UPDATE: The Rondo Community Library in St. Paul is closing its doors temporarily on December 15, 2023, for critical renovations that have sparked significant concern among patrons and officials alike. The closure, announced earlier today, comes as the library prepares to undergo a $793,000 renovation aimed at improving accessibility and safety.
The St. Paul Public Library is undertaking these renovations to enhance the facility’s layout by relocating restrooms and the front desk. Library Director Maureen Hartman emphasized the need for these changes, stating, “We want to make sure that when folks come into the library, that they’re immediately understanding that it’s the library and that they can get connected to resources.” However, the decision to close the library has raised alarms about the loss of this vital community hub located at University Avenue and Dale Street.
Starting January 3, 2024, staff from Rondo will relocate to the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center, where patrons can continue to access books, DVDs, and computer services during the renovation period. This move has been met with mixed reactions from the community.
“I do want to make it very clear about this library renovation process. I’ve been disappointed with the lack of collaboration from the start,” said City Council Member Anika Bowie, whose district includes the library. “It’s been really challenging to convey the impacts of the closing of Rondo Library.”
Concerns have also been voiced by Isaac Mielke, union leader for library staff, who expressed frustration over the lack of community involvement in the planning process. “Library staff’s main concern with the renovation is that the staff who actually work at Rondo and know the building and the community have not been involved,” Mielke stated. This sentiment resonates with many residents, including Nehemiah Dacres, a local who relies on the library for various resources. Dacres questioned how the renovations would truly enhance accessibility.
“I’m not sure exactly how changing that will make it more approachable,” Dacres shared. “Unless you literally make it so it’s a walk-in restroom with no door, then you can make it.” Dacres volunteers at the library’s Black History Month events and uses the facility regularly, highlighting its importance to the community.
The Rondo Library has faced numerous challenges in recent years, particularly following the unrest during the 2020 pandemic. From 2021 to 2022, it accounted for one-fourth of the St. Paul library system’s internal incident calls to police. In response, library officials implemented safety specialists to address security concerns, yet many patrons still feel uneasy.
“Librarians should be able to assist me with research. They shouldn’t be knocking on the bathroom doors and trying to stop drug use. That’s not a library,” said Dr. Artika Tyner, an author who regularly hosts events at the library.
As the renovation plans move forward, both Bowie and Tyner are calling for improved communication about how the design will address safety and accessibility concerns. Meanwhile, residents like Lynn Overvoorde are left in the dark about the closure. Overvoorde, who visits the library with her 11-month-old daughter, expressed her hopes that the closure will be brief, stating, “I like the space as it is. I don’t feel unwelcome.”
The Rondo Library renovation is a developing story that highlights the intersection of community needs and city planning. As the project progresses, stakeholders await further updates on the timeline and the expected impact on this vital local resource.
Stay tuned for more updates on this story as it develops, and share your thoughts on the renovation plans for the Rondo Community Library.