Press ReleaseBeginning Thursday, July 1, ICPL will expand services with progression to Phase 5a of the reopening plan


On July 1, the Iowa City Public Library will move to Phase 5a of the reopening plan to expand Library hours, remove the time limits for browsing, extend time limits for computer access, and lift building and Bookmobile capacity restrictions. In addition to previously available services, the study and meeting rooms will be open to the public, and ICPL outreach services and programs will be offered offsite. Masks are suggested for those not yet vaccinated. 

Library Director Elsworth Carman wants the public to be aware that "while our mask requirement ends July 1, we still ask that patrons be mindful of the many Library users who cannot yet be vaccinated—including children—and consider wearing a mask if not fully vaccinated. Community health is a shared responsibility, and we are so thankful for your help in keeping others safe."  

The Library will return to pre-pandemic hours of operation starting July 1:  

  • Monday – Thursday: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.; 
  • Friday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.;  
  • Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.;  
  • Sunday: Noon – 5 p.m. 

Computers and DOT Kiosk Access will be available during open hours.  

Public Access Computers: 

  • Two-hour sessions with automatic extensions enabled if at least one computer is free. If all computers are in use, then the longest extended session will be canceled. 
  • No advance signup.  
  • Remote printing pickup at Info Desk; self-service black-and-white ($0.10 / page) and color printing ($0.50 / page). 
  • Faxing: Free, limited to 10 pages. 
  • Headphones and charging cords are available for use. 

More Library Updates 

Cardholders are invited to visit icpl.org to put items on hold. Please wait to receive notification that materials are ready before visiting the Library. Items can be picked up inside the building or Bookmobile.  

All materials remain fine-free until June 30, 2022. 

Some service areas of the Library will still not be available: 

  • Koza Family Teen Center 
  • In-person indoor ICPL-led events 
  • Digital Media Lab  
  • The Book End 

 For more information, visit icpl.org/covid or call the Library at 319-356-5200. 

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.