Facilities Master Plan
Ramsey County Library seeks feedback on its Facilities Master Plan.
Please come to hear about the future of your library and share your thoughts.
The Facilities Master Plan is available on the Library's Web site, Facilities Master Plan.
Wednesday, April 9, 7 - 9 p.m.
White Bear Lake City Council Chambers
4701 Highway 61
Thursday, April 10, 7 - 9 p.m.
Shoreview City Council Chambers
4600 Victoria Street North
Tuesday, April 15, 7 - 9 p.m.
Arden Hills City Hall
1245 West Highway 96
Library Seeks Community Input on Facilities Master Plan
Tuesday, December 4, 7-9 p.m.
White Bear Lake City Hall
Wednesday, December 5, 7-9 p.m.
Shoreview City Council Chambers
Ramsey County Library is launching an initiative to analyze the quality of library facilities and service while planning for development in the next 10 years. Please come and share your thoughts about current library buildings and services and your ideas about what will be needed in the future.
Officials from Shoreview and White Bear Lake will be at their respective meetings to give a brief presentation on city development plans.
Meetings are open to the public and everyone is welcome. Refreshments will be provided.
Call 651-486-2200 for more information.
If you are unable to attend the public meetings, please submit your comments by clicking here.
Book Club in a Bag
Ramsey County Library will be adding new titles to this popular service in 2008. New titles will include Flight by Sherman Alexie, Run by Ann Patchett and Blonde Faith by Walter Mosley, all featured in the “Talking Volumes” series on Minnesota Public Radio.
If you are interested in starting a book club, the Library has many resources available to help you. Book Club in a Bag kits provide the books and all the information needed to have a great book discussion; all you need to add are the readers.
Librarians can also recommend Internet sites, booklists, discussion guides and other resources to help make your book club a success.
For more information on Book Club in a Bag, ask a Ramsey County Librarian.
Book Club in a Bag is made possible by the Friends of the Library.
Cravings
Have you thought about your holiday gathering or special event? Have Cravings cater your event in the library meeting room, at either Craving locations (White Bear Lake or Maplewood) or at your home. Check out the catering menu online at www.cravingsmn.com.
Click here for a coupon to enjoy a dessert at 50% off with the purchase of any drink when ordering at the drive-thru.
Maplewood Grand Opening
Saturday, March 24
Celebrate the grand opening of the new library in Maplewood, 3025 Southlawn Drive, Saturday, March 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with fun-filled activities and refreshments for the whole family.
A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. followed by comments from Senator Charles Wiger, Representative Leon Lillie, Ramsey County Commissioner Victoria Reinhardt, Mayor Diana Longrie, Library Board Chair Roberta Weltzin and Friends Fundraising Chair Nancy Guerino. 
"We look forward to introducing the community to the much-enhanced functionality of this new building," says Assistant Manager Meg Robertson. "We will offer more Internet computers, more and larger community program spaces, a larger children's area with space for storytimes, a beautiful deck and, of course, Cravings."
These amenities will be highlighted at the grand opening celebration by a number of exciting programs. Enjoy the sounds of the Bruce Allard Jazz Trio, sponsored by Myth, while sitting in front of the fireplace donated by McGough Companies. Several authors sponsored by Lake Country Booksellers, including David LaRochelle, Rick Shefchik and Stanley Gordon West, will discuss their books and sign autographs. Chat with Emmy-winning Cathy Wurzer about your favorite books and watch the Peacock Girls Hmong dance group perform. The first 100 adults through the door will receive a free rental DVD coupon.
Children will also enjoy a storytime featuring Charlie, a registered therapy dog, a hands-on "Reptile Experience" and the Daddy Doo Band. The first 100 kids to check out a book will receive a library backpack and plush Booker.
Cafe Cravings will offer promotions and special events during the Library's grand opening. Stop in and enjoy free samples for both children and adults. While you are there, enjoy a fantastic, cooked-to-order breakfast or a delicious homemade dessert. Don't forget to sign up for prize drawings throughout the grand opening weekend for a chance to win Cravings gift certificates and coffee beans.
Metro Transit will provide free bus rides to the new library on opening day between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on routes 64 and 80. Customers wanting a free ride must show a valid Ramsey County Library card.
This event is co-sponsored by Myth, Grandma's Bakery, Lake Country Booksellers, Metro Transit, Sam's Club, Cravings and Friends of the Suburban Ramsey County Libraries.
Ramsey County Library is deeply grateful to the Barnes & Noble staff and the
community who supported the Holiday Book Drives by giving so generously to help children and families in our community.
