Sept. 25, 2025 — The Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation is proud to announce a transformational $3.5 million gift from the Busse Foundation, closing out the organization’s $10 million Inspiring Big Dreams capital campaign to build a new westside library. In recognition of this extraordinary gift, the new library facility will be named the Cedar Rapids Public Library Busse Branch.
“Our three daughters have always been avid readers and the Library played an important role for them growing up,” said Jeff Busse, Executive Director of the Busse Foundation. “Clearly the library plays an important role in literacy development, but it has grown to be so much more: A place for people to learn about community resources, a place to gather, a place for presentations, and a safe space.”
The Library Foundation’s $10 million Inspiring Big Dreams campaign launched publicly in January 2024. Money raised will help fund the construction costs for the library’s new facility located on 20th Avenue SW off of Edgewood Rd SW. The new Busse Branch will be approximately 40,000 square feet and provide double the collection and meeting room space found in the library’s current westside location known as Ladd Library.
“This incredibly generous contribution marks a historic milestone in the Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation’s commitment to this vital community project,” said Charity Tyler, Executive Director of the Library Foundation.
The Busse Foundation’s capstone gift, along with broad support from community members, foundations, and corporate partners, has helped the Big Dreams campaign achieve its goal. This ensures the library has a permanent home to replace Ladd Library, which is a leased space.
“We are deeply grateful to the Busse Foundation for their visionary support,” said Dara Schmidt, Director of the Cedar Rapids Public Library. “Their investment not only brings the campaign to a successful close, but it also demonstrates the true power of philanthropy. The Busse Branch transforms this neighborhood for generations to come, and opens opportunity far beyond its doors.”
A dedication ceremony for the new Busse Branch will be held as part of the Grand Opening, with further details to be announced in 2026.
