Grand Marais, MN, November 3, 2025—Grand Marais Public Library was selected as one of 100 Minnesota libraries to receive a gift of 100 new children’s books from the Brownstone Book Fund, a private non-profit foundation based in New York City dedicated to fostering early reading, a love of books, and encouraging parents and children to read together.
The Brownstone Book Fund, directed by Diane Brownstone, works nationwide to support literacy and access to books for young children. This year, the foundation partnered with Tamara Lee, State Librarian and Director of State Library Ser vices at the Minnesota Department of Education, to extend the gift to public libraries across Minnesota.
The collection of 100 books—covering pre-kindergarten through early reader levels—was thoughtfully selected by the Council of Regional Public Library System Administrators (CRPSLA). The Brownstone Book Fund also provided funding for all processing, shipping, and delivery costs, ensuring libraries could focus on getting books into children’s hands right away.
“Libraries play a critical role in helping children fall in love with reading,” said Elektra Branwen, Library Director. “We’re grateful to the Brownstone Book Fund for investing in Minnesota libraries and helping us connect families with high-quality books that inspire joy and curiosity.”
Library staff are currently reviewing the new titles and considering the best ways to share them with local families—whether by adding them to the library’s circulating col lection or offering them as direct giveaways to children through out reach, reading programs, and special events.
Families are at the heart of the library’s mission. Grand Marais Public Library loves helping little readers discover big worlds through books—and every child can have a library card of their own. Give your child the gift of a library card by visiting Grand Marais Public Library.
Families can also stay connected to library and city news by signing up for weekly updates at www.ci.grand-marais.mn.us/email-updates.