The Holiday Book Drive at both the Maplewood and Roseville Barnes & Noble received more than 2,900 donated books for the new library in Maplewood's
children collection and the Ready, Set, Read program sponsored by Roseville Rotary, Roseville School District and Ramsey County Library.
The Roseville Barnes & Noble also donated $1,000 worth of books to the Library's "Book Club in a Bag" program, allowing the library to add seven additional copies of the titles with the longest waiting lists.
Support the Library at the Bookfair sponsored by Barnes & Noble.
In an effort to raise funds for the library in Roseville's children's collection, Ramsey County Library is holding a Bookfair at the HarMar Mall Barnes & Noble.
On February 2 and 3, Barnes & Noble will donate a percentage of every sale
made with a special Bookfair voucher to the Ramsey County Library! Click here to print a voucher or get them at the library in Roseville, 2180 North Hamline.
The Bookfair will help Ramsey County Library in several ways. First, a percentage of Bookfair sales will help fund our book budget. Second, the library will be able to create a wish list for titles to enhance the collection. Bookfair supporters may choose books from an in-store wish list display to purchase for the library.
For more information, contact Lynn Wyman, Roseville Branch Manager, at
651-628-6803 ext. 523.
A portion of Maplewood's collection will be temporarily housed in other Ramsey County libraries. Please talk to a librarian for more specific information.
You can designate any Ramsey County Library as your request pick-up location while the library in Maplewood is closed. Please ask a librarian if you need help making this change. All non-designated requests will be sent to the library in Roseville.
You will be able to return items to the current Maplewood branch until the end of 2006. In 2007, materials can be returned to any Twin Cities public library.
Although we regret any inconvenience the temporary closure will cause for the public, we are very excited about the new library and all it will offer our customers. Thank you for your patience during this process.
The new library in Maplewood is scheduled to open in March 2007, and will provide larger spaces for kids and teens, more quiet study spaces, more computers and Internet access, a larger meeting room, an outdoor reading deck and a cafe. Watch this site for grand opening information.
Ramsey County Library invites you to give the gift of literacy this holiday season by participating in the Barnes & Noble Holiday Book Drives for the following libraries.
A special display at the store with librarian-recommended titles will be set up as a convenient way for you to help local children improve their reading skills. Contributors will have the opportunity to personalize their gift by signing a donation bookplate which will be inserted into the book.
"Ready! Set! Read!" is a commitment between the Roseville Rotary, Roseville Schools District and Ramsey County Library to improve the literacy skills of area children. We aim to strengthen the reading proficiency of 4, 5 and 6-year olds with initiatives designed to benefit children who need books, who need assistance and practice reading, and those who want to increase their skills and expand their reading enjoyment.
The Rick family opened their first Cafe Cravings in White Bear Lake in 1995. They have since added a restaurant in St. Paul and will open one in Blaine in late 2007.
"Two things are important to us," says Cravings owner Greg Rick, "Customer service and the quality of our product." Cravings prides itself on fresh, homemade food made just for you. With more than 100 items on the menu, you are sure to find your breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert favorites. Visit Cravings at the new library in Maplewood and enjoy the cozy ambiance and incredible food and drink.
Cravings is looking for high quality, dependable employees for the new Maplewood location. For more information, contact Alyssa at 651-482-7742 or visit their Web site, www.cravingsmn.com.
The Ramsey County Library broke ground for a new library in Maplewood on Wednesday, April 5, at 10 a.m. Ramsey County, City of Maplewood and Library officials gathered for the ceremony at the new site, located on the corner of Legacy Parkway and Southlawn Drive.
Honored guests included Ramsey County Commissioner Victoria Reinhardt, Maplewood Mayor Diana Longrie, Library Board Chair David Norrgard and Friends of the Ramsey County Library member Nancy Guerino.
When finished, the library will be 31,000 square feet and will complement and harmonize with the library's back yard, ten acres of existing wetlands and Maplewood's new sculpture garden. The new building will provide larger spaces for kids and teens, more quiet study spaces, more computers and Internet access, a larger meeting room, an outdoor reading deck and a coffee shop. Clink here to see construction photos!
The architectural firm of Hammel, Green and Abrahamson created the design for the new library and McGough Construction is the construction manager. Construction should be completed by early 2007. For more information on the new library in Maplewood, call 651-486-2200.
Ramsey County Library introduces an easy way to start your own book club. We provide the books and all the information needed to have a great book discussion; all you need to add are the readers.
