216. Taylors Falls, MN, Pubic Library

Such variety in one half-day trip! The picturesque building, with its new yellow-and-white paint job, dates to the 1850s. The Taylors Falls Library Association served the town from 1871 to 1919. At first the book collection was housed in rental sites in the town; in 1887 the Association bought the small house where the library is still located. In 1919 the Association was dissolved and the Taylors Falls Public Library began. The building was remodeled in the mid 70s, and recently celebrated 125 years as a public library.

This is definitely the smallest library I've visited so far: two rooms, one behind the other. The first room holds the adult collection, the second has children's books, including many old, old volumes. The room felt cozy, with a nice rug and a few large stuffed animals. When I asked whether the old books circulated, I learned that children rarely come to this library. The exception seems to be a program at the local elementary school that brings kids to the library for story time several times during the summer.

The library is a slice of living history. There are no computers, the librarian has an electric typewriter at her desk, a 12-drawer card catalog is kept up-to-date, and book cards in pockets are used for check-out. But I stress living history. The librarian is dynamic, and three different patrons came or went while I was there. The library does not have its own website, but you can learn more about it at the town site, http://www.ci.taylors-falls.mn.us/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC=%7B91979FAB-71B9-49B5-9BD9-B812C6D2EE65%7D. Better than the website, though, I suggest you stop in. Bring the kids. Look for books you remember from your childhood. Sit and chat for a while.

10/30/2013, car