"If you want to see Saint Paul, go to the library."

That observation, shared with me by a community member this year, captures the unique power of our city’s public libraries to bring people together and to connect, uplift, and transform individuals and communities.

We at Saint Paul Public Library have spent 2018 creating plans for the future. In order to chart our path forward, we listened to what our community members want and need from us. The vision and strategy enclosed in this document reflect months of conversation with our community and staff members. Thousands of people from all corners of Saint Paul helped to create this direction, which will guide our work for the next three years. This direction builds on our strengths and informs areas for improvement and growth. It inspires us to work toward a vision where all people feel seen, safe, and welcome and where libraries bring people together to experience hope, joy, and creativity through learning.

I could not be more proud to be part of the team at Saint Paul Public Library and to live in a city that values libraries as places that welcome everyone to connect, learn, discover, and grow.

Catherine Penkert, Library Director