Each Book Club in a Bag tote contains ten copies of the selected book and a notebook with discussion questions, information on the author and suggested additional reading. The bags are checked out for six weeks and can be requested for pickup at any of our seven libraries.
Ramsey County Librarians have carefully selected 100 titles for you to choose from. The titles include a mix of fiction and nonfiction, covering a broad range of genres and topics. We are certain you will find a title of interest to your book club. To view the current Library catalog list, click here
"We wanted to make it easy for book clubs to get enough copies of the titles they want to read," says Mary Moran, Library Manager leading this project. "We also wanted to include information to help get the discussion started. I think the Book Club Bags will be a great addition to our collection."
If you are interested in starting a book club, the Library has many resources available to help you. Librarians can also recommend Internet sites, booklists, discussion guides and other resources to help make your book club a success.
For more information on Book Club in a Bag, ask a Ramsey County Librarian.
Book Club in a Bag is made possible by the Friends of the Library.
Faced with some difficult choices, the Library Board decided to take enough time to look at other options in order to assure the best possible outcome for the Library in Maplewood. After examining several scenarios, it was determined that constructing a new facility on a different site would be cheaper per square foot than remodeling, resulting in a library that would be both larger and more efficient. The Library Board decided to pursue new construction on a new site, and the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners unanimously ratified that decision.
Currently, the Library is in negotiation to purchase 4.5 acres in Maplewood. Construction is expected to begin in April 2006 and the new facility is expected to open by March 2007.
The Task Force held three town hall meetings in the month of September to gather public input on the overall question, "What is the best way to provide library service in the northwest area of Ramsey County, both now and in the future?" Turnout for the meetings was good, and the Task Force heard a variety of opinions about the optimum size of a library, the factors that should be considered in choosing a site, and the services that should be offered.
The one thing that nearly everybody seemed to agree on was that they love libraries in general, and the Ramsey County Library in particular. At each meeting, a steady stream of people spoke passionately about how they use the library and what it means in their lives.
The Task Force will spend the next two months synthesizing the public input with demographic and other data to develop three to five viable scenarios for library service in the northwest area. Their recommended options will be presented to the Library Board, which will make the final decision about which path to follow for library service in that area.
We are pleased to announce the 2005 winner of the Minnesota Association of Library Friends "Best Project By Friends" award is the Friends of the Suburban Ramsey County Libraries. Their capital fundraising campaign impressed judges with its professional, organized approach and coordination with the City of North St. Paul.
"We are honored to be recognized for this project," said Nancy Guerino, Friends Project Manager. "This success is only possible because of the many contributions from individuals, businesses and organizations that supported our fundraising effort." As the project chairperson, Guerino brought community leaders, residents and government officials into a working group that successfully raised $71,714.
The library in North St. Paul opened in March of 2005 with many additions provided by the Friends' endeavor - a fireplace, child-sized furniture, an automated self-service express checkout machine and an expanded collection of multi-media materials and books. More than 100 donations were received during the campaign, with contributions of $500 or more recognized on a permanent plaque in the Library.
The Fundraising Committee includes Donald B. Regan, Honorary Chair and Chairman of Premier Banks; Nancy Guerino, Friends Fundraising Committee Chair; Alice Jo Carlson, Retired Ramsey County Library Director; Wally Wysopal, North St. Paul City Manager; Leon Lillie, North St. Paul City Council Liaison; Elena Pierce, Friends of Suburban Ramsey County Library; Ellie Nicklawske, Friends of Suburban Ramsey County Library; and Peter Hilger, Friends of Suburban Ramsey County Library.
Since 1997, Nancy Guerino has actively participated in the Friends of the Suburban Ramsey County Libraries. She was first introduced to the Friends at their Used Book Store at the library in Maplewood.
"I knew that I wanted to support the library; I believe it is such an important part of our community," Nancy said. "Working at the bookstore was a way I could help the group and see results."
After years of volunteering at the Used Book Store, Nancy decided to give more by becoming a Friends Board member. Her first project was the North St. Paul capital fundraising campaign.
Other than selling Girl Scout cookies, Nancy had no background in fundraising, but soon
realized that her training as an IT Project Lead gave her the management skills she needed to make this mission a success.
"I didn't think that my professional and volunteer work would have so many crossovers," Nancy says. "Our success with this project has helped me at work and vice versa."
The Friends' next fundraising project will focus on the new library in Maplewood.
For more information about the Friends and their efforts, call Dory Lidinsky at 763-786-1948.
