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Illinois’ Underground Railroad: Journey to Freedom is a traveling exhibit that brings to life the powerful, often hidden stories of the Underground Railroad across Illinois. Through immersive storytelling, first-person interpretations, and educational materials, the exhibit highlights the courageous freedom seekers and the individuals and communities who risked everything to help them reach safety.
Spanning key locations from southern Illinois to Chicago—including communities like Galesburg, Springfield, and Quincy—the exhibit traces the routes, networks, and personal journeys that shaped this movement for freedom. Visitors encounter stories of resilience and bravery, from families traveling north in search of liberty to local conductors who provided shelter and guidance along the way.
Step into history with a musical and speaking performance by the Beecher Family, featuring Harriet Beecher Stowe! Join her as she brings to life her family's influential role in the abolitionist movement.
A Heartfelt Thank You
We are still smiling from the success of Savor the Story 2026! It was a joy to gather with our community for an evening of film and food in support of the library.
A special thank you to our Premier Sponsor, CBI Bank & Trust, whose steadfast support of our reading programs makes initiatives like the Community Read and Summer Reading possible. We are grateful to all our sponsors and attendees for helping us nourish both mind and community.
Be sure to check back regularly to get our latest news updates.
Read how an unexpected tornado warning turned the Savor the Story event into a powerful moment of connection and community at the Galesburg Public Library. A story of resilience, generosity, and the impact of coming together.
Emmy-winning filmmaker mentors teens in the Foundation-funded Teen Film Project at the Galesburg Public Library.
Harold Ziehr’s life followed the rails—railroad moves, Army travel, and museum service—ending with a familiar routine: borrowing books at GPL.
Presidents’ Day reminds us that leadership often begins in a simple place: with a book. From Abraham Lincoln’s self-education by candlelight to today’s lifelong learners, this post explores how libraries turn curiosity into capability — and why access to reading remains one of the most powerful tools for shaping future leaders.
During Black History Month, the Galesburg Public Library Foundation hosted a screening of Alice’s Ordinary People, a documentary highlighting Alice Tregay’s grassroots leadership and the power of civic education to drive lasting social change.
Discover how voiceover artist Beverly Westergren uses Galesburg Public Library's professional Whisper Room recording booth to practice her craft while visiting home.
This short thank-you video features Galesburg Public Library patrons, families, and community members sharing their gratitude for the donors who make our library’s programs, resources, and spaces possible. Their words—and smiles—reflect the impact of your generosity every day.
We hope this message reminds you just how much your support matters to our community. Thank you for helping the library continue to inspire curiosity, connection, and opportunity for all.
The Galesburg Public Library Foundation has announced a new partnership with the Galesburg Community Foundation to establish locally managed endowment funds that support the library’s long-term sustainability. This collaboration ensures that donor gifts are stewarded close to home and invested in the library’s future—advancing programs, maintaining the facility, and strengthening the Foundation’s ability to meet community needs for generations to come.
Celebrate National Philanthropy Day with the Galesburg Public Library Foundation as we honor the generosity and compassion of our donors, supporters, and partners. This post reflects on the power of giving—how each contribution, large or small, helps expand access to learning, enrich community programs, and create inclusive spaces at the Galesburg Public Library. Discover how your support fuels innovation, connection, and lifelong learning in our community, and join us in building a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Each October, history awakens in Galesburg as the Ghosts of Galesburg event brings real figures from the city’s past back to life. This year’s gathering at Central Congregational Church highlighted the remarkable stories behind its 1897 stained glass windows—crafted by the Luminous Prism Company and George E. Androvette—and the lives they honor. From pioneers and inventors to scholars and missionaries, their light still shines through the glass that bears their names.
