County Libraries Share Updates with Board of Supervisors

Posted January 30, 2026
Posted by Board of Supervisors and Public Relations

Pottawattamie County’s public libraries continue to grow in use and community impact, according to an update shared during the January 27 meeting of the Pottawattamie County Board of Supervisors. 

Antonia Krupicka-Smith, Director of the Council Bluffs Public Library, and Sabrina Lewis, Director of the Avoca Public Library, provided highlights from Fiscal Year 2025 and discussed how libraries are meeting the evolving needs of residents across both urban and rural areas of the county. While the presentation focused on Council Bluffs and Avoca, Pottawattamie County is also served by additional community libraries including Eckels Memorial Library in Oakland, Walnut Public Library, and Carter Lake Public Library.  

Council Bluffs Public Library Highlights: Outreach and Access 

Krupicka-Smith shared that the Council Bluffs Public Library has seen continued growth and increased participation, with strong usage both within city limits and among county residents. In FY25, the Council Bluffs Public Library recorded 243,064 visits, 39,896 digital checkouts, and 45,705 program attendees, reflecting strong community engagement across both in-person and online services. 

A major highlight of the year was the library’s expanded outreach efforts through its mobile outreach vehicle, Willow on Wheels, which allows library staff to bring services and resources directly into communities across the county.  

Krupicka-Smith emphasized that Willow on Wheels is intended to help the library connect with residents across Pottawattamie County and expand visibility at local events. She noted the library would welcome opportunities for the outreach vehicle to be included in community parades and celebrations and encouraged community stakeholders and event organizers to contact the Council Bluffs Public Library to coordinate a visit. 

The library also continues to grow its digital offerings and adapt services to meet changing technology needs, including a transition from audiobooks on CD to all-in-one listening devices. 

Avoca Public Library Highlights: Strong Community Use

Lewis shared that the Avoca Public Library saw a significant increase in visitors and participation over the past year, with more residents using library resources, attending programs, and accessing both physical and digital materials. In FY25, the Avoca Public Library offered 185 programs with 3,037 attendees and recorded 11,257 visits. 

Lewis noted that rural county residents are actively using library services, including technology support and access to digital tools that are increasingly needed for everyday tasks. 

“We are seeing a lot of that right now,” Lewis said, referencing increased use of computers and printers for services such as online forms and other essential documents.  

In addition to traditional library services, Lewis said the Avoca Public Library continues to offer a wide range of programs and events, including trivia nights, craft classes, and new activities such as Dungeons & Dragons for both adults and youth.  

Libraries Support Learning, Connection, and Community

Together, the updates emphasized how public libraries across Pottawattamie County serve as welcoming community spaces that support learning, access to technology, and connection through programs and outreach, in addition to providing access to books. 

The Board of Supervisors received the update as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting services that enhance quality of life for residents throughout Pottawattamie County.