Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.

# Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA)

Website for MELSA

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.melsa.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Dakota County Library Summer Reading](https://www.melsa.org/dakota-county-library-summer-reading/) - Dakota County Library Summer Reading
- [August 7, 2026 Advisory Board Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/august-7-2026-advisory-board-agenda/) - MELSA Advisory Board Meeting AgendaFriday, August 7, 202610am-12pm Virtual I. CALL TO ORDER Scott Duimstra II. INTRODUCTIONS AND WELCOMEIII. CONSENT AGENDAa. Approval of agendab. Approval of June 12, 2026 meeting minutes IV. DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMSa. FY2027 ACHF application Abigail Dillon b. Acquisition of MN Star Tribune Enterprise Subscription Kathleen James c. Overdrive Changes and Communication Plan
- [Legacy Amendment Task Force](https://www.melsa.org/legacy-amendment-task-force/) - Coordinates programs funded by Minnesota's Legacy Amendment.
- [Technology Team](https://www.melsa.org/technology-team/) - Collaborates on library technology issues
- [Libby, by OverDrive](https://www.melsa.org/libby/) - Ebooks and More
- [Jobs & Small Business Interest Group](https://www.melsa.org/jobs-and-small-business-interest-group/) - Focused on sharing resources and expertise, and modeling best practice in the field
- [Adult Programming Interest Group](https://www.melsa.org/adult-programming-interest-group/) - Focuses on developing and reviewing metro-wide programming resources, and events targeted toward adult library users.
- [2025 MELSA Financial Statements](https://www.melsa.org/2025-melsa-financial-statements/) - METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SERVICE AGENCY ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA Financial Statementsand Supplementary Information (PDF version) Year Ended December 31, 2025 Table of Contents Page INTRODUCTORY SECTIONORGANIZATIONAL CHART 1ELECTED AND APPOINTED OFFICIALS 2FINANCIAL SECTIONINDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT 3–5MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 6–17BASIC FINANCIAL STATEMENTSGovernment-Wide Financial StatementsStatement of Net Position 18Statement of Activities 19Fund Financial Statements Governmental FundsBalance Sheet –
- [2025 MELSA Management Report](https://www.melsa.org/2025-melsa-management-report/) - Management Report forMetropolitan Library Service Agency December 31, 2025 (PDF version) To the Board of Trustees and Management Metropolitan Library Service AgencySt. Paul, Minnesota We have prepared this management report in conjunction with our audit of the Metropolitan Library Service Agency’s (MELSA) financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025. We have organized this
- [Youth Services Team](https://www.melsa.org/youth-services-team/) - Discusses library services for youth.
- [May 21, 2026 Trustees Meeting Minutes](https://www.melsa.org/may-21-2026-governing-board-meeting-minutes/) - Metropolitan Library Service AgencyJoint Trustee Board Meeting MinutesThursday, May 21, 2026Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust (MCIT), St Paul, MN10:00am-12:00pm Trustee Members Present:Anoka: Julie Jeppson Ramsey: Mary Jo McGuire (virtual)Carver: Lisa Anderson Saint Paul: not presentDakota: Laurie Halverson Scott: not presentHennepin: Debbie Goettel Washington: Michelle Clasen (virtual) Advisory Board Members/Representatives Present:Anoka: Colleen Haubner (virtual) Ramsey: Pang YangCarver:
- [May 8, 2026 Advisory Board Meeting Minutes](https://www.melsa.org/may-8-2026-advisory-board-meeting-minutes/) - Metropolitan Library Service AgencyAdvisory Board Meeting MinutesFriday, May 8, 2026Kaposia Library, South St. Paul10:00am-12:00pm Advisory Board Members/Representatives Present:Anoka: Erin Straszewski Ramsey: Pang YangCarver: Jodi Edstrom Saint Paul: Maureen HartmanDakota: Jen Reichert-Simpson Scott: Jake GrussingHennepin: Scott Duimstra Washington: Jacquie Kramer Staff Present: Jennifer Baker (virtual), Abigail Dillon, Gina Goettl, Nan Her, and Sherry Wichitchu I. Call
- [June 18, 2026 Trustees Meeting Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/june-18-2026-trustees-meeting-agenda/) - MELSA BOARD OF TRUSTEESMEETING AGENDA Wednesday, June 18th, 202610:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.Savage Library, Large Meeting Room13090 Alabama Ave, Savage I. CALL TO ORDER Julie Jeppson, President II. PUBLIC COMMENT III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA IV. CONSENT AGENDAA. Approval of Meeting Minutes from May 21, 2026B. Approval of Checks and Financials V. DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS A. Finance
- [June 12, 2026 Advisory Board Meeting Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/june-12-2026-advisory-board-meeting-agenda/) - MELSA Advisory BoardFriday, June 12, 202610am-12pm Virtual I. CALL TO ORDER Scott Duimstra II. INTRODUCTIONS AND WELCOME III. CONSENT AGENDAa. Approval of agendab. Approval of May 8, 2026 meeting minutes IV. DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS a. Youth Services Community Connections Request Kathleen James b. Overdrive Communications Abigail Dillon & Jenn Baker c. Round table sharing V. REPORTS
- [Cataloging Interest Group](https://www.melsa.org/cataloging-interest-group/) - The Cataloging Interest Group exchanges ideas related to cataloging and metadata challenges, and other issues related to technical services. Team Members Connie Kline – Anoka County Library Noella Merchant – Anoka County Library Lisa Gearman – Carver County Library Christie Kess – Dakota County Library Christian Koegel – Dakota County Library Matt Cowan – Hennepin
- [March 19, 2026 Trustees Meeting Minutes](https://www.melsa.org/march-19-2026-trustees-meeting-minutes/) - etropolitan Library Service AgencyJoint Trustee Board Meeting MinutesThursday, March 19, 2026Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust (MCIT), St Paul10:00am-12:00pm Trustee Members Present:Anoka: not present Ramsey: Mary Jo McGuire (virtual)Carver: Lisa Anderson Saint Paul: Saura Jost (virtual)Dakota: Laurie Halverson Scott: Tom WolfHennepin: Debbie Goettel Washington: Michelle Clasen Advisory Board Members/Representatives Present:Anoka: Colleen Haubner Ramsey: Pang YangCarver: Jodi Edstrom
- [Summer at your library](https://www.melsa.org/summer-at-your-library/) - Summer Fun. Summer Learning.
