Welcome from CEO

2021 was a year that the library continued to re-focus our view of what matters most to our community and how we serve it. We thought the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic would retreat, and the library would somehow be “normal” again, with vaccinations for everyone. Library staff did emerge better protected. Expanded services invited customers to use their library how and when they needed it. Customers used the library in person, online and through our outreach services. We loved seeing people in the library building sharing time with us, bringing their family and friends to work through the Rainforest Adventure maze or enjoying a nice cup of coffee again at the Millennium Café. Community members told us they appreciated the opportunity to go somewhere that was “safe” because of the precautions we have practiced during the pandemic.

For me, this is a season of gratitude and anticipation. After more than 30 years at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library, I had the privilege of stepping into the role of CEO last October. When I started as a storyteller in December 1991, I quickly learned what a powerful and impactful role libraries play in communities – especially ours.

Our library helps make all things possible for those who walk through our halls. It’s an honor to serve you and our community and I’m excited about what’s ahead for our great library!

On behalf of all of the library staff, the Library Foundation and the Friends of the Library welcome to the library. 

Warm wishes, Marie