March is here again, which means it’s time for the Great River Regional Library’s annual ‘Locally Growin’ fundraiser. 

The goal of the fundraiser is to help each GRRL branch raise money for special items for their own library; 100% of the Locally Growin’ money raised by each branch stays at that library.

Each of the 32 branches in the GRRL system has its own unique goal and special wish list items it would like to purchase, including the area’s local libraries in Becker, Big Lake, and Clearwater. Last year’s ‘Locally Grown’ fundraiser was unfortunately cut short because of pandemic restrictions, so many of the libraries weren’t able to reach their goals. 

The Becker and Big Lake Libraries have both set goals of  $500 this year, which they plan to use for crafting and take and make supplies, as well as Summer Reading Program prizes. Becker Library is also starting to save for a non-traditional circulation item, which will be announced in the future. Big Lake Library is saving for a mural painting in their children’s area.

This year Pebble Creek Golf Club has once again teamed up with the Becker Library to help them reach their Locally Growin’ fundraising goal. On March 21, 10% of their sales will be donated to the library. 

“We’re looking forward to the collaborative effort with Pebble Creek,” said Librarian Jeannette Burkhardt. “What a great way to support two organizations and keep the funds local. Be sure to mark March 21 on your calendar!”

Because their fundraising effort was cut short last year, Becker Library fell short of their goal, but what was raised was used to purchase take and make kits so local kids could still have fun and take part in library activities at home.

The Clearwater Library was one that was able to make its goal last year. This year, Librarian Shelly Kuelbs is hoping to raise $400 to purchase summer reading program prizes, take and make craft supplies, and some wall activity panels for the children’s area.

“We have also been talking with an area artist about expanding our mural from the juvenile fiction area into the children’s area,” said Kuelbs. “The mural is our objective if we exceed our $400 goal.”

The money donated to the Clearwater Library last year was going to be used for three Como Park Zoo programs. This money was set aside for when restrictions have been lifted and the Zoo is able to visit in the future.

GRRL’s Locally Growin’ fundraiser continues through the end of March. All donations, no matter the size, help the libraries get one step closer to their goals. The donations are tax deductible and can be given directly to the Becker, Big Lake, and Clearwater library service desks or donated online at griver.org/locally-growin. 

Remember, all donations stay at the library where they were donated at!