Explore these online resources curated by librarians that you can access from home, with and without your library card.
Don't have a library card? Apply online so you can enjoy ebooks, databases, educational resources, and so much more from anywhere!
Support Kids' Learning
There are a variety of online resources available to keep kids of all ages busy.
- Brainfuse – live online tutoring, skill builders, test prep, and a writing lab
- Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library – free monthly book delivery for Cedar Rapids kids ages 0-5
- Khan Academy – free online courses
- Tumblebooks – digital children’s books
- Reading Challenges – Read to complete these special online challenges
- Storyline Online: This award-winning children’s literacy website streams videos featuring celebrated actors reading children’s books.
Ebooks & Audiobooks
The library offers a variety of free ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines.
- cloudLibrary – cloudLibrary brings you a seamless ebook experience. Start your book on one device and then resume on another.
- hoopla – Download and stream free videos, music, audiobooks, comics, and ebooks to your mobile device or computer. This is available for Cedar Rapids and Marion residents only.
- Overdrive & Libby – Overdrive allows you to borrow ebooks and audiobooks from the library – anywhere, anytime.
Streaming TV, Movies & Music
- hoopla – Download and stream free videos, music, audiobooks, comics, and ebooks to your mobile device or computer. This service can only be used by Cedar Rapids and Marion residents.
- Kanopy – Watch over 30,000 documentaries, classic and indie films through this streaming service.
- Freegal – Download and stream free music, including popular new releases, soundtracks, and classical recordings.
Adult Education Resources
- JobNow – Access live job coaching, resume writing labs, and unemployment assistance.
- Linkedin Learning – Access thousands of free online training videos and courses. Help with Photoshop, Excel, financial literacy, writing etc. There is a topic for everyone!
- Pronunciator – Learn 163 languages with personalized courses, movies, music, and more through lessons for English speakers wanting to learn another language, as well as lessons for English language learners.
- HarvardX – Free online courses from Harvard.
Digital Resources
Ancestry
Auto Repair Source
Cedar Rapids Public Library Digital Archives
Learn more about Cedar Rapids history by accessing local historical newspapers and telephone books.