Hello

We've reached an important milestone! Thanks to our 8,016 loyal supporters who helped spread the word and demand the State of Iowa continue to operate the State Historical Society of Iowa's library and archive in Iowa City. 

Please rally Iowans from across the state to help win votes for Iowa House File 2025, a bipartisan bill introduced by Representatives Adam Zabner, Bobby Kaufmann, Dave Jacoby, and Charles Thomson - an effort to clarify and strengthen a 169-year-old mandate from the legislature to fund the State Historical Society of Iowa's library and archives in Iowa City.

Here is an article from the January 13, 2026, Cedar Rapids Gazette with comments from those who helped sponsor the bill. https://www.thegazette.com/state-government/bipartisan-bill-would-reverse-iowa-city-historical-society-closure

Through collective action and a generational investment by Iowans, we can protect and enhance public access to the historical research collections traditionally housed in the Iowa City research center. Help others understand that the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) tried to skirt around the requirements of the current Code of Iowa when closing the Iowa City branch of the State Historical Society of Iowa.

During the upcoming legislative session, we need to defeat any bill filed by the Department of Administrative Services designed to remove language referring to Iowa City under sections governing the State Historical Society of Iowa. 

Also, be on the alert for proposed changes to the Administrative Rules in March and April as public hearings will be held before changes can be approved.

Thank you for following the updates on our website https:\\saveiowahistory.org

Many individuals have collaborated on this effort - attending meetings, sending letters, writing editorials, posting on social media, talking with neighbors and friends face-to-face, and even donating funds directly to our campaign (not Change.org). These contributions have, and will continue, to make a huge difference.

Please reach out to the elected state representatives and state senators from your district so they know you care about this issue. Mark your calendar for upcoming events including the Founder's Day Celebration at the Iowa City Public Library on Thursday evening, January 29, 2026, 7:00-8:30 pm. The festivities include music, door prizes, and more.

For those who can attend, there will be opportunities to lobby legislators at events on February 23 and March 17. More on that later.

Looks like one bright spot as the new year begins!