Warroad Public Library

About Us:

Cozy reading nooks, craftsmanship in wood and glass so exquisite it approaches art, it is an inviting environment reflective of a desire to get in touch with the classics and meet today's educational needs with modern tools.The Warroad Public Library and Heritage Center, built through the Margaret W. Marvin Fund of the Minnesota Foundation, was donated to the City of Warroad on June 1, 1991. The land was given by the City and the Warroad City Council is responsible for maintaining the facility.The $2 million facility was designed by architect Sara Susanka, principal, Mulfinger and Susanka Architects, Inc. It has more than 9,000 square feet of space providing room for up to 10,000 volumes. Furnishings by Thomas Moser accent the Prairie style design. It provides access to computers, film and slide projectors, a typewriter, a copier, a laminating services, audios and videos.The brick and stucco exterior highlighted with redwood trim was designed for low maintenance. A slate roof with copper flashing accentuates the use of natural materials in the architecture.

Landscaping was designed by landscape architect, Moriarty Candon and implemented by Stinar's Landscaping of Bagley. The design incorporates a canopy of trees along the sidewalks, an exterior courtyard for receptions and relaxing reading and an irrigation system.An array of Marvin Windows and Doors used throughout the library take full advantage of Marvin's custom ability. Exterior glass has a green tint which filters out light rays that may yellow pages in books; the interior glass is a clear laminate that filters out ultraviolet light. Bubble glass, also known as clear reamy glass, was imported from Germany for the doors and windows in the corridor. It is also used in the round window in the periodical room.A meeting room is available for nonprofit use by the general public.Custom lighting throughout the building is controlled by a special panel. Study carrels have individual lighting.A heritage quilt made by area quilters features over 400 names.A fireplace built by Midwestern Masonry of East Grand Forks, Minnesota is the focal point of the library. Margaret Marvin's favorite quote "Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp, or what is a heaven for?" by Robert Browning hand brushed in gold leaf lettering is on display. All the wood in the building is cherry.

The granite top circulation desk, designed by Mulfinger & Susanka, was custom made by Thomas Moser Co. of Maine. The tables and chairs were also made by Thomas Moser Co. and each piece is hand signed by the craftsman Cozy "drum" area is available for children to read or assemble puzzles.Stained glass windows provide interesting reflections throughout the day. The glass work was done by John Pietras and Michaela Mahady, a husband and wife team of Pegasus Glass Studio in Minneapolis, MN.Soundproof computer and typing rooms are available for public use.The library workroom has special storage for books and oversized drawers for large flat poster boards. The library storage rooms hold the fireproof book drop and unique movable shelving.A polished brass fountain and terrace around the corridor add grandeur to the building