Duluth Public Library

Description

The Duluth Public Library (DPL) was established in 1889. Today there are three locations: Main library downtown, Mount Royal Branch and West Duluth Branch. Each branch tailors its services to its unique patron base, but all branches have worked toward the same mission through the materials they offer for checkout, free events, guest performances, and access to the internet and supported use of devices. Further, the library has taken strides to improve equity for its patrons by eliminating late fees on checked-out materials and by providing access to social services in the library including county social workers, MNsure enrollment assistance, and tax preparation services. In 2018 DPL had 51,636 card-holding patrons who checked out 795,723 items, and attended 743 free programs (430 were programs for children and families).

DPL has always placed a high priority on supporting children and families. A team of dedicated youth services staff provides enriching events and activities for kids of all ages to enhance literacy and learning. Improving school readiness in Duluth is currently the library’s top strategic goal. To address this, the library has launched Every Child Ready Duluth (ECRD), through which the library is developing a coalition of community partners that will work together to help bridge the gaps in school readiness in the community, and support families and childcare providers.