Saint Paul Library Board Meeting - November 4, 2026

The Saint Paul Library Board convened on Wednesday, November 4, 2026. The meeting covered the approval of routine items, acceptance of a $1,000,000 federal grant for library reconstruction projects, a presentation on a new Timberwolves-themed library card, and a detailed update on the Rondo Community Library's renovation and planned return to its 461 Dale Street location.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of Minutes (Min 26-33): The minutes from the October 7, 2026, Library Board meeting were approved unanimously (5-0).
• Acceptance of Travel Gift (RES 26-1820): The board approved accepting a gift of travel and lodging expenses from the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA) for Library Director Maureen Hartman to attend a convening of library and civic leaders in Seattle, Washington, on November 12 and 13, 2026. The resolution passed without objection.

Discussion Items

• Resolution PH 26-231 (HUD Grant for Reconstruction): The board discussed a resolution authorizing the acceptance of $1,000,000 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Hayden Heights Library and Riverview Library reconstruction projects. Councilmember Johnson expressed full support for continued investment in the library systems and stated she looks forward to closing funding gaps to make an even bigger investment in Riverview from the amounts that was allocated for Hayden Heights this year. The resolution was adopted unanimously (6-0).
• Staff Report 26-251 (Timberwolves Special Edition Library Card): Stacey Opitz presented the launch of the library's third special edition card, created in partnership with the Minnesota Timberwolves. The card was designed by St. Paul-based artist Delia Touche, who drew on the history of basketball as a tool for assimilation that was transformed into a source of cultural connection and resilience by the Native American community. The library printed 7,000 copies and aims to attract new cardholders. Board members praised the design, with Council President Noecker highlighting the significance of a library card as a first card for children. Councilmember Bui inquired about the availability of past designs; Stacey Opitz explained the library rotates designs and keeps a menu of standard options. A Lynx-themed card is planned for the spring of 2027.
• Staff Report 26-234 (Rondo Community Library Update): Marlena Okechuku, Public Services Manager, provided an update on the Rondo Community Library renovation. The library has been operating at the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center since January 3, 2026, and will continue services there through November 23, 2026. The renovated library at 461 Dale Street is scheduled to reopen on December 31, 2026, with a grand opening celebration planned for January 2027. Renovations include relocating bathrooms deeper into the space, adding study rooms, making tech-rich upgrades as part of the Transforming Library initiative, and installing a new public art mural in the entryway. Board members discussed the artist selection criteria. Councilmember Bowie emphasized the importance of ensuring the city's investment is regenerative and directly supports artists from the Rondo neighborhood, noting the significant distinction between requiring an artist to be a Rondo resident versus having ties to the area.

Key Outcomes

• Votes & Approvals: The board approved the October meeting minutes (5-0) and accepted the DPLA travel gift (unanimous). The $1,000,000 HUD grant for the Hayden Heights and Riverview Libraries was formally authorized (6-0).
• New Library Card: The Timberwolves special edition library card, designed by Delia Touche, is now available at all St. Paul Public Library branches while supplies last.
• Rondo Library Timeline: The temporary location at Hallie Q. Brown closes November 23, 2026. The renovated 461 Dale Street location reopens December 31, 2026, with a grand opening ceremony in January 2027.
• Artist Contracting: The library has selected an artist for the Rondo Library entryway mural following a request for qualifications that drew roughly 25 applicants and is currently in the contracting phase.