Best of Siloam Springs

By Karen Rice T he Siloam Springs Public Library, located at 205 E. Jefferson St., offers educational, informational and recreational resources for residents in Siloam and the surrounding area. is past summer, Stephanie Freedle took over the reins as library manager from Dolores Deuel, who retired in July. What is your background and what made you want the position in Siloam Springs? I have a bachelor's degree in management from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and a master's degree in library science from the University of North Texas. My first real job in high school was as a page at Fayetteville Public Library, and I've spent most of the time since then working in libraries. Most recently I was a branch manager at the Westville branch of the Eastern Oklahoma Library System. When I first stumbled upon the Siloam position, honestly I scrolled on past, but then I just kept thinking about Siloam Springs itself, so I decided to apply and just see what happened, and I'm so glad I did, because now that I'm here, I'm loving it. Siloam is quite a unique city. It's growing and diversifying, yet keeping its smalltown feel. It's a city that people felt a purposely built library was a good investment. (Seriously have you seen the building? It's such a great building set in a lovely park!) What are you most excited about in your new role? e last three years have been challenging for the world and libraries are definitely feeling it, too. In-person library usage has greatly changed for most libraries, and we're at a point where we can't just do what we've always done. In taking the position here in Siloam, I'm excited to navigate these changes with library staff, the building and the community. I'm loving asking the questions like "What's working?" and "Who isn't using the library and how do we engage with them?" and "How can we be the best library for Siloam Springs?" What kinds of programs and opportunities does the library offer residents? Currently the library has activities throughout the month for all ages. We have weekly storytimes, builders' clubs (think LEGOs, K'nex, anything building) and book clubs. We recently started a monthly Sit 'n Stitch where quilters, knitters, crocheters, crossstitchers, and the like are encouraged to bring whatever project they are working on and visit with other stitchers. We're working with Q&A with Stephanie Freedle Siloam Springs Library Manager Stephanie Freedle New arrivals daily!! Friday & Saturday 10-7 Sunday 12-4 1004 South Mt Olive Street Unit K Siloam Springs www.magnoliatradingpost.com Thanks f voting us Best Boutique & Women's Clothing in Siloam Springs! Paul Gregory, Esq. www.gregorylawfirmar.com 479-373-1800 1025 S. Maxwell St. • Suite A Siloam Springs, AR 72761 GReGoRy LAw FiRM, PLLC We would like thank our clients, friends and family for voting us the best! Siloam Springs Herald-Leader Wednesday, March 29, 2023 Best of Siloam Springs • 18

• Cover