Author Archive for Sam H

This article originally appeared in the 2024/2025 Winter Window. I am excited to step into a new role as an advocate for libraries as the 2024-2025 president-elect of the American Library Association (ALA) and want to share my passion for how libraries serve as incubators of opportunity.

This year, the Iowa City Public Library is partnering with the City of Iowa City Equity and Human Rights Department to celebrate the freedom to read and access information through programs and shared events.    We are delighted that Mayor Teague and the City of Iowa City Council announced September to be Freedom to Read Month as it combines traditional intiatives like Library Card Sign Up Month and Banned Books Week into a resounding and relevant call to action and reminder that free people read freely.   

On Monday, Oct. 31, 2022, Katie Roche officially began her role leading the Iowa City Public Library Friends Foundation. Roche previously served as the Development Director for The Englert Theatre, a position that she has held for the last 11 years. While serving at the Englert, Roche also served as the Development Director for Strengthen · Grow · Evolve, the joint capital and programmatic campaign of The Englert and FilmScene.

Community outreach was a large factor in my joining the Iowa City Public Library team nearly two years ago. Connecting with patrons to share the good news of free information resources, creating shared learning opportunities for the community, as well as encouraging the growth and joy of others are the makings of a powerful and fulfilling vocation.