The Library Oasis offers limited services at the Northfield Community Resource Center (NCRC), 1651 Jefferson Parkway. 

An oasis is a place that provides refuge, relief, or pleasant contrast. Collocating library services with other human services reduces barriers and improves access to valuable community space, information, and resources those who may be less likely or unable to seek out due to limited time, means, awareness, or transportation. The Library Oasis will offer all who visit a space to reflect and rest, the opportunity to explore freely, play, read, and discover what is possible. 

The Oasis is staffed to provide full service on Monday 8 a.m. -12 p.m., Tuesday 8 a.m. -12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and on Thursday 8 a.m.-12 p.m and 1p.m. to 5 p.m. The space is open to the public anytime the building is open, typically between 7 am and 5 pm, Monday-Friday via the Community Action Center entrance, and on Saturdays via Fifty North. During the NCCC academic year, the space is open until 7 pm. Outside of staffed hours, patrons visiting the Oasis are able to sign up for a library card using forms by the self-check terminal, check out and return materials, pick up holds from the Remote Locker, use the computers, play, meet, read, and enjoy the space. 

How did we do it? 

The City of Northfield owns and manages the NCRC building, which makes this a low cost but high impact opportunity for the City to extend library services to youth, families, and older adults beyond the downtown location into underserved areas, and by doing so, support the service providers in the building. 

City Council approved the Library's request for additional staffing so that visitors to the Oasis can expect the same high-level customer service we provide downtown.

The Friends and Foundation of the Library have successfully completed a capital campaign to outfit the space, including furnishings, collections, equipment, and shelving. 

Contribute to their ongoing fundraising efforts here.