Free Comic Book Day, a statement from the Library Director regarding IMLS funding, and more.
The Bettendorf Public Library Newsletter
April 22, 2025

SPOTLIGHT ON:
Bettendorf Public Library Director Statement Regarding IMLS Funding
On March 14th, President Trump signed an executive order for several Federal agencies, including The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), to be "eliminated to the maximum extent consistent with applicable law." Since then, we have had several questions from our library supporters on how this decision could affect our library. While the Bettendorf Public Library does not directly receive funding from IMLS, there are several programs and services we utilize through the State Library of Iowa that are supported by IMLS grants. These services include, but are not limited to, the following: 
 
  • Statewide resource sharing through the IA Shares delivery system. Materials we borrow or lend to Iowa libraries outside of our RiverShare consortium goes through the IA Shares delivery. Without this delivery service, the alternative option is to mail items through USPS, which is becoming increasingly more expensive and involves significant staff time and oversight.
  • Costs for Bridges, the statewide digital library consortium available through the Libby app. Funding through IMLS helps support the platform fee and magazine collection through Bridges. As eContent demand and costs continue to increase for libraries, BPL uses Bridges to supplement digital content offerings that are not covered in our operating budget.
  • Several Literacy and STEM-based resources are at risk as well. The Summer Library program, All Iowa Reads, and STEM To Go & Storytime Kits are all funded through the State Library's IMLS budget.
  • Accreditation and Continuing Education for library workers across the state. BPL is accredited at the highest level through the standards set by the State Library. The State Library's accreditation program and continuing education opportunities ensure our library is providing the highest quality of services and programs to our service area. 

This short list only scratches the surface. To read more about how the State Library utilizes IMLS funding through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), you can read about it here: The Impact of LSTA Funds in Iowa.
 
At the time of writing this letter, the State Library of Iowa has not had any confirmation either way from IMLS on the status of future state funding, though a handful of states (California, Connecticut, and Washington) have all been informed their funding has been cancelled. If you would like more information about IMLS funding and the impacts it has on libraries, museums, and other cultural institutions across the country, we encourage you to check out the following resources for further updates:
 

Finally, we would like to give a heartfelt thanks to those who have offered support and words of encouragement as we navigate this uncharted territory. Rest assured, our board of trustees, staff, and volunteers are committed to upholding the library's mission, vision, and values, and we will work to minimize any impacts these potential budget cuts may have on our existing services. 

Sincerely, 
Jillian Aschliman
Bettendorf Public Library Director
LIBRARY NEWS
Summer Concert Lineup Coming Soon
The Summer Concert Series linup will be revealed in the next edition of Pages on May 6, so check back then!

Children's Events Break
We'll be taking a break from children's events in May while we prepare for the Summer Reading Program. There will be no events for children May 5 - June 9 with the exception of the Reading Assistance Dogs June 5.
FEATURED EVENTS
Free Comic Book Day
Saturday, May 3
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Dive into the thrilling world of comics with our handpicked selection of Free Comic Book Day 2025 titles! But that’s not all—throughout the library, we’re hosting an array of fun comic book activities that will spark your imagination and unleash your inner hero.
 
  • Visit the Creation Studio to select your own free comics and create delightful family-friendly crafts.
  • In the Creation Corner, craft your own superhero swag with our button-making machines.
  • Plus, don’t miss the interactive Comic Book Workshop for tweens and teens, hosted by Do Art Productions, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.—you'll leave having created your very own comic! Registration is required for this activity (click the button or see Teen Events below for more information).
Every attendee can enter our raffle for a gift card to In This Issue Comics, and those who dare to don their best (library-appropriate) costume will receive an extra raffle entry. Commemorate the day at our selfie station in the youth area and show us the superhero within you!
 
This day is made possible thanks to the generous support of the Bettendorf Public Library Foundation and In This Issue Comics.
Learn more
All-ages events
Homeschool Hangout
Monday, April 28
11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Topic image
Take on our recylced craft challenge with a bag of mystery supplies and the whole Creation Studio! You'll use the contents of your bag to complete a prompt.
 
Homeschool Hangout provides socialization opportunities for kids of all ages. We have a new craft or game each month, so there's always something new to try.
Learn more
Bettendorf Public Library Chess Club
Saturday, May 3
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Stop in and join us for friendly games of chess! No experience is required; we are happy to teach you the rules to get you started. This club meets every other Saturday, and all skill levels are welcome.
Learn more
Youth events
Storytime in the Park
Tuesday, April 29
10-10:30 a.m.
Storytime in the Park is back! Meet us at Veterans Memorial Park for an outdoor storytime. In the event of inclement weather, storytime will be canceled.
Learn more
Topic image
Reading Assistance Dogs
Thursday, May 1
6 p.m.-7 p.m.
Children have the opportunity to read aloud to dogs from Quad Cities Canine Assistance Network.
 
