The Batavia Public Library, located in Batavia, Illinois, is a vital part of the community, providing a wide range of services and resources to its patrons. With a rich history dating back to 1885, the library has evolved to meet the changing needs of its users, offering a diverse collection of books, media, and programs for all ages.
History and Development
The Batavia Public Library was founded in 1885, with a collection of just 500 books. Over the years, the library has undergone several expansions and renovations, with the most recent being the construction of a new building in 2002. The new facility features a spacious reading area, a children’s section, a teen zone, and a community room, providing ample space for patrons to explore and learn.
Collection and Services
The Batavia Public Library boasts a collection of over 150,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, DVDs, CDs, and digital media. The library also offers a variety of services, such as free Wi-Fi, computer access, printing and scanning, and interlibrary loan. Patrons can also take advantage of the library’s online resources, including databases, e-books, and streaming services.
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 120,000 |
| Audiobooks | 10,000 |
| e-books | 20,000 |
| DVDs | 5,000 |
| CDs | 3,000 |
Programs and Events
The Batavia Public Library offers a wide range of programs and events for all ages, including author readings, book clubs, children’s storytime, and teen activities. The library also partners with local organizations to provide educational and cultural programs, such as STEM workshops, art exhibits, and concert series.
Children’s Services
The Batavia Public Library has a dedicated children’s section, featuring a play area, a storytime room, and a collection of picture books, early readers, and juvenile fiction. The library also offers children’s programs, such as storytime, craft sessions, and movie nights, designed to promote literacy and a love of reading in young children.
The library's summer reading program is a popular event, encouraging children to read and explore new books during the summer months. The program includes activities, games, and prizes, making reading a fun and rewarding experience for kids.
Technology and Accessibility
The Batavia Public Library is committed to providing accessible technology and resources to its patrons. The library offers assistive technology, such as text-to-speech software and magnification tools, to support users with disabilities. The library also provides wireless printing and mobile hotspots for checkout, making it easy for patrons to access the internet and print documents on the go.
Digital Collections
The Batavia Public Library offers a variety of digital collections, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services. Patrons can access these collections through the library’s website or mobile app, making it easy to borrow and enjoy digital content from anywhere.
| Digital Collection | Number of Titles |
|---|---|
| e-books | 20,000 |
| audiobooks | 10,000 |
| streaming services | 5,000 |
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+
The Batavia Public Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
How do I get a library card?
+
To get a library card, you can visit the library in person and provide proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill. You can also apply for a library card online and then visit the library to pick up your card.
What services does the library offer for children?
+
The Batavia Public Library offers a variety of services for children, including storytime, craft sessions, and movie nights. The library also has a dedicated children’s section with a play area and a collection of picture books, early readers, and juvenile fiction.
