Port Library

Specific Need

We will be raising funds for future modifications to our building to meet emergent needs in the community. We will also welcome donations to provide more robust children's, adult, and family programming as materials expenses continue to rise.

Mission

The Port Library strives to create an environment where lifelong education flourishes. We are an equal opportunity resource for self-directed learning, providing research assistance, guided instruction and life enriching activities for the greater community. We work with our patrons to enhance their quality of life.

Profile

The Port Library is a mill levy funded service to the citizens of Beloit and also serves the surrounding area. We are additionally supported by grant funds from the Central Kansas Library System, which serves 16 counties in the area providing additional professional support and services. A tax funded Beloit Public Library began in 1927 but the Port Library was established in 1932 after the gift of the first dedicated building by Mrs. Emma Port. The library moved to its current location in 2012 after renovating the old girls' correctional facility cafeteria entirely with private funds and savings. We serve the local public of all ages with access to books, large print, audiobooks, magazines, DVDs, video games, and more. Patrons may use in-house computers, meeting rooms, study spaces, or even check out an internet hot spot. In addition we house the permanent record of the Beloit Call newspaper (on microfilm), provide genealogical and local records, reading programs in the summer and literacy outreach to area daycares year round, and feature a professional gallery display wall that any area artist or artistic group may use to display their work.