Email: jgarner@northlibertyiowa.org
Institution/Location of Institution: North Liberty Library, North Liberty, IA (public)
Job Title: Library Director
Brief Job Description:
Oversee operations and a $1.3 million budget for the library in our small, rapidly growing community (20,000) and a staff of 17. Library is part of a multi-use Community Center featuring library, recreation, before and after school program, aquatic center and communications departments. Community activism and engagement; foster community partnerships; serve on multiple local and state boards and committees; uphold both the library’s and the city’s mission and vision.
What are some things you like about your job or about working in libraries in general?
Strong proponent of positive leadership and management. I also love policy development and how it relates to service delivery. I’m passionate about justice, equity, diversity and inclusion work in our library – we just launched a JEDI committee – and our community. Economic development and how the library can impact this sector in our community and area. Relationship building and partnerships both in our community, with other city departments, and nationally. Leadership and management are passions.
What’s a project or committee you’re working on right now that you’re excited about?
I am in the Vice President/President elect for the Association for Rural & Small Libraries. Locally, our library is just preparing to offer (Jan 15) our third community engagement event in a series that is grant (LTC) funded by ALA.
What got you interested in libraries?
I joke that I wanted a career in social services but my heart broke everyday in that work so I became a librarian, which is virtually the same thing.
What is one of your favorite things about NMRT?
Making connections and acting as a mentor.
Do you have any advice for other new librarians?
Be involved. Find opportunities to share your expertise with other organizations both locally and further reaching. Librarians have so much to offer outside of our profession, think outside the box and develop unique relationships and partnerships.