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Image for event: Celebrate the Freedom to Read

Celebrate the Freedom to Read
2023-10-02 18:00:00 2023-10-02 19:00:00 America/Chicago Celebrate the Freedom to Read Join us for activities in honor of Banned Books Week where we will celebrate the freedom to read. Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium B

Monday, October 02
6:00pm - 7:00pm

Add to Calendar 2023-10-02 18:00:00 2023-10-02 19:00:00 America/Chicago Celebrate the Freedom to Read Join us for activities in honor of Banned Books Week where we will celebrate the freedom to read. Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium B

Downtown Library

Beems Auditorium B

Join us for activities in honor of Banned Books Week where we will celebrate the freedom to read.

Celebrate Banned Books Week by sharing your love of reading and our freedom to read with your friends from the library and Amnesty International. 

Activities include:

  • Book page button making 
  • Photo booth - take a photo with your favorite book
  • Community poster project: Celebrate the Freedom to Read with this collaborative art project.
  • Banned Book Display and Information on your Freedom to Read

Banned Books Week is October 1-7 and this year we are celebrating the Freedom to Read! When we ban books, we're closing off readers to people, places, and perspectives. But when we stand up for stories, we unleash the power that lies inside every book. We liberate the array of voices that need to be heard and the scenes that need to be seen. 

AGE GROUP: | Everyone |

EVENT TYPE: | Crafts and Hobbies | Books and Reading |

TAGS: | |

Downtown Library
Phone: 319.261.READ
Hours
Mon, Dec 04 9:00AM to 8:00PM
Tue, Dec 05 9:00AM to 8:00PM
Wed, Dec 06 9:00AM to 8:00PM
Thu, Dec 07 9:00AM to 8:00PM
Fri, Dec 08 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Sat, Dec 09 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Sun, Dec 10 1:00PM to 5:00PM
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About the branch

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.

