Who we are

Hennepin County Library is a national leader of library service, innovation and excellence. Our 41 libraries, website and outreach services serve 1.2 million county residents over 611 square miles.

Mission and vision

Our mission is to inspire, facilitate, and celebrate lifelong learning.

Shaped by the information needs and aspirations of our residents, we envision the library as a shared space for enrichment and connection.

Library services are an important part of thriving and interconnected communities. We believe that every Hennepin County resident should have a library card and use it regularly.

Governance

Hennepin County Library is a department of Hennepin County government and reports to Hennepin County Administration and the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners.

The Hennepin County Library Board is an advisory board of Hennepin County residents appointed by the county board.

Friends of the Hennepin County Library is an active community of supporters that raises funds for books, movies, music, events and technology.

Strategic plan

Hennepin County Library has updated its strategic plan, establishing six priorities:

  • Upholding free access to a broad spectrum of ideas
  • Championing the aspirations of residents with learning, literacy, and enrichment
  • Offering free access to essential technology and connectivity
  • Creating inviting, inclusive, accessible, and safe public spaces
  • Delivering a positive and equitable experience to every patron
  • Supporting individuals and their basic human needs through connections to resources and services

Because the work connected to these six priorities can often overlap, the Library has identified 3 focus areas that can help patrons and staff understand where they will see development and change in the coming years.

Increasing library usage

The number of active library cardholders has declined over the last decade. The Library will actively seek out new users and re-engage inactive cardholders.

Support for literacy and education

The Library will strengthen and expand its efforts to support literacy for residents of all ages and seek new opportunities to contribute to the educational success of Hennepin County youth.

Ensuring a positive patron experience

It is critical that every visitor feels welcome at the library. The Library will continue to seek out ways to improve our physical and online spaces, and provide consistently high levels of customer service.