Online Summer Reading registration now open!

The Bettendorf Public Library Newsletter
June 3, 2025

SPOTLIGHT ON:
Bettendorf Public Library Summer Reading Program
Online registration for the Summer Reading Program is now open! Sign up to complete a reading challenge and win fun prizes—no matter your age!
 
You can begin tracking your progress on Monday, June 9. In-person sign up will be available at the library at any point during the program, from June 9 - August 2.
 
The Children's Summer Reading Program is presented by Ascentra Credit Union, Eye Surgeons Associates, Quad City Bank & Trust, Twin State Inc., and IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union through the Bettendorf Public Library Foundation. The Teen and Adult Summer Reading Programs are funded by the Friends of the Bettendorf Public Library.
Sign Up
LIBRARY NEWS
Change to Books on CD Collection
Starting July 1st, the Bettendorf Public Library will no longer purchase new books on CD for our collection. We’ve made this decision for two main reasons: 
 
  1. Availability - Many publishers have shifted away from books on CD to digital audiobooks, reducing our options for new titles.
  2. Collection usage - Circulation of our book on CD collection has declined 70% since 2016, while digital audiobook usage has grown nearly 350%. 
This change will allow us to focus our attention and resources on growing our digital audiobook collection.

We are not removing the book on CD collection. Titles currently on our shelves will remain available for checkout. We will also continue to consider purchase requests for specific book on CD titles from Bettendorf Public Library cardholders.

The Libby app offers Bettendorf Library cardholders easy access to nearly 30,000 digital audiobook titles. For those new to Libby, we are offering classes on Saturday, June 14th, at 10 a.m. and Wednesday, June 18th, at 7 p.m. Classes will cover Libby app basics like searching for titles, checking out, and placing holds. If the classes don’t fit your schedule or you would like a one-on-one, in-depth dive into Libby, you can book a one-hour Skill Building Session with our staff. Request an appointment in person at the Information Desk or via the library website.

Prefer learning on your own? Explore our videos and device-specific lessons available on Niche Academy.

Individuals with visual impairments or print disabilities may be eligible for library services from the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled, which offers audiobooks and other formats. If you believe you may qualify for these services, library staff can assist with a referral. 

New Outreach Vehicle Fully Funded
We've reach our funding goal for our outreach vehicle! Look for us on the road in spring of 2026!
 
Our new outreach vehicle will allow library staff to set up pop-up outreach library services around the community and in public spaces. Residents of all ages will be able to browse collection offerings, sign up for a library card, and get more information about upcoming library programs. The outreach vehicle will also provide free Wi-Fi.
 
We want to give a huge thank you to all our donors, including top contributors:
Scott County Regional Authority (SCRA)
Regional Development Authority (RDA)
Arconic Corp.
Bechtel Trusts
Bettendorf Rotary Club
Bettendorf Public Library Foundation
Friends of the Bettendorf Public Library
TBK Bank
Quad City Bank & Trust
Ascentra Credit Union
And you, our library supporters. Individual contributions accounted for $20,356 in donations. Every dollar truly does count. Thank you for supporting the library in our mission to meet and serve our community where they are. 
FEATURED EVENTS
Summer Concert Series: The Tailfins
Thursday, June 5
6:30-8 p.m.
Grab your lawn chair and your cooler and head to Faye's Field, becuase the Summer Concert Series kicks off this week with the Tailfins Band!
 
The Tailfins bring energy and excitement to the musical hits of the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s with a get-up-and-dance tribute to early rock and roll. The authentic show takes you back to cruisin' cars, sock-hops, beach parties, and the best rock and roll of all time!
 
In the case of inclement weather, the concert will be held inside the library.
 
The Summer Concert Series is funded by the Bettendorf Public Library Foundation and supported by TBK Bank, Duck Creek Tire & Service, Bettendorf Rotary Club, and Harrington's Pub.
Learn more
All-ages events
Mikayla Oz Family Magic Show
Friday, June 13
10 a.m. & 3:30 p.m.
Experience an extraordinary, family-friendly magic show to start the summer season right!
 
This 40-minute performance bursts with interactive magic, engaging the audience and creating unforgettable moments for every age.
 
Two shows are available, one at 10 a.m. and one at 3:30 p.m. Please attend just one, as both are identical.
 
Programming for the children's Summer Reading Program is presented by Ascentra Credit Union, Eye Surgeons Associates, Quad City Bank & Trust, Twin State Inc., and IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union through the Bettendorf Public Library Foundation.
10 a.m. show
3:30 p.m. show

English Language Learners Conversation Club
Thursday, June 5
4-5 p.m.
Topic image
Now at a new time for summer!
 
English language learners and ESL students of all ages can chat with teen volunteers to practice English in a relaxed, real-world environment.
 
No registration is required. 
Learn more

Mikayla Oz Magic Workshop
Friday, June 13
1-2 p.m.
Learn and master three enchanting tricks with one of today’s top working magicians!
 
Mikayla Oz is passionate about magic and inspiring the next generation, and elementary and middle school students are sure to have a laugh learning with her. All essential props for performing the tricks are provided, and participants even get to take them home to showcase their new talents! Don’t miss out—register now, as space is limited.     
 
