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libraryupdates2026

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

During the 2025 budget cycle for the payable year 2026, Winthrop City Council faced several difficult decisions that will affect services throughout our community. One of the most challenging was the impact on our public library—an essential resource that provides access to learning materials, encourages creativity, and serves as a gathering place for author talks, crafts, and community events.

Unfortunately, due to changing times and significant budget constraints, the City Council made the difficult decision to eliminate the full-time library director position. This decision most directly affects the family of Audra Shaneman, who has served as our full-time library director with dedication and enthusiasm.

Audra has done an exceptional job revitalizing our book circulation, bringing in new ideas for programs and speakers, and offering free entertainment during Farm City Fun Fest. The City Council sincerely appreciates her commitment to the library—right up to her final hour of service. She will be greatly missed.

SHORT-TERM LIBRARY SERVICE IMPACTS

With Audra’s departure, several temporary adjustments to library operations will take effect:

  • Reduced Hours
    • Effective December 22, the library will:
      • No longer be open on Saturdays
      • Close early on Mondays at 5:30 PM to align with part-time staffing schedules
    • Book Club will continue to meet at the library on the fourth Monday of each month, and the library will remain open until 7:00 PM on those evenings.
  • Story Time
    • Effective immediately, Tuesday Story Time will be discontinued until further notice.

The City Council hopes most of these changes will be temporary. A part-time library position is expected to be posted in January, which we anticipate will help restore some services and stabilize operations going into 2026.

We recognize that these changes may affect your plans to visit the library, and we appreciate your patience and understanding during this transition. Our goal is to be fully operational again in early 2026 and ensure that the Winthrop Public Library remains a vibrant resource for all.

If you have questions or would like to share concerns, please contact a City Council member or the Mayor. Contact information is available on our website:
https://winthropmn.gov/elected-officials/

 

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