This festival was established in 1995 to honor Carol's 26-year career at ICPL and her lifelong commitment to the freedom of ideas. Spaziani believed that the public library's role is to be a resource and a forum for an individual's pursuit and expression of diverse points of view.
Intellectual Freedom is one of ICPL’s seven core values. The work to maintain and uplift that value is founded in tradition and never ending. In February 2022, the Iowa City Public Library Board of Trustees shared a statement supporting Intellectual Freedom in schools and libraries as they defined libraries to be “unique democratic ideas, spaces where open discourse is welcome, and where varied points of view are valued.”
ICPL will address these topics and more at this year’s festival, featuring events and displays coinciding with American Library Association’s annual Banned Books Week (September 18-24). Learn more about the events planned for the Carol Spaziani Intellectual Freedom Festival at icpl.org/iff
Whether you already love making digital art or you're a beginner who wants to try something new, try our Digital Creativity Challenge. All ages and skill levels are encouraged to participate.
You'll have through October 5, 2022 to complete any four challenges from our list of ideas. To complete the challenge, submit your artwork and let us know if you want to be part of the display during the month of October. Everyone who completes the challenge will be entered into a drawing for a $20 Dick Blick gift card. It will be fun to see what everyone makes!
Wednesday, October 12, 2022 7 to 8:30 p.m. In-person event + Livestream Meeting Room A
Election law changes in Iowa mean new procedures for voters to prepare and vote in the November 8 General Election. All are welcome at this program on ballot basics presented by Travis Weipert, Johnson County Auditor. Find out what it takes to be ready to vote by absentee ballot or in person, and more voting matters. This program is hosted by the Education Committee of the League of Women Voters of Johnson County, and cosponsored by the Iowa City Public Library.
Join us for our upcoming Local Libraries LIT event, which welcomes author Ann Patchett, a devoted reader, and a champion of literary culture. She has written 13 books and has been the recipient of numerous awards and fellowships, including England’s Orange Prize, the PEN/Faulkner Award, and a Guggenheim Fellowship.
This is the sixth virtual event in the series offered by public libraries in Johnson County, as well as the University of Iowa and Kirkwood Libraries with support from The Tuesday Agency.
Local Libraries LIT strives to grow a community which shines with diversity, equity, and inclusion. This special speaker series is offered at no charge to participants.
Donations are welcomed to help sustain and grow Local Libraries LIT. Thank you for giving as generously as you can.
Are you looking to start your next creative adventure, but you’re unsure where to start?
Let us help you get started! Unlock the potential of our Digital Media Lab and get started with everything Adobe Creative Suite has to offer!
Whether you just want to stop in and go at your own pace, or follow along with one of the many classes we offer, there’s something for everyone.
Head to icpl.org/dml for all your digital needs through the Iowa City Public Library.
Planning for ICPL's Future
We want to hear from you! As we head into a new strategic planning phase, we need input from you to help guide us. Take our online survey to let us know how we're doing and what you're interested in. Share your feedback!
