Literary Landmark: Jon Hassler Library

Brainerd, Minn.

Dedicated May 16, 2014

Partners: Minnesota Association of Library Friends, Central Lakes Col­lege Foundation, and Friends of the Brainerd Public Library

Larry Kellerman The library at Central Lakes College in Brainerd, Minn., was dedicated Literary Landmark in honor of Jon Hassler (1933-2008).

Hassler launched his career while teaching at Brainerd Community College (now Central Lakes College). Hassler was a novelist who captured small town life as it took place in Minnesota towns such as Stag­gerford and Rookery.

Central Lakes College (CLC) Librarian Emeritus Larry Kellerman served as master of ceremonies at the dedication, which was attended by more than 70 people. Featured at the dedication were CLC President Dr. Larry Lundblad; CLC Foundation Di­rector Pam Thomsen; Hassler’s family members, daughter Liz and son Mi­chael; Joan Larson of Minnesota Asso­ciation of Library Friends; Joe Owens, board member of Minnesota Associa­tion of Library Friends, and Friends of the Brainerd Public Library President Sheila DeChantel.

Hassler’s longtime friend Joseph Plut, who authored Conversations with Jon Hassler, read a letter from one of Hassler’s former students, Dr. Patrick Hicks, who credits Hassler with much of his writing success. Plut also read from Hassler’s Simon’s Night and My Simon’s Night Journal” Friends of the Brainerd Public Library hosted a reception following the dedication ceremony.

Resources:

Jon Hassler Library

Jon Hassler's Writing Room

Minnesota Association of Library Friends