DeKalb Public Library - DeKalb, Illinois

Mint M.

BEST KIDS SECTION I'VE SEEN IN A WHILE.
So many things for your children to do and learn about. The general book section was the best I've ever seen. I could spend days in this library. 100% recommended.

Will S.

My home computer broke this afternoon and I had an important deadline for somrthing at 6pm, so I came here. Tried saving the document along the way, just in case something idiotic happened, like this, but it wouldn't allow me.

Stepped away for a FIVE MINUTE work phone call, to not be rude, and all of my entire document I had been working on for an hour was deleted. Absolutely ridiculous. There are no signs up or anything that warn against the time period of that happening. Seems like an easy fix. Next time, I suppose I'll just be rude and take a phone call in here, to ensure I don't lose my work. What a joke.

What's extra disappointing and frustrating is that I STILL tried rewriting my entire document, after this, instead of leaving. Despite the computer kicking me off insanely quickly, I spent the next FORTY-FIVE MINUTES simply trying to just get the computer to work! I was told I could "just try another". It took over ten minutes after typing in the password for windows to load, over ten minutes for Google Chrome to open, over ten minutes for a Word document to download, etc. I am absolutely embarrassed that I had faith I could finish it there. I invested my time into this, just to be let down TWICE.

Why do these computers exist if they essentially don't work? My property taxes are obviously being wasted here. How pathetic. Either update/upgrade these computers or simply don't offer them. Obviously I will never be back and never trust the library computers ever again. There are people with actually important things to do on them and they need to be reliable.

To be totally truthful, I think that only a certain percentage of the computers actually work and the "regulars" who come in for the entire day, everyday, just to watch YouTube videos and scroll on Facebook know EXACTLY which ones to use and which ones to avoid, leaving the rest of the general public, who's just trying to stop in for a few minutes to get something productive done, the worst of the worst computers. Worthless system. Total failure.

They should require a LIBRARY CARD to use a computer here. To obtain one, people should have to verify proof of address. That way, it would regular who can use the computers. I can't believe that's not the policy in 2024. The city of Aurora requires a library card to log on. If they need a guest pass for a day or two, they can ask for one. Easy concept to implement and will immediately improve the system here.

Let'sGo P.

I love this place. I can always find something interesting to read. Everything is so beautiful... I enjoy being here. Every visit is unique. Let me say... the staff here is always willing to help with with any question you might have. 💕💻📚🔖

Melissa P.

I enjoy the quiet clean spaces to work on my laptop and read my books.

Casie K.

Beautiful library. I have been here a few times and it is very well kept.

Ann M.

The DeKalb Public Library is a gem of our town. The Programing is diverse and thought provoking and reaches ALL ages! I have reserved quiet rooms for small meetings and attended several educational programs. I LOVE the After hours concerts featuring and celebrating local artists!!!

Cindy G.

Love going to the library. There's so many books to choose from. Right now they are having their book sale.

Jennifer T.

The DeKalb Library is a beautiful building/place to visit! The positives: I like the large, open area where the free concerts perform, the basement rooms for crafting, etc., the quiet study rooms, the adorable children's area upstairs, the decent selection of books & magazines, available seating throughout and the cleanliness. I have only ever experienced helpful/happy staff which I greatly appreciate. The negatives: parking is not convenient/not close to the entrance, the entrance ramp is long and steep - a problem/challenge for those with handicaps, there are too many stairs to climb to enter, there is not a "drive-thru" book drop off, the bathroom doors only open partially which is a challenge/problem for patrons with handicaps, the lights are extreme/harsh/hurt my eyes (especially at night) in the area near the elevators (where they have a table featuring books), the movies/DVD selection needs to improve and expand. Sycamore Library and Cortland Library both have a better selection of movies/shows to choose from. Overall, DKPL is a nice place to find good books/spend time reading, taking fun or instructional classes and see free concerts/events.