Nobles County Library Board Discusses Renovations and Community Outreach Initiatives

Nobles County Library Board Discusses Exciting Updates at Worthington and Adrian Branches

ADRIAN, MN — The Nobles County Library Board convened Monday at the Adrian Branch Library to discuss significant remodeling updates for the Worthington location and enhancements at the Adrian Branch.

Board member John Stewart reported on a recent walk-through at the War Memorial Building, where workers were busy marking areas in need of a refresh. “We really rounded a corner as far as where we’re at now with carpeting in and all of that,” Stewart noted. “It looks quite good. Very fresh, very open, which is what we asked for.”

One of the standout features of the renovation includes a soundproof divider wall in one of the downstairs rooms, designed to enhance the usability of the space. “It works pretty slick once you get to know how to do it,” Stewart added.

However, the meeting was not without its challenges. Nobles County Commissioner Bob Paplow addressed a hiccup regarding the newly installed boilers in the basement. “They were fully replaced, brand new two-unit boilers downstairs,” he explained. “Evidently they’re bigger than the old ones, which kind of surprised me.” A meeting with the architect and engineer is scheduled to address the boiler setback before the state inspector arrives.

As the board works through the final items on their checklist, including furniture selection, excitement builds for the reopening of the Worthington library.

Kathy Craun, representing the Friends of the Library, raised concerns about the stairwell, which has shown signs of rust. Paplow assured her that while the stairs will be cleaned and revarnished, they will not be replaced due to their historical significance. A final construction inspection is set for Friday to ensure everything meets code.

In a positive turn, Library Director Beth Sorenson shared that the Worthington Area Foundation has requested funding for new furniture, with Stewart agreeing to draft the request.

The board also received updates from Adrian Branch Library Director Christy Hornstein, who is actively engaging with the community through story time and outreach programs at local daycares. “I walk in singing. We get two stories done and usually have a song or a little activity that goes with whatever the theme is for the week,” Hornstein said.

Feedback from daycare providers has been overwhelmingly positive. “The kids really look forward to it and ask when it’s going to happen each week,” Hornstein shared. She noted significant growth in the children’s engagement since the program began, with many excitedly anticipating her visits.

In addition to story time, the Adrian Branch has introduced learning toys to support fine motor skills, which will be rotated among the daycares. Hornstein is also spearheading an after-school program called Dragon Adventures, aimed at providing more activities for local children.

The board accepted a $100 donation from Colleen Bents in memory of Diane Thier, further showcasing community support for the library’s initiatives.

As the Nobles County Library Board continues to make strides in enhancing both the Worthington and Adrian branches, the community eagerly awaits the reopening and the new opportunities it will bring.