- [Saint Paul Public Library Summer Reading](https://www.melsa.org/saint-paul-public-library-summer-reading/) - Saint Paul Public Library Summer Reading
- [Washington County Library Summer Reading](https://www.melsa.org/washington-county-library-summer-reading/) - Washington County Library Summer Reading
- [Anoka County Library Summer Reading](https://www.melsa.org/anoka-county-summer-reading/) - Anoka County Library Summer Reading
- [Carver County Library Summer Reading](https://www.melsa.org/carver-county-library-summer-reading/) - Carver County Library Summer Reading
- [Circulation Interest Group](https://www.melsa.org/circulation-interest-group/) - Examines issues related to the circulation of materials within and between the MELSA libraries
- [May 21, 2026 Joint Board Meeting Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/may-21-2026-joint-board-meeting-agenda/) - MELSA BOARD OF TRUSTEESMEETING AGENDA Thursday, May 21st, 202610:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.Minnesota Counties Intergovernmental Trust (MCIT)100 Empire Dr in St. Paul, Room 220 I. CALL TO ORDER Julie Jeppson, President II. PUBLIC COMMENT III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA IV. CONSENT AGENDAA. Approval of Meeting Minutes from March 29, 2026B. Approval of Checks and Financials V.
- [Collection Development Team](https://www.melsa.org/collection-development-team/) - Focuses on library collection questions that have MELSA-wide scope and impact.
- [Teen Services Interest Group](https://www.melsa.org/teen-services-interest-group/) - Discusses library services for teens.
- [Communications Team](https://www.melsa.org/communications-team/) - Focuses on ensuring consistent promotion of MELSA-wide programs/resources/campaigns
- [Volunteer Interest Group](https://www.melsa.org/volunteer-interest-group/) - Discusses a variety of concerns related to how to recruit, recognize, and best use volunteers in the libraries.
- [April 10, 2026 Advisory Board Minutes](https://www.melsa.org/april-10-2026-advisory-board-minutes/) - Metropolitan Library Service AgencyAdvisory Board Meeting MinutesFriday, April 10, 2026Virtual Meeting via Teams10:00am-12:00pm Advisory Board Members/Representatives Present:Anoka: Colleen Haubner Ramsey: Pang YangCarver: Jodi Edstrom Saint Paul: Maureen HartmanDakota: Jennifer Reichert Simpson Scott: Jen SchultzHennepin: Scott Duimstra Washington: Jacquie Kramer Staff Present: Jennifer Baker, Abigail Dillon, Nan Her, Gina Goettl, Kathleen James, and Sherry Wichitchu I.
- [May 8, 2026 Advisory Board Meeting Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/may-8-2026-advisory-board-meeting-agenda/) - MELSA Advisory BoardFriday, May 8, 202610am-12pm Kaposia LibraryLarge Meeting Room131 7th Ave N, South St Paul I. CALL TO ORDER Scott Duimstra II. INTRODUCTIONS AND WELCOME III. CONSENT AGENDAa. Approval of agendab. Approval of meeting minutes (April 10, 2026) IV. DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMSa. Overdrive Non-Melsa Patrons and Duplicate Accounts Abigail Dillon b. Maintenance of Effort Update
- [Accessibility Task Force](https://www.melsa.org/accessibility-task-force/) - Maintains and enhances the Disability Resources site.
