Hosmer

• Special Hosmer Events
• Summer Events at Hosmer
• Hosmer: Map, Directions, Buses
• Reserve a Meeting Room at Hosmer
• Hosmer Technology Center

Hosmer was the last of four Minneapolis library branches built with money donated by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. It has the distinction of being the only Minneapolis Public Library named after a librarian: James K. Hosmer, Minneapolis Public Library director from 1892 to 1904.

In 1997, it was renovated and expanded to meet the needs of the 21st century while retaining all its 1916 charm. A lively children's area, a cozy fireside reading room, a strong collection of DVDs and other media, and a lovely stained glass window are a few of its notable features. In the lower level is the Technology Learning Center, where classes and open lab time are offered to people of all ages, with a special focus on seniors and Spanish speakers.

Building Facts

Built 1916 (one of three existing Carnegie Libraries in Minneapolis); Minneapolis Historic Preservation Commission historic designation; 1997 expansion and renovation designed by Meyer, Scherer & Rockcastle Architects. Library on main level; tech lab and meeting room on lower level; 14,900 sq. ft.; parking lot entered from 3rd Ave.

Special Features

Computer training lab (established 1997); stained glass window by Michael Pilla, a public art project involving neighborhood children and elders; active after-school programming including Homework Helper tutoring; strong media collection.