The Duluth Public Library’s collection includes books, audiobooks, downloadable e-books and audiobooks, DVDs, CDs, large-print materials, maps, pamphlet files, government documents, newspapers, serials, and microfilm. The library provides free access to computers with Internet access, word processing, classes on computer use, reference database subscriptions, children’s games, and printers. Free wireless Internet access is also available. Other services include interlibrary loan, and research and reference help.
History
In 1980, a new Duluth Public Library building opened at 520 W. Superior St. to replace the previous, 1902-built Carnegie library. Noted architect Gunnar Birkerts designed the building. In 2008 it underwent renovations, including an expanded computer lab, new carpeting throughout, and new furniture. Later that year, Mayor Don Ness made extensive cuts to the city budget, and as a result, library employees were laid off and hours were reduced. A referendum was passed in 2011 that changed the way Duluth's city parks were funded and thereby freeing up funds to restore library hours and staff. Currently, the main library is open six days a week, and each of the branches is open five days a week. In July 2009, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation gave the Duluth Public Library an Opportunity Online Hardware Grant to be used for the purchase of new computers. The grant required that the library and community raise matching funds within two years. The Friends of the Duluth Public Library began an active fundraising campaign. Between public donations and a grant from the John S. and James L. Foundation, matching funds were raised.
Special Collections
The Duluth Collection includes books by or about Duluth residents, as well as materials on local history, politics, architecture, business, and education.
The Minnesota Collection includes books by Minnesota authors, as well as materials related to Minnesota and Lake Superior.
Views of Duluth is a collection of William Norman's framed lithographs depicting scenes of Duluth.
Book Club in a Bag is a collection of book club kits that each include ten copies of a book and a study guide.
The Toy Collection is an assortment of games, toys, and flash cards available for circulation.
Programs and events
One Book Northland is a community reading project that encourages citizens to read a particular book. A committee chooses a new book each year and the library plans supplementary programs and lectures.
Storytimes for children are held weekly.
Annual Used Book Sale is organized by the Friends of the Duluth Public Library to raise money for library programs and materials.
Kaleidoscope is a series of entertainment programs for children, held on the Library Plaza every summer.
