Business Spotlight: Great River Regional Library – Clearwater

Great River Regional Library (GRRL) - Clearwater provides learning, connection, and community engagement in Clearwater and the surrounding area. The library is much more than a place to check out books. It is a place where residents of all ages can explore ideas, build skills, and connect with one another.

Great River Regional Library - Clearwater Exterior

As part of the GRRL system, the Clearwater branch is a patron centered organization dedicated to lifelong learning, inclusion, and access to information. Visitors enjoy traditional lending of books, movies, and music, alongside an array of digital resources. Free public internet and Wi-Fi, computer access, wireless printing, and extensive research databases are just some of the services available.

In addition to its everyday services, the Clearwater Library hosts a full and engaging monthly event calendar designed to serve all ages and interests. Popular programs include Paws to Read and Read to Fritzi, where young readers build confidence and improve literacy by reading aloud to a furry friend. Children are invited to stop in and share a story with visiting therapy dogs Maggie Mae and Fritzi. For families with young children, Toddler Tuesdays: Play and Learn Workshops encourage a love of learning through open ended play, exploration, counting, and creative activities designed for ages 1 to 5. Beyond these favorites, the library offers a variety of programs for teens, adults, and families that promote creativity, lifelong learning, and meaningful community connections throughout the year.

The Clearwater branch is staffed by a dedicated team. From helping patrons find materials across the regional system to offering one-on-one support with eReaders, tablets, and library apps the staff prides itself on responsive, personalized service. Patrons have access to far more than what is available on local shelves. Staff can easily request books and other materials from any GRRL branch and have them delivered directly to Clearwater, ensuring patrons can find what they need even if it is not immediately available onsite. The GRRL system includes 32 branch libraries serving six counties across central Minnesota, allowing Clearwater residents to benefit from a shared, expansive collection.

One lesser known but highly impactful service is the library’s WiFi2Go hotspot lending program, which allows patrons to check out mobile internet hotspots. Helping bridge the digital divide for residents who may not otherwise have reliable internet access. What began as a pilot program in 2019 has now expanded system wide, offering both three-week and one-week hotspot options.

The secret to the Clearwater library’s success lies in its strong relationship with the community it serves. Clearwater is a close-knit town, and the library reflects that spirit by providing respectful, forward thinking, and access to information and resources for all.

Whether you are looking for your next great read, a place to learn something new, or a welcoming space to connect with others, GRRL - Clearwater invites you to stop in and explore all it has to offer. From innovative services and engaging programs to friendly, knowledgeable staff, the library is a source of inspiration for every stage of life. Visit the Clearwater Library and discover what might inspire you next.

Great River Regional Library - Clearwater

Location: 740 Clearwater Circle, Clearwater, MN 55320

320-558-6001

Website: www.griver.org

Hours:

Monday: 1-6pm

Tuesday: 10-1pm and 3-6pm

Wednesday: 2-7pm

Thursday: 10-1pm

Friday: 3-6pm

Saturday: 10-1pm

Sunday: Closed