Open for Business.

Public libraries are the original co-working space, but now Peoria Public Library has just upped its game.

Thanks to $100,000 from the City of Peoria, the computer labs at Main Library and Lincoln Branch have been updated with new computers and software, including Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro, an industry-leading video editor. Additionally, both labs feature a new interactive 86-inch digital board that connects your cloud account to our computers, making everything from business presentations to coworking sessions a breeze.

“Free access to public computers and the internet is a core function of what we do,” said Peoria Public Library Executive Director Randall Yelverton. “Every day, we help those caught in the digital divide navigate the business of life, but I’m pleased that we’ve now enhanced our computer labs and added premier video conferencing equipment that many of our local businesses and nonprofits will find extremely useful.”

Peoria City Councilman and Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer for Peoria County Andre Allen added that this new investment is “pivotal in our ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide within our communities.”

Peoria Public Library is also adding new video conferencing capabilities at all five locations. Currently, Main Library and McClure and Lakeview branches have the new state-of-the-art system, with Lincoln and North branches set to go live by the end of this year.

Built-in and easy-to-use, the Logitech Rally Plus video conferencing system includes a 4K camera, microphones and speakers that all work in sync to make hybrid meetings (virtual and in-person) seamless in real time. Using artificial intelligence and voice recognition, the system adapts to meeting dynamics to keep the camera on the action.

“Company meetings, board meetings, job training sessions, there are so many uses for video conferencing in today’s world, but not every organization can afford such a sophisticated system,” Yelverton said. “We’re pleased to make it available to our community – for free.”

The public is invited to reserve any of our meeting rooms, including our computer labs, for free. (Minimal charges for special equipment or room setups may apply.)

To learn how to reserve a meeting space and to review Peoria Public Library’s meeting room policy, visit  https://peoriapubliclibrary.org/visit/find-something-new/reserve-a-meeting-room/