Newsroom

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.

In this Foundation Faces feature, we spotlight Ron Hunt—a lifelong learner, artist, and dedicated supporter of the Galesburg Public Library. From his years teaching poetry and watercolor to his continued advocacy for the library in retirement, Ron’s story is one of creativity, curiosity, and quiet impact.