Rochester Public Library shopping fundraiser kicks off

(ABC 6 News) – The Rochester Public Library Foundation is hosting its second annual virtual holiday shopping event starting this week.

Proceeds from the event help support the purchase of new books, materials, WiFi-enabled laptops, and a new awning for the library’s bookmobile.

Some items available include a custom pet portrait by a local artist and tickets to the Guthrie or a 2022 Twins home game.

Library staff says this is one of their biggest fundraisers to help support programs that aren’t in the budget.

"One of the great things that we are trying to do is trying to get an awning on the bookmobile that will protect patrons and staff when the weather isn’t so good uh were also trying to get chrome books out to people who might not have computers or connectivity at home so those are some of the things that we are fundraising for that really helps the community," Rochester Public Library Executive director Brenda Kardock said.

The online auction opens at 8 a.m. on Wednesday and donations can be made directly to the library as well.