From Small Town Roots to Library Leadership: Defending Access and Inspiring Community

Library Leadership in Action: What’s Shaping Michigan Libraries

In this episode, host Dillon Geshel is joined by Jenny Marr, executive director of the Capital Area District Libraries and current MLA board president, along with Steven Bowers, executive director of The Library Network and immediate past chair of the Library Cooperatives of Michigan. Together, they explore how Michigan’s libraries continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of their communities. Jenny and Steven share their early paths into library work, discuss emerging trends in services and programming, and highlight the vital role libraries play in championing intellectual freedom and community engagement. The conversation also examines the sector’s biggest challenges—from staff recruitment and retention to rising censorship efforts—and how library leaders are adapting to support diverse access, inclusion, and a thriving public library ecosystem.   Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com/].

Literacy and Leadership: Building Community Through Librarianship

In this episode, hosts Dillon Geshel and Christine Peele sit down with Susan Taylor, branch manager of the Edison Branch Library at the Detroit Public Library. Susan reflects on her two decades in librarianship, beginning with her early experiences in Jamaica and spanning a variety of roles across DPL. She shares powerful moments from her work as a literacy specialist, where she helped adults strengthen their reading skills, and offers insight into the evolving role of libraries in today’s communities. The conversation explores how technology—including AI—may shape the future of public libraries, the importance of listening and adaptability in serving patrons, and Susan’s passion for creating meaningful connections with the community. Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com/].

Community First: Strengthening Services in a Resource-Limited Library

In this episode, hosts Dillon Geshel and Kate Pohjola Andrade welcome Mary Gallup, director of the Clinton Township Public Library, who shares her inspiring path from stay-at-home mom to library leader. Mary reflects on the community connections that sparked her career, the creative programs and advocacy efforts that have shaped her tenure, and the realities of serving a small library with limited resources. The conversation dives into navigating political and township dynamics, championing intellectual freedom, and embracing the evolving role of libraries as vital community hubs.   Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com/].

Small-Town Innovation: Renovating and Reimagining the Library Experience

In this episode, hosts Dillon Geshel and Kate Van Auken talk with Briynne McCrea, director of the Bad Axe Area District Library in Bad Axe, Michigan. Briynne shares her unique journey from spending her childhood in the library to leading it through transformative changes, including a major renovation and launching a community-focused bookmobile. The conversation explores the vital role libraries play in small towns, the challenges of leading with limited resources, and how building trust and fostering engagement are key to a library’s long-term impact.   Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com].

From Small Town Roots to Library Leadership: Defending Access and Inspiring Community

In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Jennifer Balcom talk with Tracy Logan-Walker, director of Cadillac Wexford Public Library in Cadillac, Michigan. Tracy reflects on her journey from small-town beginnings to a career in librarianship, sharing the early influences that shaped her path. She highlights the vital role libraries play in their communities, recalls meaningful moments from her career, and addresses current challenges—including the fight for intellectual freedom and the spread of misinformation. Tracy also shares her hopes and excitement for the evolving future of libraries.   Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings [https://associationbriefings.com].