Spring is in the air – or at least it’s around the corner! Each year at this time, just as the earth reawakens, many of us reawaken our own dreams. For many Hennepin County residents, they are not only starting new projects, they are continuing on their journey in a new country. Hennepin County is home to many communities learning a new language, a new culture and a new way of life. The Library offers many resources, programs and classes from citizenship preparation to Conversation Circles to assist them.

In April and May, we welcome you to join two growing communities in Hennepin County by attending our two program series: Celebrate Children’s Day/Book Day (see p. 40-41) and Spice & Slice of Asian America (see p. 19). I hope you will enjoy and participate in our creative multicultural programming as we build community together.

On a personal scale, if you are looking to take up a new hobby, start a new garden or a home DIY project, the Library can be a part of your learning network. As you set goals and resolve to learn new things, start with the Library’s resources. For example, the Reading Resources article on p. 5 offers suggestions for discovering the inner artist within you and Databases A-Z on p. 4 highlights a few outstanding databases for you to explore art. You also will find a wide range of programs and classes offered at your library to further a current passion or explore a new idea.

Whether you need facts on the go texted to you via our Ask Us service, or will be visiting a library near you, Hennepin County Library has what you need. Connect with the library, download eBooks or chat with a librarian as you embark on your personal journey of new beginnings.

See you online, in the community and in the library in 2013,
Lois Langer Thompson
Library Director