LOCAL LIBRARY STOCKS BOOKS , KNOWLEDGE , SERVICES
The Rush City Public Library gives everyone in the community a place to gather , gain knowledge , access technology and information , and engage in all sorts of fun and entertainment . The local branch is one of 14 branches in the East Central Regional Library ( ECRL ) system that serves residents of Aitkin , Chisago , Isanti , Kanabec , Mille Lacs and Pine counties . Patrons can check out both print and digital formats of books , audiobooks , and magazines ; music CDs ; Wi-Fi hotspots for wireless internet access ; movies on DVD ; books on CD ; board games ; and special kits comprising of puzzles , games , storytime activities , fitness equipment , and more .
Residents of Chisago County can obtain a free library card by presenting valid identification – including proof of a local address and photo ID – at the library . Another option is applying for a library card online at ecrlib . org . Patrons can borrow and return books at any of the 14 ECRL branches , all of which also have free Wi-Fi available . Patrons
The East Central Chapter of Let ’ s Go Fishing has been taking groups of seniors , veterans , youth , disabled , and intergenerational families out on its handicapped accessible pontoon since 2005 .
Many of the guests are residents of nursing homes , assisted living residents , group homes , veterans , families , and individuals from the North Branch , Cambridge , Forest Lake , Chisago City , Pine City areas and beyond who just want to get out on the water and are no longer able to do so on their own .
LGF provides adult life jackets , fishing rods and reels , bait , water and snacks on all outings . There are currently two handicapped accessible pontoons available for guests . The Rush Lake pontoon can accommodate up to 10 guests , including two that can remain in wheelchairs . It is docked at Flickabird ’ s on Rush Lake . The second pontoon is docked on Chisago Lake , and accommodates eight guests , including two in wheelchairs . Trips are offered Monday through Thursday at 9 a . m . and 11:30 a . m . on both boats and an additional Wednesday 2 p . m . and 6 p . m . trip on Rush Lake . may access their library account using their library card number and pin / password online at ecrlib . org or by downloading the free East Central Regional Library app . Through ecrlib . org , people are just a few clicks away from exploring the library ’ s vast online catalog , keeping on top of and registering for free events and programs , and learning new skills and more through the numerous learning databases available . The library is on Facebook and Instagram , so give ECRL a follow @ ecrlmn to stay up to date on everything library related !
Community members can use a private study room on a first-come , firstserve basis , though reservations may be considered . Patrons can also access the various forms of technology in the library including computers with Internet access , a printer with copying and scanning features , and a fax machine . Many people like the scan-to-email feature and the ability to print from their own laptop or mobile device . Staff members are always willing to help , if anyone has
LET ’ S GO FISHING
questions .
Adults and children can find activities of interest , including preschool storytimes , arts and crafts programs , seek-and-find challenges , a book discussion group , a friendly needlework group called the Heritage Fiber Guild , and special reading programs throughout the year . View upcoming programs and events by visiting the Events Calendar at ecrlib . org
A big supporter of the library is the Rush City Friends of the Library , a group that is currently looking for new members and fundraising ideas . Contact the library for more information on being a part of the Friends group !
Open hours at the Rush City Public Library are 10 a . m . to 7 p . m . Tuesday , 10 a . m . to 5 p . m . Wednesday , 12 p . m . to 5 p . m . Thursday and Friday , and 10 a . m . to 1 p . m . Saturday . The library is closed Sunday and Monday . The library is located 240 W . Fourth St . in downtown Rush City . Call 320-358-3948 or visit ecrlib . org for more information .
Each trip lasts approximately two hours . If the scheduled times don ’ t work , it is possible to arrange something outside of the regular trips . Call or go online to schedule a trip or volunteer . Whether you want to fish or just cruise around the lake on a warm summer day , Let ’ s Go Fishing is here to serve .
LGF is always in need of more volunteers . Complete training is provided , and organizers promise you will get back more than you give .
Let ’ s Go Fishing is a nonprofit 501 ( c ) 3 organization run completely by volunteers and is fully funded through donations and business sponsorship . If your company would like to sponsor the organization and have your company logo on one of the pontoons , call 651-402-5960 or email lgfnbranch @ hotmail . com . A fundraiser breakfast and silent auction is held on the first Saturday in May each year . Check out www . eastcentralmn . lgfws . com to learn more .
North Branch / Rush City Community Guide • February 2025 Page 31