Upcoming Events

Computer Skills Workshop - with IowaWORKS
Mon, Dec 04, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
Come learn new computer skills or gain additional experience on current skills with IowaWORKS and the Northstar Computer Literacy program.
LEGO and KEVA Plank Club
Mon, Dec 04, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
School age builders are invited to create with LEGOS and KEVA planks. Play may include challenges or open-ended constructing.
Between the Covers Book Club
Tue, Dec 05, 10:00am - 11:00am
Downtown Library - Unconference Room
Reading and good conversation in a relaxed atmosphere.
Early Learning Story Time
Tue, Dec 05, 10:00am - 10:30am
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
Join us for a fun-filled story time for children ages 2-5. This high-energy story times features stories, songs, parachute play, and bubbles!
Crafting Circle
Tue, Dec 05, 10:00am - 11:00am
Downtown Library - Technology Classroom
Bring in your crafting project to work on with fellow crafters. Share knowledge with one another and see how the Maker Spaces tools might take your projects to the next level.
Maker Spaces Open Hours
Tue, Dec 05, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Downtown Library - Maker Room
Certified learners are welcome to use the machines they have been certified to use – the Glowforge, 3D Printer, or Cricut – without having to make an appointment.
Resume Workshop - in the Opportunity Center Classroom
Tue, Dec 05, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
This course is beneficial for anyone looking to create their first resume or looking to improve or update one they already have.
Teen 3D Print Club
Tue, Dec 05, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Downtown Library - Technology Classroom
Learn how to use our 3D printer and design your own prints!
Baby and Toddler Story Time
Wed, Dec 06, 9:30am - 10:30am
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
A 15-minute story and song program for newborns to three-year-olds, followed by a 45-minute playtime.
Dungeons & Dragons - After School Club
Wed, Dec 06, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Downtown Library - Conference Room
The next batch of adventures await our characters. Drop in and observe, or bring a first-level character and dive in.
CR Chess Club
Wed, Dec 06, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A
A relaxed, casual session playing this great universal game!
Surprise! Art Exploration
Thu, Dec 07, 10:00am - 10:30am
Ladd Library - Community Room
Each week there will be different surprise materials for youth ages 3-8 to experiment with and create unique art!
Sensory Story Time
Thu, Dec 07, 10:00am - 10:30am
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
Children and caregivers are invited to a story time that is designed for attendees with multi-sensory needs including low lights, reduced sounds, and opportunities for social interaction and play.
Civil Rights Commission Community Office Hours
Thu, Dec 07, 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Downtown Library - Commons
Chat with staff of the Civil Rights Commission about your concerns and questions.
Work Readiness Skills - with Goodwill of the Heartland
Thu, Dec 07, 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
Come learn the essential skills that employers are seeking from their employees.
Cedar Rapids Public Library Board of Trustees
Thu, Dec 07, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Ladd Library - Community Room
The Cedar Rapids Public Library Board of Trustees meets the first Thursday of each month at 4 pm for their regular meeting.
Tango Práctica - For all levels of dance experience!
Thu, Dec 07, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Downtown Library - Whipple Auditorium
Learn the basic steps of Tango or continue to perfect your skills in a welcoming environment. No partner required.
Women's Studies Reading Group
Thu, Dec 07, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Downtown Library - Unconference Room
Fiction and non-fiction selections that are by, for and about women.
Dance to the Nutcracker! - with Orchestra Iowa
Fri, Dec 08, 11:00am - 11:45am
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
Join an active music-making class as participants are guided through the story through creative movement. An overview of the story will be shared through children’s literature. Registration required.
Friday Afternoon TCG - Magic, Pokemon, and More
Fri, Dec 08, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
Downtown Library - Union
Join us for an afternoon of playing your favorite trading card games.
Socially Anxious Hangout Group
Sat, Dec 09, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Downtown Library - Conference Room
Are you socially anxious, introverted, new in town, or just looking for an easy way to meet new people? Join us to play board games and have fun! (Knowing how to play games is not required.)
Merry TubaChristmas
Sat, Dec 09, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Downtown Library
The public is invited to attend and participate in the 22nd annual Cedar Rapids Area Merry TubaChristmas.
Early Learning Story Time
Mon, Dec 11, 10:00am - 10:30am
Ladd Library - Community Room
Join us for a fun-filled story time for children ages 2-5, featuring stories, songs, and other interactive activities.
Computer Skills Workshop - with IowaWORKS
Mon, Dec 11, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
Come learn new computer skills or gain additional experience on current skills with IowaWORKS and the Northstar Computer Literacy program.
LEGO and KEVA Plank Club
