Founded in 1921, the Pine City Library has moved from place to place but has always retained the promise of virtually infinite possibilities. The community has treasured its library over the years and when Mayor Jane Robbins first learned of the challenge grant in memory of Henrietta Boo, she went to work to gather donations to match, whether in $5 or $5,000 increments.

From the Pine City touch of local woodworker, Bob Haedt, to the carpet “river” flowing through the building, in the intuitive layout, in the artifacts preserved around the library, and in a thousand other details, the library was a well thought-out endeavor. Recently, a new, concrete “Snake River” with poetry pressed into it and a canoe sculpture that sits atop it were added.

So many had a stake in this project and feel ownership because of it. Volunteers were critical to the whole operation and came from many places, a local business person who volunteered countless hours to oversee construction, senior citizens, young mothers, men's bible study, teens from group homes, teachers, families with children--there were jobs for everybody. Volunteers set up shelving, sorted and shelved books, cleaned, painted, hauled things and assembled them. Lots of new friendships developed, especially among people who met people outside of their normal experience. Some people's lives were changed by the experience.

The next step is a patio on the north side of the building and the fundraising efforts of Pine Citians will no doubt bring that concept to fruition. The difference between the ways in which this community fund raises and other community's in need of facilitie is that residents were an intimiate part of the process. From countless hot dish buffets to root beer float stands, many Pine City residents worked very hard to make this happen. Pine Citians are proud to be part of a community that sees a need and takes ownership of the solution.