Submitted Photo A group gathered to celebrate a $50,000 grant from the Minot Area Community Foundation for the renovation of the children’s library at the Minot Public Library. Pictured in the back row, left to right, are: Tim Bauman, Bob Weigelt, Calvin Larson, Jason Zimmerman. Middle Row: Minot Public Library children’s librarian Randi Monley, Jill Wald, Minot Public Library librarian Janet Anderson, Staci Kenney, Leslie Coughlin, Roscoe Streyle, Peggy Quinlen. Front Row: Elinor Rubbelke, Layla Weiand, Aubri Dishon, Kellen Perales, Kathryn (no last name available).

The Minot Public Library received a $50,000 donation on Tuesday from the Minot Area Community Foundation for the planned renovation of its children’s library.

Librarian Janet Anderson said the renovation is set to begin in January and will turn a back corner of the children’s library into an enclosed, cozy area filled with benches, a climbing area, reading nooks, paint and new carpeting and glass windows so kids and their parents can look out at trains passing by. There will also be a life-sized tree. This will also enable people to visit without disturbing other people who are using the library, said Anderson.

Anderson said the library has become a popular meeting spot for adults. It is one of the few places in the few places in the community where people can gather for hours for free, regardless of their economic status.

“We are extremely grateful for this funding which will help the library continue to equitably serve all families. This project will allow families to come to the library to play in our new play area and engage with all services MPL has to offer,” said Anderson. “Additionally, while there are many great resources for children in Minot, libraries are a great equalizer where anyone can stay for hours at a time regardless of financial status. We want children and families to see that the Minot Public Library is here for them year-round.”

Jason Zimmerman, president of the Minot Area Community Foundation, said the gift was made possible thanks to The Williamson Fund and an anonymous private donor.

“The project will benefit the children and families that access the library by providing a space that incorporates the elements of play and literacy which is the foundation for early literacy development,” said Zimmerman.

Anderson said the renovation will take place while the children’s library remains open to patrons. Children’s books that are currently on shelves in the corner will be relocated to the general collection area.

The project should be completed by next summer.