- [March 13, 2026 Advisory Board Minutes](https://www.melsa.org/march-13-2026-advisory-board-minutes/) - Metropolitan Library Service AgencyAdvisory Board Meeting MinutesFriday, March 13, 2026Golden Valley Library10:00am-12:00pm Advisory Board Members/Representatives Present:Anoka: Benjamin Coburn (virtual) Ramsey: Pang YangCarver: Jodi Edstrom Saint Paul: Maureen HartmanDakota: Jen Reichert-Simpson Scott: Jen SchultzHennepin: Scott Duimstra Washington: Jacquie KramerStaff Present: Jennifer Baker, Abigail Dillon, Gina Goettl, Kathleen James, Mona Scott, and Sherry Wichitchu I. Call to
- [April 10, 2026 Advisory Board Meeting Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/april-10-2026-advisory-board-meeting-agenda/) - MELSA Advisory BoardFriday, April 10, 202610am-12pm Virtual I. CALL TO ORDER Scott Duimstra, Chair II. INTRODUCTIONS AND WELCOME III. CONSENT AGENDAa. Approval of agendab. Approval of meeting minutes (March 13, 2026) IV. DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMSa. CRPLSA Meeting Sherry Wichitchui. Discussion on Joint Meeting and SLS Presentation ii. Overdrive Non Melsa Patrons iii. Maintenance of Effortiv. Updates
- [Request for Information: Digital Adult Learning Resource](https://www.melsa.org/request-for-information-digital-adult-learning-resource/) - REQUEST FOR INFORMATION DIGITAL ADULT LEARNING RESOURCE (PDF Version) FOR PUBLIC LIBRARIESIN THE TWIN CITIES METRO AREA Response Deadline May 6, 2026 Issued by METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SERVICE AGENCY(MELSA) 1619 Dayton Avenue, Suite 314 ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA 55104Sherry Wichitchu, Executive Directore-mail: sherry@melsa.org I. GENERAL INFORMATIONA. Purpose of this Request for Information (RFI) The Metropolitan Library Service
- [January 15, 2026 Trustees meeting minutes](https://www.melsa.org/january-15-2026-trustees-meeting-minutes/) - Metropolitan Library Service AgencyTrustee Board Meeting MinutesThursday, January 15, 2026Roseville Library10:00am-12:00pm Trustee Members Present:Anoka: Julie Jeppson Ramsey: Mary Jo McGuireCarver: Lisa Anderson Saint Paul: not presentDakota: Laurie Halverson Scott: Tom WolfHennepin: Debbie Goettel Washington: not present Staff Present: Jennifer Baker, Abigail Dillon, Gina Goettl, and Sherry Wichitchu I. Call to orderChair
- [March 19, 2026 Joint Board Meeting Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/march-19-2026-joint-board-meeting-agenda/) - MELSA BOARD OF TRUSTEESMeeting AgendaThursday, March 19th, 202610:00 a.m – 12:00 p.m. MCIT (MN Counties Intergovernmental Trust), Room 220100 Empire Dr STE 100, St Paul, MN I. CALL TO ORDER Mary Jo McGuire II. PUBLIC COMMENT III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA IV. CONSENT AGENDAA. Approval of Meeting Minutes (January 15th, 2026)B. Approval of Checks and Financials
- [February 6, 2026 Advisory Board Meeting Minutes](https://www.melsa.org/february-6-2026-advisory-board-meeting-minutes/) - Metropolitan Library Service AgencyAdvisory Board Meeting MinutesFriday, February 6, 2026Virtual Meeting via Teams10:00am-12:00pm Advisory Board Members/Representatives Present:Anoka: Colleen Haubner Ramsey: Pang YangCarver: Jodi Edstrom Saint Paul: Maureen HartmanDakota: Jennifer Reichert Simpson Scott: Jen SchultzHennepin: Scott Duimstra Washington: Jacquie Kramer Staff Present: Jennifer Baker, Abigail Dillon, Gina Goettl, Mona Scott, and Sherry Wichitchu I. Call to
- [March 13, 2026 Advisory Board Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/march-13-2026-advisory-board-agenda/) - MELSA Advisory BoardFriday, March 13, 202610am-12pm Golden Valley Library – Hennepin County830 Winnetka Ave N, Golden Valley I. CALL TO ORDER – Scott Duimstra, Chair II. INTRODUCTIONS AND WELCOMEIII. CONSENT AGENDAa. Approval of agendab. Approval of meeting minutes (February 6, 2026)IV. DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMSa. Overdrive Patron Account Report – Abigail Dillonb. Collaborative Initiative Project – Sherry
- [January 9, 2026 Advisory Board Minutes](https://www.melsa.org/january-9-2026-advisory-board-minutes/) - Metropolitan Library Service Agency Advisory Board Meeting Minutes Friday, January 9, 2026Savage Library10:00am-12:00pm Advisory Board Members/Representatives Present:Anoka: Colleen Haubner Ramsey: Pang YangCarver: Jodi Edstrom Saint Paul: Maureen Hartman (virtual)Dakota: Jen Reichert-Simpson Scott: Jen SchultzHennepin: Scott Duimstra Washington: Jacquie Kramer Staff Present: Jennifer Baker, Abigail Dillon, Gina Goettl, Kathleen James, Mona
- [February 6, 2026 Advisory Board Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/february-6-2026-advisory-board-agenda/) - MELSA Advisory BoardFriday, February 6, 202610am-12pmVirtual CALL TO ORDER Scott Duimstra, Chair INTRODUCTIONS AND WELCOME CONSENT AGENDA Approval of agenda Approval of meeting minutes (January 9, 2025) DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS Collection Development Task Force Recommendation Scott Duimstra, Jen Schultz, Jacquie Kramer Collaborative Initiative Project Sherry Wichitchu, MELSA Round table sharing ICE incidents
- [Business Manager Job Posting](https://www.melsa.org/business-manager-job-posting/) - Job Title: Business Manager Reports To: Executive Director FLSA Status: W-2, Exempt Hours: Full-timeLocation: Hybrid (Remote + Onsite at MELSA, office and consortium locations)Salary Range: $81,442 – $127,253 AnnuallyClose Date: open until filled; Send cover letter and resume to sherry@melsa.org About MELSA: The Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA) is a regional consortium of eight public
- [January 9, 2026 Advisory Board Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/january-9-2026-advisory-board-agenda/) - MELSA Advisory BoardFriday, January 9, 202610am-12pm Savage Library13090 Alabama Ave, Savage, MN, 55378 I. CALL TO ORDER Scott Duimstra, Chair II. INTRODUCTIONS AND WELCOME III. CONSENT AGENDAa. Approval of agendab. Approval of meeting minutes (December 5, 2025) IV. DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMSa. State Library Services Tami Lee and Catherine Durivage b. Discussion and Consideration of Saint Paul
- [Winter Reads](https://www.melsa.org/winter-reads/) - Winter Reading for Adults
- [2022 Digital Inclusion Survey Methodology Report](https://www.melsa.org/2022-digital-inclusion-survey-methodology-report/) - Introduction and methods In spring 2022, the Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA) contracted with Wilder Research to conduct a survey of adults in the Twin Cities seven-county metropolitan area to learn more about technology and digital service needs and availability at local public libraries. The eight member library systems that are part of MELSA advised
