Tour de Library Day 12

 

October 11, 2023

Total 32 of 41 Hennepin County Libraries

A picture perfect fall day, the sun shining brightly, a chill in the air and the leaves full of color.  We were glad to save a couple of the west metro library locations for the month of October.  We biked along the Luce Line Trail and Baker Park Reserve.   

MAPLE PLAIN LIBRARY

5184 Main St E
Maple Plain, MN 55359

The bike trails were well marked as we entered the city and safely crossed Hwy 12, utilizing the pedestrian safety zones,  which landed us at the doorstep of the Maple Plain Library.  The library operated at many locations, with the current site a former grocery store.  The building fits very nicely into the surrounding community.  

In a prominent place as you walk in, there was a banned books exhibit with yellow caution tape all over. Each book had a card with the reason as to why it carries a "banned books" label in many parts of the country. It prompted me to investigate further, the library staff was helpful in providing more information on the topic.

The one community room is used by various groups, including the local Girl Scout Troop, and it was filled with kiddos earlier in the day for the music program in collaboration with MacPhail Center.

Staff report "the Maple Plain families are a crafty bunch," always keeping them busy with creative ways to engage them.

Open to ideas and dialogue, music, and crafts galore, they have found a keen way to build lasting community relationships with library patrons!

LONG LAKE LIBRARY

1865 Wayzata Blvd UNIT 108
Long Lake, MN 55356

The library services started in 1913 for the Long Lake community.  The Library was housed in a former bank building down the road.  Much like the nearby Maple Plain Library, it also moved around a bit until it found its current location within the Long Lake Town Center Mall in 1995.

The Long Lake Library has some similarities to the St Anthony Library, which is also located in a shopping center, and both have a large pick-up reserve section.  According to staff, the Long Lake community utilizes the broader HCL to check out materials and books in large numbers.  

The separate children's area is easily viewed through windows, providing a cozy space for children to claim as their own.  The self-check out section was busy with school age kids coming and going, with the friendly library staff greeting many by name.

Stay tuned for more biking the libraries, coming summer 2024!

Tour de Library Day 11

 

September 22, 2023

Total 30 of 41 Hennepin County Libraries

I did not think we would be able to bike our way to these next two libraries from downtown Minneapolis, yet via numerous bike trails and bike boulevards we did indeed!  Part of this adventure is seeing the different neighborhoods and distinct communities our libraries inhabit.  I get a broader view of what it means to be a Hennepin County Library patron.    

AUGSBURG PARK LIBRARY

7100 Nicollet Ave.
Richfield , MN 55423

Taking the chain of lakes path we biked along Lake Harriet Parkway, coming alongside groups of elementary school kids on their bikes heading to school with parents in tow. 

The Augsburg Park Library has a large Latino community.  Staff enthusiastically filled me in on the many things they love about their library. They enjoy interacting with their diverse library patrons, there is nature right next door and, according to Anita and Ruby, the staff make it fun to come to work.     

Speaking of fun, there was an eclectic art exhibit of "stuff found inside returned library books" which is hilarious and a must see!  The library abuts a large inclusive outdoor play space designed for kids of all abilities and development.  A visit to the library and the park makes this location a fun 1-2 combo for families to explore.

SOUTHDALE LIBRARY

7001 York Ave. S.
Edina , MN 55435

The Southdale Library has one of the largest footprints in the Hennepin Library system. A unique building on stilts which opened its doors in 1973, it has the entrance on the second floor via elevator or stairs and a "bridge" entrance at street level.

There is so much space inside! As you walk in, it feels a lot like a bookstore, with room for many book displays, themes and book recommendations. There is a plethora of desks and plenty of computers available -- it made my eyes light up. The large collection of reference material on the third floor, along with the knowledgeable staff people I spoke with, make this location ideal to complete any research or project on your list.

The Southdale Library is scheduled for a capital project and will be moving nearby. The library will be closed for 18 months, so hurry on over for a visit and take a look at this unique building and the bounty of reference material they have available.

Tour de Library Day 10

 

September 18, 2023

Total 28 of 41 Hennepin County Libraries

PLYMOUTH LIBRARY

15700 36th Ave. N.
Plymouth , MN 55446

Biking along Theodore Wirth Parkway and the Luce Line Trail, we arrive at the Plymouth Library.  Upon entering I notice the large circular stained glass artwork on the west windows.  As I get a closer look, there is a cool "literary layer" to this beautiful art piece --  be sure to take a look.

I wandered along the world language collection, which includes a variety of adult and children's books in Spanish, Hindi and Korean language materials, to name just a few.  The staff takes a poll with the library patrons and community to determine which "world language conversation group" to focus on each year.  Spanish Club is always popular.  Join the World Language Club on Monday nights this year.  Parlez vous francais?