The Ramsey County Library will break ground for a new library in Maplewood on Wednesday, April 5, at 10 a.m. Ramsey County, City of Maplewood and Library officials will gather for the ceremony at the new site, located on the corner of Legacy Parkway and Southlawn Drive.
Honored guests include Ramsey County Commissioner Victoria Reinhardt, Maplewood Mayor Diana Longrie, Library Board Chair David Norrgard and Friends of the Ramsey County Library member Nancy Guerino. The entire community is invited to share the excitement. Refreshments will be provided.
When finished, the library will be 31,000 square feet and will complement and harmonize with the library’s back yard, ten acres of existing wetlands and Maplewood’s new sculpture garden. The new building will provide larger spaces for kids and teens, more quiet study spaces, more computers and Internet access, a larger meeting room, an outdoor reading deck and a coffee shop.
The architectural firm of Hammel, Green and Abrahamson created the design for the new library and McGough Construction is the construction manager. Construction should be completed by early 2007. For more information on the new library in Maplewood, call 651-486-2200.
The library in Arden Hills will be hosting a dedication for the outdoor bench donated by the Arden Hills - Shoreview Rotary on Monday, June 6, at 6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome, and refreshments will be served. Help us show our appreciation for this new addition to the Library's grounds. Ramsey County Library would like to extend a special thank you to the Friends of the Library and the RCL-Arden Hills Task Force for their assistance in hosting this event.
Ramsey County Library will be joining the growing list of Wi-Fi hotspots. Wi-Fi, short for wireless fidelity, is used to provide high speed access to networks using wireless devices such as laptops, handhelds and cell phones.
Library customers will be able to bring their own wireless devices into their local library and have direct access to online resources. They will be able to search for books, access premium databases or just cruise the Internet.
The Library will also take advantage of wireless access to introduce a portable training lab consisting of 10 or more laptop computers. This lab will provide an enhanced
ability to offer customer training without needing a dedicated room or having to use existing high-demand public computers.
Look for wireless access at the libraries in Maplewood and Shoreview this June,
followed closely by our other locations.
"This is a very happy 'new beginning', as opposed to the 'ending' many people thought was written two years ago when the old Library closed," said Ramsey County Commissioner Victoria Reinhardt. She represents North St. Paul and is widely credited with crafting the compromise that built the library in the North St. Paul Community Center. "Libraries are at the core of how people see their communities. I'm glad we could help this community retain that identity."
The Friends of the Suburban Ramsey County Libraries also helped with the success of the new library by undertaking an aggressive challenge to raise $66,000. The goal to enhance the new library and provide special features not covered in the construction budget was met with great enthusiasm. Nancy Guerino, Friends Project Manager, stated, "We are very pleased with the response of the individuals and businesses of North St. Paul. Everyone is looking forward to once again having a local library."
The following individuals and organizations donated $500 or more to the Friends fundraising campaign: 622 Education Foundation, American Legion Post 39, Anchor Bank Heritage in memory of Hal Norgard, Friends of Suburban Ramsey County Libraries, James & Nancy Guerino, Heger Company, Thomas D. Jacobson, Kraus-Anderson Construction, Crist & Norma Langelett, The Family of Jerry & Arlene Mogren, Elaine and Gary Mulcahy, Andrew & Katie Nath, Tom & Ellie Nicklawske, Postal Credit Union, Premier Banks, Donald B. and Jean A. Regan, Sandberg Funeral & Cremation Services, T. A. Schifsky & Sons, Walter & Leona Schmitt, Roger & Lynn Vasko, Washington County Bank and Locum Oil Company.
The North St. Paul facility features an express checkout, an up-to-date collection with a large selection of DVDs, CDs and audio books, access to the Internet and various databases. A CD-Rom station, donated by Commissioner Reinhardt, accentuates the children's area. If you have yet to visit the library in North St. Paul, come and see for yourself what makes this library unique.
The Library’s fourth annual poetry contest runs now through April 16. The theme for this year’s contest is “Love of the Library” and can include poetry that has to do with anything you love about the library or literature in general. All entries must be received by the deadline.
Poets who wish to be considered must be available to attend the Poetry Slam led by Cynthia French.
Mail entries to: 2005 Library Poetry Contest,4570 North Victoria Street,Shoreview, MN 55126
Please include your name, age and phone number with your entry.
Deadline for entries: Saturday, April 16, 2005
Call 651-486-2200 for more information.
Join county and city officials as we celebrate the grand opening of the new library in the North St. Paul Community Center, 2290 North 1st Street. Saturday, March 12 will include fun-filled activities for the whole family. A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. followed by comments from Commissioner Reinhardt, Mayor Sandberg, Ramsey County Library Director, Susan Nemitz and other local dignitaries.
