Flood of 2008

The Cedar Rapids Public Library was among the thousands of homes, businesses, civic facilities and nonprofits in the city’s downtown and surrounding areas devastated by the June 11-13, 2008, flood. The Foundation will play a critical role in bringing back our main facility. Until then, the community is enjoying a broad array of library services at the CRPL Bridge Facility at Westdale Mall. The Foundation office is located across the hall from the Bridge Facility alongside other Library administrative offices at Westdale Mall.

Purpose

Together with the Friends of the Library volunteer group, the Foundation is the vehicle for private support of the Cedar Rapids Public Library.

For nearly 35 years, the Foundation has provided the Library with funds that are used to enhance book, CD, and DVD collections; children, youth, and adult programs; and technological services, including computer stations and computer classes for patrons.

Public funds support a strong library system; private funds elevate the library to a premier level.

History

Established in 1972, the Foundation was reorganized in 1980 to help finance a new building. The Foundation Board of Directors secured a $6.8 million contribution from the Hall Perrine Foundation with the stipulation that the City of Cedar Rapids provide a site and the Foundation raise $1 million. A successful fund raising campaign exceeded the goal.

Since the 1985 opening of the 1st street building, the Foundation has assisted the Library in its mission to promote literacy, develop superior collections, and expand technological services. Now, the Foundation will help rebuild this beloved institution - the "people's university".

Contributions

Contributions may be directed to the Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation as cash gifts, deferred gifts, insurance policies, and bequests. Gifts may be made to either the restricted or unrestricted endowment funds.

A gift to the Foundation is an investment in the future of Cedar Rapids and Linn County, ensuring that the tools of learning will be available to all. A free, public library is the hallmark of a democratic society. Download a printable donation form.

Make donations online through PayPal

Now you can make a donation to the Foundation using PayPal. Simply click on the donate button below. Donations through PayPal can be made using a PayPal account or by using a credit card.

Future Directions

Following the Flood of 2008, the Library Board of Trustees is re-assessing facility revitalization. As decisions are made about rebuilding, the Foundation will have a definitive role.

Following the Flood, many patrons, local residents and library supporters throughout the United States have given generously. The largest gift to date was presented Feb. 13, 2009, by Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) Company, a multi-national grain processor with a large Cedar Rapids plant. ADM donated $500,000 for rebuilding.

Board of Directors

The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors."

Current members of the Foundation Board of Directors.

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