Located at 315 South Maple in Salem, Bryan-Bennett Library is a municipal library, providing free services to all residents who live within the city of Salem. Library cards are available to people who live outside the city limits for an annual fee of $50.
Books and Periodicals
The Bryan-Bennett collection includes more than 34,000 books. Bryan-Bennett also subscribes to the Salem Times-Commoner, the Centralia Sentinel, and the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Several magazines are also available at the Library.
Internet Usage
Internet access is provided to Bryan-Bennett patrons free of charge. There are two computers for adults and two Internet-accessible computers for children. Patrons do not have to possess a library card to use the Internet. However, all patrons are required to show a valid photograph identification, with the correct address, to use a Library computer.
For a child to use the Internet at the Library, a parent or legal guardian must sign an authorization notice — in person.
All Internet users must comply with the computer usage policy, which has been approved by the Library’s Board of Trustees.
Wireless Internet access is available at Bryan-Bennett Library and is provided to patrons free of charge.
Illinois Heartland Library System
One of Bryan-Bennett Library’s most valuable assets is its membership in the Illinois Heartland Library System, a regional, multitype library system serving school, public, special, and academic libraries.
The Library System’s service area covers 28,141 square miles in Central and Southern Illinois with a population base of 2,248,634.
The cornerstone of the Library System philosophy is that libraries of all sizes and types can benefit through cooperation and collaboration with one another. The primary role of the Library System staff is to facilitate and enhance that spirit of cooperation.
Community
Another Bryan-Bennett Library’s assets are the people and organizations in this community. Over the years, this Library has grown mainly because of the support it receives from various community organizations, volunteers, and the public. Any of the programs and activities at the Library are only possible with the financial support of donors and the logistical support of volunteers. And, the Library’s only purpose for existing is to serve the people of this community. Bryan-Bennett Library’s services are here for you. And, the Library appreciates and needs input. If there is something that the Library is offering and you would like to see it continue let us know. If there is something more that we could be doing to serve you, let us know. We are here for you.