governed by the Art Exhibit Policy and Display Space and Exhibit Policy. Additional information may be obtained by calling the reference desk at (309)343-6118 during library hours.

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Individuals volunteer to help the library in many ways. Recently volunteers have helped organize and run the book sales, preserve archival documents, deliver books and materials to the homebound, care for the storybook garden, create displays, paint, install gallery fixtures and assist at children's programs. You may also be interested in becoming a member of the Friends of the Library and supporting their efforts to help the library.

Contact Pam Van Kirk, library director, at 309-343-6118 or by email for additional information.

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The library welcomes your donations of books, audio books, CDs, DVDs, videos and other materials in good condition. Materials given to the library become the property of the library and the library may take any action, including disposition, with respect to such materials. Some materials may be added to the library collection, others may be sold in book sales, with proceeds benefiting the library. Appraisals for the value of donated materials will not be given. Books and other materials may be dropped off at the library anytime during open hours.

The library is also interested in receiving donations of materials documenting the history of Galesburg and Knox County. Contact Patty Mosher, archivist, at (309) 343-6118 or email for additional information.

The library acknowledges gifts for tax purposes, but cannot be responsible for assessing the monetary value of gifts.