- [MELSA Strategic Plan Outcomes 2022](https://www.melsa.org/melsa-strategic-plan-outcomes-2022/) - MELSA Strategic Plan – Outcomes and Initiatives Approved 3/17/2022 Outcome I: MELSA communicates the value and impact of public libraries in the metro area. Initiative A: Position libraries as a highly valued public service in the minds of key decision-makers.Initiative B: Take a leadership role in state advocacy efforts, leveraging staff skill sets in support
- [Regional Library Basic System Support FY2025 Report of Results](https://www.melsa.org/regional-library-basic-system-support-fy2025-report-of-results/) - REGIONAL LIBRARY BASIC SYSTEM SUPPORTREPORT OF RESULTS AND EXPENDITURESFY25 (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025) This report is provided as required by Minnesota Rules, Chapter 3530.Name and address of regional public library system: Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA) 1619 Dayton Avenue, Suite 314Saint Paul, Minnesota 55104 Name, phone number and e-mail address of regional
- [2009 Joint Powers Agreement](https://www.melsa.org/2009-joint-powers-agreement/) - THIRD AMENDED AND RESTATED AGREEMENTCREATING METROPOLITAN LIBRARY SERVICE AGENCY Adopted by Members: 1969Amended by Members: January 27, 2000February 1, 2003September 1, 2009 This Third Amended and Restated Agreement (“Agreement”) is made and entered into by and among Anoka County, Carver County, Dakota County, Hennepin County, Ramsey County, Scott County, Washington County and the City of
- [2024 MELSA Financial Statements](https://www.melsa.org/2024-melsa-financial-statements/) - Management Report for Metropolitan Library Service Agency December 31, 2024 To the Board of Trustees and Management Metropolitan Library Service Agency St. Paul, Minnesota We have prepared this management report in conjunction with our audit of the Metropolitan Library Service Agency’s (MELSA) financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024. We have organized this
- [Collection Policy](https://www.melsa.org/collection-policy/) - MELSA Collection Policy Approved 6/17/21 by the MELSA Board of Trustees The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to MELSA about the principles upon which selections are made. It provides staff the goals and guidelines to assist in choosing from a vast array of available materials and then relies upon staff judgement to
- [Minnesota Library Reciprocal Borrowing Compact](https://www.melsa.org/minnesota-library-reciprocal-borrowing-compact/) - Minnesota Library Reciprocal Borrowing Compact This compact is made and entered into this 15 day of June, 2001, by and between the board of trustees of each undersigned regional public library system recognized by the Minnesota Department of Children, Families, & Learning, and where required, undersigned members thereof. WHEREAS, the undersigned boards of trustees were
- [Incentives and Prize Policy](https://www.melsa.org/incentives-and-prize-policy/) - Incentives and Prize Policy Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA) POLICY:It is the mission of the Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MELSA) to connect its members to share resources and ideas, to foster literacy, to promote public library use and to prepare for the future. MELSA-sponsored library programs are critical tools to foster the MELSA mission. They
- [Data Subject Request](https://www.melsa.org/data-subject-request/) - Data Practices Policy for Data SubjectsMetropolitan Library Service AgencyAdopted: May 18, 2017 Data about you The Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA), Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13, says that data subjects have certain rights related to a government entity collecting, creating, and keeping government data about them. You are the subject of data when you can
- [Public Data Request](https://www.melsa.org/public-data-request/) - Data Practices Policy for Members of the PublicMetropolitan Library Service AgencyAdopted: May 18, 2017 Right to access public dataThe Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA), Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13, presumes that all government data are public unless a state or federal law says the data are not public. Government data is a term that means
- [Craft & Hobby](https://www.melsa.org/craft-hobby/) - Discover what inspires you! And unlock your creative potential. Use your library card to explore in-depth online instructional videos and classes that span 22 different creative categories. Craft & Hobby will help you learn a new hobby or improve your skills in an existing area. Subjects include painting, drawing, woodworking, fitness, culinary arts, gardening and
- [November 13, 2025 Advisory Board Meeting Minutes](https://www.melsa.org/november-13-2025-advisory-board-meeting-minutes/) - Metropolitan Library Service AgencyAdvisory Board Meeting MinutesFriday, November 13, 2025Sumner Library, Minneapolis10:00am-12:00pm Advisory Board Members/Representatives Present:Anoka: Colleen Haubner Ramsey: Pang YangCarver: Jodi Edstrom Saint Paul: Maureen Hartman Dakota: Jen Reichert-Simpson Scott: Jake GrussingHennepin: Scott Duimstra Washington: Jacquie Kramer
- [December 5, 2025 Advisory Board Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/december-5-2025-advisory-board-agenda/) - MELSA Advisory BoardFriday, December 5, 202510am-12pm Virtual I. CALL TO ORDER Jodi Edstrom, Chair II. INTRODUCTIONS AND WELCOME III. CONSENT AGENDAa. Approval of agendab. Approval of meeting minutes (November 14, 2025) IV. DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMSa. Discussion of the Collection Development Team Charter Draft b. Discussion of the Collaborative Initiative Project c. Discussion of Equity Fund Parameters
- [September 18, 2025 Trustees Meeting Minutes](https://www.melsa.org/september-18-2025-trustees-meeting-minutes/) - Metropolitan Library Service AgencyJoint Trustee Board Meeting MinutesThursday, September 18, 2025Hosmer Library, Minneapolis11:30am-1:30pm Trustee Members Present:Anoka: Julie Jeppson Ramsey: not presentCarver: Matt Udermann Saint Paul: not presentDakota: Laurie Halverson Scott: Jody Brennan (virtual)Hennepin: Debbie Goettel Washington: Michelle Clasen (virtual) Advisory Board Members/Representatives Present:Anoka: Colleen Haubner
- [November 20, 2025 Joint Board Meeting Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/november-20-2025-joint-board-meeting-agenda/) - MELSA BOARD OF TRUSTEESMEETING AGENDA Thursday, November 20th, 202511:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.Pleasant Hill Library, Large Meeting Room 1490 S Frontage Rd, Hastings, MN I. CALL TO ORDER Laurie Halverson, President II. PUBLIC COMMENT III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA IV. CONSENT AGENDAA. Approval of Meeting Minutes from September 18, 2025B. Approval of Checks and Financials V.
