The Library is Magic

Here at Friends, we get to hear about so many instances of library magic, both day-making and life-changing.

  • A writer who, inspired by a library book, started their next research project.
  • A library knitting club that helped a neighbor stay sober by keeping their hands busy during hard times.
  • A library book club with connections that have lasted for decades.

Here’s a glimpse of your neighbors who, in ways big and small, found exactly what they were seeking at the library.

Mother-Daughter Book Club

Eileen and daughter Amanda formed a lifelong love of reading during countless trips to the library. Four decades later, their bond over books remains as strong as ever, despite the miles that separate them.

The two use their local libraries together through shared ebooks and audiobooks. “I love that the library lets us continue to enjoy our mutual passion for reading,” shared Amanda.

 

Amanda and Eileen pose at Ridgedale Library

Your Library in Antarctica

Your library is there for you! Even at…the South Pole?

Stephanie can attest to that. In her work, she creates custom maps of Antarctica's changing ice conditions. Last year, the Libby app made the trip with her!

“Being able to check out audiobooks kept me from getting too lonely in a place that can be extremely isolating and require a lot of patience!”           

Stephanie listens to audiobooks in Antarctica

This Memory Carried Me Through

Timothy enjoys bike rides to Sumner Library, where the Gary N. Sudduth Collection connects him with dozens of new books to discover. 

Before Sumner closed temporarily for renovations, Timothy paid his favorite spot a final visit.

“I had a lovely conversation with a librarian about how important that branch is to us. Connecting about Sumner and the universes it holds carried me through while I waited for it to reopen.”

Timothy poses at North Regional Library

Empowering the Next Generation

Zach grew up a library kid, and as he got older, he got involved in youth outreach and tech startups. When he saw a volunteer opportunity for the Best Buy Teen Tech Center (BBTTC) at Minneapolis Central Library, he knew it would be a perfect fit.

Every Wednesday, Zach hangs out with teens at the BBTTC as they work on projects like sewing clothes, recording podcasts, and jamming with instruments. Zach calls the BBTTC a “clubhouse learning environment.” He views these projects as unique preparation for future success.

“I’m glad I get to have some tiny part in this.”

Zach with a 3D printer in the Best Buy Teen Tech Center

A Safe Space to Explore

During a formative time in her life, Erin found that the library provided answers.

“As a teenager, the library was a safe place to find books on subjects I had an interest in but would have not been accepted by my parents. You realize as an adult how important that is,” she shared.

Erin feels like her love and appreciation for the library have come full circle now that she works as a librarian. She hopes to pass along this freedom to explore to readers of all ages.

MCL Children's Area

A Summer Library Adventure

During school breaks, elementary teacher Bill enjoys taking his three sons to the library. With reading a part of their daily routine, they go through materials quickly!

This past summer, the family created memories by visiting as many locations as possible. Highlights included exploring Nokomis, Hosmer, Washburn, Minneapolis Central, and East Lake libraries. On the way to their adventures, the family enjoyed listening to Libby audiobooks together in the car!

Bill poses with sons at Nokomis Library.

Love at the Library

Believe it or not, the library can be a great place for romance. As a library lover, this story may seem like a page out of your favorite novel.

Last year, Tyler proposed to Stephanie at Minneapolis Central Library. You see, for their second date, the two wandered through the library, discussing the books that made an impact on their lives.

Years later, Tyler popped the question among the stacks. Stephanie said, “Yes,” and now this library holds a special place in their memory.

Tyler and Stephanie at Minneapolis Central

A Voice for Students

Each afternoon, Roosevelt Library is flooded with high school students who have just finished up class across the street—including Ashley. Ashley saw an opportunity and became the Roosevelt High School Liaison, advising librarians about school events and areas of interest among her peers.

“I listen through the grapevine, talk with teachers, look through the school newsletter, and report what's happening.” Ashley’s insight enriches the library’s offerings and strengthens the bond between students and their local library.

Ashley studies at Roosevelt Library.

Young Reader Turned Librarian

As a preschooler, Ted took turns reading to the other four-year-olds. When his mom, Donna, observed this feat, she set her mind on frequent trips to the Golden Valley Library. Cherished memories were not the only results of these visits. For Ted, they inspired a career.

“I will share my delight that my son, an avid reader and library volunteer, is now a librarian for the Minneapolis Public Schools! And the librarian who inspired him has become a friend of mine. A win-win,” says Donna.

Ted and Donna at the Golden Valley Library.

That’s My Book!

Catherine, a newly published author, is crafting her third book in a middle-grade fantasy series. The library holds copies of her books, Bosco and the Bees and Mirror and the Bobcat.

She’ll never forget the first time she encountered her book while browsing at Penn Lake Library. “It is such a treat to see my books actually sitting on the library shelf!”

This writer finds inspiration in knowing that her stories have found a home where they can be discovered and enjoyed by many.

Catherine discovers her book at Penn Lake Library.

Librarian Pep Talk

When you’re feeling down, the right words at the right time can make all the difference. Take it from Anjannette, who moved to a new city at age 11 and felt like she didn't belong. One day, she sought the advice of her favorite neighborhood librarian. 

“She said to me, ‘You are very much yourself, which is a wonderful thing. You are a burst of color in a grey space. Don’t lose that, okay?’ Those words stayed with me. To this day when I feel lost and wonder what to do, I start by visiting a library.”

Plymouth Library Stacks

Who Else Has Read This?

Jenny's commitment to sustainability extends to every aspect of her life, including her reading habits, with the library an ally in reducing waste.

Sharing books with neighbors has a deeper significance for her, too.

“I love being connected to others who also might have read the same book I'm checking out. I like thinking about what they experienced and where they read the book."

Jenny poses at Minneapolis Central Library.

We'd love to hear how the library has played a part in your life, or filled your days with magic. 

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