Access historical documents, artifacts, and resources for research, learning, and discovery.
Obituary Archive
Index shows the date, page number and column of obituaries printed in the Times from 1914 to today. Use these with the microfilm reels available in the Local History Room (1914 through December 2018) to view and print copies of obituaries. Notices dated January 2019 and later, can be viewed and printed using this online link, because microfilm has been discontinued. If you are unable to visit, our local history expert can send a notice to you. (see fees)
Services & Fees
Learn about our community offerings—from reserving versatile spaces to accessing local history collections. We provide in-house resources, research assistance, and obituary lookups. Some services are free; others include modest fees.
Collection
Pekin Daily Times on microfilm; IL state and Tazewell county history resources; White’s Tazewell County Directories; Pekin City Directories from 1871; PCHS yearbooks – hardbound; some school newspapers; area directories. Resources are for in-house use.
Fees - History Research
Quick searches (15 minutes or less) are free! Fees apply for research/microfilm searches for items with unknown publication dates.
1 hour of Research – $15; 2 hours – $30.
We also can refer to independent professional researchers. For research services, please email: obituary@pekinpubliclibrary.org
Fees - Obituary Copies
1-5 obituaries with exact name and date – $5
6-10 with exact name and date – $10
Email name, date, page number and column to: obituary@pekinpubliclibrary.org
Collection
Pekin Daily Times on microfilm; IL state and Tazewell county history resources; White’s Tazewell County Directories; Pekin City Directories from 1871; PCHS yearbooks – hardbound; some school newspapers; area directories. Resources are for in-house use.
Fees - Obituary Copies
1-5 obituaries with exact name and date – $5
6-10 with exact name and date – $10
Email name, date, page number and column to: obituary@pekinpubliclibrary.org
Fees - History Research
Quick searches (15 minutes or less) are free! Fees apply for research/microfilm searches for items with unknown publication dates.
1 hour of Research – $15; 2 hours – $30.
We also can refer to independent professional researchers. For research services, please email: obituary@pekinpubliclibrary.org
Find Your Roots
Use these sites to find family history of all types. Don’t know how to get started? Come in or call to speak with our family history research expert.
Information organized by state and county
Photos of grave markers from around the U.S.
Digital images of genealogy records from Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Civil War Records
Soldiers and Sailors database for the Confederate and Union Armies
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and Connect with Us!
Bring a photo ID with your current address, or a photo ID + a piece of mail to the library front desk. If you are unsure if your address is within the library service area, please call 309-347-7111.
Pekin Public Library offers a wide range of materials, including books, electronic collections, and public programs. Visit us today to discover, learn, and interact with your library programs and services in your area.
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Hours of Operation
Monday-Thursday, 9.00 a.m. - 8.00 p.m.
Friday, 9.00 a.m. - 6.00 p.m.
Saturday, 9.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.
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