FAQs
The “How Do I” Guide Some answers to often asked questions!
How do I get a library card?
How do I reserve materials?
How do I renew 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?
Come to the library’s Check-Out Desk. Photo identification and proof of a current Galesburg 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 16. In some cases, a tax bill may be required.
District 205 students can receive a Galesburg Public Library card even if they do not live in Galesburg. Please ask at the Check-Out Desk for more information.
Can I reserve materials that are currently checked out?
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.
How do I renew materials that I have checked out?
Materials may be renewed in person at the library, by telephone (343-6118), by email (reference@galesburglibrary.org) or online by logging in to the online catalog using your library card number and PIN. If you have signed up for Shoutbomb, you can also renew using your phone.
Most materials may be renewed once, provided there are no hold requests waiting. If you are unable to renew your materials through the catalog, please contact library staff.
Today is a school holiday. Is the library closed?
The library is normally open Monday through Thursday 9:00 am to 8:00 pm and Friday and Saturday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. See a complete list of closings for more information about particular holidays.
Can I access the Internet at the library?
Yes. The library provides access to the Internet as part of its research and information services. Each individual is permitted 90 minutes of use per day. Access to the Internet is governed by the library’s internet use policy.
Library cards are nontransferable. You must log in with your own library card.
Is there wireless access available at the library?
Yes. The library offers wireless access. When you use the wireless service in the library you are accepting the terms and conditions of the library’s Wireless Policy. The password changes each month; ask at the Reference Desk for the current information. Please note that library staff can provide only basic assistance with your device.
Can I use a computer at the library to type a paper, create a resume or spreadsheet or set up a presentation?
Yes. In addition to Internet access, the library has computers that have word processing, spreadsheet, and other software.
The library is closed. Is there some way I can still do research?
Yes. First, you can check out our Electronic Resources. Second, you can start your search for books and magazine resources with our online library catalog. Last, ask us your question by email us at reference@galesburglibrary.org.
I can’t find what I want in the catalog. May I suggest the library purchase a particular book, CD, DVD, or other?
The library welcomes suggestions for additions to the library’s collection. If you are a Galesburg resident, email us at reference@galesburglibrary.org, give us a call at 343-6118, or stop by the Reference Desk during library hours.
I am doing genealogy research. Can you help me?
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.
I want to use the meeting room at the library. What do I need to do?
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 Check-Out 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.
I want to use the gallery space or one of the display or exhibit spaces at the library. What do I need to do?
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 Gallery and Display Space and Exhibit Policy. Additional information may be obtained by calling the Reference Desk at 309-343-6118 during library hours.
How do I become a library volunteer?
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 the volunteer coordinator at at 309-343-6118 or by email for additional information, or click here.
I have some books and other materials I would like to donate to the library. What do I need to know?
The library welcomes your donations of books, audio CDs, music CDs, and DVDs 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 Emily DuGranrut, 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.
Please visit us at the library, call us at 309-343-6118 or email us at reference@galesburglibrary.org if you still have questions.
Click here for the library’s current reopening by appointment FAQ’s.