- [MELSA Advisory Board Meeting Minutes - October 3, 2025](https://www.melsa.org/melsa-advisory-board-meeting-minutes-october-3-2025/) - Metropolitan Library Service AgencyAdvisory Board Meeting MinutesFriday, October 3, 2025Virtual Meeting via Teams10:00am-12:00pm Advisory Board Members/Representatives Present:Anoka: Colleen Haubner Ramsey: not presentCarver: Jodi Edstrom Saint Paul: Maureen HartmanDakota: Jennifer Reichert Simpson Scott: Jen SchultzHennepin: Scott Duimstra Washington: Jacquie Kramer Staff
- [November 14, 2025 Advisory Board Agenda](https://www.melsa.org/november-14-2025-advisory-board-agenda/) - MELSA Advisory Board Friday, November 14, 2025 10am-12pm Sumner Library, Large Meeting Room 3 611 Van White Memorial Blvd, Minneapolis, MN CALL TO ORDER Jodi Edstrom, Chair INTRODUCTIONS AND WELCOME CONSENT AGENDA Approval of agenda Approval of meeting minutes (October 3, 2025) DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS Presentation by Rachel Riggs from World Education, a continuation of
- [Twin Cities Book Festival](https://www.melsa.org/twin-cities-book-festival/) - Saturday, November 8, 2025 at Union Depot in Saint Paul More info here: https://twincitiesbookfestival.com/ 2025 Minnesota Author Schedule at the MELSA table 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Tasha Coryell Chris Norbury 12:00 - 2:00 PM Jake Rudquist Minda Gomez 2:00 - 3:30 PM Stanley Kusunoki Lee Burtman 3:30 - 5:00 PM Laura Ashwood Heidi Barr
- [Scott County Library Summer Reading](https://www.melsa.org/scott-county-library-summer-reading/) - Scott County Library Summer Reading
- [Need MELSA Materials?](https://www.melsa.org/need-melsa-materials/) - Please order MELSA materials here and we will ship them to you via courier. An email will be sent to you once the materials go out. Name Email System ACLCCLDCLHCLRCLSPPLSCLWCL Branch Materials needed (submit one form per each type of material) Libby bookmarks (English)Libby bookmarks (Spanish)Libby how-to cards 2"x6"Libby bookmarks - ComicsLibby bookmarks - Comics
- [Consumer Reports](https://www.melsa.org/consumer-reports/) - Provides ratings and reviews, recommendations, and buying advice for thousands of products and services, including cars, appliances, electronics and more. Contains articles from the monthly print magazine, the annual Buying Guide issue, plus additional content found only on the website. Click to access this resource through your library: Anoka County Library Carver County Library Dakota
- [LinkedIn Learning](https://www.melsa.org/linkedinlearning/) - Learn software, technical, creative and business skills
- [E-Resources Team](https://www.melsa.org/e-resource-team/) - Oversees the selection of metro-wide purchases of electronic databases and tools.
- [Minnesota Libraries Publishing Project](https://www.melsa.org/mn-writes-mn-reads/) - write, share, and read ebooks
- [Ramsey County Library Summer Reading](https://www.melsa.org/ramsey-county-library-summer-reading/) - Ramsey County Library Summer Reading
- [MELSA Libraries are fine free](https://www.melsa.org/fine-free/) - Select your libraryAnoka County LibraryCarver County LibraryDakota County LibraryHennepin County LibraryRamsey County LibrarySaint Paul Public LibraryScott County LibraryWashington County Library
- [Brainfuse HelpNow](https://www.melsa.org/brainfuse-helpnow/) - Homework Help
- [Volunteer Opportunities](https://www.melsa.org/volunteer-opportunities/) - Interested in volunteering with a Twin Cities Metro Public Library? There are plenty of opportunities available. To find out about options in your area, click on the various metro public library system images below.
- [Transparent Language Online](https://www.melsa.org/transparent-language-online/) - Language learning resource
- [Ancestry Library Edition](https://www.melsa.org/ancestry-library-edition/) - Discover your family history.
- [Reference Solutions](https://www.melsa.org/referencesolutions/) - Business directory database
- [NoveList Plus](https://www.melsa.org/novelist-plus/) - Readers' advisory tool
- [NoveList K-8 Plus](https://www.melsa.org/novelist-k-8-plus/) - Readers' advisory tool for students
- [Minnesota Newspapers](https://www.melsa.org/minnesota-newspapers/) - Local and regional news
- [Hennepin County Library Summer Reading](https://www.melsa.org/hennepin-county-library-summer-reading/) - Hennepin County Library Summer Reading
- [Facilities Interest Group](https://www.melsa.org/facilities-interest-group/) - Examines issues related to facilities
- [JobNow!](https://www.melsa.org/jobnow/) - Resume and interview online coaching/career advice
- [MELSA In the News](https://www.melsa.org/melsa-in-the-news/) - October 2022 – Sally Lederer appeared on Minnesota Live with young adult/teen reading recommendations. October 2022 – MELSA is downsizing and has some surplus furniture. If you are a school or non-profit, please check out our furniture site to see what we have available! The furniture is available until October 15th. May 20, 2022 –
- [Legacy Amendment](https://www.melsa.org/legacy-amendment/) - an array of arts, cultural, literary, and history programs
- [Career Collection from OverDrive (Libby)](https://www.melsa.org/career-collection-from-overdrive/) - Borrow job, career, and business-related eBooks, eAudiobooks, and eMagazines from the MELSA: Twin Cities Metro eLibrary to read on your phone or tablet using the Libby app by OverDrive. Have your library card barcode handy and download the app to get started. You can also send your borrowed eBooks to your Kindle eReader!
