Welcome to the Hallett Library

In 1978, the Jessie F. Hallett Memorial Library became a reality through the generosity of E.W. Hallett. The Library was dedicated in memory of his beloved wife, Jessie.

Born in Ottertail County on June 11, 1882, Ernest Wilbert Hallett amassed his fortune in paving contracts. On February 2, 1910, he took Jessie Barnard for his bride.

Upon settling in Crosby the couple eventually homesteaded east of town in what is now the Hallett House Bed and Breakfast. They also owned a summerhome on the northside of Serpent Lake. Two children were born to the Halletts, a son, Willis, born October 1, 1912, this child passed away at the age of 27. A second son, Charles, was born October 19, 1918, but he only survived a few weeks. Jessie died at 86 in 1976. Mr. Hallett was 101 when he died August 25, 1983.

Because of their love for the area and its people, and their generous

nature, much of this community has the Halletts to thank. Our Hospital, Presbyterian Church and Library (including the 1992 expansion) were all made possible through Hallett’s gifts. Looking around the town; the City Hall, The Hallett Community Center, and Hospital Heliport are a direct result of monies available through the Hallett Charitable Trust. Each year over $35,000 in scholarship money is awarded to C-I high school seniors.

Jessie was a refined woman with a great love for children. She was very active in church and social activities. It was her inspiration that led to the delightful world of books available to all young Cuyuna Range

library patrons.

Mr. Hallett was as Ernest as his namesake, believing in 4 golden rules:

1^st - The easiest thing in the world is to be mistaken.

2^nd - First make sure you are right, then go ahead and stick with it.

3^rd - Always pay your bills promptly - take all cash discounts.

4^th - Follow the Golden Rule. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

What a rich Heritage they have left us, two early pioneers of strength and character, a gift for all time.

Library Hours

Fall/Winter Summer

Monday 10 - 6 Monday 10 - 6

Tuesday 10 - 8 Tuesday 10 - 8

Wednesday 10 - 6 Wednesday 10 - 6

Thursday 10 - 8 Thursday 10 - 8

Friday 10 – 2 Friday 10 - 6

Saturday 10 - 2 Closed

Closed Saturday, Sunday, Holidays

Sunday and Holidays

D

Contact Information

Head Librarian

Peggi Beseres

E-mail address

jhallett@emily.net

Web address

www.emily.net/~jhallett

Library phone

218-546-8005

Library fax

218-546-7287

Library address

101 – 1^st St SE

Crosby, MN 56441

For more information about the Hallett Trust, please go to:

www.halletttrusts.org

The JFHML Library Board

Bob Novak – Chairperson

Joan Hasskamp – Vice Chairperson

Debbie MacKay – Secretary

Sandy Arcand – Finance

Donald Boucher

Steve Goshey

Marian Segersten

Joe Simons

Barbara Ukura

We are appreciative of our Board’s time, talents and support.

Last revised: 08.08