See all posts in the Libraries series
(Note: Carver County Library branch managers are providing updates on exciting programs and new services for Carver County Local News. This month, Patrick Jones — Chanhassen and Victoria locations manager — shares an update about the Victoria branch.)
A new service — extended access — will begin at the Victoria Library on Tuesday, Sept. 2.
Extended access allows adult patrons to use the library during select non-staffed hours, including holidays. During extended access the following services are available: public computers, Wi-Fi use, scanning, faxing, printing and self-check of library materials. The building can also be used as a study or workspace.
In October 2024, Victoria Branch Manager Patrick Jones wrote a successful Dahlke grant to fund the project.
The grant is named after Carver County Library patron Charles Dahlke who passed away and left the library part of his estate. Dahlke grants are used to fund innovative programs and projects outside of usual sources. The grant funded three years of the extended access project.
As one of the smaller libraries in the Carver County Library system, Victoria does not have hours that are conducive to everyone’s schedule (in particular by being closed on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and Sunday).
The use of the Victoria express library demonstrated there were patrons unable to use the library during normal business hours. Victoria was chosen because — as a new library — there were minimal costs to retrofit. Further, Victoria is centrally located between Waconia and Chanhassen and is close to Chaska. Finally, extended access is an innovative trend in libraries in the Twin Cities.
Extended access is available to all Carver County Library cardholders ages 18 and older. Individuals may register for extended access if not a Carver County resident if their card is registered in the Carver County Library system.
To use extended access, patrons must complete the application process, which involves reading an FAQ, filling out an online application, reading and signing the extended-access user agreement, reading and signing the public conduct policy, and attending a very short in-person orientation.
Patrons must have a current library card to apply for extended access with a four-digit PIN. Visit the Extended Access page to apply to use the service.
Questions about extended access can be directed to Victoria Library Branch Manager Patrick Jones at patrick@carvercountymn.gov.
More information about all library services and programs can be found online or by calling the Chanhassen Library at 952-303-0401, Chaska Library at 952-33-0402, or Victoria Library at 952-303-1404.
