Elk River Library unveils new programs and community engagement initiatives

The Sherburne County Board meeting on April 1, 2025, highlighted the significant role of local libraries in fostering community engagement and literacy among residents. The Great River Regional Libraries presented an overview of their programs and initiatives, emphasizing their impact on families, youth, and seniors in the area.

One of the standout programs discussed was the "Thousand Books Before Kindergarten" initiative at the Elk River Library. This program encourages parents to read to their children, aiming to reach a milestone of 1,000 books before the child starts kindergarten. Participants receive rewards at various milestones, promoting early literacy and family bonding through reading.

The meeting also showcased the libraries' successful summer and winter reading programs, which have seen record participation. The Youth Advisory Council, composed of middle and high school students from across the region, provided valuable feedback on library services, indicating a strong preference for physical books and inviting spaces for reading.

In addition to literacy programs, the libraries are enhancing community connections through partnerships with local schools and organizations. These collaborations have led to events like author visits and outreach programs that promote library resources to students and families. The libraries also serve as vital community hubs, offering safe spaces for social interaction, tutoring, and various activities for seniors.

The board members expressed their support for the libraries, recognizing their importance in providing not just books, but also essential services like internet access. The libraries have improved Wi-Fi availability in their parking lots, ensuring that residents can connect to the internet even outside of library hours.

As the meeting concluded, the board passed a resolution supporting Minitex, an agency that facilitates interlibrary loans and access to a vast array of databases. This support is crucial as federal funding for library services faces uncertainty, and the board emphasized the need for continued advocacy to maintain these essential resources.

Overall, the discussions at the Sherburne County Board meeting underscored the libraries' commitment to enriching the lives of residents through literacy, community engagement, and access to information, reinforcing their role as indispensable assets in the community.