What makes a library? That was the central question of a recent community listening project led by the Board and staff of Herrick District Library. The answers were varied, but pointed towards a library being a place that provides access to information and ensures it is equally available to the entire community. Using that feedback, the leadership focused on three themes: create, discover, and connect.
“When we evaluated our programs, we realized there was opportunity in the ‘create’ theme,” said Library Director Diane Kooiker, “but what does it mean to facilitate creation in a library environment without duplicating existing programs at other organizations?” After researching several local programs, Diane realized there was a gap in creative services for adults.
With a broad goal in mind, Diane needed someone to lead the process of establishing and maintaining a program of creative offerings for adults. Enter Kylen Blom, a local entrepreneur with a wealth of knowledge in digital media, business related resources, and start-ups. “A friend sent me the link to this job listing at the library,” he said. “I was intrigued. There was a lot of ambiguity, but also a lot of possibility.”
It turned out Kylen was exactly the person Diane and Herrick’s Board of Directors were looking to hire. “We needed someone with an entrepreneurial spirit. Someone who wasn’t afraid of trial and error but had the vision to keep this project on track,” said Diane.
After months of planning, a basic framework was completed. The new venture would be called Groundworks. Part of Herrick Library’s lower level would be converted into a space for adults to learn, collaborate, and explore their creative sides. It would offer podcasting equipment, introductory classes for the Adobe creative suite, and conversion stations to digitize older technology like VHS tapes and slides. Community members could also schedule one-on-one time to work through specific questions about digital media and technology.
A $75,000 grant from our Community’s Endowment enabled the project to launch in the fall of 2019. The demand for conversion stations was high as families looked for ways to preserve and share their memories. “That was an unexpected but very positive outcome,” said Diane. “As a library, we’re delighted by any opportunity to share stories, especially those from our own community.” Kylen taught 13 classes a month on a rotating basis, including Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign. He also coached individuals as they navigated new-to-them digital media platforms.
In the short time Groundworks has been operational, it has evolved in response to demand and community needs. Class offerings have expanded to include applications such as Google Drive, hours have been adjusted to accommodate different work shifts, and workshops with experts in podcasting and graphic design have been offered. There’s been an increase in visitation from young professionals looking to add a skill to their resume, and older professionals who want to learn a new digital platform.
“On a personal level, it’s rewarding to work at a place that embraces trial and error,” said Kylen. “On an organizational level, it’s great to see people realize that the library is listening to their feedback. We’re evolving alongside them and working hard to provide spaces and services that they need. The way the community has embraced Groundworks is a positive sign we’re moving in the right direction.”
Originally featured in CFHZ’s 2019 Annual Report.