by MCLS Engagement Strategist Laura Warren-Gross 

The collaborative work of public libraries is always amazing. I recently visited Karl Stutzman, the director of Milford Public Library in Indiana. When I walked into the beautifully maintained Carnegie Library, I was immediately drawn to a series of displays.  

Karl explained that Kosciusko County is hosting a passport tour in honor of America 250. As a part of the tour, Maureen, the Associate Director of the library, curated more than a dozen displays illustrative of the history of the town and the library. Items include photographs of the town and library, furniture from the original Carnegie Library, a card catalog and other library-related objects, sports memorabilia, and even an autobiography of Dorthea Kerlin, Milford Public Library’s longest-serving director. These displays demonstrate the library’s prominent place though many years of Milford’s history. 

Being a part of a countywide event draws folks into the community who might not otherwise visit Milford Public Library. While there, visitors can also enjoy the beautiful gardens that surround the building. They were designed and donated by a landscape architect who grew up in Milford and maintained by his local extended family—another collaborative project that benefits the library and beautifies the town. 

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