Meet Meredith Crawford, who the Library Journal recognized in its annual list of 50 “Movers & Shakers: The People Shaping the Future of Libraries.” With relentless passion and energy, she has “connected the library to parts of the community that we’ve never been able to connect with.”
Iowa has a food culture of its own, and it’s been right under our noses all along.
Also, Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance touts record year for new membership
Since becoming a local affiliate of the country singer-songwriter and actress’ Imagination Library in 2018, the Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation has distributed more than 360,000 books to almost 12,000 children -- an average of about 30 books per child adding up to about 60,000 books each year in Cedar Rapids.
A set of 10 acrylic paintings by artist, guitarist and recently published novelist Sam Weis explores the definition of art and the role of abstract interpretation by inviting the observer to draw their own conclusions.
The vision for “a park in a library and a library in a park” is on its way to coming to life for Cedar Rapids’ new westside library. The library is being designed, but park amenities would include outdoor “reading rooms,” multiuse courts, community gardens, event space and more, leaning on natural elements.
Ten years after opening the Ladd Library and its current downtown location, the Cedar Rapids Public Library is building on a vision that’s more than books and reading.
Also, Iowa City initiative seeks to increase homeownership opportunities
Cedar Rapids residents can enjoy access to new and emerging workforce technology through the Maker Room at the Cedar Rapids Public Library this summer. After expanding their space and equipment at the downtown branch, the library is set to reopen the Maker Room Monday.
The program that employs people who’ve experienced homelessness to patrol Greene Square and key downtown areas is starting again for the summer months.
Residents can visit the Community Room at the Ladd Library, 3750 Williams Blvd. SW, from 4 to 6 p.m. May 1 for an update on the project. There are likely to be schematic drawings available to look at from architects.
The Cedar Rapids Public Library was honored with the Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize to recognize the library’s influence on the community. The prize is awarded to one library in North America each year.
Also, Marion and MEDCO publish a developer’s guide
The Westdale area is growing rapidly, and residents celebrate it for its diversity and mix of amenities. But what infrastructure and services are needed to support its growth? A new plan from Cedar Rapids will guide future improvements to this part of the southwest quadrant.
Using previously allocated ARPA funds, Cedar Rapids awarded $900,000 toward transitional housing for people experiencing homelessness, accessibility improvements, a dog park and the westside public library park.
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