Arvonne Fraser Library opens in Dinkytown after year of renovations

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A library in Dinkytown reopened its doors Saturday, and it has a new name to go along with its updated look.

The Arvonne Fraser Library — formerly the Southeast Library — was built in 1964 at Fourth Street and 13th Avenue Southeast in Minneapolis. The site has been closed since December 2018 for renovations, which include doubling the size of public-use space and plans for new outdoor areas in the spring.

"Our architects were conscious of bringing in some modern new pieces but keeping the historical integrity of this building," said Peggy Woodling, program manager for Hennepin County Libraries.

The building was originally a credit union for university and state employees and was converted into a library in 1967, according to the Hennepin County Libraries website. Arvonne Fraser, the library's new namesake, was a women's rights activists and an advocate for public libraries.

The library will be open Monday through Saturday.