The meeting’s central topic was the presentation on the Summer Teen Engagement Library and Parks and Recreation initiative, spearheaded by Natasha O’Bafin. This project, a collaboration between the Saint Paul Public Libraries, Parks and Recreation, and RightTrack, seeks to address the needs and challenges of teenagers aged 14 to 19. The initiative employs design thinking principles to develop programming based on direct teen input. The research team, consisting of supervisors and teen engagement interns, conducted surveys with approximately 164 teenagers, focusing on their social habits, library usage, and future aspirations. The survey revealed that while many teens found libraries and recreation centers welcoming, busy schedules and a lack of acquaintances who frequent these spaces often deterred them from visiting.

Despite these favorable views, the survey highlighted the need for more robust outreach efforts to strengthen connections with schools. O’Bafin emphasized the concept of creating a “third space” in libraries, where teens could gather outside of school and work environments. The initiative also explored teens’ ambitions, with responses predominantly focusing on career, academics, financial stability, and family.

The board also discussed the $2,000,000 renovation plan for play and learn spaces across all libraries, starting with the Sunray Library. This endeavor aims to integrate literacy with play, creating quality spaces that cater to families and young children. The project also includes updates to technology-rich areas to accommodate the community’s evolving virtual needs post-COVID. These updates focus on enhancing the physical layout of libraries, including creating private meeting spaces.

Ongoing construction at the Hamlin Midway Library was another focal point, with plans to open by late 2026. The library’s design, influenced by community feedback, will feature a “calm room” to meet community needs. Updates on other libraries, such as Hayden Heights and Riverview, are in the planning stages, with efforts to secure federal earmarks and prepare construction documents.

The meeting also covered capital maintenance and improvement projects, supported by the CIB deferred maintenance fund. These efforts focus on ADA compliance, energy efficiency upgrades, and safety infrastructure investments. At the George Latimer Central Library, for instance, new LED lighting and HVAC system updates are underway. Safety measures include installing updated sharps containers and vapor monitors in restrooms, alongside evaluating security camera systems.

Beth Burns, president of the Friends of the Saint Paul Library, provided an update on the “Transform Our Libraries, Discover Our Possibilities” fundraising campaign, which aims to secure $10,000,000, supplementing the city’s $25,000,000 contribution. The Friends organization is engaging private funders and plans to enter a public campaign phase once 80-85% of the goal is achieved. Burns emphasized the importance of community participation and fostering a sense of ownership among residents.