Pella Public Library Hosts Earth Day Upcycle Challenge

Community members encouraged to transform library items into new creations

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

The Pella Public Library is inviting the community to participate in its third annual Earth Day Upcycle Challenge. From March 1 to April 22, residents can pick up 'Upcycle Kits' containing materials from the library that can't be recycled, then create new items from the repurposed goods. An exhibit showcasing the finished projects will be on display at the library from April 1 to May 11.

Why it matters

The Upcycle Challenge promotes sustainability and environmental awareness by encouraging community members to find creative ways to reuse and repurpose everyday items that would otherwise end up in landfills. It also helps the library reduce waste and engage residents in hands-on learning about recycling and upcycling.

The details

The Upcycle Challenge kits contain a variety of materials from the library that can't be recycled through normal channels, such as old books, magazines, and other discarded items. Participants are tasked with transforming these materials into new, useful creations. Guidelines for the challenge and instructions for submitting finished projects for the exhibit are included with each kit.

  • The Upcycle Challenge began on March 1, 2026.
  • The exhibit showcasing the finished projects will be on display at the Pella Public Library from April 1 to May 11, 2026.

The players

Pella Public Library

A public library serving the community of Pella, Iowa, that is hosting the annual Earth Day Upcycle Challenge.

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What’s next

The library encourages all community members to participate in the Upcycle Challenge and submit their creations for the upcoming exhibit.

The takeaway

The Pella Public Library's Earth Day Upcycle Challenge is a creative way for the community to engage in sustainable practices, reduce waste, and showcase their artistic talents by repurposing everyday items into new, useful creations.