Cedar Riverside is a dense, urban Minneapolis neighborhood, where 43 percent of 7,200 residents were born in another country, primarily Somalia. Among residents, 57 percent live in poverty, and 33 percent lack a high school diploma. Though residents have three Hennepin County libraries within three miles, many experience physical, logistical and psychological barriers to accessing library resources. Though 64 percent of Hennepin County residents overall have a library card, only 31 percent of Cedar Riverside residents have a library card.

We are exploring what it means to provide library service outside the walls of the library as the initiative seeks collective impact alongside partner organizations. For example, a library program may spark interest and skill in web development, so a partner organization can connect the individual to an educational program based on this interest or with current job openings matched to newfound skills.

The key goals for the Cedar Riverside Opportunity Center and the Cedar Riverside neighborhood include reducing unemployment and increasing access to educational programs. By connecting residents to library services on site, we anticipate residents will gain increased leadership and employment skills, including clear communication, problem-solving skills, resiliency and teamwork as well as improved technology skills and ability to express themselves through technology.