The Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library is a vibrant community hub, offering a diverse range of materials, programs, and technology to inspire the Cuyuna Lakes Area to Learn, Gather, and Grow.

 

 

A Letter from the Librarian

The true impact of a library can’t be summed up in a simple list. Libraries are more than just a place to check out books—they are community hubs that foster learning, connection, and opportunity for all. At the Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library, we bring people together. Friendships are formed at story hour, where children develop a love of reading and parents build lifelong connections. We offer a welcoming space where people can meet, learn, and grow. Whether it’s a student researching a school project, a job seeker applying for work, or a visitor looking for a quiet place to read, we serve as a cornerstone of the community.

We answer questions that Google can’t—helping patrons uncover family histories, understand local events, and navigate life’s challenges. Our resources, programs, and knowledgeable staff provide access to technology, education, and social connection that not everyone has at home. Libraries ensure that knowledge, creativity, and opportunity remain free and available to all. But we can’t do it alone. Your financial support helps keep our doors open, our shelves stocked, and our programs running—ensuring that the library remains a vital resource for generations to come.

Abby Smith, JFHML Head Librarian

Contact Us

General Inquiries

(218) 546-8005
board@hallettlibrary.org

Head Librarian

Youth Librarian

Billing Services

Library Services Available with a Card

Borrowing & Digital Access

  • Books (for all ages)
  • Magazines, DVDs, CDs, Audiobooks
  • Hotspots
  • Libby App (eBooks & eAudiobooks)
  • Kanopy (Movie Streaming)
  • Comics Plus (online graphic novels, comics, and manga)

Reader Support

  • NoveList Plus
  • Online Card Catalog

Library Services – No Card Required

Technology & Office Services

  • Public Computers & Internet
  • Printing, Copying, Faxing, Scanning & Emailing*
  • Notary Services
  • Test Proctoring
  • Community Spaces
  • Study Spaces
  • Meeting Rooms*
  • Puzzle Swap
  • Local Newspapers
  • Tax Forms

* Denotes fee may be applicable

Programs & Events

  • Weekly Preschool Story Hour
  • Summer Reading Program
  • Puzzle Competitions
  • Author Talks
  • Game Nights
  • Arts & Crafts
  • Book Clubs
  • Movie Nights
  • Anime & Manga Night
  • Cribbage Days
  • Seasonal Events
  • Egg Hunt
  • Halloween Party
  • Summer Carnival
  • National Poetry Month

The majority of events at the library are free and open to the public. Space may be limited and registration required. Occasional events hosted at the library but put on by a presenter may have fee.

In 1978, the Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library became a reality through the generosity of E.W. Hallett. The Library was dedicated in memory of his beloved
wife, Jessie.

Born in Ottertail County on June 11, 1882, Ernest Wilbert Hallett amassed his fortune in paving contracts. On February 2, 1910, he took Jessie Barnard for his bride.

Upon settling in Crosby the couple eventually homesteaded east of town in what is now the Hallett House Bed and Breakfast. They also owned a summerhome on the northside of Serpent Lake. Two children were born to the Halletts, a son, Willis, born October 1, 1912, this child passed away at the age of 27. A second son, Charles, was born October 19, 1918, but he only survived a few weeks. Jessie died at 86 in 1976. Mr. Hallett was 101 when he died August 25, 1983.

Because of their love for the area and its people, and their generous nature, much of this community has the Halletts to thank. Our Hospital, Presbyterian Church and Library (including the 1992 expansion) were all made possible through Hallett’s gifts.  Looking around the town; the City Hall, The Hallett Community Center, and Hospital Heliport are a direct result of monies available through the Hallett Charitable Trust.  Each year over $47,000 in scholarship money is awarded to C-I high school seniors.

Jessie was a refined woman with a great love for children. She was very active in church and social activities. It was her inspiration that led to the delightful world of books available to all young Cuyuna Range library patrons.

 

 

Mr. Hallett was as Ernest as his namesake, believing in 4 golden rules:

  1. The easiest thing in the world is to be mistaken.
  2. First make sure you are right, then go ahead and stick with it.
  3. Always pay your bills promptly – take all cash discounts.
  4. Follow the Golden Rule. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

What a rich Heritage they have left us, two early pioneers of strength and character, a gift for all time.

 

 

Hallett Books For Sale at the Library
Remembering E.W and Jessie Hallett by Jeannine R. Schaub: $18
A Bit About The Life Of E.W. Hallett by E.W.Hallett: $8

The JFHML Library Board

  • Rebecca Shaffer, Board Chair
  • Wendy Johnson-Haas
  • Debby Leonard
  • Ken Johnson
  • Jenny Smith
  • Beth Cottrell
  • Ron Shepard
  • Angie Fort

The library board meets the final Tuesday of each month, excluding July and December.  We are appreciative of our Board’s time, talents, and support.

For more information about the Hallett Trusts, please go to: www.halletttrusts.org

Contact the board by email: board@hallettlibrary.org

Support the Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library

There are many ways to support the future of the Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library and ensure it remains a vibrant resource for the Cuyuna Lakes community. Whether you’re giving your time, donating materials, contributing financially, or joining the Friends Foundation, your support makes a lasting difference.

Make a Tax-Deductible Donation
Learn how you can provide lasting financial support to the library by visiting this page.

Volunteer Your Time
Our Hallett Volunteer Helpers are a vital part of what keeps the library thriving. Volunteers assist with everything from shelf reading and recycling to seasonal yard work, reading for children’s programs, grant writing, or helping with special events. Whatever your interest or skill set, we likely have a way you can get involved. A strong volunteer base strengthens our services and deepens our connection with the community.

Join the JFHML Friends Foundation
By supporting the Friends Foundation, you help sustain and grow the library’s programs, services, and resources. Members provide financial support and often volunteer their time to help with fundraising efforts, special projects, and community events. Becoming a Friend is one of the most impactful ways to ensure the long-term success of the library.

Support the Endowment
Gifts to the JFHML Endowment Fund help secure the library’s future by providing a permanent source of funding. Whether through annual giving, a memorial donation, or a planned gift in your estate, your contribution helps maintain high-quality library services for generations to come.

Memorial & Tribute Giving
Celebrate or remember a loved one through one of our tribute options:

  • Engraved Memorial Shelving: A $100 donation places a personalized metal plaque on a library bookshelf in memory or honor of someone special.
  • Tributes of Honor: A $25 donation places a book in our collection with an “In Honor Of” nameplate inside.
  • Custom Memorial Gifts: Work with us to create a lasting tribute, such as artwork, program sponsorship, or special displays.

Donate Books & Materials
We welcome donations of books, DVDs, audio CDs, and even computers. Items in good condition may be added to our collection or sold in our ongoing entryway book sale. Proceeds directly support library services. Materials that can’t be used locally are sometimes forwarded to communities in need around the world.

Planned Giving
Leave a legacy by including the Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library in your will or estate plans. Planned giving ensures that your support will continue to make an impact well into the future.

Annual Giving & Non-Resident Support
Many patrons contribute annually to help fund new materials, technology, and programming. If you live outside the service district, a $20 non-resident fee provides full library access for the year, renewable each September.

Download a brochure and gift form here.

To learn more or get involved, visit our Support Us page or call us at 218-546-8005. Thank you for helping us build a stronger library and a stronger community.

For more information on upcoming programs visit our Events page here.