SAINT PAUL, Minn. -- Saint Paul Public Library (SPPL) is offering a free limited-edition Laser Loon library card at all library locations now until supplies last. Residents can stop by any of Saint Paul’s library locations during open hours to sign up for a library card to get the Laser Loon special-edition card and receive a 15% coupon for a The Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library’s online shop, which now features Laser Loon merchandise.
“The new state flag has been a topic of hot debate here in Minnesota and that includes at Saint Paul Public Library,” said Claire Huber, marketing and communications specialist who manages SPPL’s social media account. “Like many, we enjoyed following the community-informed flag design process and loved some of the imaginative submissions. We wanted to join the conversation by putting our spin on things.”
A December 22, 2023 social media post, opens a new window—which features the image of a library card mock-up with a loon with a laser beam coming out of its eye and the word “READ” written underneath— received hundreds of comments and thousands of likes from Minnesotans and people from outside the state expressing their admiration of the loon, laser beams, and libraries.
“The response for the design that was inspired by the submissions was overwhelming,” said Huber. “And we are responding with a limited-edition library card and limited supply of special merchandise from The Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library.”
Any resident of Saint Paul can get a library card free of charge by visiting any library location in person with their photo ID and proof of address. Current card holders who would like the limited-edition card will need to apply for a replacement card, which comes with a new individual account number. They can also opt for a free sticker to apply to their existing card.
“We invite residents of all ages to visit their local library and sign up for a library card at no cost,” said Maureen Hartman, Director of SPPL. “At your library, you’ll find your next book to read or listen to, assistance with job help, a recording studio and maker space, activities for the whole family, and so much more.”
Library cards are good at all 13 library locations within the City of Saint Paul as well as the Bookmobile. SPPL has books, music, and movies available for check-out as well as recording studios and maker spaces, in-person homework help, places to work and study, meeting rooms, and more. Little known services of the library include free faxing, tarot card kits for checkout, notary services, Dungeon and Dragons game nights, and more. Visit sppl.org to discover more at the library.
“The Friends is thrilled to see the enthusiasm for the library,” said Kim Horton, Senior Director of Communications at The Friends. “We are excited to offer a selection of Loon-inspired merchandise and give people an easy way to channel that excitement into support for their library.”
New Laser Loon cardholders will also receive a 15% off coupon for The Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library’s online shop. The Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library is a nonprofit organization that invests in libraries through fundraising, advocacy, and programming. Laser Loon canvas book bags and t-shirts for all ages are available for purchase for a limited time. A portion of the sales proceeds support library programs and services.
