Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks

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 of...

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 ...

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 ...

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...

In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Mallorie DeVilbiss talk with Olivia Olson, head of community engagement at the Troy Public Library. Olivia reflects on her early love of libraries and the path that led her into library work. She shares how the community engagement department came to life and how programs like the bookmobile and the English Language Learners Book Club are expanding the library’s reach. From serving diverse c...

In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Andrea Estelle sit down with Sarah Skinner, director of the Bridgman Public Library in Bridgman, Michigan. Sarah reflects on her path to library leadership, sharing key moments that shaped her career and community impact. She highlights standout initiatives like Project Connect, and discusses the evolving role of libraries as vital hubs for connection, support, and access to essential servic...

In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Dillon Geshel sit down with Amanda Griggs, cataloger and technical services specialist at Dickinson County Library in Iron Mountain, Michigan. Amanda shares her journey from childhood library visits to becoming a key player in cataloging and technical services. She discusses the evolving role of libraries, public misconceptions, and the essential services they provide to communities. The con...

In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Steven K. Bowers sit down with Azita Frattarelli, director and youth librarian at the Riverview Veterans Memorial Library in Riverview, Michigan. Azita shares her journey from journalism to librarianship, her earliest library memory, and the meaningful relationships she’s built with patrons. The discussion explores how libraries have evolved into vital community hubs and emphasizes the power...

In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Carol Dawe sit down with Virginia DeMumbrum, director of the White Lake Community Library, to explore her inspiring journey from children’s librarian to community leader. Motivated by her children’s needs, Virginia has transformed the library into a hub of impactful programs, including evening storytimes, resources for non-English speakers, and community events like the beloved "one long tab...

In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Linda Adams chat with Peter Wurdock—musician, award-winning photographer, author, and library assistant at the Tahquamenon Area Library in Newberry, Michigan. Pete shares his inspiring journey from studying at a music conservatory to becoming a passionate advocate for libraries. He explores the vital role libraries play as community hubs, particularly in small, underserved towns like Newberr...

In this inaugural episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Eric Palmer welcome Ryan Tackabury, the new director of Ruth Hughes Memorial District Library in Imlay City, Michigan. With over 20 years in library services, Ryan shares his journey from starting as a high school library page to becoming a library director. He discusses his vision of libraries as essential community hubs, his passion for serving people, and the meaningful connecti...