Bettendorf Public Library Awarded $5,000 from State Library of Iowa’s ARPA Grant Program
The Bettendorf Public Library was awarded $5,000 in a grant from the State Library of Iowa from American Rescue Plan Act funds. The grant went towards expanding the Library’s digital collection of books and audiobooks that were specifically designed to support psychology, professional development, personal finance, wellness, and more. These electronic offerings are accessible for Bettendorf Public Library cardholders at https://rivershare.overdrive.com/rivershare-bettendorf/content/collection/1263776 and fall in line with the Library’s vision to support the community’s pursuit of knowledge and information.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bettendorf Public Library saw an increased need to expand our digital resources and collections. The ARPA Grant allowed us to better meet the growing demand from our library cardholders by providing access to digital titles we may not have been able to purchase without additional funding.” said Jillian Aschliman, director of the Bettendorf Public Library.
The State Library of Iowa awarded libraries up to $5,000 for Iowa public libraries from a portion of its funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. The grant funds may be used for materials or technology to support digital inclusion efforts to enable libraries to reach residents, especially in support of education, health, and workforce development needs; or to respond to the pandemic and implement public health protocols.
“We are excited to offer these ARPA grants to public libraries and anticipate the positive outcomes that will result, especially because we believe the ones who will benefit most are library patrons.” said Michael Scott, State Librarian of Iowa.
The American Rescue Plan Act is a federal program that was approved by congress and signed by President Biden in March 2021. The State Library received an allotment from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, which determined the priorities and rules surrounding how the funds may be used in libraries.
More information about the Bettendorf Public Library can be found at www.bettendorflibrary.com
ABOUT the Bettendorf Public Library Information Center: Located at 2950 Learning Campus Drive, Bettendorf, Iowa 52722, the Library’s mission is “Committed to providing access to information and ideas for all.” For more information, visit www.bettendorflibrary.com or call 563-344-4175.
