Explore the variety of resources available online.
Get a Library Card
Sign up for a Library card online or call the Library at 319.261.7323 and a staff member will assist you. Your library card gives you free access to a collection of books, movies, music, magazines, and so much more.
Support Kids Learning
There are a variety of online resources available to keep kids of all ages busy.
- Brainfuse – live online tutoring, skill builders, test prep, and a writing lab
- Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library – free monthly book delivery for Cedar Rapids kids ages 0-5
- Khan Academy – free online courses
- Tumblebooks – digital children’s books
- Reading Challenges – Read to complete these special online challenges
- Additional Resources – find educational and fun resources for kids of all ages recommended by our library staff
eBooks and Audiobooks
The Library offers a variety of free ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines.
- cloud library – cloud library brings you a seamless eBook experience. Start your book on one device and then resume on another.
- hoopla – Download and stream free videos, music, audiobooks, comics, and ebooks to your mobile device or computer. This is available for Cedar Rapids and Marion residents only.
- Overdrive – Overdrive allows you to borrow eBook and Audiobooks from us here at the Cedar Rapids Public Library – anywhere, anytime.
Streaming TV and Movies
- hoopla – Download and stream free videos, music, audiobooks, comics, and ebooks to your mobile device or computer. This service can only be used by Cedar Rapids and Marion residents.
- Kanopy – Watch over 30,000 documentaries, classic and indie films through this streaming service.
- LinkedIn Learning with Lynda.com – Have access to thousands of free online training videos and courses. Help with Photoshop, Excel, financial literacy, writing etc. There is a topic for everyone!
Adult Learning Resources
- Digital Archives of the Cedar Rapids Public Library – Learn more about Cedar Rapids history by accessing these historical newspapers and telephone books.
- HarvardX – Free online courses from Harvard.
- JobNow – Access live job coaching, resume writing labs, and unemployment assistance.
- Linkedin Learning – (Previously Lynda.com) Have access to thousands of free online training videos and courses. Help with Photoshop, Excel, financial literacy, writing etc. There is a topic for everyone!
- Pronunciator – The worlds largest language-learning service. Choose from over 80 languages to learn.
- Skills and Support – Explore our online resource page for job and personal development.
- Additional Resources – Find links to educational resources for adults recommended by our library staff.
What to Read
- Grab Bags – Fill out this brief survey and receive a personalized grab bag of items placed on hold just for you.
- Novelist – Having trouble deciding on a book? Novelist can help recommend a book based on numerous titles and authors. This service can only be used by Cedar Rapids Public Library Cardholders.
- Staff Recommendations – Find regularly updated recommendations on what to read and view on our book blog.
Support the Library
Support the Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation. The Foundation mobilizes community resources and relationships that empower our Library to deliver innovative programs and services. Supporting the Foundation provides the Library with the ability to serve our patrons above and beyond what we could do alone. Thank you for your support!