The Ramsey County Library in Maplewood, Minnesota, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of resources, services, and programs for residents of all ages. Located at 3025 Southlawn Drive, the library is easily accessible by car or public transportation, making it a convenient destination for people from throughout the area.
History and Development
The Ramsey County Library system has a long history dating back to 1905, when the first library branch was established in St. Paul. Over the years, the system has grown and evolved to meet the changing needs of the community, with the Maplewood branch opening its doors in 1978. The library has undergone several renovations and expansions since then, including a major update in 2010 that added more space for collections, programming, and community activities.
Services and Resources
The Maplewood library offers a diverse range of services and resources, including a vast collection of books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and databases. The library also provides access to free Wi-Fi, computers, and other technology, as well as meeting and study rooms that can be reserved by community members. In addition, the library offers a variety of programs and services for children, teens, and adults, including storytime sessions, book clubs, author readings, and educational workshops.
One of the unique features of the Maplewood library is its emphasis on community engagement. The library hosts a range of events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibits, and cultural festivals, that bring people together and foster a sense of connection and belonging. The library also partners with local organizations and businesses to provide resources and support for residents, such as job training programs, health services, and financial literacy workshops.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Computer Access | Free access to computers and internet for library cardholders |
| Meeting Rooms | Reservable meeting and study rooms for community members |
| Programs and Events | Regular programs and events for children, teens, and adults, including storytime sessions, book clubs, and author readings |
Technical Specifications and Equipment
The Maplewood library is equipped with a range of technology, including public computers with internet access, printers and copiers, and wireless networking capabilities. The library also has a self-checkout system that allows patrons to quickly and easily borrow materials, as well as a digital media lab where people can create and edit digital content.
Accessibility and Inclusion
The Ramsey County Library in Maplewood is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible environment for all members of the community. The library has wheelchair-accessible entrances and aisles, as well as adaptive technology such as text-to-speech software and large print materials. The library also offers accommodations for people with disabilities, including sign language interpretation and audio descriptions.
In addition to its physical facilities, the library also offers a range of digital resources that can be accessed from anywhere, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services. The library's website is also mobile-friendly, making it easy for people to search for materials, place holds, and access their accounts on the go.
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances and aisles
- Adaptive technology, including text-to-speech software and large print materials
- Accommodations for people with disabilities, including sign language interpretation and audio descriptions
- Digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, and streaming services
- Mobile-friendly website with online search and account access
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 8pm, Friday from 10am to 5pm, and Saturday from 10am to 2pm. The library is closed on Sundays.
Do I need a library card to use the library’s resources?
+Yes, you will need a library card to borrow materials, access digital resources, and use the library’s computers and other technology. Library cards are free for Ramsey County residents and can be obtained by visiting the library in person.
Can I reserve a meeting room at the library?
+Yes, the library has several meeting rooms that can be reserved by community members. Rooms can be reserved up to 90 days in advance and must be reserved at least 24 hours in advance. There is no fee to reserve a meeting room, but some rooms may have specific requirements or restrictions.
