Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Library located?
What do I need to get a card?
To prove your residency in the City, you will need to bring a photo ID and two pieces of mail from a business or agency that has your current address on it. The mail must be newer than 30 days old.
For more information, click here.
What are the Library's hours?
Monday-Thursday 9 am - 7 pm
Friday 9 am - 6 pm
Saturday 9 am - 2 pm
For more information, click here.
I have a card from another Library. Can I use it at your Library?
Yes, any card from a public library recognized by the Illinois State Library will work at the Kankakee Public Library. Libraries around the state have agreed to reciprocal borrowing policies that make this possible!
Who is eligible to get a library card?
Any resident of the City of Kankakee is eligible to get a library card. Proof of address is required. A Kankakee postal address is not necessarily inside City limits. If you reside in an area not served by a public library but do pay property taxes on land owned within City limits, you can get a free card by presenting a current property tax receipt. If you live outside Kankakee City limits, and do not reside in a library-serviced area, can buy a card for one year for $180. Click here for more information.
When does my library card expire?
A Kankakee Public Library card for a City resident is valid for two years. Library Cards issued to non-residents are valid for one year. If you lose your card, report it to our Circulation Department to prevent unauthorized use. Replacement cards are $3. More information can be found here.
How long can I borrow materials?
Most books, periodicals, and audio-visual materials can be checked out for three weeks. Ready-Reference and Genealogy materials can not be checked out.
How many items can I check out at one time?
We ask that patrons use their good judgment when checking out materials. Some restrictions may be placed on high-demand materials.
How do I renew my materials? What if the material is damaged or lost?
Materials can be renewed in-person, or by calling our Circulation Department at 815.937.6901. Contact the Library if your item is damaged or lost. In most cases, you will be charged for the damaged or lost item. Find out more information here.
How can I find out about library programs?
What is available for children + teens?
We are proud of our fully staffed Youth Services Department, with a collection of over 30,000 books, ten computers, and youth and teen programming. Find out more here.
Does the Library have past issues of The Daily Journal?
We have a collection of The Daily Journal and its predecessor papers spanning from the 1850s to present day. on microfilm This collection is in the process of being made available online. The collection of PDFs can be viewed in our Genealogy Room, or viewed online here.
Can the Library help me find information?
Yes. We are happy to provide research assistance, satisfy curiosity, or assist with internet searches. You can call the Adult Services Department at 815.939.4564 option 4.
Is there an outdoor book return?
There is an outdoor book return in the parking lot of the Library. The slot on the left is for print items. The slot on the right is for CDs, DVDs, and other Audio-Visual materials.
What if I have another question about the Library that wasn't answered here?
Please call us at 815.939.4564, or email the appropriate staff member. Our Staff Directory can be found here.