Thanks to a grant from Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa, the Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation is helping ensure that the new Busse Branch truly lives out the library’s mission: Welcome to All.
Set to open in September 2026, the Cedar Rapids Public Library Busse Branch will feature an important addition that makes a meaningful difference for families - a height-adjustable changing table designed to meet the needs of individuals of all ages and abilities.
The Cedar Rapids Public Library has long been a cornerstone of the community - a place where everyone is invited to learn, connect, and explore. Through free access to books, technology, programs, and inclusive gathering spaces, the library provides vital resources that help individuals and families thrive. With support from the Library Foundation, that commitment to accessibility and belonging continues to grow.
Variety’s grant will fund the installation of a height-adjustable changing table in a private, single-use restroom at the new branch. Designed with both safety and dignity in mind, the table can be adjusted to meet caregivers’ needs, supports up to 500 pounds, and accommodates individuals of all ages - something rarely available in public spaces.
For families like Natalie Clouse’s, this addition is more than just equipment - it’s a lifeline to greater inclusion. Her seven-year-old daughter, Gwendolyn, uses a wheelchair and requires assistance with personal care, making outings to public places challenging.
“Something that seems so simple can be so impactful. When you have a child with disabilities, going out is already hard. This removes one of those barriers. It makes you feel like you’re truly welcome - that they want you there.”
Natalie Clouse
That sense of belonging is exactly what the library strives to create.
“An adjustable height changing table isn’t just a piece of equipment - it’s a statement. It says that dignity, access, and belonging don’t end at childhood. This aligns perfectly with our mission: Welcome to All.”
Library Director Dara Schmidt
The need for accessible facilities like this is significant. According to a 2022 Iowa Disabilities report, more than 60,000 Iowans over the age of five require assistance with daily activities, including restroom use. By incorporating inclusive features like this changing table, the library is helping remove barriers and ensure that more families can comfortably spend time learning, connecting, and enjoying all the library has to offer.
This project reflects the heart of Variety’s mission - to fund tangible, life-changing resources for children who are at-risk, underprivileged, critically ill, or living with special needs. By investing in projects like this, Variety helps create spaces where every child - and every family - feels seen, supported, and included.
