We spoke to Shakita Kirkland, Library Branch Manager for the all-new West Henderson Library – and asked about the library, her role, and all that Inspirada can come to experience from the newest amenity in the community.
See the Interior Transformation Below!
How many books will the library house?
The West Henderson Library will have a collection of approximately 10,000 items. In addition to physical books, community members will also have access to Books on CD, WiFi Hotspots, Chromebooks, DVDs, and streaming media on multiple platforms.
What programming/features will be provided to residents?
Despite the West Henderson Library’s smaller footprint, residents will still be provided the amazing programming they’ve come to know and love from Henderson Libraries.
What events will be held in 2022?
The West Henderson Library team is working to tailor programming and events to the interests of the community. So stay tuned for updates as we open this summer!
What will be the hours of the library?
The hours of operation at the West Henderson Library will be:
- Tuesday through Thursday, 10a-6p
- Friday and Saturday, 10a-5p
Why was the Bicentennial Marketplace selected to house your newest library?
Henderson Libraries selected Bicentennial Marketplace for our newest library because of the location. We realize the communities in West Henderson were some distance from their closest library – and this location allows us to be right in the neighborhood, serving the many residents in West Henderson.
What is unique or different about the West Henderson Library?
What is unique is our ability to immerse ourselves into the growing West Henderson community. Our location and smaller footprint allow the West Henderson Library team to effortlessly build and nurture relationships across multiple service points, but more importantly, demographics. I believe this neighborhood model fully embodies the concept of One Henderson.
Describe your position?
As the West Henderson Library Branch Manager, I am responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, leading a diverse team, and ensuring the needs of the community are being met (to the best of Henderson Libraries’ capabilities). My goal is to create an environment where community members and library staff feel safe, encouraged, and included.
Describe your staff?
My team is amazing! Each member brings a unique skill set, perspective, and level of innovation and creativity to the group. They believe in collaboration and the shared value of service to the community.
How long have you been with Henderson Libraries?
I have been with Henderson Libraries for 7 1⁄2 years. During my time with the district, I have made various community contributions, such as:
Crafting for a Cause: A Community Outreach Project
Creative Aging programming (Creative Writing @Your Library, Henderson
Libraries Adult Creative Writing & Cover Art Contest, Stich & Moan: (Adult) Crafting Club, and various other workshops/programs for adults)
I have also provided family-oriented programming, such as:
1. Edible Book Contest
2. Library Field Day
3. Family Game Day
What is your favorite book and your most recently read recommendation?
1. I absolutely love the Harry Potter series! #Gryffindor
2. A recent read that I would highly recommend is Set Boundaries, Find Peace: a Guide to Reclaiming Yourself by Nedra Glover Tawwab
3. An honorable mention that I’d like to suggest for fiction/mystery lovers – The Cormoran Strike series by Robert Galbraith
What do you love most about the Henderson Libraries organization/community?
What I love most about Henderson Libraries is the team – we’re a family. I’m also in awe of our endless willingness to learn and do more for the communities that we serve.
What’s better, the smell of a new book or new building?
I’m definitely going with new ‘library’ building! It’s the best of both – new books and a building.
Follow Henderson Libraries for more updates on the library opening and follow Inspirada to see the latest community happenings.