Early Learning Starts Here

Storytime programs, play-based learning, and engaging activities designed
to spark curiosity and literacy skills.

Explore Upcoming Childrens Programs!

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See you next summer!

Summer Adventure
a Roaring Success!

Thank you to everyone who participated in our Summer Adventure this summer! Rankin School was the winner of our 2026 School Challenge – they had the highest percentage of participants! Our Summer Adventure would not be possible without all the sponsorships, both from businesses and patrons.

Birth-K Reading Log

K-6th Reading Log

Teen Reading Log

Fun at the Library!

Upcoming Events

Where Imagination and Learning Meet

At Pekin Public Library, we’re passionate about sparking curiosity and nurturing a love of learning in children of all ages. There’s always something happening at your library!

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Book by Book

The Fun Journey to 1,000 Reads

Turning Little Readers into Big Book Lovers

Start by reading 100 books with your child and earn a free book. When you reach 1,000 books, your child will receive a special library tote bag to celebrate this
reading milestone. Every book counts on this fun journey.

Start Now

Books

Page-Turners for Kids

Discover awesome and engaging reads specially picked for curious kids ages 6 to 12.

Books

Chapter Book Round-Up

Explore engaging chapter book series filled with imagination, adventure, and unforgettable characters. Perfect for readers ready to start a new story.

ESPECIALLY FOR YOU!

Other Fun Services

Even more reading and fun options for you at the Pekin Public Library.

For Pekin Teachers

Resources for Educators in Pekin School District

We believe in working alongside educators to help bring library resources to young learners in our community.

Teacher Cards

Reading specialists, teachers, tutors and teacher aides employed by a Pekin public school, private school, child care center or preschool can get a teacher card in order to check out materials for classroom use (not to leave the classroom). Any library item aside from kits may be borrowed.

Free card; no fines for late returns

Unlimited items with a 4-week check out

Teacher cards can only be used to check out materials in the Pekin Public Library’s collection. Teacher Cards cannot place items on hold from nearby libraries.

Teacher Cards must be applied for in-person. Please bring your school ID (or equivalent form of identification) with you when you come to apply.

Library Visits

We welcome your classes to the library and provide bus grants to cover transportation costs.

Your class will tour the facility, receive instruction in using library services and an age appropriate story-time or book talk. Seasonally, visits can include a tour of the garden.

Studying a specific subject? Come to the library for research help. A librarian will show useful resources and teach students how to find books.

Please contact the Head of Youth Services, Catrina Klassen, at least one month in advance. You can get in touch via one of the following methods:

Phone: 309-347-7111, ext 224

Email: cklassen@pekinpubliclibrary.org

Teacher Packs

Teacher Packs supplement your units of study, can be checked out for 4 weeks, and may be renewed. Tell us the topic, and we fill a pack!

Use the catalog to place holds on specific titles. (Holiday books are limited to 5 per card. Please submit this online Teacher Pack Request at least one week prior to pick up.

Show your Teacher ID and fill out an application at the lobby Information Desk.

School Visits

Can’t come to the library? We will come to your individual classroom, large group assemblies, or school fairs and open houses. Students will learn about library materials, programs, resources, and cards through storytelling and book talks.