Programming for the children's Summer Reading Program is presented by Ascentra Credit Union, Eye Surgeons Associates, Quad City Bank & Trust, Twin State Inc., and IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union through the Bettendorf Public Library Foundation.
Register

Bettendorf Public Library Chess Club
Saturday, June 14
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
Animals Around the World
Wednesday, June 11
1:30 & 3:30 p.m.
Experience close-up encounters with live animal ambassadors and discover the wonders of our wild world with the experts at Incredible Bats!
 
Two shows are available, at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Please attend just one, as both are identical.
 
Programming for the Children's Summer Reading Program is presented by Ascentra Credit Union, Eye Surgeons Associates, Quad City Bank & Trust, Twin State Inc., and IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union through the Bettendorf Public Library Foundation.
1:30 p.m. show
3:30 p.m. show

Thursday Theater - Sonic the Hedgehog 3
Thursday, June 12
2-3:30 p.m.
Race on in to the library to watch the third Sonic the Hedgehog film. Be sure to watch out for lurking shadows, though!
 
 
A family-friendly movie will play each Thursday at 2 p.m. throughout the summer. View all Thursday Theater events here.
 
Programming for the Children's summer reading program is presented by Ascentra Credit Union, Eye Surgeons Associates, Quad City Bank & Trust, Twin State, Inc. and IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union through the Bettendorf Public Library Foundation.
Learn more

Alpacas and Miniature Goats
Saturday, June 14
11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Connect with farm life at the library by visiting with alpacas and goats from McCarty’s Corner Farm!
 
Head outside to the west side of the library to pet and interact with these friendly animals.
 
Programming for the Children's Summer Reading Program is presented by Ascentra Credit Union, Eye Surgeons Associates, Quad City Bank & Trust, Twin State Inc., and IH Mississippi Valley Credit Union through the Bettendorf Public Library Foundation.
Teen and tween events
Fan Club
Tuesday, June 10
2:30-4 p.m.
Share your fandom love and make new friends!
 
Tweens and teens ages 10-14 are encouraged to share their love of all things nerdy, geeky, or fan-related at this new program. Each meeting will be dedicated to a different fandom, chosen by club members, with themed snacks, books, shows, games, or crafts.
 
Teen Summer Reading Programming is funded by the Friends of the Bettendorf Public Library.
Learn more

Tween Role-Playing Group
Wedensday, June 11
3-5 p.m.
Register now to learn to play No Thank You, Evil! This club is designed for beginner players ages 10-12 looking to make new friends, have an adventure, and learn a new game. Players must attend each meeting throughout the summer, as we will play one adventure. Only a few seats remain!
Register

Tween Bloxels Camp
Monday, June 16-Thursday, June 19
2-4 p.m.
Create a custom game with Bloxels! Test your game and play others' creations. Registration is required and participants must attend the entirety of the camp, as we will work on one project throughout the week. This program is best for ages 10-14. 
Register
Adult events
Take-Home Workshop - Stamped Trinket Tray
Thursday, June 5
Kits available while supplies last
Make a stamped trinket tray to hold your rings and things!
 
Teens and adults can pick up the kit starting June 5 (while supplies last). Follow along with the quick video we will post online or use the printed instructions in the kit.
 
Adult and teens aged 16 and up only, please. This Take Home Workshop is sponsored by The Bettendorf Public Library Foundation.
Learn more

Summer Concert Series: Doggin' Out with John Resch
Thursday, June 12
6:30-8 p.m.
Led by 2025 Iowa Blues Hall of Fame inductee John Resch, Doggin' Out is the 2024 Iowa Blues Challenge winner and an International Blues Challenge semifinalist. With a sound and style unique to the Quad Cities and surrounding area, this four-piece band plays original and cover songs of West Coast Swing and Chicago electric blues.

The Summer Concert Series is funded by the Bettendorf Public Library Foundation and supported by Title Sponsor TBK Bank and Duck Creek Tire & Service, Bettendorf Rotary Club, and Harrington's Pub.
Learn more

Learning Libby: An Introduction to the Library's Digital Titles
Saturday, June 14
10-11 a.m.
Libby is the app from that allows you to check out digital books and audiobooks from the Library. This class will take you through the process of downloading the Libby app, then searching for, checking out, reading or listening to, and returning a digital title. We'll end with a question and answer period.
 
Bring your device, your library card, and your app store login information with you, and you'll leave with a book or audiobook downloaded and ready to go!
 
Registration is required. If this time doesn't work for you, we are offering another class on Wednesday, June 18, at 7 p.m.
Register

Check out our calendar for a complete list of upcoming programs and events!
Full Calendar of Events
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 (Sept.-May):
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.
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
CONNECT WITH US
facebook social icon
instagram social icon
youtube social icon
l62HGMtBW7Y social icon

Click here to unsubscribe

Please do not reply to this message. Replies will not be routed to or seen by library staff. If you have any questions, please contact us at info@bettendorflibrary.com or call us at (563) 344-4175.

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.
Can't see this email? Click here to view this message in browser window.
My company logo