Mon, Dec 11, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
School age builders are invited to create with LEGOS and KEVA planks. Play may include challenges or open-ended constructing.
Early Learning Story Time
Tue, Dec 12, 10:00am - 10:30am
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
Join us for a fun-filled story time for children ages 2-5. This high-energy story times features stories, songs, parachute play, and bubbles!
Crafting Circle
Tue, Dec 12, 10:00am - 11:00am
Downtown Library - Technology Classroom
Bring in your crafting project to work on with fellow crafters. Share knowledge with one another and see how the Maker Spaces tools might take your projects to the next level.
Maker Spaces Open Hours
Tue, Dec 12, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Downtown Library - Maker Room
Certified learners are welcome to use the machines they have been certified to use – the Glowforge, 3D Printer, or Cricut – without having to make an appointment.
Book Lovers Book Club
Tue, Dec 12, 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Ladd Library - Community Room
Newcomers always welcome to this general interest book club.
Baby and Toddler Story Time
Wed, Dec 13, 9:30am - 10:30am
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
A 15-minute story and song program for newborns to three-year-olds, followed by a 45-minute playtime.
Dungeons & Dragons - After School Club
Wed, Dec 13, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium B
The next batch of adventures await our characters. Drop in and observe, or bring a first-level character and dive in.
CR Chess Club
Wed, Dec 13, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A
A relaxed, casual session playing this great universal game!
Sensory Story Time
Thu, Dec 14, 10:00am - 10:30am
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
Children and caregivers are invited to a story time that is designed for attendees with multi-sensory needs including low lights, reduced sounds, and opportunities for social interaction and play.
Chair Yoga - with Tammy Bayer of Toula Yoga
Thu, Dec 14, 1:00pm - 1:45pm
Ladd Library - Community Room
Join us for a beginner-level chair yoga class with Tammy Bayer from Toula Yoga. Tammy will adapt the class as needed to fit your needs and mobility levels.
Tango Práctica - For all levels of dance experience!
Thu, Dec 14, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Downtown Library - Whipple Auditorium
Learn the basic steps of Tango or continue to perfect your skills in a welcoming environment. No partner required.
Dance to the Nutcracker! - with Orchestra Iowa
Fri, Dec 15, 10:00am - 10:45am
Ladd Library - Community Room
Join an active music-making class as participants are guided through the story through creative movement. An overview of the story will be shared through children’s literature. Registration required.
Friday Afternoon TCG - Magic, Pokemon, and More
Fri, Dec 15, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium B
Join us for an afternoon of playing your favorite trading card games.
Holiday Family Portrait Day
Sat, Dec 16, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Downtown Library - Whipple Auditorium
Register for a free family portrait with Monawar Studios for your holidays.
Register
Corridor Games on Demand - Community Game Day
Sat, Dec 16, 12:00pm - 4:00pm
Downtown Library - Conference Room
Come play some tabletop games with us! Bring your favorite indie RPG to share with the group or try a new game that one of our GMs has prepared. No experience necessary.
Early Learning Story Time
Mon, Dec 18, 10:00am - 10:30am
Ladd Library - Community Room
Join us for a fun-filled story time for children ages 2-5, featuring stories, songs, and other interactive activities.
Computer Skills Workshop - with IowaWORKS
Mon, Dec 18, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
Come learn new computer skills or gain additional experience on current skills with IowaWORKS and the Northstar Computer Literacy program.
LEGO and KEVA Plank Club
Mon, Dec 18, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
School age builders are invited to create with LEGOS and KEVA planks. Play may include challenges or open-ended constructing.
Crafting Circle
Tue, Dec 19, 10:00am - 11:00am
Downtown Library - Technology Classroom
Bring in your crafting project to work on with fellow crafters. Share knowledge with one another and see how the Maker Spaces tools might take your projects to the next level.
Maker Spaces Open Hours
Tue, Dec 19, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Downtown Library - Maker Room
Certified learners are welcome to use the machines they have been certified to use – the Glowforge, 3D Printer, or Cricut – without having to make an appointment.
Teen 3D Print Club
Tue, Dec 19, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Downtown Library - Technology Classroom
Learn how to use our 3D printer and design your own prints!
Cookie Recipe Swap and Tasting - Family Favorites
Tue, Dec 19, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ladd Library - Community Room
Looking for a new great cookie recipe? Attendees will bring in a family favorite cookie recipe and cookies to share with other attendees.
Cricut Crafts: Vinyl Stickers
Wed, Dec 20, 10:00am - 11:30am
Ladd Library - Community Room
Want to learn how to use a Cricut? Bring your favorite travel mug or bottle and create a cute vinyl sticker for it. Comfort with using a computer and mouse is suggested. Registration required.
Canceled
Dungeons & Dragons - After School Club
Wed, Dec 20, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Downtown Library
