by MCLS Engagement Strategist Laura Warren-Gross

I recently visited with Cindy Casper who serves as both the director at Eau Claire District Library and the interim director at Sodus Township Library in Michigan. She graciously shared what makes these libraries special.

Located only six miles apart, the libraries have operated separately until recently. Cindy, along with the Friends of the Library and the Boards of both libraries, has been working to merge the libraries into one entity.

Cindy has written grants to expand programming for both libraries. One example is a series called Back to the Basics which teaches skills like how to make cheese and butter, raise chickens, and sew. There is also a program called Cook the Books which brings patrons together to share recipes they have made from a common cookbook. These programs resonate with me because the library is offering members of both communities opportunities to gather, share, and learn together. 

During my visit, the Friends of the Library group was holding a book sale, a 3-D printer was humming along creating dinosaurs for the summer reading kickoff party, and Cindy shared some work done by volunteers from the University of Michigan iSchool. Everything that is happening at both libraries is focused on creating welcoming, vibrant hubs for two small southwest Michigan communities. 

What makes your library unique? Engagement, Consulting, and Training team members would love to hear about your library and share your story! Interested? Contact us at engagement@mcls.org.