Rockford Public Library

06/19/2026

History is flying high at the Rockford Public Library! A rare 45-star American flag is now on display, connecting visitors to a unique chapter in our nation's story. Check out this piece of living history at the Main Library 215 N. Wyman St.

A 45-star U.S. flag is now on display at the Rockford Public Library’s main downtown location.

06/19/2026

The Stories Hidden in Plain Sight: Author Andrew Mertzenich on His Book, Forest City Yester Q***r

n this episode, we sit down with author Andrew Mertzenich to discuss his book, Forest City Yester - Q***r, a groundbreaking exploration of Rockford's LGBTQ+ history.

Our conversation explores the importance of preserving local history, uncovering stories that were once hidden, and why understanding the past helps us better understand our communities today.

Whether you're interested in history, storytelling, LGBTQ+ experiences, or the people who helped shape the communities we call home, this episode offers a fascinating look at the stories waiting to be found.

Catch this episode on your favorite podcast app or listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2448107/episodes/19371939

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to attend our June 30th event:
An Evening with the Author of "Forest City Yester-Q***r"
at the Main Library, 3rd floor local history
from 6P-7:30P

06/19/2026

Juneteenth marks a powerful moment in history—the end of slavery in the United States. Today, we reflect, learn, and celebrate freedom at Rockford Public Library.

06/18/2026

Plot twist: Reading this summer comes with prizes!

Join Rockford’s Summer Reading Challenge, log your books, and get rewarded for every page you turn!

Sign up here https://www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org/2026-summer-reading-challenge/

06/17/2026

Join us for:
Coffee With Jean: Celebrating America's 250th
Thursday, June 18th
10A-11A
This month's topic: Revolutionary War Soldiers Buried in Winnebago County

Engage over coffee and conversation on topics celebrating 250 years of American History.

The rest of the years scheduled talks:

July 16 – Independent Thinkers: Rockford Inventors, Part 2

August 20 – RPL’s Oldest Item: the 1491 Bible (no coffee provided today, please BYO)

September 17 – US Patents: What are They and How to Search for Them

October 15 – Celebrate Family History Month with Tips on Genealogy Research

November 19 – Honoring Native American Heritage Month by discussing Indigenous Tribes of Northern IL

December 17 – Holidays in Rockford History

06/16/2026

Join us for our 250th Anniversary Film Series. We are screening Superman in the J.R. Sullivan Theater at the Nordlof Center, Thursday June 18. Doors open at 5:30 Movie starts at 6P.

06/14/2026

Join us at the Montague Branch-1238 S. Winnebago St.
Tuesday, June 30 - 5P-6P

Learn how to write and draw the comic of your daydreams.

Are you inspired by titles like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Bad Kitty, or the classics like DC and Marvel?

Together, we'll get creative, expand your imagination, and create the beginning of your story. Come ready to draw and write a story of your choosing.

We have all the supplies and writing prompts to get you started. It's perfect for kids and teens with all skill levels and talents.

Save your spot and Register here:
https://services.rockfordpubliclibrary.org/event/16504868

06/11/2026

Today's screening of Superman has been postponed due to inclement weather. It will be shown next Thursday, June 18 at the Nordlof Center's J.R. Sullivan Theater.

06/11/2026

Celebrating community, connection, and pride!

Our Rockford Public Library team had an amazing time participating in Rockford’s 3rd Annual Pride Parade.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hello and celebrate with us. ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜

06/11/2026

This is what community impact looks like.
81 Rockford adults just earned their high school diplomas through RPL’s Adult Online High School—our largest class yet.

Eighty-one graduates from the Rockford Public Library’s Adult Online High School earned their high school diplomas at a commencement ceremony held at the Coronado Theatre, marking the largest…