206. Windom Public Library, Windom, MN

This is the first library I've visited that occupies a former bank building. It's an interesting and challenging space, that appears to be utilized to the max. The main area is for adults, with a browsing area by each of the front windows, one side for periodicals and newspapers, the other for genre fiction. Bookshelves are functional metal, made attractive with handsome wooden ends.

At the back of the space where the safe once stood is a large display window, currently decorated for Halloween with a large bat cave and many seasonal books. From there I walked through a side door lobby (this is just like the banks in my hometown, back in the day) into the old office area, which now houses the youth department. There is a bright ocean-themed rug on the floor and a colorful curtain at one window. With the yellow walls, the space felt very light and cheerful despite the clouds outside. A tiny area holds teen books and a TV/DVD player mounted high on the wall. The older children's area has, among many other books, large (perhaps complete?) collections of Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, Boxcar Children, and even Thornton Burgess!

For more information, go to http://www.windom-mn.com/city-facilities/windom-public-library/.

9/29/2013, car

Yes, the library building was once a bank!

Across the street is the handsome Cottonwood County Courthouse.