Whether you've got a specific book in mind, or you're looking for something totally new, we can help you find your next literary undertaking.
Stay Updated
Get monthly emails with handpicked titles you'll love, reserve upcoming releases, and recommend new books so your next favorite read is always within reach.
e - Newsletters
Get newest book titles by email once a month; you tell us what genre to send. (PPL does NOT share email information)
Get started by selecting your newsletters
Suggest a Purchase
Use when a new title is not in our catalog. (We do not purchase self-published materials.) Allow up to 4 weeks to process a request.
Reading Pathways
Finished a book you loved? Explore our reading pathways to find your perfect next read and continue your literary journey.
read together
Join a monthly book group or take on a reading challenge for fun, thoughtful ways to connect through books, discover new titles, and share what you love.
Next Chapter
Mostly fiction titles in this Adult Book Group. Meet the 1st Monday of the month (excluding holidays) at 2 pm, and again at 6:30 pm; attend whichever fits your schedule this month. New members can get a book at the Information Desk.
Book Lovers
Library Outreach - This community group meets every other month at Pekin Park District's Miller Center. Pick up a book at the Miller Center and discuss it the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 1:30. New members are welcome to join and discover great reads!
Adult Reading Challenge
Join our Adult Reading Challenge! Read a book each month based on our prompt and earn a small prize. Complete 8 of 12 challenges for a special December prize. Pick up your log at the front desk starting January 2nd!
Recommendations
Reading recommendations based on a title or author you like, subject, genre or appeal factors. Login with your library card number (Patron ID)
Custom Reads
Get personalized book packs based on your favorite genres and authors, curated just for your unique reading journey.
stream & read
Instantly access books, audiobooks, and films through Libby, Boundless, Kanopy, and more. Enjoy curated content, automatic returns, and zero late fees anytime, anywhere, on your favorite device.
Libby App
Through Libby, you have access to a large collection of eBooks and eAudiobooks. Simply search for Pekin (which should appear as "Alliance Digital Media Library"), and put in your library card information.
With Libby, you can check out up to 5 items at a time. Items automatically return if they aren't renewed, so you'll never need to worry about late fees! If a book you want isn't available, you can always put it on hold!
Download App
The Palace Project
eRead Illinois has replaced Boundless with The Palace Project!
To access eBooks and eAudiobooks through The Palace Project, just download their app, search their libraries for Pekin Public Library, and log in using your library card number and PIN. Once you’re logged in, you’re ready to start reading, listening, and placing holds for the future!
Available on iOS and Android.
kanopy
Kanopy is a streaming service provided to you at no additional cost, featuring ad-free movies, TV shows, documentaries, foreign films, and even independent films.
Library card holders get 15 tickets per month which can be used to stream Kanopy content.
Kanopy Kids has unlimited streaming, and doesn't use tickets. With Kanopy Kids, you have access to educational content to help supplement learning at home!
Get 15 tickets/mo
Custom Reads
Tell us what you like, and we will create a pack of books for your reading pleasure.
beyond books
Enjoy free entry to local attractions and discover digital works by Illinois authors and artists.
Local Perks
Enjoy free or discounted tickets to museums, science centers, zoos, parks, theaters, and other local cultural attractions with your library card.
Digital Reads
Discover local writers' digital works with Indie Illinois e-books and RAILS multimedia anthologies. Read online or download with an account.
start exploring
Unlock Books, Audiobooks, Movies, and More
Discover endless stories, knowledge, and entertainment free with your library card. Access it all anytime, anywhere.
