The head of Henderson Libraries already knew volumes about the four-library system when she was hired this summer.
Marcie Smedley grew up in Henderson and her first job was shelving books at the Gibson Library when she was in high school. With the exception of time away at college, she’s been at Henderson Libraries for the 20 years since.
She said that while the world has changed since she went to the old downtown Henderson library as a little girl, libraries remain a magical place, particularly for children.
“The magic changes, and there are different types of things we offer for children now,” she said, “but it’s still something that is pretty awe-inspiring when kids come in.”
Smedley said today’s library programming can pique youngsters’ interest in STEAM — science, technology, arts, and math — with a particular focus on reaching girls.
“It gets kids exposed to technology and these types of things at a younger age,” she said. “They can become interested and explore them further.”
Smedley, who was promoted in June, said her Henderson roots and love of libraries make for a dream job.
“Having grown up in Henderson, the community is important to me, and library services and the things we can provide to the community are so important as well,” she said. “Being able to marry those two things and do something that I love to do in the community that is home to me has just made everything come together.”
Marcie Smedley, Henderson Libraries executive director