SCSU Library Makes Youth Books More Accessible

Thanks to grant funding from Central Minnesota Libraries Exchange (CMLE), the James W. Miller Learning Resources Center—the main library on St. Cloud State’s campus—has implemented a forward-thinking project that’s transforming how students, faculty, and families engage with children’s and young adult literature across campus.

With the purchase of mobile, front-facing shelving units, the library has shifted from a traditional, static service model to a more dynamic, user-centered approach. These shelves make the collection more accessible and visually appealing—and, crucially, portable. Library staff can now take books directly into classrooms, events, and other campus hubs, increasing both visibility and interaction.

Bringing the Collection to Students

The mobility of the shelving units has been a game-changer. Education students preparing for student teaching and student parents accessing children’s books can now find what they need without navigating to traditional library spaces. It’s literally bringing the books to them, where they need them most.

Strengthening Campus Partnerships

This initiative has fostered valuable collaborations with:

• The College of Education (including the New Teacher Academy)
• Lindgren Early Learning Center
• Student Parent Success Center
• Other faculty groups and organizations

These partnerships integrate library resources into coursework, parenting support, and early childhood education on campus.

Measuring Success

The library will continue to monitor key metrics throughout the 2025–2026 academic year to evaluate the project’s impact:

• Faculty consultation frequency
• Number of requests for mobile displays
• Circulation stats before and after implementation
• Title and genre popularity in mobile displays
• Growth in active campus partnerships
• Feedback from partner organizations

These metrics will highlight return on investment, guide service enhancements, inform future purchasing decisions, support future funding proposals, and surface success stories for stakeholders.

A Shift Toward User-Centered Service

This project illustrates how relatively small investments—like mobile shelving—can spark significant change. The James W. Miller Learning Resources Center has transformed from a static, campus-bound library space into a responsive, outreach-driven resource center that supports student success and deepens campus-wide engagement.

About CMLE Grants

This project was made possible through grant funding from the Central Minnesota Libraries Exchange (CMLE), which provides support to libraries of all types across our region. CMLE’s grant program helps member libraries pursue innovative ideas, pilot new services, and expand access to information and resources in their communities.

Interested in applying for a CMLE grant? Visit cmle.org to learn more about eligibility, deadlines, and how we can help bring your next project to life.