Spring 2026 Newsletter

Apr 30

Written By John B. Holt

Spring Newsletter | 2026

$25,000 Raised: Inspiring Wonder for the Youngest Readers

Your generosity turned a vision into reality! During Library Giving Day - on April 1st - our community raised over $25,000, fully unlocking the Foundation Board’s $8,500 match.

These gifts support the library’s greatest needs and bring innovative, interactive children’s books to the library's shelves. By providing these in-demand stories, you are fostering reading comprehension and igniting a lifelong love of learning in every child who opens them. Thank you for keeping our library a place of vibrant discovery!

Go Behind the Scenes at the Library

Want a deeper look at Stillwater Public Library? Join Library Director Mark Troendle for a personal tour this May! Whether you’ve been a patron for decades or are new to the area, you’ll discover something new about the historic library building and the modern programs that make it thrive.

When: Monday, May 18th | 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.

RSVP: Please let us know if you can attend by May 15th.

Registration: Call the Foundation at (651) 504-2350 or email splf@stillwaterlibraryfoundation.org.

Bethany Cox Joins the Foundation

Bethany Cox

We are thrilled to announce that Bethany Cox joined the Foundation as the new Development and Communications Coordinator. Bethany brings local expertise to the role, having served as a Stillwater Public Library Board Trustee and currently representing District 3 on the Washington County Board of Commissioners. With her professional background as the former Director of Development at the Wild Rivers Conservancy, Bethany is uniquely positioned to help the Foundation grow.

A resident of Stillwater, Bethany and her family are frequent library users. Bethany succeeds Annette Look, who retired this spring. We wish Annette the very best in her next chapter and thank her for her dedicated service!

What's Blooming at the Library

Stillwater Public Library - ShelfLife Spring 2026

Spring is a season of growth, and the latest Program Catalog is designed to help you do just that. Whether you are a fan of classic film history, a lover of local music, or an avid reader looking for your next great author talk, the spring schedule is packed with terrific events. Explore the catalog today and plan your next visit to the library. Check it out here.

Summer Wednesdays Begin on June 10 at 10:30 a.m.

The signature Summer Wednesday series returns to Stillwater Public Library, offering free weekly performances for kids and families. First up: The Jolly Pops! This isn't your average library program - think puppets, music, and a full-blown dance party to celebrate the start of Summer Reading. No registration required; just show up and enjoy the show.

A Note from the Director

Planning for the Future

We are thrilled to announce that the St. Croix Valley Foundation awarded the Foundation a grant to support upcoming strategic planning. This vital funding will help the Foundation better serve the library and maximize impact. Stay tuned for updates as the process continues.

The Power of Your Support

Thank you for bridging the gap that empowers the library to do more in our community. Your support funds programs and services that introduce our community to all the library has to offer. You are making a lasting difference.