Jazz vocalist, Maud Hixson, will perform popular jazz hits of yester-year in front of the fireplace donated by Krause-Anderson. Kids of all ages will enjoy Magical Matt Dunn’s performance at 3 p.m. in the children’s area. Stop by to meet BookerTM the Library mascot, enter hourly prize drawings and enjoy refreshments provided by the Friends of the Library.
“Libraries are such a positive destination for residents. It seems that every city would like to have a library; we’re glad to have this partnership with the City, making library service a feasible option in North St. Paul,” stated Library Director Susan Nemitz.
Library service in North St. Paul was suspended in June 2003 due to budget cuts. The former building was too expensive to run, which prompted county, city and library officials to develop an innovative plan for the new library in North St. Paul.
The North St. Paul facility will feature an express checkout, an up-to-date collection with a large selection of DVDs, CDs and audio books, access to the Internet and various
databases. A CD-Rom station, books for all ages and
storytimes accentuate the children’s area. The warm and inviting atmosphere coupled with the knowledgeable staff will make your library experience memorable.
To begin, I would like to tell you a bit about myself. Born in St. Paul and raised on a farm in Woodbury, I developed a passion for reading at an early age. I completed my undergraduate degree at the College of St. Benedict and my graduate degree at the University of Minnesota. I have more than fifteen years of administrative experience in the public sector. My employers have included the Minnesota Legislature, the University of Minnesota, the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities and most recently, Minneapolis Community and Technical College.
My husband, John Curry, and I live in St. Paul. We have a seven-year-old daughter named Maura that is the center of our universe. She has developed my enthusiasm for reading and is very impressed that her mom works for the library.
In my first month at work, I have been so impressed by the experienced and dedicated staff and volunteer board members. It is a pleasure to have the opportunity to work with individuals of this quality. I am thrilled with the level of activity at the Ramsey County Library. Each visit is an exciting opportunity to observe patrons of all ages, genders and ethnicities engage fully in the library's services.
My immediate goal as director is to support the implementation of the new strategic plan that can be found on the Library's web site. First, we need to improve the
physical environments of the libraries, primarily through significant renovations to the libraries in Maplewood and Roseville and through the addition of the new library in North St. Paul. Second, we need to cultivate the collections and programs to support the changing demographics of our patrons. Third, we need to maintain excellent
customer service and provide technology to meet shifting patron expectations. Finally, we need to broaden our funding base to preserve this wonderful community asset.
Since I have never before left a job, leaving does not come easy. In my journey, I have met so many wonderful, talented people: staff members, volunteers, Friends, Board members, and customers. The Library has and always will be an integral part of my life, intertwined with my family over nearly four decades. My children literally grew up as a part of the library in Roseville, even coming to work with me as I worked as a reference librarian, sitting under the desk reading and drawing.
How far we have come! Technology now plays a major role in the library world, yet books will never lose their place in our hearts. What could be better than curling up with your kids on a comfy chair reading about the adventures of Harry Potter, or reading your favorite book in a lawn chair sipping lemonade? A book is a treasure to be discovered alone or together with loved ones.
As I move into this next adventure, I will cherish the memories we have all made together, supporting and furthering the mission of the Ramsey County Library. Thank you for a marvelous time!
Is your teen interested in taking up a new skill or hobby? Are you looking
for tips on raising teens in our society? Look no further than your local
library. The Ramsey County Library in Roseville is expanding the resources
available for teens and their parents. The new resources will be available
from any Ramsey County Library and will include topics on enhancing
parenting skills, healthy hobbies and skill/esteem building as well as
materials related to the prevention of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use.
The Mayors’ Commission Against Drugs and the Hazelden Foundation funded the
materials.
In addition to the new books and related materials, the Library will host a
series of programs to promote healthy youth development. Click here for program information!
We are only a few months from the opening of our new library in the North St. Paul Community Center. Karen Boettcher, currently the children's librarian at the library in Mounds View, has been selected to manage the new space. She is busy selecting books, CDs and DVDs for the library, choosing furniture and hiring the staff. "Our collection will emphasize up-to-date reading and viewing materials that will have wide appeal to patrons of all ages,” says Boettcher.
