Summer Reading Program

A summer full of fun, free events and earn prizes for reading

Free
Kids' Card

Youth ages 0-18 in the Pekin area can get a free library card

Free events

Join us for special events each month, as well as on Early Release Days

Upcoming Events

Where Imagination and Learning Meet

At Pekin Public Library, we’re passionate about sparking curiosity and nurturing a love for learning in children of all ages. Whether it’s embarking on the 1,000 Reads journey, exploring tailored resources for educators, or participating in exciting library or school visits, there’s always something to engage young minds.

Upcoming Events:

Tiny Tots Playtime
10:00am – 11:00am Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Listen and Wiggle Storytime
10:00am – 10:30am Wednesday, June 26, 2024

Baby Bounce
10:00am – 11:00am Thursday, June 27, 2024

Whiz Bang Science Show
2:00pm – 3:00pm Thursday, June 27, 2024

Painted Ceramic Fairy Houses
6:00pm – 7:00pm Thursday, June 27, 2024

Book by Book

The Fun Journey to 1,000 Reads

1. Read 100 books and earn a free book
2. Repeat until you've read 1,000 books and your child will receive a library tote bag!

Join Our Library

Books for Kids and Tweens

Free for Educators in Pekin School District Area

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
Free card; no fines for late returns
Unlimited items with a 4 week check out
Materials for classroom use (not to leave the classroom) Any library item except kits may be borrowed
Only for PPL materials
Cards valid during the school year

Show your teacher ID and fill out an application at the lobby Information Desk. Takes about 5 minutes to get your Teacher Card!

Teacher Packs

Teacher Packs supplement your units of study, check 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 1 week before you need it.

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 call the Head of Youth Services, Catrina Klassen, at least one month in advance at 309-347-7111, ext 224 or e-mail cklassen@pekinpubliclibrary.org

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.

One month advance notice, please.

Free
Kids' Card