Kirkendall Public Library Ankeny

The Kirkendall Public Library, located in Ankeny, Iowa, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of services and resources to residents of all ages. With a strong commitment to promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement, the library has become an essential part of the city's fabric. In this article, we will delve into the history, services, and impact of the Kirkendall Public Library, highlighting its role as a cornerstone of the Ankeny community.

History of the Kirkendall Public Library

The Kirkendall Public Library was established in 1955, with a modest collection of books and a small staff. Over the years, the library has undergone significant transformations, expanding its services and facilities to meet the growing needs of the community. In 2006, the library relocated to its current building, a 55,000-square-foot facility that features a spacious reading area, a children’s section, a teen zone, and a variety of meeting rooms. Today, the library boasts a collection of over 150,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and digital media.

Services and Resources

The Kirkendall Public Library offers a diverse range of services and resources that cater to the interests and needs of the community. Some of the notable services include:

• Book collections: The library features an extensive collection of fiction and non-fiction books, including bestsellers, classics, and works by local authors.
• Children’s services: The library offers a variety of programs and activities for children, including storytime, book clubs, and summer reading programs.
• Teen services: The library provides a dedicated space for teens, featuring a collection of young adult books, graphic novels, and digital media.
• Reference services: The library’s reference department offers assistance with research, genealogy, and technology-related questions.
• Meeting rooms: The library features several meeting rooms that can be reserved for community events, meetings, and programs.

In addition to these services, the library also offers a range of digital resources, including overdrive for e-book and audiobook lending, hoopla for digital media streaming, and lynda.com for online learning and professional development.

Community Engagement and Partnerships

The Kirkendall Public Library is committed to building strong relationships with local organizations, businesses, and community groups. Through partnerships and collaborations, the library is able to offer a range of programs and services that promote literacy, education, and community engagement. Some notable partnerships include:

Impact and Future Directions

The Kirkendall Public Library has a significant impact on the Ankeny community, providing a safe and welcoming space for residents to learn, explore, and connect with one another. As the library looks to the future, it is committed to continuing its tradition of innovation and excellence, staying responsive to the evolving needs of the community. Some potential future directions for the library include:

1. Expanding digital services: The library may explore new digital platforms and tools to enhance its online presence and provide greater access to digital resources.
2. Enhancing community outreach: The library may develop new outreach programs and services to reach underserved populations and promote greater community engagement.
3. Developing strategic partnerships: The library may seek to establish new partnerships with local organizations and businesses to promote literacy, education, and economic development.

By building on its strengths and exploring new opportunities, the Kirkendall Public Library is well-positioned to remain a vital and vibrant part of the Ankeny community for years to come.