The Friends have kicked off a campaign to raise money for some finishing touches to make this library a very special space. Don Regan, Chairman of Premier Banks, is the honorary campaign chair. The Friends have already raised more than 25% of the $66,000 goal. If you are interested in making a donation, please send your contribution to: Friends of the Suburban Ramsey County Libraries, 4570 No. Victoria St., Shoreview, MN 55126. You will be a partner in helping to build a wonderful library for the future!
On June 16, the Ramsey County Library Board authorized the issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP) to secure architectural and engineering services for the expansion and renovation of the library in Maplewood, 1670 Beam Avenue. Thirteen firms submitted proposals which were reviewed and rated by an evaluation team made up of representatives from staff, the Library Board and the Friends. Following the selection process, the team recommended to the Library Board their top choice, architectural firm Parker Durrant. Parker Durrant's library experience includes over thirty public, academic and specialty libraries. On September 15, the Library Board approved the recommendation of Parker Durrant for the expansion and renovation project in Maplewood.
A staff task force began working in April to develop a building program for the Maplewood project, and the program was approved by the Board in September. This work will be invaluable as the Library works with Parker Durrant over the next several months in schematic design. Construction could begin as early as fall of 2005.
The Library in White Bear Lake will be able to supplement its existing
collection of literacy and English-as-a-second-language materials through a generous gift from Sam's Club.
Plans for the joint library project in North St. Paul are firming up. The Library and the City of North St. Paul are collaborating to provide library service in a 2,600 square foot space in the city's Community Center. Library and County staff have been working with DSGW Architects and Kraus Anderson Construction Company to design a library that will be compact, yet offer many of the same services as the other libraries in the system. Construction began in late summer and the library is slated to open in January 2005.
With the sale of $9,750,000 in General Obligation Library Bonds on July 13, 2004, the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners kicked off the Library's capital improvement program for projects in Maplewood and Roseville.
Library and County staff have been working on a process to select a firm for architectural, engineering and design services for the 14,000 square foot addition to the library in Maplewood, 1670 Beam Avenue. The $7.9 million project will also include renovation of the current space, which opened in 1992, and the addition of a coffee shop. Business at the library in Maplewood has increased 38% over the past two years, with 700,000 items checked out in 2003. This capital project will allow greater use of technology by customers and staff, enlarge and improve the children's area, and add much needed "people" space.
The funds from the sale of the bonds will also allow the first phase of a 20,000 square foot addition to the library in Roseville, 2180 Hamline Avenue North to move forward, beginning with acquisition of several acres of land north of the current library site. The library in Roseville, with an annual circulation of 1.3 million in 2003, is the third busiest library in the metro area. Future plans for this building include additional parking, a larger children's area, programming/meeting space, and more room for technology, including Internet access. The library in Roseville has been a presence on the corner of Hamline Avenue and County Road B since the early 1950s .
DVD rental collections have been expanded to all libraries in the Ramsey County system. The libraries in Arden Hills, Mounds View and White Bear Lake now have their own DVD rental collections, which are already very popular.
A pilot project began in September 2003 at the libraries in Maplewood, Roseville and Shoreview. The collection was in such high demand that customers asked the other libraries to offer it as well. The DVDs rent for 50 cents per day at the six locations.
The Ramsey County Library in Shoreview, 4570 North Victoria Street, will get
a much-needed update during the month of September. Beginning September 7,
the library will begin the process to replace the carpeting throughout the
14,000 square-foot upper level. The project will take approximately one
month to complete.
During this time, the library in Shoreview will provide limited service in
the form of accepting returned items and checking out requested materials.
Full library service will continue to be available at the other five Ramsey
County libraries located in Arden Hills, Maplewood, Mounds View, Roseville
and White Bear Lake. For library hours or directions, logon to the Library’s
web site at www.rclreads.org or call 651-486-2200.
Ramsey County Library's third annual poetry contest was well received with more than 30 entries and 25 performers at the poetry slam. Winners in each age category are as follows:
Poetry books, featuring all poems submitted during the 2004 poetry contest, are available at all Ramsey County Libraries.
A recently approved building program will launch the Ramsey County Library system into the 21st Century.
From a scattered set of community libraries, to the unified libraries that serve the suburban area, Ramsey County Libraries have come a long way in the last 50+ years. Built between 1969 and 1993, the six libraries range in size from 8,000-to-43,000 square feet. In October the Ramsey County Library Board approved a three-phase building improvement plan which includes:
With authorization by the County Board to sell $9,750,000 in bonds on March 16, 2004 the other two projects, in Roseville and Maplewood will soon be underway. Both projects will expand the use of technology for the public, enlarge and improve the children's areas, add much needed "people" space, and at the library in Maplewood, allow participation with a retail partner.
