Welcome to the Ironwood Carnegie Library!

Dear Friends,

“We each contribute our own book to the great library of humanity.”
― Steve Maraboli, Unapologetically You: Reflections on Life and the Human  Experience

Every year, when composing this annual letter, I always seem to have the same thought: that a library, with all of its books and computers and technology and resources isn’t anything at all without the people who come through its doors, in person, virtually, or in spirit.  Perhaps it’s the times we live in, or maybe it’s the winter season beginning so early...but this year, that thought feels more meaningful than ever.

2022 has allowed us to come together again and experience the library in a way that was most familiar to us.  And in a world that sometimes seems dizzying with change and, at times, with discord, having a familiar place that respects all, welcomes all, and believes we are all contributing valuable stories to this world...well, it feels a bit like a port in a storm.

Those of us who work here feel blessed to be in such a place every day, and we thank all of you for helping to create a library that is welcoming, comfortable...a place that holds your story, whatever that might be.  

This library has had a busy, busy year.  It was absolutely joyful to be filled to overflowing for our Summer “Ocean of Possibilities” Reading Program.  A record number of children registered and completed the program and experienced the adventures of shark science, the anticipation of story time, and the excitement of creating their own artwork.  Once again, we were “the noisiest library in town” with the laughter and chatter of “the littles” and we loved every giggle!

We also were able to create the Paulie Pastrami Achieves World Peace Storywalk @ Miners Memorial Park, where families could enjoy a beautiful woodland walk while reading a sweet story and receiving cupcakes to give to others to help make our community a better place. 

Best sellers continue to find their way to our shelves weekly, and we now offer Kajeet Hot Spots so patrons can access Wi-Fi directly from their homes with a two week check out.  All can access the library’s Wi-Fi 24/7.  Thousands of movies are available with our subscription to Kanopy movie streaming...again,     accessible with your library card.  We have a wonderful children’s area with books, games, and puppets to enjoy during a visit here or to check out and take home.

We also have an amazing collection of audio books, magazine subscriptions, and eBooks through our Great Lakes Digital Library.  Once more, we are conducting writing groups, book clubs, author visits, nature programs, school visits...so many things.

Decreases in penal fine revenue (a major source of library funding) and increases in operating costs have been a huge challenge this year, yet we continue to accomplish our goals because of fundraising, grant writing, and donations.   Every donation, no matter how large or small, is so important and so appreciated. 

So, from all of us...thank you.  Thank you for helping to create a library that believes in respect for all, that values laughter and friendship, that strives to offer all the services our patrons deserve.  Thank you for believing in libraries.

 And thank you for being part of this library’s story. 

Wishing you a 2023 filled with happiness and good books,

Lynne Wiercinski

Ironwood Carnegie Library Director