The Great River Regional Library (GRRL) is a public library system serving a six-county area in central Minnesota, including Benton, Morrison, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, and Wright counties. With its headquarters located in St. Cloud, Minnesota, GRRL provides a wide range of library services to the residents of these counties, including access to books, media, programs, and other resources.
History and Development
The Great River Regional Library was established in 1969, when the Minnesota State Legislature authorized the creation of regional library systems to provide more efficient and effective library services to rural areas. Since its inception, GRRL has grown and evolved to meet the changing needs of its community, with a focus on providing access to information, promoting literacy, and supporting lifelong learning. Today, GRRL operates 32 branch libraries, including several outreach locations, and serves a population of over 450,000 people.
Library Services and Programs
GRRL offers a diverse range of library services and programs, including children’s storytime, author readings, book clubs, and other community events. The library system also provides access to a vast collection of books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and other materials, as well as online resources such as databases, digital media, and language learning tools. Additionally, GRRL offers free Wi-Fi, public computers, and other technology services, including 3D printing and scanning, to support digital inclusion and innovation.
| Library Branches | Locations |
|---|---|
| 32 | Benton, Morrison, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, and Wright counties |
| Outreach Locations | Several locations, including senior centers and community organizations |
Technology and Innovation
GRRL has invested heavily in technology and innovation, with a goal of providing equitable access to information and digital resources for all members of the community. The library system offers a range of digital services, including e-book lending, streaming media, and online learning platforms, as well as digital media conversion and digitization services for local historical and cultural materials. GRRL has also implemented a number of innovative programs, such as a makerspace and a digital media lab, to support creativity, entrepreneurship, and workforce development.
Partnerships and Collaborations
GRRL has established partnerships with a variety of local organizations, including schools, community groups, and businesses, to support literacy, education, and economic development. The library system has also collaborated with other regional library systems and state agencies to share resources, expertise, and best practices, and to advocate for library services and funding at the state and national levels.
Some of the key partnerships and collaborations include:
- Partnership with the Minnesota Department of Education to support literacy and education initiatives
- Collaboration with the University of Minnesota to provide access to academic resources and expertise
- Partnership with the Minnesota State Arts Board to support arts and cultural programming
What services does the Great River Regional Library offer?
+The Great River Regional Library offers a wide range of services, including access to books, media, and other materials, as well as programs, events, and online resources.
How can I get a library card?
+To get a library card, visit any GRRL branch library and provide proof of identity and residency. Library cards are free for residents of the six-county service area.
What is the library’s mission and vision?
+The Great River Regional Library’s mission is to provide access to information, promote literacy, and support lifelong learning, with a vision of being a leader in rural library services and a trusted resource for the community.