3rd Annual Poetry Contest
February 2004
Enter Ramsey County Library’s “Back to Nature” poetry contest. Entries should include a “Back to Nature” theme, your name, age and phone number and be submitted by Friday, April 16. Poets who wish to be considered must be available to attend a Poetry Slam on Saturday, May 1 from 1-3 pm at the library in Roseville.
The Slam is a chance for family, friends and poetry enthusiasts to cheer on participants and select contest winners. Led by Slammaster Cynthia French, contestants will perform their poetry and prizes will be awarded to the top entries. Mail entries to: “2004 Poetry Contest,” 4570 North Victoria Street, Shoreview, MN 55126. For more information, pick up the contest rules at your local library, or click here to print them.
On January 27, the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners approved the issuance of bonds to fund a 2,600 square foot library in the North St. Paul Community Center. The North St. Paul Library was closed on June 1, 2003 due to budget reductions, and the Library Board and library staff have been working with City of North St. Paul officials to develop a partnership to bring library services back to the North St. Paul community.
"We are very excited to be working together on this project and anticipate more traffic due to the new location within the Community Center," stated Library Board President Victoria Cox.
The City has agreed to provide the space for $1 annually for the next twenty years, a wonderful opportunity to re-establish library service in the community.
Several Ramsey County libraries are introducing their patrons to the "fast lane." The libraries in Shoreview, Mounds View and Maplewood recently installed "Express Checkout" machines, giving library customers the option of checking out library
materials at a special self-serve terminal.
The transition to "Express Checkout" was made as a result of increased library usage and a reduction in staff resources. "Library staff want to serve the public in a timely manner. With the surge in business, lines are growing and wait time is increasing. The new 'express checkout' provides a great option for those who are in a hurry," stated Maplewood Manager Sandy Walsh. The library in Roseville was the first in the system to offer the option and will soon be using the terminals for all regular checkouts. "We see all ages using the terminals. In fact, children are drawn to them and encourage their parents to give it a try," commented Library Director Alice-Jo Carlson.
The third annual Hot Reads for Cold Nights adult reading program will be
hosted at the libraries in Arden Hills, Mounds View and White Bear Lake from January 2 through February 28. Participants can pick up their program materials beginning January 2 at any of the participating libraries, read and earn prizes such as an official “Hot Reads” bistro mug, treat bag featuring discount tickets to the Rodeo and more.
The program is sponsored by the Friends of the Suburban Ramsey County Libraries, Xcel Energy Center, Caribou Coffee, Taste of Scandinavia, and Barnes and Noble Booksellers.
Several local authors will share their works to celebrate the reading program. Click here for details.
The Ramsey County Library is battling budget woes with ingenuity. With pending
additional cuts to service as impetus, library officials generated creative ways to increase revenue in an effort to maintain service levels at the six remaining libraries. The Library’s new DVD rental collection, established in September, was met with great public support. The revenue from the Library’s line of merchandise, recently expanded with the opening of a retail store at the library in Roseville, has doubled since the store opened.
In addition, the Library is negotiating a Booker(TM) licensing program that is projected
to raise thousands for books and materials. As part of this program, the rights to use the library’s mascot image and name would be made available to other library systems for a fee. These projects are the product of creative solutions to the system’s financial challenges, which forced library officials to reduce the book and materials budget by more than $300,000 for 2004. “We hope these efforts will get us through to better
economic times,” stated Library Director, Alice-Jo Carlson.
The Library also benefits from the efforts of the Friends of the Suburban Ramsey County Libraries and the Ramsey County Library Foundation, who provide enhancements through book sales and fundraising events. For more information about opportunities to support the Ramsey County Library, call (651) 486-2200.
Ramsey County Library announces its third annual poetry contest. This year’s theme is “Back to Nature” and can include any poetry with a nature theme. All entries must be received by Friday, April 16. Poets who wish to be considered must be available to attend a Poetry Slam on Saturday, May 1 from 1-3 pm at the library in Roseville.
Contestants will perform their poetry and will be judged by members from the community. Prizes will be awarded. Your entry will be reviewed by library staff prior to the Slam to ensure it meets the criteria.
Mail entries to: 2004 Library Poetry Contest,
4570 North Victoria Street, Shoreview, MN 55126.
Please include your name, age and phone number with your entry.
Deadline for entries: Friday, April 16, 2004.
Guiding today's young people through adolescence is no easy task. The recent school shooting in Cold Spring has many of us asking why and what can we do. It also brings many questions from our children. The University of Minnesota Extension Service can help with Shoulder to Shoulder.
