Robey Memorial Library to host "Smart Investing" program starting Sept. 28

Robey Memorial Library in Waukon will launch the “Smart investing @ your library” program from 6:30- 8 p.m. Tuesday, September 28 at the library. The last face-to-face session of the series will be from 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, October 26. In between, participants will have the opportunity to work at their own pace online and using library materials specifically purchased for these classes. To register, call the library at 563-568-4424.
In January 2010, the State Library of Iowa was awarded a $98,251 grant funded by the American Library Association (ALA) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Investor Education Foundation as part of the “Smart investing @ your library®” program. Waukon was one of only 25 rural cities in Iowa selected by the State Library of Iowa for participation.
"We applied for the grant with the hope that community members of all ages would benefit from these classes," Kerndt said. "We hope that the classes and the financial resources acquired through the grant will help patrons improve their financial decision-making skills."
The grant will help to build the capacity of the Robey Memorial Library to provide effective, unbiased investor education to the community at large. The library will host face-to-face and online education provided by Iowa State University Extension staff.  Three different courses will be offered: one for those who are first-time investors, one for those preparing for retirement and one for retirees.
Participating libraries will receive $575 worth of library books about investing. Classes will be held this fall and in Spring 2011. Ames Public Library, a previous grant recipient, will partner with the State Library of Iowa to select financial resources for the participating libraries and help train library staff.
“Iowa’s libraries empower people to make decisions and solve problems,” said State Librarian Mary Wegner. “We are delighted to partner with Iowa State University Extension and the Ames Public Library to provide these classes about financial literacy in Waukon and other rural communities in the state.”
The FINRA Investor Education Foundation supports innovative research and educational projects that give underserved Americans the knowledge, skills and tools necessary for financial success throughout life.
ALA’s mission is to provide leadership for the development, promotion and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.