The library will launch a newly redesigned website on Tuesday, September 27. The website comes as part of the library’s strategic goal of access, specifically making sure our online presence is as user-friendly and accessible as our physical buildings. The new site will feature updated navigation designed to make it easier for patrons to find… View more
The ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom tracked 729 challenges to library, school, and university materials and services in 2021. Of the 1597 books that were targeted, here are the most challenged, along with the reasons cited for censoring the books: Gender Queer by Maia KobabeReasons: Banned, challenged, and restricted for LGBTQIA+ content, and because it was considered to have… View more
The Fifth Avenue entrance of the Downtown Library is now open for holds pickup and material returns during regular library hours. The drive-up return is now open as well. Curbside hold pickup is available for those who prefer. The rest of the Downtown Library remains closed for cleaning and repairs at this time. Additionally, masks are requested but… View more
UPDATE July 29: The book drop at the Downtown Library is closed. Please return books to Ladd, Hiawatha or Marion Libraries or one of the book drops at Metro-area Hy-Vees. We currently do not have access to materials and holds at the Downtown Library. Holds and due dates will be extended. UPDATE July 28: The… View more
The Cedar Rapids Public Library is increasing the number of laptops available for patrons to borrow from the library thanks to funding from the Emergency Connectivity Fund through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The laptops are part of an effort to expand computer access for patrons, a need highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The library… View more
Our staff are what keep our library running smoothly. Take a peek behind the scenes at the wide variety of jobs at the library with this series highlighting a day in the life of different employees. Callie holds a unique position at the Cedar Rapids Public Library. She is the Acquisitions Clerk, a job that… View more
You are invited to explore our new public-facing library interface, or our online catalog, and check out all of the updated features. This new system is an update to the system used to search for books, movies, and other library materials, available from anywhere. The new system is more user friendly and has some new… View more
KultureCity has partnered with the Cedar Rapids Public Library to make the library and the programs and events the library hosts to be sensory inclusive. This new initiative promotes an accommodating and positive experience for all guests and patrons with a sensory issue that visit either the Downtown or Ladd Libraries. The certification process entailed the staff at the library being trained by leading… View more
The Ladd Library is currently in a leased space located at 3750 Williams Blvd SW. In 2020, the Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation received a significant gift from the estate of Nadine Sandberg which will lead the way toward establishing this permanent location on the city’s west side. The Library, City of Cedar Rapids, and Linn… View more
Last week, the CDC issued new guidance to protect communities from the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant. The CDC recommends those in an area of substantial or high transmission wear a mask indoors in public, whether vaccinated or unvaccinated. As of Monday, August 2, the Linn County area is coded as ‘red,’ signifying a… View more