The Ramsey County Library continues to deal with the reality of the state’s budget cuts approved by the Legislature earlier this year. Due to continued shortfalls, the Ramsey County Library was forced to suspend service at the location in North St. Paul. In addition, the suburban library system is making plans to suspend service at the branch in Arden Hills on January 1, 2004.
Despite the budget woes, the Library Board is looking to the future. Both libraries are part of a proposed building expansion project which features creating a library space in the city of North St. Paul’s community center, a new facility for Arden Hills on the current site, as well as additions to libraries located in Maplewood and Roseville.
“Library service is in great demand in suburban Ramsey County,” stated Library Director Alice-Jo Carlson. “Our priority is to meet the needs of our customers for many years to come. Our plan for expansion is necessary to achieve that goal.”
Library circulation increased a whopping 18% from 2001 to 2002, topping out at
3.4 million items. More than 1.6 million people used the Ramsey County Library in 2002 and we are on track to surpass this number this year.
Library officials recognize that to grow and succeed in the current budget climate, they have to be creative. The Library Board and staff recently engaged in a planning session which identified projects to increase revenue for the library system. Innovation is a trademark of the Ramsey County Library, which was the first library in the state to partner with a coffeeshop in 1997.
Over the last year, the library has been developing its mascot program, which features a canine costumed character, “Booker™,” who was developed and named with community input. The Booker™ project is the first of its kind in the state and has been more of a success than ever anticipated. The mascot appears at community and library events, spreading the joy of reading. The library even sells small stuffed toy versions of the oversized pup. Plans are underway to license Booker™ for use by others throughout the country.
The Library also sells a variety of other book-related merchandise at each location
and in September, will open a store in the library in Roseville. Effective September 1, 2003, the Library will initiate several other methods for raising funds to keep library service strong. A bestseller DVD rental collection, similar to the bestseller rental book collection in place since 1996, will be set up at the libraries in Maplewood, Roseville and Shoreview. Customers will be able to check out the popular new release
DVDs for 50¢ per day. In addition, the adult daily overdue charge will increase from 25¢ to 30¢ per day and the fine threshold will be lowered from $10 to $5,
all effective September 1, 2003. For more information on the Library’s revenue enhancement plans, call (651) 486-2200.
CTV 101
Museum Adventure Pass, presented by Macy's 
Cravings 
Pictured celebrating the groundbreaking are (left to right): Commissioner Victoria Reinhardt, Commissioner Tony Bennett, Ramsey County Manager David Twa, Commissioner Jan Parker, and Commissioner Janice Rettman. 
More than 500 library-users celebrated the grand opening of the new library in the North St. Paul Community Center, 2290 North 1st Street, on Saturday, March 12, 2005. State
Representative Leon Lillie, Ramsey County Commissioner Victoria Reinhart,
Friends Fundraising Committee Chair Nancy Guerino, Senator Charles Wiger and
North St. Paul City Council Member Jan Walczak kicked off the day with a ribbon cutting ceremony pictured left. The fun continued throughout the day with jazz vocalist Maud Hixson and Magical Matt Dunn. Refreshments, provided by North St. Paul Tap and Grill, were much appreciated by all in attendance. 
It is with great joy that I take over the reins of the Ramsey County Library Directorship from Alice Jo Carlson. I am proud to be associated with seven vibrant and innovative libraries. 
After thirty-eight wonderful years of working for the Library, I am retiring on January 7. "Retiring" is, however, not a word that comes easily to my lips. How could the years have gone by so quickly? When I began my career in 1966, at the library in Roseville as a page, would any of us have ever guessed that a library in 2004 would look as it does today? And, as that young woman, would I have ever thought that I would have spent my entire working life in one organization?
August 2004
Ramsey County Library welcomes its latest addition to the merchandise
collection...POLO SHIRTS! The Polo Shirts are high quality 100% cotton,
navy blue with white contrasting cuff and collar with the library logo
embroidered on the left. Sizes are available in S - XXL. Show your library pride and get your shirt today! All Proceeds benefit your Ramsey County Library. 
(pictured left); Culver's Family Restaurant of Vadnais Heights, Pohlad
Family Charities, Minnesota State Fair, Old Country Buffet and the North Suburban Youth
Foundation, who contributed to the 2002 Summer Reading Program; and the North Suburban Kiwanis, who have reaffirmed their
commitment to beginning readers at the Shoreview and Roseville libraries, have all contributed greatly to expand the level of service offered to suburban residents.
