COMMUNITY GUIDE 2024
CRYSTAL | ROBBINSDALE NEW HOPE | GOLDEN VALLEY
Rockford revamp makes library even better
The Rockford Road Library , 6401 42nd Ave . N ., Crystal , was built in 1972 . In 2023 the library closed for extensive renovations and reopened in April 2024 .
Exterior updates made to the library included : the installation of solar panels and a white roof to harness renewable energy and reduce heat build-up ; landscape grading to help manage stormwater and improve drainage away from the building ; and the installation of new high-efficiency windows which includes a special pattern on the glass designed to reduce bird collisions . The most evident update to the exterior includes a new covered main entrance that offers shade and seating .
Throughout the winter months , the interior renovations began with new LED lighting , new carpet and furniture , as well as renovated ADA-compliant restrooms . The children ’ s area has also been updated with a new play and learn station , giving the perfect space for future storytimes as well as arts and crafts . Parents and caregivers of the Crystal community can expect summer learning programs held right in the newest kid ’ s area .
The library serves the cities of Crystal , New Hope and Robbinsdale . Its hours are noon to 5 p . m . Sunday ; 9 a . m . to 5 p . m . Monday , Friday and Saturday ; and noon to 8 p . m . Tuesday , Wednesday and Thursday .
Golden Valley boasts a library as well . Located at 830 Winnetka Ave . N ., the Golden Valley Library hours are noon to 5 p . m . Sunday , noon to 8 p . m . Monday , Tuesday and Wednesday , and 9 a . m . to 5 p . m . Thursday , Friday and Saturday .
Crystal and Golden Valley are both part of Hennepin County ’ s 41-library system , which serves 1.2 million residents and is renowned as being one of the top library systems in the United States .
For years , the Hennepin County Library System has served to “ nourish minds , transform lives and build community together ” by “ ensuring that every person has the opportunity and resources to read , graduate , engage , work and learn .”
Each library is supported by a “ friends of the library ” group , a volunteer-run organization with a mission to support that library branch . The group helps their library through book sales , volunteering , fundraising , serving as ambassadors in the community for the library and other support activities .
The libraries offer activities like children ’ s storytimes , job help and writers workshops . Ebooks , audiobooks and music may be checked out via the Libby app and via MNspin , and genealogy and other research can be conducted through the system ’ s registered journal and periodical resources .
Library cards are free to Hennepin County residents and property owners . Apply for a card at either of these libraries or apply online at hclib . org for a temporary e-card to access online resources .
Community Guide 2024 | CRYSTAL • ROBBINSDALE • NEW HOPE • GOLDEN VALLEY | 13