On its shelves, a wealth of knowledge of North Dakota and its local areas can be found near the counter, and deeper into the library, books can be found on a vast variety of topics. Boetcher said many people mistakenly believe the library in the county building is part of the Minot Public Library, but it’s actually a separate entity, getting its funding from the county and open to all county residents.

In addition to its two permanent locations in Minot and Kenmare, the county library system also has a bookmobile, a mobile library that tours Ward and Mountrail counties, visiting schools and downtowns. The bookmobile allows those who can’t routinely get to the library the opportunity to check out books. It can also take orders, bringing the requested material on its next visit.

The bookmobile program has earned Ward County Public Library the Wheelie Award the last six years, from 2018-2023. The libraries are still waiting to find out the 2024 winner. The Wheelie Award is granted by the North Dakota State Library to one local library whose bookmobile has the most road hours and best circulation per capita, factoring in total stops. The award recognizes the administrators and staff and the services they provide to the community.

The Ward County Public Library is home to 50,000 items. This tally includes books, magazines, audiobooks and records from publications such The Minot Daily News. Not counted in the tally is the library’s selection of ebooks and other digital files, which can be accessed on its website with a library card and accompanying login. Free computer access and wireless internet are available at the library.

Ben Pifher/MDN The entrance of the Ward County Public Library is located just off the atrium in the Ward County Administration Building.

Library indoor activities

Each month, the library hosts activities for members of the community, seeing 10-30 visitors for each event, Boetcher said. On the third Thursday, the Adult Crafty Crew meets at the library to create. In December, the group made lookalike gumball machines, and on Jan.16 at 1 p.m, members will be making box-snowmen, made from cardboard boxes.

Each Thursday at 10 a.m, Boetcher said, there is a story time, featuring a story read by herself, crafts and activities for children ages 1 and older.

On Jan. 10, at 10 a.m., there will be an event called Preschool Playdough, which is an opportunity for children accompanied by a parent or guardian to play with playdough and other toys.

Boetcher said there is an event focusing on science, technology, engineering, art and math each month, called STEAM, which is aimed at youths, but all ages are welcome. The activity and theme changes, offering a new learning opportunity each month. January’s Winter STEAM event will be held on Jan. 20, at 1 p.m.

More information can be found about these activities by contacting the Ward County Public Library.