Doors Open Minneapolis Returns May 17 & 18

Discover some of the Twin Cities’ hidden library treasures (and other public and private buildings of note) during Doors Open Minneapolis on May 17 & 18.

As the name suggests, Doors Open Minneapolis is a grassroots initiative to “explore the buildings that tell the city’s story.” For these two days only, the public will have broad access and tour opportunities of spaces that few of us have occasion to experience otherwise. Locations participating run a wide gamut: from public works maintenance facilities, to the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, and even the U of M’s cancer and cardiovascular research building.

Returning favorites of note for Friends of the Library include the Hennepin Co. Library – Minneapolis Central Library (winner of multiple prestigious architectural awards) and Elmer L. Andersen Library (home of the U of M’s Archives and Special Collections). While both are open to the public at other times, Doors Open Minneapolis is the far rarer opportunity to gain a behind-the-scenes look.

Visit the program’s website for a complete list of venues and a useful FAQ. Click here to learn more about volunteering time to Doors Open Minneapolis over one or more shifts.