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Library Manager’s Report June 2026
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Youth Services Refresh. As the Duluth Library Foundation continues fundraising for a project to refresh the Youth Services space at the Main Library, initial planning for the project is beginning. Consultants from a local architecture firm are working with library staff to develop a floorplan, finalize a color scheme based on the Every Child Ready Duluth’s “ready five” characters, and choose carpet and paint. Plans call for construction work to take place this September, during which time the space will be closed for a few weeks. Storytimes and other youth programming will continue to take place in the meeting rooms at the Main Library during the closure. The project does not include any structural changes to the space. Funds will be spent on updating and improving the layout, purchasing new carpet, and replacing 45-year-old furniture and fixtures.
Kaleidoscope Sponsorship and Rebranding. The library’s popular Kaleidoscope series, which takes place in the Main Library’s Plaza during the summer, is undergoing a rebrand thanks to a sponsorship secured by the Library Foundation. Foundation and Library staff are working with a local marketing firm to update the Kaleidoscope logo, design and print a new banner, and create publicity materials. The work is aimed at growing community engagement with Kaleidoscope now and well into the future. Kaleidoscope has been a core summer offering at DPL for more than 40 years.
Summer Reading. DPL’s Summer Reading Program will kick off on June 1 and continue through August 15. This year’s program, which is open to all ages from birth through adult, has a theme of “Plant a Seed, Read.” Participants can track their progress and qualify to win prizes using the Beanstack app or by filling out a paper tracker available at any library location. Youth Services staff have been promoting Summer Reading in the schools by attending bike rodeos.
Nature Backpacks. Chester Bowl has donated three nature backpacks for checkout. While each backpack has a different theme, they all include some books and a few other items for exploring and learning about the outdoors. The backpack kits include Chester Bowl branding but can be used at any park.
Staffing Update.
• When a new .5 Library Safety Specialist begins work on June 1, the library will be fully staffed for the first time in months.