News & Updates

Feb. 26, 2026 – Winter weather has not slowed progress on the Busse Branch, which is set to open this fall. Spaces are beginning to take clear shape, including staff offices, meeting rooms, and collection areas. 

Dec. 22, 2025 — The Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation is excited to announce a major gift for the new westside library project from the Robert & Elizabeth Allsop Charitable Trust.

Oct. 10, 2025 – Construction continues on the Busse Branch of the Cedar Rapids Public Library. September’s weather gave contractors another great month to complete work around the library’s property.

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.

March 26, 2025 – The Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation and Lion Bridge Brewing Company have partnered to release Library Lager, a specialty limited-release beer, in celebration of the Westside Library project and National Library Week.&nb

Jan. 9, 2025 – Construction continues on the Westside Library as we enter 2025, and winter weather is fully upon us. Weather plays a critical role this time of year, and the project team is monitoring and adjusting work accordingly. 

Nov. 14, 2024 – The library hosted the official Westside Library Goundbreaking Ceremony on Friday, Oct. 18. The event was attended by over 100 community members.

Oct. 7, 2024 – The Cedar Rapids Public Library invites community members to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Westside Library on Friday, Oct. 18, at 10 am.

Jan. 26, 2024 – The Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation has launched the “Inspiring Big Dreams” capital campaign for the Westside Library project. 

The Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation announced this week it is the sole beneficiary of the Nadine E. Sandberg Estate, which is valued in excess of $1 million.