Bettendorf Public Library Refreshes Teen Space Thanks to Generous Donors

March 25, 2026 - 217,949 people visited the Bettendorf Public Library in fiscal year 2024-2025 (Source: Annual Report FY 2024-2025), and now, teenage visitors can enjoy a revamped space created just for them.

Thanks to a grant from the Scott County Regional Authority (SCRA) and a donation from the Bettendorf Rotary Club, the library's teen space, known as The Quad, now has new furniture, creating an inviting, comfortable space for teens.

"The Quad has been the library's dedicated teen space for 15 years," said Katie Jackson, Young Adult Librarian. "It sees a lot of activity and visitors daily, particularly during the after-school hours. Although we have purchased furniture over the years to refresh the space, through normal wear and tear, we have had to retire some furniture and replace it with repurposed furniture from other areas of the library."

The project was planned and laid out by the library's Teen Leadership Committee, made up of several teen patrons, with input from focus groups at Bettendorf High School and Bettendorf Middle School. A common request was for more individual study spaces, and the newly purchased booths, tables, and chairs accommodate that, reflecting how teens use and want to use their designated space.

"We evaluated how the space is currently used, and how we can best accommodate the needs and safety of teens," said Jackson. "We are so grateful to SCRA and the Bettendorf Rotary Club for helping our vision come to life and for investing in our teens to ensure they have a place where they can always feel welcome."