The next batch of adventures await our characters. Drop in and observe, or bring a first-level character and dive in.
CR Chess Club
Wed, Dec 20, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A
A relaxed, casual session playing this great universal game!
Mother Goose on the Loose
Thu, Dec 21, 10:00am - 10:30am
Ladd Library - Community Room
Join us for a 20-minute, interactive nursery rhyme program designed for newborns to three-year-olds.
Accessible STEAM
Thu, Dec 21, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A/B
Interactive program that invites adults with disabilities to create art, make crafts, play games, and explore the Maker Spaces.
Work Readiness Skills - with Goodwill of the Heartland
Thu, Dec 21, 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
Come learn the essential skills that employers are seeking from their employees.
Winter Solstice Sound Bath Meditation
Thu, Dec 21, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A/B
Attune to the season through the power of sound bath meditation.
Read to Dogs
Thu, Dec 21, 6:30pm - 7:00pm
Ladd Library - Community Room
Trained, certified therapy dogs provide companionship to emerging readers as they earn a free library book and bookmark. Everyone is welcome to read to the dogs. Stay for a performance at 7 pm.
Canceled
Friday Afternoon TCG - Magic, Pokemon, and More
Fri, Dec 22, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
Downtown Library
Join us for an afternoon of playing your favorite trading card games.
Parachute Play & Snow Games
Sat, Dec 23, 10:00am - 11:00am
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
Parachute games and songs followed by indoor snow fun!
Library Closed
Sun, Dec 24, All day
Downtown Library
Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
Library Closed
Sun, Dec 24, All day
Ladd Library
Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
Library Closed
Mon, Dec 25, All day
Downtown Library
Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
Library Closed
Mon, Dec 25, All day
Ladd Library
Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
Library Closed
Tue, Dec 26, All day
Downtown Library
Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
Library Closed
Tue, Dec 26, All day
Ladd Library
Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
School's Out: Build a Marble Maze
Wed, Dec 27, 10:00am - 11:30am
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
See the library's Glowforge in action then make a marble maze to take home.
This event is full
Canceled
Dungeons & Dragons - After School Club
Wed, Dec 27, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Downtown Library
The next batch of adventures await our characters. Drop in and observe, or bring a first-level character and dive in.
CR Chess Club
Wed, Dec 27, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A
A relaxed, casual session playing this great universal game!
Parachute Play
Thu, Dec 28, 10:00am - 10:30am
Ladd Library - Community Room
Join us for a session of parachute games and songs at Ladd Library.
Tango Práctica - For all levels of dance experience!
Thu, Dec 28, 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Downtown Library - Whipple Auditorium
Learn the basic steps of Tango or continue to perfect your skills in a welcoming environment. No partner required.
Canceled
Friday Afternoon TCG - Magic, Pokemon, and More
Fri, Dec 29, 2:30pm - 4:30pm
Downtown Library
Join us for an afternoon of playing your favorite trading card games.
Minute to Win It: Kids Snow Bash
Sat, Dec 30, 1:00pm - 1:45pm
Ladd Library - Community Room
Join us for games and indoor fun away from the cold temperatures outdoors! We will end the event with a snowball fight in the Community Room. Registration required.
Library Closed
Sun, Dec 31, All day
Downtown Library
Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
Library Closed
Sun, Dec 31, All day
Ladd Library
Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
Library Closed
Mon, Jan 01, All day
Downtown Library
Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
Library Closed
Mon, Jan 01, All day
Ladd Library
Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library are closed.
Between the Covers Book Club
Tue, Jan 02, 10:00am - 11:00am
Downtown Library - Unconference Room
Reading and good conversation in a relaxed atmosphere.
Early Learning Story Time
Tue, Jan 02, 10:00am - 10:30am
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
Join us for a fun-filled story time for children ages 2-5. This high-energy story times features stories, songs, parachute play, and bubbles!
Resume Workshop - in the Opportunity Center Classroom
Tue, Jan 02, 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Ladd Library - Opportunity Center Classroom
This course is beneficial for anyone looking to create their first resume or looking to improve or update one they already have.
Teen 3D Print Club
Tue, Jan 02, 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Downtown Library - Technology Classroom
Learn how to use our 3D printer and design your own prints!
Baby and Toddler Story Time
Wed, Jan 03, 9:30am - 10:30am
Downtown Library - Children's Program Room
A 15-minute story and song program for newborns to three-year-olds, followed by a 45-minute playtime.
Dungeons & Dragons - After School Club
Wed, Jan 03, 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium B
The next batch of adventures await our characters. Drop in and observe, or bring a first-level character and dive in.
CR Chess Club
Wed, Jan 03, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Downtown Library - Beems Auditorium A
A relaxed, casual session playing this great universal game!
See all events