2:38The most noteworthy highlight of the meeting was the presentation by Sinclair Heuer from Barry Communications, who introduced the library’s new branding initiative. The rebranding effort, driven by community feedback, aims to align the library’s image with contemporary expectations and reflect the diverse demographics of Saint Paul. Heuer explained that the previous brand identity, which had been in place for over two decades, no longer resonated with the evolving community. The new brand includes a logo characterized by a simple yet bold design, representing an open book or doorway. The color palette is expansive and flexible, designed to cater to different audiences and enhance multicultural messaging. Local logos for each library location were developed to foster a sense of ownership among staff and strengthen the connection to the overarching library system.

Following Heuer’s presentation, Claire unveiled the new brand, describing the thorough process involving community engagement and collaboration with a branding consultant. The new brand focuses on accessibility and aims to reflect all of Saint Paul. The materials designed for staff use are cohesive and visually appealing, tailored to specific audiences to enhance the user experience across library spaces. An upcoming campaign will further promote the library’s story and mission to the community, emphasizing that the new branding is not just a visual change but a strategic effort to strengthen the library’s connection with its patrons.

19:05Complementing the branding initiative, the board launched a campaign centered around the concept of the library as a “place for great ideas to collide.” This campaign, which features real library users and staff, aims to engage the community through both digital advertisements and physical outreach. It targets specific demographic groups such as newcomers and younger generations, particularly Gen X and Gen Y, who are underrepresented in library spaces. The campaign slogan, “it’s yours to explore, it’s mine to discover, it’s theirs to check out,” captures the inclusive nature of libraries as community hubs. The initiative will run throughout 2025, with plans to adapt advertisements as needed to better connect with identified audiences. Funding support from the Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library facilitated both the rebranding effort and the associated campaign.

Several board members praised the campaign’s messaging and branding, highlighting its uplifting and empowering nature. The emphasis on making libraries accessible and welcoming for all, particularly individuals from diverse backgrounds, was noted as a key strength. A board member shared a personal connection to the campaign’s messaging, resonating with the idea of finding one’s place in the community. There was a suggestion to incorporate the campaign’s color palette into other library branding elements.

The meeting also addressed library programs aimed at engaging immigrant families, with a focus on bilingual storytime sessions for Somali families. A community specialist shared their personal journey of navigating life in a new country and emphasized the library’s role in providing a sense of belonging. The bilingual program is designed to meet the needs of the community, providing a space for families to come together, share stories, and learn about the library’s offerings. The program’s objectives center on promoting literacy and community connection in a welcoming atmosphere, recognizing the diverse cultural backgrounds of participants.

35:47Teaching basic language skills—reading, writing, listening, and speaking—was emphasized as critical for children’s development. A speaker described efforts to bridge language barriers. The importance of language offerings and culturally specific programming was reiterated, with assurances that the library continues to adapt its services based on community feedback.

Towards the end of the meeting, acknowledgments were made regarding the transition of leadership roles within the board. Gratitude was expressed to outgoing members for their service, with reflections on the library’s evolution and its transformative impact on the community. The meeting concluded with excitement about the library’s future developments, particularly in terms of accessibility and sustainability, which are expected to benefit future generations.