Blog

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.

Walter Treash's toy collection at the Galesburg Public Library isn't just about nostalgia—it's about connection. What began as a lifeline during an isolated childhood has become a gift to his community. Through monthly displays in the library's curio cabinet, Walter shares pieces of his collection that spark joy, awaken memories, and remind visitors of the child they once were. This October, his Munsters and Addams Family collection brings a touch of spooky season magic to everyone who stops by.

Thanks to the generosity of the 100 Extraordinary Women Campaign, the Galesburg Public Library’s Skills Lab is flourishing! From hydroponics and sewing to robotics and sublimation printing, the lab offers hands-on learning for all ages. Recently, Pam and Natalie joined us for the Chamber of Commerce’s Try It Tuesday to experience the creativity in action.

From a college band stage to the library curio case—discover Rob Budach's quirky owl necklace collection that began with a $1 Goodwill find in the 1980s. A heartwarming community story from Galesburg Public Library.

In this post, meet Margarita Patton—a Spanish teacher, former ESL student, and passionate library user. From her first days in Galesburg navigating a new language to now tutoring others on their own language journeys, Margarita’s story is one of learning, giving back, and finding joy in curiosity. Whether she’s checking out books on gardening or helping a student master Spanish vocabulary, she shows how the library supports growth at every stage of life.

When Dr. Reginald Ball arrived in Galesburg, he thought he’d only be passing through. But in the quiet corners of the library—between the shelves and the unexpected books—he found something more: a place that felt like home. Between Places, Between Pages tells the story of how a library became a steady presence in a season of transition.