About the Library

Mission Statement – The Watseka Public Library serves as an informational, recreational and educational center for persons of all ages in the community. Special efforts are made to help children develop an appreciation for reading and libraries and to encourage all library users to become lifelong learners.

Vision Statement – Watseka Public Library will be an integral part of the evolving Watseka community and of the lives of its residents. Our living, growing library will enrich the Watseka community by providing high-quality resources, services and access to information.

Library Cards – Watseka Public Library is a city library supported by city taxes. Library cards are available without charge to all residents of the City of Watseka and to anyone owning city property. Anyone living outside the city limits of Watseka may obtain a library card by paying an annual fee. Valid resident cards issued by other libraries within Illinois are also honored.


FAQ

What do I need to get a library card? – We require a photo ID and a piece of mail that has been sent to your current address in the last 30 days. Anyone outside the city limits will need to pay the amount residents already pay in taxes. The amount for 2025/2026 is $95.

Do I need a library card to use the internet? – You can use the internet services at the library without holding a library card. Please see the front desk to sign in to use a public computer.

How much do library services cost? – We offer printing services starting at $0.10 for one sided black and white and $0.25 for one sided color. We also offer faxing for $1.00 per page ($8.00 international) and lamination for $1.00 per page.

What forms of payment does the library accept? – We accept cash and check payments. We DO NOT accept any credit card or digital payments.

Can we get a document Notarized here? – No, the Watseka Public Library is not a Public Notary.


Informational Links

https://www.watsekacity.org/

https://watsekachamber.org/

http://www.watsekaschools.org/

https://www.illinoisheartland.org/

http://search.illinoisheartland.org/default.aspx?ctx=717.1033.0.0.1

https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/library/

WPL invites you to join us for our Summer Reading Challenge “Plant a Seed, Read” Kickoff Party on June 1st! The Kickoff Party is the first of many activities planned for Summer Reading. This six week summer reading program for all ages, begins June 1st with a host of activities, events, and crafts centered around the farm to table theme. Stop in between 9:00 and 5:00 to sign up on Beanstack, collect your registration prize, and enjoy some fun activities. Extra staff will be on hand to help you with the Beanstack App. Please keep an eye out for more information on our upcoming summer reading events for all ages! Sign ups for all of our events will begin at the Kickoff Party!

Visit the StoryWalk at Lakeview Park to experience a brand new story every six weeks. Library staff select a children’s book to go with the seasons or upcoming events. The current book is “I Want My Hat Back” by Jon Klassen.

Book cover of "I Want My Hat Back' by Jon Klassen.