IOWA CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY CLOSED TODAY DUE TO BOMB THREAT
The Iowa City Public Library was closed today due to a bomb threat received around 3:30 p.m. on August 29, 2023. The safety of our patrons and staff is our highest priority, and as a precaution, the Downtown Library will remain closed for the rest of the day.
The police were immediately notified and responded by sending bomb-detection dogs from the University of Iowa’s K9 unit to sweep the building. The situation is currently under investigation, and we are working closely with the authorities to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Library Director Elsworth Carman stated, "We take any threat to our patrons and staff very seriously. We are working closely with the police to ensure the safety of our facility, and we will keep the community updated as more information becomes available. We would like to thank the Iowa City Police Department for their swift and comprehensive response."
We understand that this situation may cause concern and inconvenience to our patrons. Please know that we are doing everything we can to address the situation as quickly and safely as possible.
The Downtown Library is scheduled to reopen tomorrow, August 30, with regular hours from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Any updates or changes to this schedule will be communicated through our social media channels.
Patrons with questions, updates, or concerns can contact Elsworth Carman directly at elsworth-carman@icpl.org.
We appreciate your understanding and support during this time.
The Iowa City Public Library is a center of community life that connects people of all ages with information; engages them with the world of ideas and with each other; and enriches the community by supporting learning, promoting literacy, and encouraging creativity.