As the sky starts to darken, we decide to cut our library tour day short and head home via Medicine Lake Regional Trail.  We make it back home after a 30 mile ride just in time as the rain arrives.  A successful day.  A beautiful bike ride.  A day of learning about one of the many ways our libraries engage their community... and we stayed dry!   

 

 

Tour de Library Day 9

 

September 8, 2023

Total 27 of 41 Hennepin County Libraries

BROOKLYN PARK LIBRARY

8500 W. Broadway Ave.
Brooklyn Park , MN 55445

 

Talk about library service transformations -- the Hennepin County Library bookmobile originally provided the only services to the Brooklyn Park area before 1976.  When the Brooklyn Park Library moved in 2016 to its current location it spread its wings with an open concept building that provides loads of space for patrons.  From the artistic ship-like bike racks out front, to the colorful accents that draw your eyes across the library, it has a huge "wow" factor.

During my visit I observed two library guests get their new library cards.  The library staff was enthusiastic in welcoming them and telling them about all the resources available to them through HCL.  I also learned how HCL has a shared system with some other county libraries, and how patrons can use their library card for credit when printing.  I even learned about the "First Pages" writing program for teens and adults. 

MAPLE GROVE LIBRARY

8001 Main St. N.
Maple Grove , MN 55369

The Maple Grove Library is another contemporary "open concept" library with lots of room available to work or study, and I saw many people taking advantage of the space. With diner-type booths, colorful and comfortable looking chairs, and plenty of conference rooms, it serves Maple Grove, Osseo, and surrounding communities.

There is a large dragon above the children's section that draws the kids (and me) like a beacon.  Don't forget to check out the Strega Nona original sketches by Tomie DePaola. 

Along with many sustainable features, the staff loves the slanted roof allowing water to converge like a waterfall outside the window when it rains.  Talk about cool!  

OSSEO LIBRARY

415 Central Ave.
Osseo , MN 55369

The Osseo Library implemented a new self-service model and expanded hours on 9/11/23, just a few days after my visit. Don't forget to check the library hours for our smaller locations, including the St. Bonifacius Library, before planning a library visit.

The Osseo Library originally opened in 1922 above a drugstore. After moving around -- first to a town hall, then a room formerly used as the village jail, then a masonic center -- it finally resides in a unique location within Osseo City Hall. This location allows the library doors to be open whenever city hall is open, making it a perfect fit for the community and for the new self service model. There is more than one way to have a cool factor!

We took advantage of exploring downtown Osseo during our library visit. You can grab a cold brew coffee at Annabelle House or a bite to eat at the many restaurants within walking distance of the library.

Tour de Library Day 8

 

August 11, 2023

Total 24 of 41 Hennepin County Libraries

GOLDEN VALLEY LIBRARY

830 Winnetka Ave. N.
Golden Valley , MN 55427

Biking through Theodore Wirth Parkway, we arrive at the Golden Valley Library located by the hidden urban waterway of Bassett Creek.  It has been at this location since 1971.  We took full advantage of one of the many beautiful bike trails in this area, arriving happy and sweaty.

Walking inside there is a homey-retro-vibe. It could be the 70's-style design or maybe it was because this city was home for a large part of my adult life.  The Golden Valley Library to me is a no- nonsense library that has what you need, knows where to get it, and finds the answer to all your questions.  It is a well established and dependable friend you can count on.

Located near a number of senior apartments, with its walk-ability and bike-ability, the library provides services to the changing generations in the area.  According to staff, this location has high computer usage data.  Once a month the library has a booth at the farmers market right next door, a perfect excuse to visit the Library, get a book and pick up fresh produce or flowers.

ROCKFORD ROAD LIBRARY

6401 42nd Ave. N.
Crystal , MN 55427

 

The Rockford Road Library which provides services for the cities of Crystal, New Hope and Robbinsdale is closed for major remodeling.  It has me excited to revisit when the transformation is completed.  I just love that fresh library smell.  See you in 2024!

BROOKDALE LIBRARY          

6125 Shingle Creek Pkwy.
Brooklyn Center , MN 55430

One of the largest libraries in the system, second only to Central, the Brookdale Library is adjacent to Hennepin County Service Center and district courts, which brings in foot traffic to utilize the library resources and materials.

With abundant study rooms, conference rooms and open space it allows them to provide a variety of programming for their diverse community.  The library has a large World Language collection for both adults and children. Bilingual staff are available.  Programs and info sessions have included applying for college, immigration, and visa references and materials.

Kelsey, a supervisor at the Brookdale Library, told me about their participation in a new "video conference rooms" pilot program, making them available for patrons to hold meetings and interviews in a professional environment, with additional technology for better sound and video.  Oh, and by the way, Brookdale was Kelsey's childhood library, so she feels right at home. 

