As the winter weather approaches, we thought we would ask our coworkers for their hot takes on what is great about the library. We asked, "What is one thing you wish EVERYONE knew about the library?" We did not know what the responses would be and I feel like we just scratched the surface of recommendations by these knowledgeable insiders. Listen for the tips and stay for the heartwarming stories.

"Carpe Diem" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

"Angels By My Side"

WCLS Nooksack Cultural Liaison Marty Jimmy and Coast Salish artist/muralist Jason LaClair sit down for a conversation about indigenous art, friendship and growing up, traditions and cultural legacies, and much more at the Deming Library where Jason created and installed a mural of Salmon Woman and a Spindle Whorl on the library wall.

Thank You, Whatcom County Voters!

On Tuesday, August 5, Whatcom County voters approved a levy lid lift for the Whatcom County Library System. This allows us to continue to provide great service and offerings to county residents. In this special episode we talk with WCLS Trustee Matthew Santos, Executive Director Christine Perkins, Deputy Director Michael Cox, Facilities Manager Ryan Cullup, Collection Services Manager Lisa Gresham, ILS Administrator Carmi Parker and Youth Services Manager Thom Barthelmess — along with a whole lot of grateful staff members — about what this means to the library system and the communities we serve.

In this episode we have a conversation with WCLS board chair Rod Lofdahl and executive director Christine Perkins. We touch on all sorts of topics. Stay tuned to the end for an unexpected lesson on viking history!

A conversation with Mary Kinser, Jonathan Jakobitz, Emma Radosevich and Hana Boxberger, Washington Library Association's 2025 Candace Morgan Intellectual Freedom Award Winners for their work in developing a Right to Read training for WCLS staff. 

Our interview with No Two Persons author, Erica Bauermeister and a Whatcom READS wrap up with WCLS Adult Programing Coordinator, Claire McElroy.

Claire McElroy and Wes Weddell tell us about a new addition to the Whatcom READS author visit: MUSIC inspired by the book, performed by local musicians and organized by the Bushwick Book Club of Seattle!

Author Janie Chang and artist Kim Morris talk about their work and their love of libraries. Kim's cardboard sculpture of a dragon named Lloyd will be at our Open Book festival on Sunday, November 3, from noon to 5:00 p.m. along with Janie Chang who will be speaking about her books and inspiration. Find out about Open Book at wcls.org/openbook.

We talk with Clara Jacobson, a volunteer for the Friends of the Ferndale Library, who celebrates her 100th birthday on September 27, 2024.

We check in with long-time WCLS staff and new branch managers Mariya Farmagey and Erin Suda. Mariya is now the branch manager for North Fork Library and Erin is the new branch manager for Island Library.