Special Edition Library Cards

Special-Edition Library Cards

50th Anniversary of Southeast Asian Resettlement in Saint Paul Commemoration Library Card

We’re excited to share a special edition library card honoring the 50th Anniversary of Southeast Asian resettlement in Saint Paul.  

Designed by local Hmong American artist Kao Lee Thao, this card celebrates the vibrant Cambodian, Hmong, Lao, and Vietnamese communities who have built new roots in Saint Paul and across Minnesota. 

The artwork draws inspiration from traditional textiles, patterns, and landscapes woven together as a symbol of resilience and connection. Flowing water ties the design together, representing the journey from the Mekong to the Mississippi—symbolizing survival, transformation, and imagination. 

This card is a celebration of representation, connection, and belonging. It’s an invitation to see yourself, your community, and the stories of Southeast Asia reflected in the library. 

Sign up for your card today at any Saint Paul Public Library location while supplies last!  

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Reads

Stories of Abundance: 50 Years of SE Asian Resettlement

Celebrating 50 years of Southeast Asian resettlement—stories of courage, resilience, and vibrant contributions to our city and beyond.

Previous Special-Edition Library Cards

Laser Loon Library Card

Inspired by Minnesota’s new state flag and launched in February 2024, this special card sparked incredible enthusiasm across Saint Paul. Though the cards are no longer available, we’re excited to share what your excitement helped us accomplish.

We originally set out to connect 1,000 people to a new library card or sticker—and instead welcomed over 5,600 Saint Paul residents into our libraries for a Laser Loon card or sticker between February and May. Our first batch of 500 cards was gone in days, leading us to print thousands more to keep up with demand.

The campaign generated buzz not just in our city, but across the state. News outlets like MPR, Star Tribune, Kare11, and Fox9 helped spread the word, and our launch video featuring Mayor Carter, Library Director Maureen Hartman, and PK from Minnesota United became one of our most-watched social media posts of the year.

People shared their love for the Library everywhere we turned—especially those visiting for the first time in years, or even getting their very first card. And while the Laser Loon is no longer available, this campaign reminded us how powerful library cards can be for building community pride, curiosity, and connection.

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