Projects

Ginny Brodeen has created and managed new initiatives for public libraries in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Professional highlights include Project Manager for the innovative partnership of all Minnesota's public libraries and the Minnesota Historical Society, Wakanheza Project trainer, and national recognition of the Dayton's Bluff Branch Library project, the country’s highest honor for extraordinary community service provided by a library (read about the award).

Project Development and Manager: CRPLSA and Minnesota Historical Society

In 2009, a  partnership was created between the twelve Minnesota public library systems and the Minnesota Historical Society to document, preserve and celebrate Minnesota's rich history through diverse programming. Ginny was selected to develop this statewide initiative. This included building relationships with library staff, presenters and performers, historical society staff, and community organizations. In 2010-2011, more than 188 programs were held in public venues, with total attendance of 8,613 people.

Program Consultant: Rafferty, Rafferty, Tollefson, Lindeke Architects

Ginny serves as a library consultant on the RRTL architectural team for a new library addition at South Central College, Faribault, Minnesota.

Project Manager: St. Paul Public Library Homework Centers

In 2001, concerned community members challenged Outreach Services at the St. Paul Public Library to address the growing community need for homework help. The goals were simple: to creatively build a model of service that would meet the needs of the students. This vision translated into new solutions, opportunities and programs. With the support of The Friends of St. Paul Public Library, the Library Administration, the Corporation for National and Community Service, volunteers and teens, the first Homework Center opened in January 2002.  Currently, there are six active centers in the St. Paul Public Library system.The Homework Centers are cooperative learning environments and provide core library services for students of all ages

Rondo Community Outreach Library

Ginny participated in the planning and building phases of the new Rondo Community Outreach Library for the St. Paul Public Library that opened in 2006. Her efforts included a needs assessment based on in-depth community conversations, thorough research of current library facilities, design recommendations based on user needs and input, and fiscal management. She was a key leader in preparation of the opening and on-going operation of the library. With this new 31,000 square foot library, many users have now embraced a unique multi-use urban library.

Dayton's Bluff Branch Library

In 2003, Ginny worked as a consultant and advisor to the design team of the Dayton’s Bluff Branch Library for the St. Paul Public Library. This unique library was created as a community partnership with the Metropolitan State University’s (MSU) library. Ginny went on to manage the Dayton’s Bluff Library in close coordination with the MSU staff.