Friends of the Waterloo Public Library

08/01/2026

Fun display, up until August 15.

07/24/2026

Please consider donating to this fund. The public library strengthens our community.

We are pleased to announce the establishment of the Waterloo Public Library Fund, a charitable fund created to support the ongoing work and mission of the Waterloo Public Library.

The fund will provide immediate support where it is needed most, helping the Waterloo Public Library spark curiosity, enrich lives, and build community by ensuring resources, recreation, and expertise are accessible to everyone.

For generations, the Waterloo Public Library has been a cornerstone of the community, offering far more than books. Through early literacy programs, the Summer Library Program, technology assistance, educational workshops, and community events, the library creates opportunities for learning, discovery, and connection for thousands of residents each year.

The fund is being established during an exciting year for the library, which welcomed new Library Director Robbin Degeratu this spring. Under her leadership, the library continues to build on its long tradition of service while exploring new ways to enrich the lives of Waterloo residents.

"The library belongs to the entire community," says Robbin. "Every day, people come through our doors to read, learn, attend programs, use technology, conduct research, or simply enjoy a welcoming space. We are proud to be a place where everyone feels welcome and has access to opportunities that enrich their lives."

The creation of the fund also comes at a time when public libraries across Iowa are planning for changes in how local services are funded. Recent state legislation will eliminate Iowa's long-standing dedicated library levy and place strain on broader city budgets, creating new challenges and uncertainties for many libraries. Community support through charitable giving can help provide flexibility and stability as libraries strive to continue to meet community needs going forward.

"This fund creates an opportunity for individuals and organizations to invest in opportunities that benefit the entire community," added Robbin. "Community support helps us remain responsive to opportunities to grow and adapt, strengthen and expand our programs and collections, and continue to provide the level of service that Waterloo residents expect and deserve.”

Donations to the Waterloo Public Library Fund will help expand opportunities for learning, discovery, and connection while strengthening the library’s ability to meet the evolving needs of the community. Together, these investments will help ensure the Waterloo Public Library remains a vibrant, accessible, and innovative resource for generations to come.

To learn more about the Waterloo Public Library Fund or to make a gift, visit https://wloocf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3442.

07/22/2026

Don't miss this awesome $5 A Bag Sale! Packed with tons of books, especially adult fiction. But also many children's, teens, and nonfiction. DVDs are not included in the bag sale, but are a bargain at 50 cents. Puzzles and games are also bountiful, and are individually priced. Help funding for the library, and save some money on your end by shopping this sale!

📚Thursday, August 6, 5-7pm, Members only, membership available at door for as little as $10 for seniors, and $15 for other individuals.
📚Saturday, August 8, 9am-2pm, Public Sale.

Can't make it?? The Friends Shop on 2nd floor of the library is always open.

07/17/2026

Great bargains! Please come, and share the word. Thousands of items, very well organized. You won't find a better deal than this.

07/05/2026

Need something to read? No reason to wait for the next bag sale. Mondays, July 6 and 20th, from 10am-1pm, and grab some books. The Friends Book Shop on 2nd floor of WPL is open during regular library hours, too.

06/13/2026

06/12/2026

Why should kids have all the summer fun? The adult summer reading challenge is back!! Stop by the Circ desk to get your punch card, get one punch per book read, and a fun small prize per library visit. Complete the challenge by reading 10 books by August 31st to be entered to win one of our grand prizes! ⁠
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(Unfortunately, we can't offer personal pan pizzas for our readers, but maybe one day)

05/28/2026

Don't miss out! Free events this summer!

05/28/2026

Book Sale starts TODAY (Thursday, 5-7pm) for Friends members only. Not a member? You can join at the door for as little as $15 ($10 for 62+). New members will receive a FREE bag of books this evening. If you can't make it this evening, sale is open to the public on Saturday from 9am-2pm.