- [BookFlix](https://www.melsa.org/bookflix/) - Build a love of reading and learning.
- [ALLDATA](https://www.melsa.org/alldata/) - Auto-repair information
- [smARTpass](https://www.melsa.org/smartpass/) - Access to the arts with your metro public library card.
- [Club Book](https://www.melsa.org/club-book/) - Bringing best-selling authors to library communities in the Twin Cities.
- [Teen Lit Con](https://www.melsa.org/teen-lit-con/) - Celebrate teens and books
- [History Day Partnership](https://www.melsa.org/history-day-partnership/) - Library research experience for History Day students

## Pages

- [Metropolitan Library Service Agency (MN)](https://www.melsa.org/) - Website for MELSA
- [Resources for Library Staff](https://www.melsa.org/resources-for-library-staff/) - Welcome member library staff! DISABILITY AWARENESS RESOURCES Find links and information for disability awareness at your library Disability Awareness Page LEGACY DASHBOARD Go directly to the Legacy Dashboard to manage contracts, payments, and reporting Go to Legacy Dashboard STAFF TRAINING & EVENT REGISTRATION Find information on upcoming events and training Staff Training & Event Registration
- [Board](https://www.melsa.org/board/) - 2026 Board Meetings Below you can find the schedule of upcoming meetings. Expand the meeting to find the meeting’s agenda and minutes. ADVISORY BOARD: Friday, January 9, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM Location: Savage Library Agenda Minutes BOARD OF TRUSTEES: Thursday, January 15, 10:00AM-12:00PM Location: Roseville Library Minutes ADVISORY BOARD: Friday, February 6, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM Location:
- [Disability Awareness](https://www.melsa.org/disability-awareness/) - Welcome to the MELSA disability awareness resources page! Maintained by the MELSA Accessibility Task Force This page includes: Links to videos, apps, tip sheets, webinars, quizzes, articles, and other documents that address general customer service topics to better serve persons with various disabilities as they access library resources and services. Organizations to contact for more
- [Reports & Documents](https://www.melsa.org/reports/) - Recent Reports and Documents Minnesota Public Libraries’ Return on Investment 2025 MELSA Financial Statements 2025 MELSA Management Report Joint Powers Agreement MELSA Strategic Plan 2026-2028 Regional Library Basic System Support FY2025 Report of Results Digital Inclusion Survey In 2021-2022, ARPA grant funds received by MELSA were partially used to conduct a digital inclusion community survey
- [Member Libraries](https://www.melsa.org/member-libraries/) - 8 Library Systems 100+ public libraries In the seven-county Twin Cities metro, MELSA is working together to bring you the best library services and programs. Find your library system below: Anoka County Library 763-324-1510anokacountylibrary.org Carver County Library 952-303-0410carverlib.org Dakota County Library 651-450-2900www.co.dakota.mn.us/library Hennepin County Library 612-543-8500www.hclib.org Ramsey County Library 651-724-6006www.rclreads.org Saint Paul Public Library 651-266-7000www.sppl.org
- [Twin Cities Pride](https://www.melsa.org/pride-booklist/) - 2026 Twin Cities Pride: Stop by the MELSA tent in Loring Park on 6/27 and 6/28!Booth 212 – See the Twin Cities Pride map for more details. Pride Booklist Home Aromantic and/or Asexual Bi+ Gay Genderqueer Intersex Lesbian Queer Families Transgender Two-Spirit Pride Booklist Home Welcome to the Metro Pride Booklist! There are several ways
- [Requests for Information, Proposals, and Quotes](https://www.melsa.org/rfi/) - There are no Requests for Information at this time.
