Visit the library's Facebook page or YouTube channel to view a short series of videos highlighting the library's history in the Cedar Rapids community.
Each new monthly episode will debut on the Facebook page and YouTube channel on the date listed.
March 18: Women Behind the Library
Hear stories about the women behind the Cedar Rapids Public Library and their contributions to making the library what it is today.
April 15: Stations Across the County
Learn about the variety of places the library went to meet readers and how that transformed into the Kenwood and Edgewood branches and bookmobile service.
May 20: Art in the Library
The library has always maintained a space for art, even from the beginning. Learn the history of the Downtown Library’s third floor gallery space, Grant Wood’s involvement with the library, the Zerzanek collection, and the art featured in different library buildings.
September 16: Summer Reading
Did you know librarians used to make all the summer reading prizes? Find out how the summer reading program has changed over the years.
October 14: Ghosts and Murder
Halloween is just around the corner, and in this video we'll explore some of the library's more creepy visitors and ghastly events.
November 18: History of the Friends of the Library and the Library Foundation
The library is lucky to have two very special groups that help it provide important support to all readers in the Cedar Rapids area.
December 16: Staff Memories
Hear from librarians both past and present who have left their mark on the Cedar Rapids Public Library.
The Downtown Library is located at 450 5th Avenue SE, in the heart of Downtown Cedar Rapids. It is a 94,000 square foot building with a variety of civic spaces and a vibrant collection of library materials. Special features of this location are the Whipple Auditorium, a 200 seat auditorium overlooking Greene Square; and the LivingLearning Roof, a green roof with public seating and space to hold special events. Roasters Café is located in the Downtown Library, providing a full service coffee shop for visitors, as well as catering for meetings and special events.