As this festive season unfolds, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to each one of our visitors. Your enthusiasm for books, movies, and more has been the highlight of our year.
Spreading literacy and joy throughout the community has been a remarkable journey, and it's all thanks to you. If you haven't had the chance to visit the Bookmobile yet, we warmly invite you to do so. Visit our page to check out our full calendar and stops. Discover our wide range of materials, including large print books, a diverse selection of adult fiction and nonfiction, captivating children's chapter books, picture books, easy readers, and young adult titles, as well as an array of books on CD and DVDs.
Let's continue to create wonderful memories and explore new worlds through reading as we move into the new year. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous, peaceful, and book-filled holiday season!
Warm regards,
The Iowa City Public Library Bookmobile Team
Downtown Library Holiday Schedule:
Closed, Christmas Eve, Sun, Dec 24, 2023
Closed, Christmas Day, Mon, Dec 25, 2023
Open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Tue, Dec. 26 2023
Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. New Year's Eve, Sun, Dec. 31
Closed New Year's Day, Mon, Jan.1, 2024
More information on ICPL's hours can be found at icpl.org/hours
The Bookmobile will be on a Winter Service Break from Saturday, Dec. 23, through Sunday, Jan. 7. Find the current day-to-day Bookmobile schedule on the Bookmobile page.
Remember, even when the Bookmobile and Library are closed, online services are available 24/7 at icpl.org/digital. This service includes account access and, for those who live in our service area, access to ICPL's Digital Library, including eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines, and The New York Times, Kanopy and Hoopla.
Bookmobile Seasonal Service Break.
Please note that the ICPL Bookmobile will be on a seasonal break from Dec. 23, 2023, to Jan. 7, 2024. We'll resume our Winter/Spring schedule starting Monday, Jan. 8. Stay updated with our day-to-day schedule on the Bookmobile page.
Hold Pickups During the Break: If you've got items on hold with the Bookmobile during this period, don't worry! You can collect them at the Downtown Library between Dec. 23 and Jan. 7. These holds will be back on the Bookmobile starting Jan. 8, and they will be available through Monday, Jan. 15.
Need Assistance? If you're unsure about the status or location of your holds, we're here to help. Just give us a call at 319-356-5200.
“Strikers" by Kiel Phegley, graphic novel, is a remarkable addition to CPL Bookmobile. It captivates with its vivid, expressive artwork and a compelling narrative that resonates with young adults and older readers. The story, set in a richly detailed world, explores themes of friendship and resilience. Its well-crafted characters and balanced pacing keep readers engaged. Accessible to both newcomers and aficionados of graphic novels, "Strikers" stands out with its blend of visual storytelling and natural dialogue. A must-read, this graphic novel offers an immersive experience, making it a noteworthy choice for Library patrons.
In No Brainer, book 18 of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series from #1 international bestselling author Jeff Kinney, it's up to Greg to save his crumbling school before it's shuttered for good. Up until now, middle school hasn't exactly been a joyride for Greg Heffley. So when the town threatens to close the crumbling building, he's not too broken up about it. But when Greg realizes this means he's going to be sent to a different school than his best friend, Rowley Jefferson, he changes his tune. Can Greg and his classmates save their school before it's shuttered for good? Or is this the start of a whole new chapter for Greg?
“Haunted Mansion" breathes new life into the classic theme park attraction. The film unfolds an engaging tale of a woman and her son as they grapple with supernatural squatters in their home. To tackle this eerie predicament, they recruit a diverse group of quirky spiritual experts, leading to a series of amusing and spine-tingling adventures. The movie skillfully balances humor with suspense, creating an entertaining watch for a broad audience. Its unique take on a familiar theme and the delightful chemistry among the characters make "Haunted Mansion" an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Paul Bethke's dedication to the Iowa City Public Library (ICPL) and the Bookmobile since late 2007 has been a remarkable journey of service and passion for literature. His favorite aspect of working on the Bookmobile was the engaging conversations and connections he forged with patrons, fueled by the diverse range of books. He valued the team spirit and friendship with his colleagues since joining the Bookmobile in early 2016.
His favorite memory is being unexpectedly filmed by a KCRG Channel 9 news crew while helping a large number of children at one of our busiest stops, and seeing himself on their 6 o'clock broadcast.
His over a decade-long tenure at ICPL, especially with the Bookmobile, is remembered for his warm interactions, deep knowledge, and the lasting impact he made on the community. Paul's legacy is a celebration of learning, exploration, and the power of engaging conversations.
Embark on a magical journey this winter with the ICPL Winter Reading Program, a delightful celebration of literature for book lovers of all ages, from spirited youngsters to the forever young at heart.
Mark your calendars the Winter Reading Program will run from December 16th to February 16th. Sign up at the Children’s Desk, on the Bookmobile or online at icpl.org/wrp starting December 16.
Kids who read and track 20 books on their reading log or online will receive a coupon to Spare Me Bowling in Iowa City, and a hot cocoa mug or a new book of their choice, while supplies last, and one per child please.
For teens and adults, the much-loved Book BINGO returns by popular demand! Join the fun by signing up at the Children's Desk, on the Bookmobile, or online at icpl.org/wrp. Complete your BINGO card to be in the running for a spectacular prize.
For more information, visit icpl.org/wrp or call the Library at 319-356-5200.
Celebrate the joy of reading and make this winter a memorable one with the ICPL Winter Reading Program.
