The Burnsville City Council meeting on June 17, 2025, featured a comprehensive update from Chad Loopers, manager of the Dakota County Burnsville Library, highlighting the library's achievements over the past year and outlining future plans.

Loopers reported impressive statistics, noting that the library checked out over 500,000 items and welcomed more than 230,000 visitors in the past year. Notably, nearly 17,000 residents utilized the library's public meeting spaces, with the library experiencing the highest meeting room usage among Dakota County libraries. This success is attributed to various community groups, including local scouts and cultural organizations.

Looking ahead, Loopers announced that 2024 will be a strategic planning year for the library, focusing on goals such as fostering a sense of belonging, enhancing collections, and increasing awareness of library services. He emphasized the importance of community engagement, mentioning the library's participation in local events to reach residents who may not visit regularly.

A significant development for the library is the introduction of self-service hours, allowing access from 6 AM to 11 PM every day. This initiative has attracted over 500 residents who signed up for special library cards, resulting in nearly 11,000 visits during non-staffed hours.

Loopers also highlighted various programs, including a book delivery service for seniors and rotating play kits for children, which have been well-received. Additionally, the library hosted an artist in residence, Marlena Miles, who provided creative classes throughout the county.

Looking forward, Loopers announced that the library will undergo renovations starting in March 2026, with plans to reopen in March 2027. A recent resident survey indicated a strong desire for more children's space, quiet study areas, and, importantly, a continued emphasis on maintaining the library's book collection.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for community members to attend an open house on June 25, where they can provide feedback on the library's renovation plans. This engagement reflects the library's commitment to serving the needs of Burnsville residents as it prepares for its future.