Library response to COVID-19: Temporary changes in service

Dear Library Patrons:

The Iowa City Public Library is dedicated to serving our community and improving the quality of life of our patrons. Usually, this work includes proactively participating in community events, offering enriching programs and classes, and working hard to meet our community members where they are throughout Iowa City. We love these active parts of our service. However, sometimes we have to adjust our service model in response to new or shifting challenges, and this is one of those times.

Based on the guidance of the State Library of Iowa and the information from the Johnson County Department of Public Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the World Health Organization, ICPL is scaling back a carefully selected group of services effective immediately. This decision was difficult, but we feel obligated to be proactive in contributing to a healthy community. These changes will be in effect through April 3, or until further notice.

• All library-sponsored programs, events, and classes are postponed
• The Library Volunteer Program is suspended
• All outreach is cancelled, except the Bookmobile
• All toys and art supplies have been removed from the Children’s Room

Other library services will continue to be available, and our staff look forward to serving you in the building, on the Bookmobile, via the phone, or online. We recommend checking our website, the online calendar or calling the library before coming in for a specific event to confirm it is still happening.

If you are unable to visit the Library, we have a number of digital services available. With your library card, you can enjoy eBooks and digital audiobooks, explore animated picture books, read magazines, stream movies, and listen to local music. Explore the history of our city on the Digital History Project. For up-to-date information about national and global events, you have access to the New York Times. Watch library programs from storytimes to local history presentations on our streaming video site. If you have a question, please do not hesitate to call us at 319-356-5200 or use our email or chat options. We are happy to assist you with our digital collections, as well as answer any other library or reference question you may have.

For authoritative and current information about COVID-19, we encourage you to contact the Johnson County Department of Public Health, the Iowa Department of Public Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

ICPL is here for you. We understand that many community members feel stressed and worried about the threat of COVID-19, and we don’t want to add to this pressure. Give us a call if you have an issue with returning materials and we’ll work with you to find a solution.

As the situation evolves, please visit our website or give us a call for updated information about library services.

Thank you,

Elsworth Carman