Library Learning & Research Resources

The Reference Department at our Downtown Library can help you find print and online materials, file interlibrary loan requests, use new technology, or discover your next great read. Resources include our:

• Non-fiction collection, including print and online encyclopedias
• Article and newspaper indexes
• RIHS yearbooks, both in our historical collection and online (Internet Archive now available!)
• Computer resources, including wireless hotspots and time on public computers
• Consumer and medical information, business and stock research
• Newspapers on microfilm at Downtown Library
• Historical Room at Downtown Library
  • The Historical Room is open Thursdays from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm 
  • Resources for historical and genealogical research include plat maps, yearbooks and more. 
  • Staff research time also available for a fee. To open a research request, please call us or use these forms: 
    • Research Request Form
    • Digital Image Request from the Upper Mississippi Valley Digital Image Archive. Click linked name to search archive. 

The Library also has set aside specialized collections of information at the Downtown Library, including materials on citizenship, business, and careers. You'll also find the Federal Jobs Digest in the Careers section at the Downtown Library. For assistance, please check with the Reference Desk staff. 

Reference help is available during regular hours at the Main Library, by phone at 309-732-7341 or by email.

 

Online Tools

The Rock Island Library subscribes to a variety of online research tools that you can use for free. You can use these online tools 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from any device connected to the Internet. Or use them at any Rock Island Library location during business hours. Most require a Rock Island Public Library card. 
  
Get the app! Mobile apps for many digital resources are available here.