Cedar Rapids Public Library

06/02/2026

Our slate of Summer Reading Monday programs kicks off June 8 with magician Mikayla Oz!

Her show is designed to make it feel like the kids are the ones making the magic happen. The show is high-energy, family-friendly, and features Mikayla’s magical sidekick, Bubbles the Bird, who appears and vanishes throughout the performance.

Showtimes are 10-11 am & 1-2 pm at the Downtown Library and 3:30-4:30 pm at Ladd Library.

All performances are first-come, first-serve - wrist bands will be handed out one hour prior to each performance.

The Summer Reading Challenge is generously supported by the Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation, the Friends of the Cedar Rapids Public Library, and Hills Bank.

Learn more about the Summer Reading Challenge: https://www.crlibrary.org/summer

06/01/2026

The Primary Election for the Democratic and Republican parties is tomorrow, Tuesday, June 2.

The Downtown Library is Precinct 36, and Ladd Library is Precinct 41. Polling places are open on Election Day from 7 am-8 pm, including the library precincts. Regular library services will be available during our normal business hours, 9 am-8 pm.

Have questions about voting? We've compiled some information on our website: https://www.crlibrary.org/voting

05/29/2026

Want to check out the library's Maker Spaces? Come the Maker Spaces Open House on Thursday, June 4, from 6:30-7:30 pm!

See a demonstration of the library's 3D printers and laser cutter while viewing completed projects for all machines. Learn how to use the rooms and ask a librarian about your potential projects or other maker-related questions.

https://www.crlibrary.org/event/maker-spaces-open-house-11210

05/29/2026

We are just one week out from the start of our Summer Reading Challenge!

The Summer Reading Challenge starts June 6 and runs through August 8. Read 600 minutes to complete the Challenge. Enjoy special events for all ages, earn reading badges, and visit the library for prizes!

The fun kicks off with a Giant Games party at on Saturday, June 6 from 10 am-noon at Ladd Library. We will have an inflatable obstacle course, giant Jenga, giant Connect Four, giant Bananagrams, and other activities.

https://www.crlibrary.org/summer

05/28/2026

As you plan your summer, make sure to pick up a copy of OPEN+ magazine. Along with all the great programs we have planned for summer, you can learn about the Summer Reading Challenge and about the upcoming transition from the Ladd Library to the Busse Branch.

The summer issue is available now at the Downtown and Ladd libraries as well as area Hy-Vee library drop boxes. You can also read a digital version or download a large print version on our website.

OPEN+ magazine: https://www.crlibrary.org/open

05/28/2026

Opportunity Center Program Coordinator Erin N. has working for the library since 2023. The Opportunity Center, based at Ladd Library, provides workforce development support - it's the place to go for job search help, resume writing, interview prep, and skill building, with both classes and one-on-one help. The Opportunity Center also provides English language lessons and conversation groups.

"One of my favorite things about working at the library is being able to share with patrons about some of the more unexpected supports and resources offered at the Cedar Rapids Public Library, like the Opportunity Center. Especially when I can tell them that I'm probably the wrong person they should ask about how to find a certain book in our collection, but then share with them what I do here at the library," Erin said.

Browse the books Erin loves: https://www.crlibrary.org/news/check-these-out-books-erin-n-loves

05/27/2026

Share this with the caregivers of little ones in your life!

A book in the mailbox can change a child’s future.

New research from the largest shared reading study ever conducted shows children participating in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library develop stronger early literacy skills, increased interest in books, and greater engagement during shared reading with caregivers.

These moments matter. Reading together today helps children build the foundation for lifelong learning far into the future.

Learn more about our local program: https://www.crlibrary.org/imagination-library

05/27/2026

Conduct market research Data Axle Reference Solutions - free to access with your Cedar Rapids Public Library Card.

This online reference and research tool provides up-to-date business and consumer data. It provides reliable, up-to-date information on more than 16.5 million verified U.S. businesses, making it easier than ever to find the perfect customers for your products and services.

Get started: https://www.crlibrary.org/digital-resources

05/27/2026

The Downtown Cedar Rapids Cedar Rapids Farmers Market and Buy Local Initiatives returns this Saturday, May 30, and so does the Friends of the Cedar Rapids Public Library Farmers Market book sale!

Browse new and gently used books on the Urban Plaza in front of the Downtown Library while shopping the market. Proceeds benefit the Friends, who support the library and literacy efforts in our community.

They'll be at each market from 7:30 am-noon. Put the dates on your calendar now: May 30, June 6 & 20, July 18, Aug. 1 & 15, and Sept. 5 & 19.

https://www.crlibrary.org/friends

05/26/2026

We will be upgrading our online catalog system Wednesday morning.

Beginning 7 am on May 27, online library accounts will be temporarily inaccessible, and we will be unable to place holds. Some databases, including Libby, will also be offline.

Work should be done by 10 am. Thank you for your understanding!