Last Memorial Day, a tornado swept through our city and caused significant damage to our library—the only building in our single-branch system. While staff can still work inside, most of the building remains closed to the public. Faced with major disruption, our team acted quickly and creatively to ensure continued access to vital library services.
We pulled together to develop alternative ways for patrons to connect with materials and programs. Our circulation team transformed the library lobby—one of the less-damaged areas—into a “mini library” with a rotating selection of materials for browsing. They also introduced an outdoor book kiosk for convenient hold pickups.
We’ve made use of tools and programs that were already in place. One example is our “Fun with Reading Kits,” which allow families to request books tailored to their child’s age and interests. Children’s librarians then fill tote bags to the brim with books and media materials, offering a personalized experience even when browsing isn’t possible. We also have grab-and-go craft kits—another popular option from the pandemic—which are available in the lobby for families to take home.
Since the tornado struck just before summer, we had to quickly pivot our programming to other city spaces, including the historical museum and a park multi-use building. This school year, we’ve returned to using the library’s community room, where the children’s department now hosts twelve weekly programs and several special events each month—despite the continued closure of a majority of the building.
The repair process is beyond my control, and while the ongoing delays have been frustrating for both staff and patrons, we’ve made the intentional choice to focus on what is within our reach. Rather than dwell on limitations, we’ve dedicated our energy to what we can do: continuing to serve the community with the tools and spaces available to us. That means supporting staff, fostering clear communication, and maintaining a strong sense of purpose. Despite the setback we’re providing consistent, meaningful services that keep us rooted in our community.
Library leaders everywhere understand that there will always be unknowns. The disruptions may look different but the core challenge is the same: how do we lead when the way forward isn’t clear? Good planning helps, but strong leadership often means staying steady in the moment. It means listening, making clear decisions, and focusing on where we’re able to make an impact. We won’t always have the answers, but we can stay grounded in our mission.
In our work with children’s library services, we know flexibility isn’t optional—it’s part of the job. I’d love to hear how others have led their teams through tough moments. What helped you move forward? What lessons have stayed with you? Sharing our stories helps us learn and reminds us we’re not in this alone.
Emily Snodgrass is the Assistant Children’s Director at Rogers Public Library in Rogers, Arkansas and is a member of the Managing Children’s Services Commitee.
The post Leading Through Disruption: Staying Rooted in Service appeared first on ALSC Blog.
Last Memorial Day, a tornado swept through our city and caused significant damage to our library—the only building in our single-branch system. While staff can still work inside, most of the building remains closed to the public. Faced with major disruption, our team acted quickly and creatively to ensure continued access to vital library services. We pulled together to develop alternative ways for patrons to connect with materials and programs. Our circulation team transformed the library lobby—one of the less-damaged areas—into a “mini library” with a rotating selection of materials for browsing. They also introduced an outdoor book kiosk for convenient hold pickups. We’ve made use of tools and programs that were already in place. One example is our “Fun with Reading Kits,” which allow families to request books tailored to their child’s age and interests. Children’s librarians then fill tote bags to the brim with books and media materials,…
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