Library Closed May 3

Both locations of the Cedar Rapids Public Library will be closed on Friday, May 3, for all-staff training.

Inspiring Big Dreams: The Library's Westside Investment

Rendering of new westside library from west entrance

Campaign for a Permanent Westside Library

Located in a busy westside neighborhood, the new Westside Library will be a conveniently located community hub designed to support the growing needs of the region. The new library will include more space for children's programming, books, public computers, community meeting spaces, and study rooms. The library will be built alongside a new City park, creating a welcoming environment for all who live, work, and play in the area. 

Our Big Dream: 

  • Provides seamless access to educational and community resources
  • Anticipates change by incorporating indoor and outdoor flexible spaces
  • Builds community resilience by providing a home base during times of emergency
  • Increases walkability through added sidewalks and trail connectivity
  • Adds much needed green park space for recreation, gatherings, and civic events
rendering of new westside library inside with number 1 overtop of it

Community Spaces

  • 11 study rooms
  • Dedicated children’s program room
  • Large conference room
  • Conference center with kitchenette, direct entry, and adjacent parking
  • Large library lawn for gathering or programs
rendering of new westside library inside with number 2 overtop of it

Children's Area 

  • Increased space for children’s learning
  • Zones for creative play, technology use, and motor skill development
  • Areas for caregivers and children to read together
  • Designed for easier browsing by younger patrons
  • Dedicated classroom for story time and youth programming
  • Outdoor discovery garden for learning and exploration
rendering of new westside library inside with number 3 overtop of it

Indoor/Outdoor Design

  • Courtyard space for outdoor reading and programs
  • Shared campus with new City park
  • Sidewalks connecting park and trail system
  • Large library lawn for gathering or programs

New Westside Library Site

Thanks to a generous gift made to the Library Foundation in 2020, the library is building a permanent Westside Library to replace the current Ladd Library, which is in a leased facility. The Foundation secured land for the project near the corner of Wiley Blvd and 20th Avenue SW, within walking distance of the current Ladd Library. The site will be developed to include a new City Park, making it a destination for the entire community to enjoy.  

Proposed Floor Plan

Westside Library Floorplan Updated 2024

Proposed Site Plan

Rendering of possible new park design