Pending Legislation

 

Check out the Cedar Rapids Public Library Advocacy page for legislation that is currently up for debate.

 

Speak Up for The Library!

Davenport Public Library is thankful for our amazing community! You can help by telling others why your library is important.

When you talk about The Library, you are:

  • Showing how it helps people learn, have fun, and feel connected.
  • Telling others about free things they might not know about.
  • Helping The Library get money to keep doing great things.

Here are some messages you can share:

  • “Davenport Public Library helps people learn, grow, and have fun.”
  • “The Library wants everyone to be smart and strong in our community.”
  • “The Library gives us books, programs, and help to make life better.”
  • “The Library is a gift to our future—free books, fun events, and learning for everyone!”

Special Library Levy

In 2003, residents in Davenport voted to give a little extra money to The Library through taxes. This helped build and run our Fairmount and Eastern branches. But in 2023, a new law stopped that extra money. Now, some libraries in Iowa, especially in small towns, are having a hard time. People who care about libraries are asking lawmakers to bring the extra money back. You can help by telling your leaders why libraries are important!

DETAILS: The levy was a local voter-approved property tax that allowed residents to tax themsleves $0.27 per $1,000 assessed value to provide for enhanced library service in their community. This Issue Brief highlights the challenges faced by institutions and communities that previously relied on the levies eliminated by HF718. Numerous libraries and museums that depend on this funding are experiencing significant difficulties, particularly in rural areas, should the levies not be restored. A call to action has been issued by those in the library and museum community, as the legislature is currently deliberating additional property tax bills, HSB313/SSB1208 & SSB1227, and advocates believe this represents the best chance for the restoration of the levies.

 

More Helpful Info 

Share Your Library Story!

Has The Library helped you in a special way? We’d love to hear your story and maybe share it with leaders who support libraries!

When you send us your story, you’re saying it’s okay for Davenport Public Library to share it. We usually only show your first name and last initial. Not all stories will be shared.

Help Out at The Library!

There are lots of ways to be a library volunteer! You can read about each role and see what you might like to do. All volunteers need to pass a background check before they start.  Fill out a Fill out a form to get started as a volunteer, and someone from The Library will contact you soon. If you're a teen, talk to our Teen Librarian by filling this form to learn more.