Tour de Library Day 7

 

August 4, 2023

Total 21 of 41 (half way point!) Hennepin County Libraries

ARVONNE FRASER

1222 4th St. S.E.                                        
Minneapolis , MN 55414                                

The Arvonne Fraser Library, serving the Dinkytown neighborhood and the University of MN community, has a unique brutalist design which was popular in the 60's.  Now with the recent remodel, the addition of skylights, and the open central area, the library has abundant light to welcome patrons.

I learned about the history of Arvonne Fraser, a women's rights activist and political force who was a graduate of the University.   We are so fortunate to have a HC Library to highlight her wonderful legacy. 

Library staff person Rebecca spoke about current and retired university faculty and families in the community who keep them on their toes asking for specific book selections, topics and programming.  Kim mentioned the "patrons experiencing homelessness group" that is voluntary for staff members from any HCL.  The group discusses urban library topics and issues, coming together and sharing ideas as a library collective caring about the community they serve.   

PIERRE BOTTINEAU

55 Broadway St. N.E.
Minneapolis , MN 55413

Architectural questions about this Library building are frequent, so the staff created, "A River of Knowledge...Pierre Bottineau Library," a pamphlet with all sorts of historical facts and architecture details. The 1893 Wagon Shed and 1913 Millwright Shop from the Grain Belt Brewery Campus were renovated and combined to create this HCL gem in the growing NorthEast community.

Adam, who is another staff member who works at his beloved childhood library, filled me in on the changing community and the families who make up the neighborhood. He enjoys the diversity and all the changes since he lived in this area. The children's librarian is building connections to develop programming for Somali and Spanish speaking communities.

The ebooks continue to be in high demand. Staff works hard at keeping the collections up to date and relevant for the needs of the community.

ST ANTHONY LIBRARY

2941 Pentagon Dr. N.E.
St. Anthony , MN 55418

The St. Anthony Library has been conveniently located at the St. Anthony Shopping Center since 1963.  After a short move within the area in 2002, it continues to serve the NE Minneapolis and St. Anthony community.   

The location has a surplus of available parking, which is a bonus for library patrons.  They have a large area for holds and pick-ups, which creates a lot of traffic at this small location.  With such a unique location, staff mentioned that people outside of the community don't always realize the library is in the shopping center.  

As we left the library, we spotted a Dairy Queen across the parking lot, a welcome site on this hot day of biking.  Talk about convenient! 

Tour de Library Day 6

 

July 28, 2023

Total 18 of 41 Hennepin County Libraries

NOKOMIS LIBRARY

5100 34th Ave. S.
Minneapolis , MN 55417

The Nokomis Library, a star shaped building, is striking with all its angles and limestone walls visible both outside and in.

With 5 adult book clubs -- including Sci-fi, Mystery/Thriller, Graphic Novel, 55+ and "Bookomis!" (an all-genres book club) -- they have something for everyone.  

Lisa, a staff member, points out how everyone on the library team is on board and putting in the effort into making the Nokomis Library welcoming to all.  This is one of the reasons she enjoys her work so much.  With writing groups and activities, such as "fearless and friendly knitting" and the "seed sorting parties" for the community seed library, she urges library patrons to come back and try one of the many programs.  I left excited, thinking about which activity I'm going to choose for my return.    

ROOSEVELT LIBRARY

4026 28th Ave. S.
Minneapolis , MN 55406

The "small but mighty" Roosevelt Library, as the staff affectionately call it, was built 1927 to serve the Roosevelt High School across the street and the surrounding neighborhood.  It is on the National Register of Historic Places. 

I spoke with Carolina, who is bilingual and enjoys working with the Spanish speaking community.  Lisa, another staff member, said they have one of the highest number of visits for Homework Help.  They recently added the Teen Tech Squad program.  

The library celebrated the end of the school year by hosting a "Donuts and DJ Party" with 500 donuts from "The Baker's Wife" a bakery down the street.  The event was so well attended they are thinking of doing it again.  Despite the renovations in 2013, they are outgrowing their study room space and meeting rooms -- isn't that always the case with kids -- but to this day the Roosevelt Library is still thriving on teen spirit!  

HOSMER LIBRARY                            

347 E. 36th St.
Minneapolis , MN 55408

The Hosmer Library is a castle-like structure that sits in the Powderhorn neighborhood.  Built in 1916, it is one of the 4 Carnegie-funded libraries and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

They have many study rooms, individual desks, and tables, which were all occupied during my visit.  The large "Tween Room" with the George Floyd art work serves this age group well.  I learned about their large "Zine" collection, which is pretty cool.  

I was lucky to speak to a library patron while I was in the children's section, as her 4 year old and 19 month old came up to me to show off their butterfly wings from the library box.  The family comes to the library a couple times a week for kid programs.  The mother knew many of the library staff by name and shared how much the library is part of their life.  They left happy with a large bag full of books, and I guess that's what makes us all happy.