The Idaho Falls City Council held a work session on July 15, 2025, focusing on the library's ongoing projects and community engagement initiatives. The meeting began with expressions of gratitude from the library board for the city's support, highlighting the library's growth and its importance to the community.

The library's assistant director for community outreach, Beth Swinson, presented various programs aimed at enhancing literacy and community involvement. A significant project discussed was the planned landscaping and development of the Broadway entrance to create a welcoming outdoor space for children's programming. This includes potential features like playground equipment and a water feature, which aims to make the library more accessible and enjoyable for families.

The council also addressed the library's non-resident card program, which has over a thousand users. Recent changes allow non-residents to pay $10 monthly instead of a $120 annual fee, making library access more affordable for those on tight budgets. The library prioritizes serving city residents while also accommodating those from surrounding areas.

A key focus of the meeting was the library's efforts to improve literacy among children, particularly in light of concerning statistics indicating that 40% of third graders in Idaho do not read at grade level. Programs such as story times, early learning bags, and summer reading initiatives were highlighted as essential tools for fostering reading skills and preventing summer learning loss.

The library's outreach efforts include partnerships with local schools and community organizations to promote reading and literacy. The council discussed the importance of increasing outreach to ensure that more children participate in library programs. The library is also set to host the Idaho Library Association Conference in October, further establishing its role as a community hub.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the library's commitment to enhancing literacy, community engagement, and accessibility. The council expressed support for the library's initiatives and recognized its vital role in the community, with plans for continued collaboration and outreach efforts.