- [Meet the Staff](https://www.melsa.org/meet-the-staff/) - Executive Director Youth Services & Project Manager Community Relations Manager Project Manager Business Manager Office Manager Executive Director Sherry Wichitchu(651) 300-2810sherry@melsa.org Youth Services & Project Manager Kathleen James(651) 379-2745kathleen@melsa.org Community Relations Manager Jennifer Baker(651) 379-2743jennifer@melsa.org Having issues with your library card, Libby, or e-books/e-audiobooks? Please contact your local library branch for support. We are unable to access
- [Library at Home](https://www.melsa.org/library-at-home/) - With a library card, you can access library resources without leaving home—on your phone, tablet, or computer. Trusted information, learning, and support is available anytime, wherever you are. Learn more at your local library’s website or check out the links below. A FREE online tutoring service through your Twin Cities metro public libraries for ages
- [Policies](https://www.melsa.org/policies/) - MELSA Policies that affect the public and member library systems. Incentives and Prize Policy Collection Policy Data Practices Policies Minnesota Library Reciprocal Borrowing Compact Web Accessibility Statement page
- [Data Practices Policy](https://www.melsa.org/data-practices-policy/) - MELSA is subject to the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13 and Minnesota Rules 1205. Please review the Public Data Requests and Data Subject Requests documents for more information about making a request to access government data at MELSA. Public Data Requests– For any data maintained by MELSA classified as public. Data Subject Request – For data
- [Benefits of MELSA](https://www.melsa.org/benefits-of-melsa/) - MELSA supports our member libraries and their users with life-enriching services, resources and programs. Here are some examples: literacy & student success Summer Learning programs Online tutoring with HelpNow STEM activities Book discovery through NoveList K-8 Plus An early love of reading with BookFlix workforce readiness Classes to learn jobs and business skills Job assistance
- [Staff Training & Event Registration](https://www.melsa.org/staff-training-event-registration/) - Staff Trainings & Events MELSA supports its member libraries by offering various staff trainings and events throughout the year. MELSA Resource Training: Brainfuse Help Now – Online Tutoring and Much More HelpNow is an award-winning online tutoring and study suite which is backed by an industry-leading academic team and over 4,000 Brainfuse-certified tutors nationwide. Highlighting
- [Content Management](https://www.melsa.org/content-management/) - Required Documents Legacy MELSA Contract Legacy MELSA Invoice Form *for use as template by vendor if they do not have an invoice of their own W-9 (required for all contracts) Essential Program Resources MELSA Legacy Guidelines MDE Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund Grant Guidelines for Regional Public Library Systems, FY22 Guidance for Reporting Virtual Legacy Programming
- [Content Management - Legacy Dashboard site instructions](https://www.melsa.org/content-management-site-instructions/) - Instructions Please note If you are editing a program, make sure you only have one Dashboard tab open. Having multiple tabs open can cause programs to merge. MELSA’s website Legacy website is intended to: Help complete the payment process, i.e., connecting your payment request back to the program information on the website Provide a tool
- [Content Management - Legacy Dashboard  contact info](https://www.melsa.org/content-management-contact-info/) - MELSA and the Minnesota Legacy Amendment Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund For more information, please contact: Abigail James Dillonabigail@melsa.org
- [Learning Resources](https://www.melsa.org/at-home-learning/) - Welcome Students Your metro public libraries and their ace resource experts (also known as librarians) are ready to help you succeed! Our librarians put together helpful materials for school reports and projects, and they are ready with recommendations for everyone’s reading — whether for school or leisure! Contact a librarian via e-mail, chat or
- [What Is MELSA?](https://www.melsa.org/what-is-melsa/) - Curious about MELSA? Let’s start with our name. MELSA is an acronym It stands for MEtropolitan Library Service Agency. Minnesota is divided into twelve regional public library systems, for the purpose of delivering library services. MELSA is the largest of these systems, serving eight member libraries with more than 100 library locations. MELSA’s Region Within MELSA
- [Legacy Dashboard](https://www.melsa.org/legacy-dashboard/) - Minnesota Legacy Amendment Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund MELSA and its member libraries present an array of arts, cultural, literary, and Minnesota history programs in collaboration with arts and cultural organizations, independent artists, historical societies, and community organizations. Programs are funded in part with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. To visit Minnesota’s Legacy website
- [Connect With Your Library](https://www.melsa.org/connect-with-your-library/) - Craft & Hobby Discover what inspires you! And unlock your creative potential. Use your library card to explore in-depth online instructional videos and classes that span 22 different Read More » Read More » December 10, 2025 No Comments Consumer Reports Provides ratings and reviews, recommendations, and buying advice for thousands of products and services,
- [Job & Career Resources](https://www.melsa.org/job-career/) - Looking for a new job? Thinking about a career change? Your Twin Cities Metro Public Libraries have free classes for brushing up on skills, learning new ones, networking and more. We also offer many job/career-related titles you can check out, either in hard copy at a branch near you or through our eLibrary (see link
- [All E-Resources](https://www.melsa.org/all-eresources/) - Learn Want to learn something new? Need help with your homework? Check out these great resources: Learning E-Resources Read Looking for a good book, audiobook, or newspaper? Thousands of reads are at the ready: Reading E-Resources Research Curious about investing? Maybe you’re researching for a paper. We have great tools to get you started: Researching
- [Previous MELSA Programs](https://www.melsa.org/previous-melsa-programs/) - Previous Programs See what programs we’ve done in the past Below are some highlight programs that MELSA has run in the past, but are no longer active. smART pass reimagined (2020) Enjoy The Arts On Your Home Screen, Smartphone Or Tablet. Showcasing eight arts and culture partners during September and October, this series is your
- [All Programs](https://www.melsa.org/all-programs/) - all Programs MELSA offers a variety of programs, check them out below! Winter Reads Winter Reading for Adults Read More » Teen Lit Con Celebrate teens and books Read More » Summer at your library Summer Fun. Summer Learning. Read More » smARTpass Access to the arts with your metro public library card. Read More
- [Learn](https://www.melsa.org/learn/) - E-Resources for learning MELSA provides great tools so you can learn right from the comfort of your home. Popular E-Resources For Learning Brainfuse HelpNow Homework Help Read More » LinkedIn Learning Learn software, technical, creative and business skills Read More » Transparent Language Online Language learning resource Read More » Not what you’re looking for?
