The Rochester Public Library Bookmobile strengthens community and enriches the lives of community members who are unable to use the main library due to geographic, transportation, economic or other barriers.

Together, we’ll read this wonderful story about recognizing the good things in our lives, big and small. After the story, kids will have a chance to craft their very own gratitude container to take home!

Enjoy this free program sponsored by Olmsted Medical Center

Experience the magic of the holiday season like never before with our exclusive after-hours Candlelight Tours at Historic Mayowood. As dusk falls, the home’s standard lighting will be turned off, allowing the vibrant shimmer of Christmas displays to fully illuminate the grand rooms while guests follow our educated guides with electric candles, creating an exceptionally warm, intimate, and enchanting atmosphere.

New this year, live piano music will resonate through the halls for the first time, filling the estate with timeless holiday melodies that elevate every step of your journey. These special evening tours take place on select dates of November 14, 19, and 20, as well as December 3, 5, and 6, from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

Don't miss your chance to step into this memorable Christmas experience; reserve your spot early to ensure your place in this beloved holiday tradition.
All tickets are $40. Find more information and register here. 

Experience the music and artistry of award-winning Native American violinist Arvel Bird in a special video screening of his 2018 concert hosted by the Native American Center of Southeast Minnesota.

Nakoma artwork will be onsite and available for purchase.

$5 for non-members. FREE for HCOC members. 

Experience the magic of the holiday season like never before with our exclusive after-hours Candlelight Tours at Historic Mayowood. As dusk falls, the home’s standard lighting will be turned off, allowing the vibrant shimmer of Christmas displays to fully illuminate the grand rooms while guests follow our educated guides with electric candles, creating an exceptionally warm, intimate, and enchanting atmosphere.

New this year, live piano music will resonate through the halls for the first time, filling the estate with timeless holiday melodies that elevate every step of your journey. These special evening tours take place on select dates of November 14, 19, and 20, as well as December 3, 5, and 6, from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

Don't miss your chance to step into this memorable Christmas experience; reserve your spot early to ensure your place in this beloved holiday tradition.
All tickets are $40. Find more information and register here. 

Join sisters Betty Smith and Shirley Greising, Dakota elders and community advocates, as they share stories of their family, history, and culture. Born and raised in Rochester, Betty and Shirley are dedicated to preserving Indigenous history, raising awareness of Dakota heritage, and protecting sacred Dakota sites throughout southeastern Minnesota.

$5 for non-members. FREE for HCOC members. 

Experience the magic of the holiday season like never before with our exclusive after-hours Candlelight Tours at Historic Mayowood. As dusk falls, the home’s standard lighting will be turned off, allowing the vibrant shimmer of Christmas displays to fully illuminate the grand rooms while guests follow our educated guides with electric candles, creating an exceptionally warm, intimate, and enchanting atmosphere.

New this year, live piano music will resonate through the halls for the first time, filling the estate with timeless holiday melodies that elevate every step of your journey. These special evening tours take place on select dates of November 14, 19, and 20, as well as December 3, 5, and 6, from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

Don't miss your chance to step into this memorable Christmas experience; reserve your spot early to ensure your place in this beloved holiday tradition.
All tickets are $40. Find more information and register here. 

Join us for all the fun with Junk Journaling 101 and our extended workshop! Take advantage of our special bonus offer and save $2 when you sign up for both.

$18 non-members. $14 HCOC members.

Learn about the history of junk journaling, the basic techniques and get access to historic magazines released from our collection to create a junk journal page (or two).  All materials are provided to create a junk journal page but feel free to bring a notebook/book to start your own full junk journal and any materials you'd like to use!

$10 non-members. $8 for HCOC members.

Join us for Historic Junk Journaling! If you've already taken our introductory class and want to extend the fun, sign up for a social open-work session with full access to all materials including unique historic deaccessioned magazines.

$10 non-members. $8 for HCOC members.

Join us at the History Center of Olmsted County on Thursday, December 3rd as we welcome Kerry Olsen, M.D. as he presents a compelling screening and presentation on Where Healing Begins: The Mayo Clinic Experience. This captivating program delves into the rich heritage and groundbreaking medical traditions that transformed Rochester into a world-renowned destination for hope and care.

$5 for non-members. FREE for HCOC members. 

Join us for our first Christkindl Market on December 10th from 4pm–8pm! Celebrate the season with mostly indoor and some outdoor shopping featuring handmade arts, crafts, unique gifts, and delicious treats from cottage vendors.

We will have food vendors on site: Jersey Jo's and Francisco's Restaurant so come hungry. Carmel Creations will be also selling hot chocolate and cider to help you stay cozy and warm!

Meet Santa Claus and learn about the German Christmas traditions of Olmsted County’s early settlers. Bring the whole family for an evening of holiday fun, local shopping, and festive cheer. Free admission for everyone!