Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks
Episode: From Shelves to Support: Evolving the Library Experience
Host: Debbie McCullough & Andrea Estelle
Guest: Sarah Skinner, Director at Bridgman Public Library
Release Date: April 10, 2025

Introduction

In the sixth episode of Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks, hosts Debbie McCullough and Andrea Estelle engage with Sarah Skinner, the passionate director of the Bridgman Public Library in Michigan. The episode delves into Sarah's journey in librarianship, her impactful initiatives, memorable experiences, and her vision for the future of libraries.

Sarah Skinner's Journey to Librarianship

Sarah begins by sharing her path into the library world. After her youngest child started school in 2016, Sarah sought employment and found her calling at the Niles Library.

Sarah Skinner [01:31]: "I initially started at the Niles Library in 2016. I was one of those people that has to have a job, otherwise I go a little crazy."

She worked various roles, from the computer lab and information desk to managing reader and adult services. Her dedication and vision led her to apply for the director position at Bridgman.

The Impact of Early Experiences

Sarah attributes her love for libraries to her childhood experiences.

Sarah Skinner [02:36]: "Libraries have always been, you know, a safe place for me, a happy place."

Regular visits with her father to the Niles Library fostered her appreciation for storytelling and community support. This foundational love propelled her into a career where she could create similar positive experiences for others.

Transformative Library Programs: Project Connect

One of Sarah's significant contributions at the Niles Library was Project Connect, a collaborative initiative bringing together over 40 social service agencies under one roof.

Sarah Skinner [03:47]: "We hosted a Project Connect... This is great, because I had over 40 different tables there, so everyone was like, you know, this is great. I was able to find the services I need."

This program streamlined access to essential services, providing patrons with necessary resources and fostering community support.

Personal Connections and Community Impact

Sarah highlights the importance of personal interactions within the library setting.

Sarah Skinner [04:49]: "We have a little boy that he comes to some of the programs, and he really likes our children's librarian... those little interactions... make my heart grow."

She emphasizes the library as a hub for community connections, where even small moments can significantly impact both patrons and staff.

Evolution of Roles and Leadership

Transitioning from hands-on roles to leadership, Sarah discusses her journey towards becoming a library director.

Sarah Skinner [08:08]: "I just started thinking about, you know, the libraries, and I had finished my master's degree... I am a happy person... I have lots of great ideas on how to interact with the community, how to interact with staff."

Her leadership focuses on setting a positive tone, fostering community engagement, and enabling staff to make meaningful impacts.

A Memorable Library Encounter: The Squirrel Incident

Sarah recounts a humorous yet challenging incident involving an elusive squirrel in the library.

Sarah Skinner [10:42]: "One day we had some patrons in the library, and all of a sudden I hear somebody scream... there's a squirrel in the library."

Despite extensive efforts with duct tape and exterminators, the squirrel persisted for two weeks, causing both chaos and laughter within the library community.

Advocating for Libraries

Sarah passionately advocates for libraries, both within her community and beyond.

Sarah Skinner [14:53]: "I try to be like the biggest advocate for the library... if you come to my library, we can help you with that tech question."

Her proactive approach includes promoting library programs, engaging with local events, and encouraging her personal network to utilize library resources.

Misconceptions About Librarianship

Addressing common misunderstandings, Sarah clarifies the educational requirements and diverse roles within libraries.

Sarah Skinner [16:14]: "I wish that people understood that, yes, you do have to go to school to be a librarian. That is a question I get frequently."

She highlights that not all library staff hold advanced degrees, drawing parallels to other professions where specialized roles require specific training.

Challenges Facing Libraries

Looking ahead, Sarah identifies key challenges libraries will face in the next decade.

1. Staying Relevant: Adapting to evolving community needs beyond book lending.

   Sarah Skinner [19:01]: "If you just have books and you don't offer anything else to your community, I wouldn't think that a lot of people would use the library."

2. Funding Uncertainty: Securing stable financial support amidst rising costs.

   Sarah Skinner [20:06]: "Finding some stable funding that might not go away would be absolutely wonderful so we can continue the work that we do."

Hope and Vision for the Future

Despite challenges, Sarah remains optimistic about the future of libraries.

Sarah Skinner [20:50]: "Seeing the parents bringing their children into the library and showing them that this is a safe place... builds that love inside of children."

Her focus is on nurturing a lifelong appreciation for libraries, ensuring they remain vibrant centers for community engagement and learning.

Conclusion

Sarah Skinner's dedication, innovative initiatives, and heartfelt advocacy encapsulate the evolving role of libraries in modern communities. Her story underscores the profound impact libraries have on individuals and the collective well-being of the communities they serve.

Notable Quotes:

• Sarah Skinner [02:36]: "Libraries have always been... a safe place for me, a happy place."
• Sarah Skinner [03:47]: "This is great, because I had over 40 different tables there..."
• Sarah Skinner [04:49]: "Those little interactions... make my heart grow."
• Sarah Skinner [14:53]: "I try to be like the biggest advocate for the library."
• Sarah Skinner [20:50]: "Seeing the parents bringing their children into the library... builds that love inside of children."

This episode highlights the transformative power of libraries and the passionate individuals who lead them, ensuring they continue to be indispensable resources in our communities.