The Friends Foundation is the volunteer and fundraising arm of the library.

JFHML Friends Foundation Mission Statement:
The purpose of this corporation is to promote, enhance and support the work of the Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library located at 101 1st Street SE, Crosby, MN, 56441.

  1. By raising funds for special purposes, programs and materials for the Hallett Library.
  2. By being an advocate for the Library.
  3. By receiving contributions from private, public and corporate funding sources.
  4. By distributing the funds according to policy to the Hallett Library.
  5. By securing volunteers to support the Library endeavors.

Established February 2011

Ways to Support

Become a Friend

The simplest way to support is to become a Friend! The yearly membership fee goes towards projects and programs as needed throughout the year. By attending meetings, Friends help decide what the funds go to at the library!

JFHML Friends Foundation Membership Form

Donate

Donate Online via GiveMN

Donate in Person or via Mail: 

101 1st St SE
Crosby, MN 56441

Volunteer

Your time is precious, and also a valuable donation! There are many things we need volunteers for, and want to make sure it’s something fun for you to do! Examples: Shelving Books, Program support (set up, crowd control, ideas), cleaning, Book store and book sale, Story Hour, Summer Reading Program. Fill out this form and we will contact you.

Backstreet Books

The Ultimate Selection in Used Books
Located in the Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library
The Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library is proud to announce the opening of Backstreet Books, a used bookstore located in the small study room on the ‘backside” of the Library. This JFHML FRIENDS FOUNDATION project was created to support the library by fundraising for special programs and materials. The store features high quality books for adults and youth, along with gift cards by local artists and repurposed book art.  This European-flavored shoppe is operated by the Friends who are always seeking new members.

How Did It Happen?
1. Take a plain study room in the back of the Library.

2. Come up with a catchy name.

3. Decide on theme (European flavor) & set décor accordingly.

4. Make (and hang)an awning

5. Transform a recycled display case. VOILA!!

Click here to request a donation.

JFHML Friends Foundation Membership Form



JFHML Friends Foundation

Since the JFHML Friends Foundation was formed in February of 2011, some WONDERFUL things have been happening at your community Library. With the help of a Healthy Organizations Partnership (HOP) Start Strong grant from the Initiative Foundation, the Friends opened an on-site used bookstore “Backstreet Books” which features like new books, repurposed book art, crafts and greeting cards by area artists.

In 2012 the Friends acquired a $36,750 Technology and Literacy grant from the Otto Bremer Foundation which provides online card catalog access, over 2000 eBook titles, and ipads for in-house checkout. A partnership was formed with CRMC and the Crosby-Ironton School District to provide access for all literacy technology.  In July 2013, with the help of a TOP (Thriving Organizations Partnership) Financial Resiliency & Social Enterprise grant from the Initiative Foundation, the “Le Connection” area was opened.

This up-to-date computer lab, wifi internet café, expanded bookstore and coffee bar provides the perfect place to connect with others.  In 2014, the Friends worked together with the Hallett Trust in funding the NEW electronic sign featured prominently on the highway adjacent to the Library. The Friends also partnered with Library staff in creating the new CATTALE CORNER children’s area, which won runner-up at the Evy Nordley Best Friends Project Award at the October 2014 Minnesota Library Association Conference in Mankato.

The Friends have contributed over $40,000 back to the Library by sponsoring the following: Author Talks, annual Summer Reading Program, Preschool Story Hour, American Girl Doll Tea, Movie Days, Constant Contact, BookPage, WinWay Resume writing program, Volunteer Appreciation, popcorn machine, new camera & printer, library furnishings & decor, PlayAway audiobooks, ipads and MORE!!!

The Hallett Library would not be the vibrant, multigenerational community hub they are without the impact of the JFHML Friends.  If you are interested in joining this worthwhile group, the Friends are always seeking new members! Check out the Library website at www.hallettlibrary.org for more info, and “Friend” the Library on Facebook for the latest updates on fun events!