As a result of the Illinois Governor’s extension of the Stay-at-Home order, all Rock Island Public Libraries will continue to be closed through April 30, 2020.

Library book drops are closed, and patrons are requested to keep checked-out materials until the library reopens at a date to be named later.

PrairieCat is extending due dates as well

• All due dates for physical materials extended to May 29
• Card expirations extended to June 1
• Expiration dates for previously placed holds extended to June 12

No fines will be assessed while libraries are closed. Library patrons can continue to use digital services.

These extensions apply to any library belonging to the PrairieCat online catalog and automation network.

Library eCards and WiFi Access

To serve Rock Island and extended Milan-area residents without physical library cards, the library extended its digital-only library card to ages 14 and older. The online application for the RIPL eCard is available on the library website under Get a Card.

Library WiFi signals remain on, and the signal may be accessed at points outside the building. The library requests that WiFi users stay in their cars if possible, and observe all precautions for physical distancing related to the Governor’s Executive Order.

Virtual Services Amp Up

“Libraries are essential to their communities, whether our doors are open or not. Although we are closed and abide by the Governor’s Executive Order, staff are quietly working behind-the-scenes from home doing a multitude of tasks, readying ourselves for when are able to open our doors. We have amped up our virtual services, which you can find on our Facebook page and website; we are taking continuing education courses to learn of new ways to help our public; and we continue to answer emails throughout the closure,” said Library Director Angela Campbell.

Though all in-person programming for April and May is cancelled, library staff offers online storytimes at 10:30 am on Tuesdays and Thursdays via Facebook Live, and are posting book talks and online activities.

“I assure you, when it is safe to open our doors, we will; and we will do it with the same spirit as we’ve always done, by welcoming everyone into our libraries and helping them with their educational and recreational needs,” said Library Director Angela Campbell.

To contact the library during the closure, send a message to our  Reference or Marketing emails or, send a private message via Facebook page

Library staff are monitoring social media sites on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and posting service updates at its website. 

Watch for updates, and obtain links to resources and facts here:  Coronavirus and your library.