I realize I’ve been neglecting posting for a while, but I’ve been holding off so I can safely announce some really big news. In less than a month, I’m going to have to change my tagline to “…Musings of a Library Director.” That’s right! I’m happy to announce that I have been offered the position of director at the Oskaloosa Public Library in Oskaloosa, Iowa and will officially begin on the 10th of September. Having spent the majority of my life here in Kansas, I’m a little nervous, but excited all the same to embark on this new and exciting endeavor. This obviously means, though, that I will be leaving the Lawrence Public Library…

As my first library job, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience working with the adult services department and the rest of the staff at LPL. From keeping reference desk statistics to processing interlibrary loan materials, providing readers’ advisory to teaching computer classes, creating displays and helping patrons with their eReaders, I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve done here. The past three years have been invaluable – I have learned so much, met many wonderful people from the community, and worked alongside many amazing, supportive coworkers. The opportunities for both professional and personal growth have been plentiful, and it’s with this experience that I know I will be successful at the Oskaloosa library.

In a charming, expanded Carnegie building, the Oskaloosa Public Library serves a small college town of about 11,000 people. On the verge of a strategic planning process, the library is sure to provide me with challenges and even more opportunities to strengthen my skills as an information professional. Nervous and excited, I can’t wait to see what I can bring to the community in this position, and I look forward to sharing about my experiences there.