DETROIT LAKES, Minn. (KFGO-KDLM) – Renovation work is getting underway at the Detroit Lakes Public Library, with improvements planned both inside and outside the historic building.
The project is being funded in large part by a $749,000 grant from the Minnesota Department of Education, which is being matched by the City of Detroit Lakes.
The Detroit Lakes Public Library opened in 1913, following a Carnegie gift in 1911. The historic building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The library also recently received a $10,000 gift from the Carnegie Corporation of New York to help with the renovation, thanks to the advocacy of the Detroit Lakes Library Club, which has supported the library since 1907.
Library Director Robbie Schake says the work includes replacing the roof, restoring the building’s historic terracotta frieze panels, and remodeling the lower level restroom, elevator and staff break room to meet ADA accessibility standards.
The library is working to minimize disruptions for patrons, with some construction work planned outside regular library hours.
Schake says library staff are excited to see the historic building kept in good working condition for future generations.
Construction is expected to continue over the next few months.
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