Mobile Technology Lab

Large extended van used for mobile technology outreach

The Mobile Technology Lab is much more than a traditional bookmobile – it is a maker space, computer lab, and traveling library all in one.  

Our van started rolling in the summer of 2021, fully loaded with all kinds of technology, from laptops and printers to Ozobots and Makey Makeys, designed to help kids learn coding and engineering. The lab is also equipped to carry books and be the library’s rolling ambassador into the community. 

The library uses the Mobile Technology Lab for all kinds of outreach activities, from summer park visits for kids to resume assistance stations at job fairs. 

The Mobile Technology Lab was made possible through community support. The Giacoletto Foundation helped purchase the van and all shelving and modifications, and additional support came from Collins Aerospace, the Alliant Energy Foundation, ITC Midwest, and the Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation. 

Much of the same technology found in the van is also available at the Downtown Library’s Maker Spaces, which is available to visit by appointment. 

In order to provide an equitable and accessible opportunity, the Mobile Technology Lab brings these fun and inspiring programs, activities, and resources out into the community. 

Look for the lab in a neighborhood near you! Find upcoming stops on our events calendar.

Cedar Rapids reads logo

Summer Reading Challenge

Find us at parks around the city during the summer months as part of Cedar Rapids Reads: Summer Reading Challenge. 

Stops typically feature an all-ages story time at the start of the program, followed by activities, games, and giveaways with our Mobile Technology Lab. 

Check back here for updates. 

Children and community members gather around a library table with the Mobile Technology Lab in the background

Severe Weather

The Cedar Rapids Public Library values and prioritizes the safety of our patrons and staff. During extreme weather, outdoor outreach programs will be cancelled in accordance with Iowa Department of Public Health guidelines, including: 

  • Tornado or Severe Thunderstorm Warnings 

  • Heat Index above 100 degrees Fahrenheit 

  • Air Quality Index above 150

  • Wind Chill below 10 degrees Fahrenheit 

Outdoor outreach may also be cancelled at the discretion of the Library Director or library management. 

All decisions will be made no later than 30 minutes before the start of an outdoor program. Cancellations will be communicated on the library’s social media channels and the online events calendar.