- [Research](https://www.melsa.org/research/) - E-Resources for Researching MELSA provides great tools for researching right from the comfort of your home. Popular E-Resources for researching Not what you’re looking for? Check out these other tools we provide related to researching Reference Solutions Business directory database Read More » Ancestry Library Edition Discover your family history. Read More » Still not
- [Read](https://www.melsa.org/read/) - E-Resources for Reading MELSA provides great tools for reading right from the comfort of your home. Popular E-Resources for reading BookFlix Build a love of reading and learning. Read More » Minnesota Newspapers Local and regional news Read More » NoveList Plus Readers’ advisory tool Read More » NoveList K-8 Plus Readers’ advisory tool for
- [Discover More](https://www.melsa.org/discover-more/) - Discover more with these e-resources MELSA provides great tools so you can discover even more right from the comfort of your home. Popular E-Resources For Discovery Reference Solutions Business directory database Read More » JobNow! Resume and interview online coaching/career advice Read More » Ancestry Library Edition Discover your family history. Read More » ALLDATA
- [Web Accessibility Statement](https://www.melsa.org/web-accessibility-policy/) - Having trouble accessing our website? If you are having trouble accessing our content, please contact us. Call us at (651) 645-5731 or email us at DisabilityAwarenessSite@melsa.org We will be glad to assist you in accessing our content and make adjustments as necessary to our website. Our statement on accessibility MELSA is committed to accessibility. It
- [Teams, Interest Groups, Task Forces](https://www.melsa.org/teams-interest-groups-task-forces/) - MELSA relies on the contributions of its member libraries to achieve shared goals and projects. Collaboration is reached through teams, interest groups, and task forces. The members of each team, interest group, and task force are appointed by the MELSA Advisory Board. MELSA Teams MELSA teams explore, develop, or recommend programs, resources, and activities to

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://www.melsa.org/category/uncategorized/)
- [E-Resources](https://www.melsa.org/category/e-resources/)
- [Programs](https://www.melsa.org/category/programs/)
- [Events](https://www.melsa.org/category/events/)
- [Ancestry](https://www.melsa.org/category/e-resources/ancestry/)
- [Auto Repair Information](https://www.melsa.org/category/e-resources/auto-repair/)
- [Business Directory](https://www.melsa.org/category/e-resources/business-directory/)
- [Homework Help](https://www.melsa.org/category/e-resources/homework-help/)
- [Job Search Tools](https://www.melsa.org/category/e-resources/job-search-tools/)
- [Language Learning](https://www.melsa.org/category/e-resources/language-learning/)
- [Newspapers](https://www.melsa.org/category/e-resources/newspapers/)
- [Online Learning](https://www.melsa.org/category/e-resources/online-learning/)
- [Reading Resources](https://www.melsa.org/category/e-resources/reading-resources/)
- [Research Databases](https://www.melsa.org/category/e-resources/research-databases/)
- [Teams](https://www.melsa.org/category/teams/)
- [Interest Groups](https://www.melsa.org/category/interest-groups/)
- [Task Forces](https://www.melsa.org/category/task-forces/)
- [Materials](https://www.melsa.org/category/materials/)

## Tags

- [Discover More](https://www.melsa.org/tag/discover-more/)
- [Read](https://www.melsa.org/tag/read/)
- [learn](https://www.melsa.org/tag/learn/)
- [Automotive](https://www.melsa.org/tag/automotive/)
- [Cars & Trucks](https://www.melsa.org/tag/cars-trucks/)
- [DIY](https://www.melsa.org/tag/diy/)
- [Repair](https://www.melsa.org/tag/repair/)
- [Family History](https://www.melsa.org/tag/family-history/)
- [Genealogy](https://www.melsa.org/tag/genealogy/)
- [For kids](https://www.melsa.org/tag/for-kids/)
- [for teens](https://www.melsa.org/tag/for-teens/)
- [Homework help](https://www.melsa.org/tag/homework-help/)
- [homework tools](https://www.melsa.org/tag/homework-tools/)
- [k-12](https://www.melsa.org/tag/k-12/)
- [students](https://www.melsa.org/tag/students/)
- [Books & Reading](https://www.melsa.org/tag/books-reading/)
- [Children & Youth](https://www.melsa.org/tag/children-youth/)
- [Early Learning](https://www.melsa.org/tag/early-learning/)
- [Ebooks](https://www.melsa.org/tag/ebooks/)
- [eLibrary](https://www.melsa.org/tag/elibrary/)
- [eAudio](https://www.melsa.org/tag/eaudio/)
- [downloads](https://www.melsa.org/tag/downloads/)
- [education](https://www.melsa.org/tag/education/)
- [learning](https://www.melsa.org/tag/learning/)
- [live help](https://www.melsa.org/tag/live-help/)
- [newspapers](https://www.melsa.org/tag/newspapers/)
- [periodicals](https://www.melsa.org/tag/periodicals/)
- [Careers & Employment](https://www.melsa.org/tag/careers-employment/)
- [Jobs & Careers](https://www.melsa.org/tag/jobs-careers/)
- [learning tools](https://www.melsa.org/tag/learning-tools/)
- [arts](https://www.melsa.org/tag/arts/)
- [Business & Investments](https://www.melsa.org/tag/business-investments/)
- [Finance](https://www.melsa.org/tag/finance/)
- [Computer & Information Skills](https://www.melsa.org/tag/computer-information-skills/)
- [Computers & Technology](https://www.melsa.org/tag/computers-technology/)
- [online courses](https://www.melsa.org/tag/online-courses/)
- [science & technology](https://www.melsa.org/tag/science-technology/)
- [courses & tutorials](https://www.melsa.org/tag/courses-tutorials/)
- [local information](https://www.melsa.org/tag/local-information/)
- [books](https://www.melsa.org/tag/books/)
- [business](https://www.melsa.org/tag/business/)
- [company research](https://www.melsa.org/tag/company-research/)
- [directories](https://www.melsa.org/tag/directories/)
- [Geography](https://www.melsa.org/tag/geography/)
- [language learning](https://www.melsa.org/tag/language-learning/)
- [languages](https://www.melsa.org/tag/languages/)
- [travel](https://www.melsa.org/tag/travel/)
- [E-library](https://www.melsa.org/tag/e-library/)
- [summer](https://www.melsa.org/tag/summer/)
- [Materials](https://www.melsa.org/tag/materials/)