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Stephanie Swenski has become the new director at the West Iron District Library. She has worked at the library for the last 18 years. (submitted photo)
Stephanie Swenski has become the new director at the West Iron District Library. She has worked at the library for the last 18 years. (submitted photo)
By Jenny Roberts
IRON RIVER – On Aug. 31, the West Iron District Library (WIDL) officially announced Stephanie Swenski as its new Library Director.
Swenski, who graduated from UW-Stout with a degree in Early Childhood Education and Human Development and Family Studies, has been a warm and familiar face at the library for the last 18 years.
Having taken on the role of program coordinator in 2004, she has planned and implemented several key events and programs for all ages including: story hour, various after school programs, adult craft nights and annual holiday events.
Swenski has also been a part of many community events such as The Harvest and Haunt, the Home show and the Annual Parenting Fair.
“It has been really rewarding to know that I have been able to provide enriching activities for children in our community as they have grown over the years.”
In 2008, Swenski was named assistant director to help see the library through the building of WIDL’s addition, as well as the courtyard project.
Swenski worked closely alongside previous director, Barbara Bartel, for many years. The two shared very similar visions for what a library can mean to its community.
“I am excited to continue developing creative and innovative ways that we can serve our patrons, both as a source of information and services, and as a space for active learning.”
Along with her education background and years of experience, Swenski recently received a Level 3 Library Certification from the Library of Michigan in order to become the library director. Swenski will continue to operate as WIDL’s Early Literacy Coordinator where she will still conduct Infant and Toddler Time, Story Hour and the Summer Reading Program.
“It has been an incredible experience to be a part of this team at the library. I truly love the work that I have been fortunate enough to do for the last 18 years, and I look forward to continuing to serve our patrons in this new role.”