This is great practice for kids and helps them build their vocabulary and self-confidence. No registration is required.
Learn more
Teen events
Do Art Productions Comic Book Workshop
Saturday, May 3
10 a.m.-12 p.m.
This creative and interactive comic book workshop will explore the different languages of comics, from the eyes to body posture to the actual language within speech bubbles. With a dynamic pose drawing exercise, you could see everything from juggling axolotls to dabbing pandas!
 
After seeing how easy cartooning and creative expression can be, the group will generate a comic together out of the characters and creativity of the first half of the workshop.
Register
Adult events
Brown Bag Lunch - Ragged Blade Duo
Friday, April 25
12-12:45 p.m.
Journey back to the heart of the ragtime era with Cherry and Jerry of the Ragged Blade Duo! The popular pair is ready to fill the air with timeless classics like “The Entertainer,” as well as hidden gems that are sure to delight. This fun-filled musical experience showcases the best of ragtime, blues, jazz, and popular music of the early 20th-century.
 
Feel free to pack a lunch to enjoy during the performance. Funding for Brown Bag Lunch performances is provided by the Friends of the Bettendorf Public Library.
Learn more
Attic Treasures: What to Do with the Stuff Your Kids Don't Want
Tuesday, April 29
6:30-7:30 p.m.
Is your attic or garage crammed full of stuff you don’t know what to do with? Uncover the solution with Jamie Novak, author of Keep This, Toss That!
 
Jamie will show you a simple, no-cost way to identify items and determine monetary value using only your phone or computer. You’ll also gain insight into which collectibles are selling in today’s market.
 
Jamie is presenting virtually, and you have two options to attend:
  1. Gather at the library for a popcorn-filled watch party.
  2. Register to receive a viewing link to watch from home (link will be provided the day of the event).
This event is funded by the Friends of the Bettendorf Public Library.
Register
Haunted History of Scott and Rock Island Counties
Thursday, May 1
6-7 p.m.
The grounds and front of the Hauberg Estate at sunset
Visit the other side of local history with Peg Rounds of Whispering Souls Paranormal Investigations. Peg combines the rich history of Scott and Rock Island counties with the paranormal through her research and experiences. Having delved into some of the most fascinating and haunted locations in the counties—like the Hauberg Estate—she has thrilling evidence to share alongside her historical expertise.
 
This program is best for ages 12+.
Learn more
Small Business Class Powered by the SBA
Friday, May 2
4-5 p.m.
A young woman smailes and holds a paper bag filled with a vase of flowers as a second woman waves at her from behind a counter. Text overlay reads: Find your customers and learn how to talk to them.
Unlock your potential and step into a free class that's all about discovering your customer base! 

Advisors from SCORE, the Small Business Development Center Iowa, and the U.S. Small Business Administration are ready to help your small business succeed.
 
We'll be serving hors d'oeuvres! Register by Thursday, April 30, so you don't miss out.
 
This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Bettendorf Public Library.
Register

Check out our calendar for a complete list of upcoming programs and events!
Full Calendar of Events

Creation Studio Open Work Hours. Bring your project and your materials. Use our space and our tools.
 
VISIT US
LIBRARY HOURS
 
Monday-Thursday: 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
 
Friday-Saturday:
9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
 
Sunday
1:00 - 4:00 p.m
FRIENDS BOOKSTORE HOURS
 
Monday-Thursday:
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
 
Saturday:
11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
DRIVE-UP WINDOW HOURS
 
Monday-Thursday: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
 
Friday-Saturday:
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Note: The Library is closed on Sundays in June, July, and August.
ADDRESS
 
2950 Learning Campus Dr.
Bettendorf, IA 52722

Library Board of Trustees
Doug Lindstrom, President
Val Horvat, Vice President
Archana Wagle, Secretary
Darrin Lindquist
David Pratt
John Rabine
Stacy Schmit
Library Administration
Jillian Aschliman, Director
Hayleigh Covella, Administrative Assistant
 
Library Division Heads
Heather Gibbs, Customer Service Supervisor
David Otten, Collection Services Manager
Paul Odell, Programming & Public Services Manager
 
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Bettendorf Public Library
2950 Learning Campus Dr. Bettendorf, Iowa 52722
Phone: (563) 344-4175
The Library is a department of the City of Bettendorf. The City complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against by an action of the City may grieve such action by filing the appropriate notice. Forms are available at all City Facilities.
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