The walls are down in the Computer Lab!

We are in the process of renovating this space, transforming it into a new area that will support training and programs, and provide access to technology to assist in digital media creation. 

As you can see from the pictures, the footprint of the room will increase in size. The furniture will be movable and a new large screen monitor will add additional options for display. Some activities (Minecraft, tax assistance, etc.) will continue to use the entire space, but at other times the room can be used for multiple activities at once. 

The new Computer Lab will be open in late February. We’ll keep you updated on our progress as it, well, progresses. Thank you for your patience!

The Library offers tax payers many ways to make filing taxes easier.

The Library receives shipments of individual Federal tax forms 1040, the 1040 A, and the 1040 EZ to give to individuals for free. These forms will arrive at the Library around the end of January or early February. Library staff at the Information Desk will be happy to help individuals find and print other forms and instructions on the IRS’ website. Individuals will need to pay a 10-cent per page printing fee.

Individual Iowa state tax forms will be available at the end of January for 10-cents per copy at the information desk on the second floor. Some business tax forms will be made available as they arrive. Contact ICPL beforehand to see if the form you are looking for is available.

Another form that is often requested at this time is the rent reimbursement form. Rent reimbursement forms will be made available at the Library after January 15. Forms are mailed to individuals who received assistance at the address they provided the year before. Assistance with filling out the forms is available at the Department of Human Services.

VITA, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, will provide tax preparation assistance at the Library beginning at the end of January. Individuals who meet certain income limits can get their State and Federal taxes done for free by students from the Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa. Go here for dates, times and locations.

We had so much fun putting together our newest display featuring the cast of Friends!

Stop by and see what books, movies, and music we think Monica, Chandler, Ross, Rachel, Joey, and Phoebe would read if they were lucky enough to own Iowa City Public Library cards! Some of the choices refer to specific moments from the long-running television show, while others are based on their personal likes and dislikes.

With six friends and eight display shelves, we expanded the cast to include Gunther and Janice!

Ciao! Bonjour! 你好!

Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to learn a new language or brush up on one you learned in school? Are you planning a trip abroad and want to be able to read a menu and ask for help? ICPL has the tools for you! 

We have two great online resources to get you started learning a new language or help with your refresher. The two resources are Mango Languages, (you can even learn how to talk Pirate, aye matey!) and Transparent Language. Mango offers more than 70 languages and Transparent has a selection of more than 100 languages. Each resource allows the user to set up an account and practice language skills. 

The databases can be accessed from home, and requires an up-to-date Resident Library Card and a password. If you need assistance with your card or password, give us a call at 319-356-5200 or click on Live Help during regular Library hours and staff will be glad to assist you.