7:45amBus Departs Hilton8:00 – 8:45amTour of SPPL Mobile Library8:45-9:30amTour of George Latimer Central Library (SPPL)9:30amBus Departs George Latimer Central Library10:00 - 11:00amTour of Minneapolis Central Library11:00amBus Departs Minneapolis Central Library11:15amBus arrives back at Hilton
Saint Paul Public Library:
About the Mobile Library
Saint Paul Public Library's Mobile Library is a vibrant and dynamic community resource, bringing the rich offerings of the library directly to neighborhoods throughout the city. This innovative service is a testament to SPPL’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that everyone, regardless of location, can benefit from our vast collection of materials, resources, services, and programs. For many community members, the Mobile Library serves as their home library, and they rely on the vehicle’s visit for similar services found in a library building. By meeting Saint Paul residents where they are, the Mobile Library fosters joy of discovery, supports lifelong learning, and strengthens community connections in all corners of Saint Paul.
After more than 19 years traversing all corners of the city, the Bookmobile, as it was formerly called, reached the end of its useful library life. In August 2024, the SPPL replaced the old vehicle with a state-of-the-art vehicle—the Mobile Library—that provides new and expanded services based on community feedback.
The Mobile Library is more accessible, efficient, and better reflects Saint Paul’s rich diversity by offering books in multiple languages and displaying vibrant art. In addition to a revolving collection of books for borrowing, residents can participate in ever-changing programming for all ages and connect with a digital navigator to answer technology-related questions and get access to broadband internet. The vehicles wrapped with original artwork created by a community artist.
About the George Latimer Central Library and Nicholson Commons
One of Saint Paul's most historic structures, the George Latimer Central Library is the largest Saint Paul Public Library (SPPL) housing approximately 350,000 materials in its collection and welcoming over 300,000 visitors annually.
The building was built 1914-1917 for $1.5 million. Architect Electus Litchfield used Italian Renaissance Revival style design and was heavily influenced by New York’s J. P. Morgan Library (1906). Features include arched windows, Palladian style entrances, large stonework, balustrade surrounding the building, rondel features near the arched windows, use of classical columns and pilasters, and cornice capping the structure.
The City of Saint Paul and The Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library have funded two major renovations of the building since its construction. A $15.9 million renovation 2000-2002 was designed by the architects at Meyer, Scherer, and Rockcastle (MSR). A $1.3 million renovation 2015-2016 was designed by Lawal Scott Erickson (LSE) Architects.
On the second floor, the Nicholson Commons is one of the architectural highlights of the library. Featuring large, arched windows, angel friezes, and painted ceiling beams, the room originally served as the main reading room. In 2002, the room was endowed with a $1 million gift from local philanthropists Richard and Nancy Nicholson.
In 2022, using the Nicholson endowment, SPPL worked with MSR to engage community members to create a plan for service, space, and user experience improvements to Nicolson Commons. Through community engagement they established the guiding principles of creating a space that is welcoming, empowering, and flexible.
The first phase of improvements was completed in summer 2023, which include a reconfigured public computer area, the installation of additional electrical outlets, and updated meeting rooms for improved co-working experiences. There is designated reading, studying, and browsing areas with comfortable seating and improved lighting.
The next phase of this project is now underway focusing on additional study spaces on the main level of Nicholson Commons. The third phase will include repurposing the balcony for increased use and appreciation of its stunning views of the Mississippi River and Rice Park.
Hennepin County Library:
About the Minneapolis Central Library
Minneapolis Public Library was founded in 1885 and opened in the city’s first public library building on 10th Street and Hennepin Avenue in 1889. In 1961, a larger and more modern building was constructed on the present-day location. The current building, opened in 2006, houses the largest collection of items in the Hennepin County Library system, along with the Cargill Gallery, a library-based gallery space committed to community-engaged group exhibits, the Teen Tech Center, special collections, an auditorium, and several meeting rooms. With over 600,000 visitors per year, the Minneapolis Central Library is an integral part of downtown Minneapolis.
Registration:
Core/MLA Members - $79
Non Members - $99
