Rockford Public Library

06/01/2026

06/01/2026

Saturday night. welcomed audiences to screen 5 short films made by RPL Artist in Residence Neil Bloom and community.

05/30/2026

Have you signed up for the Summer Reading Challenge yet? NO?! Why ever not darling? This is about to be your "lit girl summer", "LITERATE girl summer" that is. "Articulate and well read girl summer" as a matter of fact! After you sign up the benefits only begin, not only are you ensuring you're interesting in IRL and benefitting your brain long term, you're also eligible to win prizes at the end of the challenge. Win-win, right? Right! In a reading rut but still want to get started? Come look at June's Blind Dates with a Book display at Main. We have made selections all around the theme of Baddies just like you who love to read. Stop by and you'll thank yourself later, we promise! XOXO- RPL

The Blind Dates with a Book will be on display starting June 1 on the 2nd floor of the RPL Main Library (215 N. Wyman St.)

05/27/2026

What does it take to build a filmmaking community from the ground up in a mid-sized Midwest city? Bridget Finn, RPL Marketing Director, sat down with Neil Bloom- writer, director, and founder of Future Films, and the Rockford Public Library’s newest Artist in Residence - for a conversation about storytelling, ego-free sets, and why he believes Rockford has everything it needs to support a thriv9ng creative community. Neil talks about his journey from theater kid to filmmaker, the vision behind Forest City cinema Community, what it means to call RPL’s Nordlof Center home, and the five short films he and his collaborators have been quietly building toward a big night on May 30th. This one is for every Rockford creative who’s ever wondered if this city is the right place to make something real.

Tickets to the Neil Bloom Short Film Showcase are $10 at this link. JR Sullivan Theater at RPL’s Nordlof Center, Saturday, May 30th – doors open at 6PM screenings are at 7PM.



Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/neil-bloom-short-film-showcase-tickets-1988600601932?aff=oddtdtcreator

05/27/2026

Ven y únete a nosotros en South Main Mercado el domingo 7 de junio de 12 a 7 p.m. Este gran evento celebra la rica herencia hispana y latina de la ciudad y tendrá lugar en las calles South Main y Morgan. ¡Nuestro equipo de la biblioteca estará allí con la biblioteca móvil hablando sobre el desafío de lectura de verano, cómo obtener una tarjeta de biblioteca, los muchos programas que ofrecemos y más! También tendremos manualidades y cositas para regalar. ¡Esperamos verte allí!

05/26/2026

Join us at Rockford Public Library for a gathering for adults who care for loved ones with dementia or memory loss. The class will be held Monday, June 15, 10A-11A on the 3rd floor of the Main Library (215 N. Wyman St.) in Meeting Rooms 334 (A) and 335 (B).

Support: there will be practical caregiving tips, information on local resources, and available library resources.

Share: Attendees can share stories and conversations to connect with others in their caregiving journey.

Sip: Coffee from Wired Cafe will be provided for attendees.

This class is open to everyone whether you're new to caregiving or need additional support. Your loved ones are invited to come with to enjoy activities in a connected room and will be close by if they need assistance.

05/25/2026

In observance of the Memorial Day holiday, the library will be closed Monday, May 25. We will reopen during our regular hours on Tuesday, May 26.

Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day. We look forward to seeing you soon.

05/23/2026

Class is full. For those registered, a reminder that Watercolors on the Terrace is happening this coming Tuesday, May 26, after the Memorial Holiday, at the Main Library. Feel free to cancel if unable to attend. Thank you to all who are interested. Keep an eye out for additional watercolor classes available in the future.

05/21/2026

Join us Saturday, May 30th at the JR Sullivan Theater Tickets $10- link in bio!

05/21/2026

Personalize your reading experience with this bookish craft.

Get hands-on and create your own unique collage bookmark. We’ll provide craft paper, stamps, ribbon, and a variety of fun materials to spark your imagination, though you’re welcome to bring your own items to personalize your design. Perfect for all skill levels—come to relax, get creative, and leave with a handmade bookmark you’ll love to use or share. Registration is suggested but not required.

Join us:
May 27th–3P-4P
Friends of RPL Community Room
East Branch
6685 E. State St.

Register here:
https://services.rockfordpubliclibrary.org/event/16215675