DES MOINES—The State Library of Iowa announced that the Jefferson Public Library has met the conditions for state accreditation as outlined in “In Service to Iowa: Public Library Standards Sixth Edition.”
Achieving accreditation requires a significant, ongoing local commitment to high quality library services. The Jefferson Public Library has been recognized for its efforts in all areas of library operations including governance and funding, staffing, library collection, services, public relations, access, and facilities. The accreditation status begins July 1, 2026 and is valid through June 30, 2029.
“This achievement reflects the Jefferson Public Library’s dedication to providing exceptional service and resources to its community,” said State Librarian Brenda Hall. “Accreditation is a testament to the library’s commitment to meeting the highest standards in library service and continuing to grow and adapt to the needs of Iowans.”
The mission of the Jefferson Public Library is to be the life-long learning center of our community and the place people turn to for the discovery of ideas, the joy of reading, the exercise of imagination, and the power of information.
“Our library has been accredited since the early 1990s. Every three years we apply for the renewal of our accreditation. Every day we strive to meet the standards of high quality service to our community,” said library director Jane Millard.
Of Iowa’s 543 public libraries, 416 – including the Jefferson Public Library – are accredited.
Iowa’s accredited public libraries are recognized for being responsive to their communities and for exhibiting excellence in their provision of library services.
Almost two-thirds of all Iowans have active public library cards.
Iowa libraries play key roles in workforce and economic development, lifelong learning and e-government activities.Iowans use their libraries to find jobs, do homework, locate a good book to read, research legal information, access government information, and more.
Jefferson Public Library Director Jane Millard with the 2026 Public Library Accreditation certificate.
“There’s such a variety of free resources in the library. It’s a joy to see young children learning with hands-on activities and discovering the world through books, teens finding friends through shared interests, adults continuing to seek opportunities to grow and stay active, and everyone getting the help they need with technology,” added Millard.
Accredited libraries receive a higher rate of compensation through the State Library’s Enrich Iowa program. They also receive a Certificate of Accreditation signed by Governor Kim Reynolds, Lieutenant Governor Chris Cournoyer, State Librarian Brenda Hall, and Director of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services Mark Campbell.
For more information on the State Library’s accreditation program, and to view the Public Library Standards, visit the State Library of Iowa website at www.StateLibraryofIowa.gov