Quick Summary
Two years after relocating to their newly renovated location, how has Sandstone Public Library fared? (Spoiler Alert: They are thriving)
The Sandstone Public Library is a branch of Minnesota’s oldest existing regional public library system, the East Regional Public Library (ECRL), serving the communities in Northeast Minnesota since 1959. Sandstone has served as a community hub, offering access to various resources, including various titles, a computer lab, and unique programming. With an already established presence in their community, the opportunity to relocate to a larger, more visible space enabled them to enhance their reach and better serve their patrons.
Citing limited spaces for programming or quiet spaces, little to no opportunities to grow its collections, and the need for improved accessibility, Sandstone Public Library decided to relocate from its previous location in the City Hall building. When a vacancy opened up on Main Street, Sandstone jumped at the opportunity to turn that space into a vibrant public resource. “With support from a USDA loan and a state library construction grant, the city was able to fund the renovation and make the vision of a modern, community-centered library a reality,” says Nora Hinton, librarian at Sandstone Public Library. A little over two years later in October 2023, this move did just that, and there are numbers to prove it.
The new location more than doubled the space available compared to its previous location, allowing for quiet study rooms, a conference room, and a dedicated space for programming, all of which have become very popular among patrons. Beyond a welcoming and cozy environment (double-sided fireplace included), the location on Main Street has increased its visibility and accessibility to the public, as the ADA-compliant building is in a high-traffic area and offers off-street parking.
This move has corresponded with an increase in all aspects of the library, with increased numbers of visitors, program attendance, resource usage, and time spent at the location. Using 2022 as a baseline, with approximately 6,469 visitors, they experienced about a 25% increase in 2023, the year of the transition, with approximately 8,117 visitors. Since moving to the new location, visits to the library increased 129% with 14,500 in its first full year, and a whopping 164% in 2025 with 17, 068. October 2023 didn't just mark a change in geography for the library; it marked an explosion in community connection.
The Sandstone Public Library's new accessibility and visibility have allowed it to expand its role as a center for engagement, knowledge, and connection, with there being something for everyone. As Nora Hinton explains, “The new library has become a true community hub. The library now hosts testing for students, book clubs, family events, and cultural events that bring people together. It has also expanded its partnerships with local organizations, schools, and artists, creating new opportunities for collaboration and outreach.” Patrons have enjoyed access to cozy reading areas around a double-sided fireplace, a children’s zone equipped with interactive learning tools and playful design, and unique programming ranging from live animal shows, concerts, and weekly story times.
Access to the resources and spaces that Sandstone Public Library can now provide supports education of all shapes and forms, including unconventional learning in the form of homeschooling. Hinton shared that local homeschooling families have made weekly visits to the library an essential part of their education, taking advantage of study rooms for lessons, and connecting with other families through the programming the library provides.
The numbers are clear: when we invest in visible and accessible public spaces, the community responds. The 129% growth in traffic is more than stated; it's thousands of additional stories told, resumes built, books read, and neighbors met. Looking to 2026, Hinton is looking forward to incorporating more story times to accommodate the increasing attendance, unique programming, and collaborating with Friends of the Sandstone Library to curate a community-led art project that would feature local artists' work decorating the walls of the library.
