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Steve Hart,

Hospitality in Big Bear Slippers

The kids call him Papa Bear or Mr. Steve. He’s creating wildly popular programs for kids at the Davenport Library’s new branch on North Fairmount Street. And here’s the secret to his success:

“I can think like a kid.”

And “It’s not what’s easiest or what I want to happen. It’s what’s best for other people.”

Steve Hart is not your typical librarian. He sometimes works in pajama pants and gigantic slippers. His feet may look like something out of the wild: a bear, a Bengal tiger, a gorilla. Whatever outrageous slippers are on sale at Wal-Mart.

With bags of popcorn (because popcorn is a theme here), sidewalk chalk, the occasional worm farm, and compelling characters that leap from the pages of children’s books, Steve Hart is wowing kids and families on the west end of Davenport.

Like his dad Neal and brother Jim (also St. Paul members), Steve had been making a good steady income at ALCOA. But the night shift was making life miserable. He was irritable. He was missing the best parts of life with his family: wife Rita and daughters Stephanie (7) and Courtney (5). So he quit. And lo and behold, a vocation was born with kids at the Davenport Library’s newest branch.

All are welcome here. The library’s open and inviting architecture proclaims that message. So does the sidewalk sign advertising “kiwi smoothies.” Inside, a fireplace, the earth-tone color scheme, and comfortable seating convey warmth. An information center invites inquiries. Large windows bring in the greenery of summer. With open computer access and stacks of colorful books, the atmosphere is charged with a spirit of learning. Yet it’s a calm and relaxing place too.

Steve claims hospitality as part of his personal mission — in his library work and at church. “We get people here at the library from all walks of life,” he says. “I’ve learned to appreciate everyone on equal ground. Other people are no different than I am; God looks on all people the same. That’s how I’ve grown up.”

Sometimes it’s not easy. On occasion, kids cause disturbances. Steve approaches such situations with grace, respect, and patience. “I try to show kindness when people are upset. I want them to know they are welcomed, that this place is for them.”

In his Papa Bear persona, Steve leads the Fairmount library’s programming for children and families. In the fall, he transformed the story-time room into a camper’s paradise with a tent, stars, trees, and even a worm farm. There’s nothing like playing in dirt to inspire a love for reading.

“I don’t want to be a typical librarian,” he says. “I go above and beyond the simple story time. I try to put myself in the kids’ shoes and think how I would like to be treated.”

So he rolls out fun and crafts and creativity. He hosts Papas and PJs, drawing babies to grandparents. They pack the story-time room for books, movies, crafts, Steve’s goofy slippers, and always popcorn. He brings characters like Clifford the big red dog to life. In the summer, crowds flock for fire truck bucket rides and canine visitors. Steve masterminded a Hispanic program — complete with a Latino dance group — that drew 500 people.

Perhaps this affinity for people began at the 50th wedding anniversary of Steve’s grandparents, Bill and Helen Reins. Steve was seven. “I remember it like it was yesterday. All the tables were set up. The place was packed.” Steve had the fun of taking bags of popcorn around to guests. “Everyone was so nice and happy. It made me want to work with people.”

A strong sense of family inspires him. “Family is really important to me — my three older brothers, their families, my parents, Rita and our kids. When things go good or bad, they’re always there. They are the ones who make me who I am.”

Now translate that family commitment into hospitality efforts for the St. Paul family. Steve’s a natural. He helps welcome new members, he serves as an Open Door host and as a friend to the pastoral residency. “I’m comfortable around people. And I want others to realize that’s what St. Paul is. It’s not about me. It’s us as a community.”

When he’s able to sneak a peek of the new sanctuary, Steve gazes at a space that “feels warm, like we’re going to be a circle of closer-knit community,” he says. The worship center will proclaim a welcome for all. And like so many other St. Paul people, Steve will be there, putting himself in the shoes of the newcomer, stepping beyond himself in a genuine spirit of hospitality.

Learn about hospitality for fall and the Drum Roll event.

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"We are all pencils in the hand of a writing God." ~Mother Teresa