Librarian Alexandre has hand-picked and wrapped up some great reads for you to win! As part of our Adult Winter Reading Challenge, submit short book reviews online or in person by the end of February for a chance to win a themed book bundle. The more reviews you submit, the better your chances! At the end of the month, we'll draw winners to receive a bundle of books to keep. Themed bundles include topics like respected humorists, self-discovery, dystopian worlds, and war.
Not sure what to read? Short on time or just looking for something new? Borrow a Read Bag. Each Read Bag contains three books selected by our librarians, focused on a unique theme. Themes include Historical Fiction, Let’s Eat, Minnesota Authors, Page-Turning Thrillers, and more. Check out the entire bag at once and return it when you're finished.
Kids can join the fun too with our online Beanstack Bingo challenge. Visit the Beanstack site or download the app to participate, and stop by the Bayport or Stillwater library to pick up a prize when you're done!
Young visitors and their caregivers can explore the wintry theme of “So Cold” through mid-March. The theme includes snowflakes, snow friends, icy winds, and, of course, ice cream. The Discovery Room is open during library hours and is designed by staff to encourage learning and fun.
In the Gallery
Through February, Stillwater Public Library's gallery will feature the work of Laura Albertson, Cathryn Peters, and Kay Hoskins in the exhibit Bound by Nature: Antlers, Clay, Stones, Sticks. The show explores the artists' deep connection to the natural world.
NEA Big Read
April's Big Read is just around the corner. This year’s pick is Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson. It's a story of 28-year-old Lillian who accepts a job to look after two ten-year-old twins who burst into flames when angry or upset. Everything Lillian knows about love, family, and empathy is upended. Borrow the book from the library today or pick up a copy at ArtReach.
Library Closed
The library will be closed on Monday, February 17 for Presidents' Day. We're always open online! Access eBooks, eAudiobooks, research resources, and more at library.stillwatermn.gov.
WINTER READS: READER PICKS
Our readers are sharing their book recommendations this month! Here are a few of the reviews submitted so far during our Winter Reading Challenge. Click on a book cover to read more or place a hold.
If you are looking to cozy up with a book, that is doable in a weekend, read this book! It felt like a hug. This writing, about an “ordinary” life, was so beautiful and really moved me.
Engaging story, accessible style, unique format. Outstanding story about a hockey-town and the attitudes, behaviors, and relationship that form as a result.
Loved this heart-warming tale sprinkled with animal anecdotes! Highly recommend.
5/5 stars The dialogue is so sharp in Abby's writing! And it's a story set in Minneapolis. Always love a happy ending.
4 out of 5 stars. Literary thriller!
Entertaining autobiography about the actress who starred in Broadway, movie, and tv shows we all know and love.
4 out of 5 stars. Short essays about the author's life. Both humorous and poignant.
Such a cute book with a mostly unique plot, lots of fluff. 5/5
UPCOMING EVENTS
adults
Online Tech Classes
Washington County Library and MELSA are offering a series of free virtual classes for small business owners and creators on the following Tuesdays in February at 1 PM:
Graphic Design for Business with Canva: Feb. 11
Basic Image Editing: Feb. 18
Making the Most of Google Docs & Drive: Feb. 25
Register now for one or all of these informative sessions.
Lowell Park is beautiful any time of the year. During the winter, the park can be especially tranquil and lovely. This view of Lowell Park looks south from Chestnut Street. You can see what appears to be mist rising from the river and foot track paths. In the background are trains, the Woodward (Commander) Grain Elevator, and a tall smokestack of the Joseph Wolf Brewery.
This photo is part of the John Runk Historic photo collection which you can view anytime the library is open. Many of John Runk's photos can also be found at Washington County Historical Society and Minnesota Historical Society.
