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New Library

Tour the Galesburg Public Library from the Outside In

The new library will blend with the unique character of the Galesburg historic district while providing extensive natural light indoors and outdoor green space to host library programs and feature public art and gardens. 

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Stepping Through the Doors

The library will feature bright, airy spaces that invite engaged learning, personal reflection, and community building. The interior will reflect Galesburg’s dynamic people and rich culture, emphasizing both history and present day.

The New Library will Feature:

  • Community Room

    A space equipped with a serving kitchen and the latest AV capabilities will be available after library hours and open to community members and groups to reserve for meetings, gatherings, and performances.

  • Children's Area

    This space will feature a discovery space for creative play, a family center to provide comfortable places for parents and caregivers to read to and interact with their children, and an early literacy center and tutoring space for deeper study.

    See the G.L. Vitale Family Foundation Children’s Discovery Area.

  • Teen Space

    A rich and welcoming environment to engage teens in fun and productive activities. It will include a gaming area, music listening station, and space for group study.

  • Skills Lab

    An interactive classroom for adults and teens to use tools, equipment, and training simulators to develop skills that may equip them for the workforce or empower them to live and thrive independently.

  • Public Living Room

    A large and relaxing space for adults to read, study, and connect with neighbors. Outside, a patio will invite outdoor reading, while inside, patrons will find many places to comfortably browse, linger, and connect.

  • Professional Spaces

    A space to help individuals and businesses realize their professional goals. This area will feature a learning commons with plentiful computer access and charging stations, small meeting spaces, and a large conference room.

Library Floorplans:

See what’s happening with the new Galesburg Public Library.

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Blog

byHeather Sipes

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.

byHeather Sipes

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.

byHeather Sipes

This summer, over 450 children experienced the joy of reading, creativity, and connection through the Galesburg Public Library’s Summer Reading Program. In this post, we’re celebrating the impact of your support, sharing heartfelt notes from young participants, and highlighting how—together—we exceeded our fundraising goal.

byHeather Sipes

When young Gerry Ingraham faced a difficult chapter in his life, he found refuge, inspiration, and self-education among the shelves of the Galesburg Public Library. This heartwarming story shares how the library became his safe haven, guiding him through hardship and shaping the curious, thoughtful man he would become. From the stacks to the sea, Gerry’s journey reminds us all of the life-changing power of libraries.

byZach Larson

This heartfelt blog post by Zach Larson reflects on the artistic legacy of his father, Ric Larson—woodworker, sculptor, and creator of the beloved Mother Goose statue. From childhood memories at art fairs to the sculpture’s return to the Galesburg Public Library, Zach shares the story behind the artwork and the meaningful connection his family has to the library and community.

byHeather Sipes

April is more than just a familiar face at the Galesburg Public Library—she’s a dedicated borrower, loyal volunteer, and proud champion of everything the library offers. In this story, discover how April’s deep connection to the library has shaped her days, built community, and brought unexpected joy in retirement.

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