Season of Gratitude at the Library |
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As the weather begins to change and a new season settles in, there is something extra special about gathering at the library.
Fall invites us to slow down, explore new ideas, and make time for learning, connection, and discovery. From programs and events to new books and familiar favorites, the library has something for everyone to enjoy.
Thank you to the many volunteers, donors, and community members who help make the library a welcoming place for all. Today, let's celebrate the people and stories that make our library so special.
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Everyone Belongs at the Library: Fundraising Breakfast Update On a quiet Thursday morning at the end of August, more than 60 guests gathered with the Stillwater Public Library Foundation for a first-ever fundraising breakfast.
Stillwater Public Library Director Mark Troendle and Foundation Director Elsbeth Howe shared information about the library’s history and its upcoming 130th anniversary, along with stories of patrons who treasure the library as a welcoming and safe place in their lives.
The morning was made even more meaningful by the generosity of those in attendance. Guests came together to demonstrate their belief in the library and its role in our community, sharing gifts totaling nearly $9,000. These generous contributions help the Foundation continue investing in the programs, materials, and opportunities that make the library a place where everyone is welcome. |
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Help Shape What's Next for the Library |
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Stillwater Public Library is working with Collaborative Design Group to explore possibilities for improving two important public spaces: the Children’s Library on the lower level and the Event Wing on the upper level, including the Margaret Rivers Room and the gallery. Use the button below to share your feedback in a survey. |
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Library Volunteer Spotlight - Sydney |
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At age 25, Sydney has been part of the library community since middle school, when she began volunteering as a way to get involved in her community. What started with volunteering for Teens Teach STEM grew into serving on the library's Teen Advisory Board, shelving books in the Children’s section, face painting at library events, helping with the Friends book sale, and volunteering at Summer Tuesdays. Sydney was honored with an Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award from Community Thread in 2018.
Sydney's library experience even helped shape her future career. Her experience with Teens Teach STEM inspired her to pursue elementary education. She is currently a special education teacher at L'Etoile du Nord, a St. Paul public French immersion school.
“I love knowing that my time is being used to create a positive impact for a place that I deeply care about,” she says. “The library is an essential part of our community and a place where I’ve met and connected with so many people.”
For Sydney, the library is also a happy place filled with books, learning, and connection. Her favorite spot is the terrace, where she enjoys summer picnics and reading with friends. She encourages everyone to explore the Friends’ book sale and the art gallery and to discover all the library has to offer, including books, classes and programs to audiobooks, movies, and volunteer opportunities.
Her advice to anyone new to the library? “Whatever you are looking for, you can find something for you here.” |
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Jowan Abdullah, left, and Sydney Nelson, right, volunteering at 2026 Summer Tuesday.
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| First Wednesday Coffee at the Library Wednesday, October 7, from 10:00 AM to Noon
Wednesday, November 4, from 10:00 AM to Noon
Wednesday, December 2, from 10:00 AM to Noon Join former librarians, Lori Houston and Cindy Selnes, and former Library Trustee Maureen Bell for a cup of coffee at the library. The Foundation is pleased to sponsor free coffee, tea, and hot cocoa on the first Wednesday of each month. Join us! |
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| Show your talent and creativity by designing a new limited-edition library card for Stillwater Public Library.
In 2027, Stillwater Public Library turns 130! There will be a yearlong celebration honoring the stories, people, and community that have shaped the library since 1897. As part of the anniversary, Stillwater Public Library will hold a contest to design a new limited-edition library card. |
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Free for All: The Public Library Film Screening
Thursday, November 12 at 5:00 PM Margaret Rivers Room, Stillwater Public Library
Free for All: The Public Library tells the story of the quiet revolutionaries who made a simple idea happen. From the pioneering women behind the “Free Library Movement” to today's librarians who serve the public despite working in a contentious age of closures and book bans, meet those who created a civic institution where everything is free and the doors are open to all.
Register today for this free event - SPACE IS LIMITED. |
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| Friends of the Stillwater Public Library Book Sale Thursday, November 19 through Saturday, November 21
Donate your gently used books as a way to support the library. Drop off your books on Saturday, November 14th from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM in the library parking ramp. Donation guidelines can be found here. Funds raised support materials and programming at the library. |
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Fall ShelfLife is Now Available
There is a lot happening at Stillwater Public Library this fall. From engaging classes and creative workshops to author visits and reading events, there's truly something for everyone. Take a look at ShelfLife here. |
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As we look toward the new season ahead, I am filled with gratitude for the many people who make our library so special.
To our donors, volunteers, and supporters, thank you for believing in the library and helping ensure it remains a welcoming place where everyone can learn, connect, and belong. Your generosity makes a meaningful difference every day. Have a wonderful fall season filled with curiosity, connection, and plenty of good stories. |
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Elsbeth Howe
Executive Director
651-504-2350
elsbeth@stillwaterlibraryfoundation.org |
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