ReThinking Libraries Blog
ReThinking Libraries would not be successful without the insights and innovations that librarians, library staff, community members, and our partners share with us on a regular basis. This is how we keep our finger on the pulse of the most important library issues out there—and even better—creative solutions for addressing them. We want to make these great ideas count so watch our ReThinking Libraries blog for inspirational stories and ideas.
“A+ Services in a D- Building”: Troy Public Library’s Strategic Leap Forward
When Emily Dumas stepped into her role as Director of the Troy Public Library in February 2021, she found herself in charge of a beloved and bustling suburban library — one that had, like many others, endured the disruptions of a pandemic and was now facing the steep costs of much-needed renovations. In a city of 88,000 residents just outside Detroit, known for its diversity and academic excellence, the library wasn’t just a nice-to-have. It was the place.
Infrastructure and Safety: Fulton County Library Adds Glam to Unglamorous Upgrades
If you’ve ever worked in a rural public library, you know that being small doesn’t mean doing less—it means doing it all, often across multiple branches and with a fraction of the budget. Andrea Roe, Director of the Fulton County Library in Indiana, knows this balancing act well.
A Little Goes a Long Way: Transforming Catawba County Library
With a clear vision in mind – "Connect, Explore, Grow" – Catawba County Library set out to revitalize its offerings and become a true destination for patrons of all ages.