|
|
|
|
|
September 2025 | LIBRARY NEWS |
|
|
|
|
Explore the ShelfLife Fall Catalog |
So Much to Do—Now in One Easy Place! There’s so much happening at Stillwater Public Library this fall, we’ve put it all in one place—our brand-new online fall catalog—so you won’t miss a thing! From engaging classes and creative workshops to author visits and reading events, there's truly something for everyone.
We’ve heard from you that you wanted to learn about library programs earlier, get more detailed descriptions, and have an easier way to find events based on your interests or age group. This catalog delivers on all of that! It covers everything from September through December, so you can plan ahead, mark your calendar, and stay connected to your community.
What’s Inside?
For Adults: Writing and reading programs, book clubs, one-on-one help sessions, author talks, and hands-on learning—from foraging and water bath canning to painting, weaving, and music appreciation. For Kids & Families: Storytimes, Discovery Room fun (don’t miss the apple stand!), creative clubs, and a Mystery Writing Contest with author Jacqueline West for young writers. For All Ages: Join our Naturalist in Residence, Andy Weaver, for nature-based classes, or team up for the family jigsaw puzzle competition! And don’t forget to check out the Friends of the Library Used Book Sale & Donations Drive in November!
We invite you to browse the catalog, sign up for your favorite events, and share the link with a friend.
P.S. Bookmark the catalog so you can easily reference it—and click directly to register for programs!
|
| Browse Catalog
| |
 |
Sunday Hours Return This Fall | Starting September 7, Stillwater Public Library will be open on Sundays from 1–5 PM through May 17. Sundays are the perfect time to stop in—browse for books, get help with homework, print a project, or find a quiet spot to study.
Thanks to the generous support of the Stillwater Public Library Foundation, we're able to offer expanded access during the school year. We look forward to seeing you on Sundays!
|
| BOOK PICKS |
|
|
|
| Get a Jump Start on Your Fall Reading | In our ShelfLife Fall Catalog, our librarians have curated a list of exciting new titles expected to hit our shelves between September and December. From gripping thrillers to inspiring memoirs and can't-miss book club picks, there’s something for every reader.
Want to be among the first to read them? By placing a hold early, you’ll get a better spot in line—books are checked out in the order holds are placed. Just click on a book cover in the catalog to reserve a copy, or contact us at 651-275-4338 or visit the Information Desk.
|
| Place a Hold on a Fall Release
|
|
|
|
|
| Youth Mystery Writing Contest |
Young writers ages 8-12 are invited to enter our writing contest inspired by award-winning author Jacqueline West, creator of The Books of Elsewhere and Long Lost.
Choose from one of the writing prompts suggested by Jacqueline West, write a short story up to 2,000 words, and submit it to us by Friday, October 17!
Jacqueline West and one of our youth services librarians will read all of your stories and select winners for special recognition. The Grand Prize winner will receive a personalized, autographed copy of Long Lost and their story published on the library's website. Runners-up will receive a signed copy of the first volume in The Books of Elsewhere with their stories published on our website. All winners will be announced during our Author Visit & Celebration Night on Thursday, October 30.
Want some help getting started? Explore story structure, character development, scene, voice, and dialoguecand get started on your mystery writing contest entry during a Mystery Writing Workshop with The Loft Literary Center on Saturday, September 27.
|
| Learn More
|
| |
|
|
|
|
| Expressions by Artist Mary Pettis
Acclaimed painter Mary Pettis brings her luminous works to Stillwater Public Library's gallery in September and October. Drawing from decades of classical, alla prima, and plein air training, Pettis’ paintings reflect a deeply personal visual language—one that places her at the forefront of the International Contemporary Realism movement. As an ARC Living Master™ and Signature Member of leading national art organizations, her works have earned honors across the globe, from New York to Barcelona.
In this exhibit, Mary invites viewers on an inward journey, revealing the poetic threads that connect humanity, nature, and spirit. Whether created in the studio or painted en plein air, each piece becomes a metaphor—an exploration of beauty, dignity, and the enduring power of connection through art.
Don't miss the opportunity to experience the work of a respected contemporary realist painter, right here in Stillwater.
Mary and her husband Randy live along the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway in Minnesota. Meet Mary at the artist reception on Thursday, Oct. 9 at 6:30 PM.
| |
FROM OUR ARCHIVES |
|
|
|
| Back to School |
Miss Emerson’s 2nd Grade Class at Lincoln School, 1923
Lincoln School was built in 1873 for all grades and was the first high school in Stillwater, Minnesota. The school had modern amenities like running water and steam heat. It was located on the North Hill on the block between Laurel and School Streets and between 3rd and 4th Streets. The main entrance was across 4th Street from the William Sauntry Mansion. The note below the photo points out that Earl Runk, a cousin or nephew of John Runk, is pictured somewhere in the middle of the photograph.
Lincoln School was called the Government Hill Building until 1888, when the Board of Education renamed it Lincoln School. The school was razed in 1939—1940, and its bell is located at Stillwater Area High School.
This photo of Miss Emerson's students is part of the John Runk Historical Photo Collection in the St. Croix Collection at Stillwater Public Library. You can view it anytime the library is open. To see additional photos of Lincoln School, visit Lens Flare Stillwater or Washington County Historical Society.
| |
|
|
|
|
|
