Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library (Friends) works closely with the Saint Paul Public Library (Library) to increase use and awareness of the Library, advocate for strong public funding and provide private funding to enhance the Library’s services.

In recent years, the Library has focused its vision on being a lifelong learning hub in Saint Paul. Today’s Library is a public space for community gatherings, technology and media centers, and even story times in Spanish, Hmong and Somali.

A $225,000 grant from the Mardag Foundation will help the Library modernize three of its high-demand facilities in Saint Paul: Central, Highland Park and Sun Ray. Disbursed over four years, the grant will create flexible, multi-functional community rooms; improved children’s spaces; inviting spaces for teens; technological advancements; and after-hours access.