Foundation Stories

  • December 30, 2025

written by Heather Perry

Johnson County Library is proud to recognize Lacie Griffin, collection development manager, as the 2025 Intellectual Freedom Champion, an honor presented at the Kansas Library Association (KLA) Conference in Manhattan, Kansas. 

The award, part of the KLA Presidential Awards, celebrates individuals who promote intellectual freedom, literacy and access to knowledge across the state. Griffin received the recognition during the November conference, themed “Libraries Everlasting: Celebrating 125 Years of Freedom,” a fitting tribute to those who defend the public’s right to read, learn and explore. 

In her role at Johnson County Library, Griffin helps shape collections that reflect a wide range of voices and experiences. Her work ensures that libraries remain places where curiosity is encouraged and information is available to all. 

“Lacie has all the tools to be an Information Freedom Champion,” said Sean Bird, dean of university libraries and the Center for Student Success at Washburn University. He described her as “an experienced librarian, an organized and detail-oriented co-chair of the KLA’s Intellectual Freedom Committee and a passionate advocate for intellectual freedom.” He added that her vision will “strengthen Kansas libraries for generations to come.” 

Griffin was nominated by Assistant Collection Development Manager Karen Wickwire, who praised her leadership and advocacy. “Lacie is always a champion for intellectual freedom,” Wickwire said. She highlighted Griffin’s work with the American Library Association and KLA to launch the Intellectual Freedom Helpline, a vital support system for librarians across Kansas. “We are very lucky here in the Johnson County area to have a supportive library board, BOCC and community, but many libraries across Kansas do not,” Wickwire said. “This helpline is a great resource to help other librarians navigate these challenging times.” 

Griffin’s recognition reflects not only her individual leadership but also the Library’s broader mission to uphold intellectual freedom, promote literacy and ensure equitable access to information for everyone. 

  • December 27, 2025

We’re closing out the year the best way we know how: with a book list. Here are the top five books each team member read from the Johnson County Library Foundation—stories that moved us, challenged us, and reminded us why reading matters.

Shelley O’Brien

What Kind of Paradise by Janelle Brown

I enjoy a fictional story that could be a news headline. A teenage girl in Montana, who is living off the grid with her dad, realizes that he is not being honest about their family story. She starts searching for answers and gets pulled into a terrorist act against a major U.S. company. This book has terrific character development, suspense, and ethical decisions that make you wonder what you would do if in her situation. 

Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy

This book is an environmental thriller. A mysterious woman is found on a remote island where the only people left are a family of 4 trying to save the world’s largest seed bank. Why is she there, why is the family there, and why is no one else on the island?

How to Lose Your Mother: A Daughter’s Memoir by Molly Jong-Fast

Molly is the child of Erica Jong, the famous feminist writer of the 1970s. While her mother was on television and in magazines all the time, she was never with her daughter. As her mother and father age, Molly tries to understand a childhood where she raises herself.

The One by John Marrs

In this fictional story, you can take a DNA test and find out who your soul mate is instantly. The one person who you are meant to be partnered with for life. Follow several stories as they unfold and show how technology can impact human experience. 

The Compound by Aisling Rawle

As a fan of reality TV competition shows like Big Brother and Survivor, the Compound takes you on a thrilling ride. Where the contestants are there to find love, but they have watched the TV show for so many years, they know how the game really works. Including the part where no producer or TV executive is going to save you. 

Amber Bourek Slater

The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett M. Graff & Holter Graham

I’d highly recommend listening to this award winning book as features a cast of 45 people reading the words of people whose live who first hand impacted by the events of 9-11 as well as some real audio recording. It isn’t an easy book to read but it really helps you feel the impact of the horrendous day in the lives some thousands of people and takes you back to where you were when the terrorist plans changed the world as we knew it.

The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post by Allison Pataki

I was intrigued to read this book about Marjorie Merriweather Post because I had toured her former home now the Hillwood Estate, Museum, and Gardens in Washington DC. Majorie came from humbling beginnings to her father starting the Post cereal company. Her wealth allowed her to live a life that most women of her time wouldn’t have experienced. Marjorie was a leader in her family business, philanthropist, and quick to fall in love. It reads like a romantic fiction book until you remember she was a real person.

Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten

This is a fascinating memoir by the Barefoot Contessa. It’s full of all sorts of details about how she rose to fame as well as all the life bumps along the way. And if you love her husband Jeffrey from her tv show, you’ll love him even more after ready this book. He’s such a supportive partner.

Connie by Connie Chung

I remember watching Connie Chung on tv as a child who dreamed of being a journalist. But there is so much I didn’t know about her life struggles from being the being the daughter of newly immigrated parents from a war torn country to becoming a mom later in life. Connie spills all the dirt as well as you see her husband Maury Povich in a new way.

So Close to Being the Sh*t Y’all Don’t Even Know by Retta

I loved Retta on the NBC tv show Parks and Recreation and may use the phrased “Treat Yo Self” from time to time this summer. She is stylish and hilarious on her HGTV show Ugliest House in America. But I really did not much about Rhetta as a person. It is a lovely look at the struggles of being a stand-up comedian to being a tv star.

Melissa Stan

Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting by Clare Pooley

This book made me notice the people I pass every day but don’t really see. It’s a charming reminder that everyone has a story, and community can show up in surprising places. If you enjoy funny, heartwarming stories about unlikely friendships, this one will make you see your daily routine differently.

The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer

I picked this up because of the gorgeous cover and the story was just as good. When a reclusive author invites four lucky fans to compete for a life-changing prize, Lucy Hart sees her dream of adopting a student in her class suddenly within reach. It’s whimsical, hopeful, and full of heart—perfect for anyone who loves stories about second chances and wishes coming true in unexpected ways.

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl

I come back to this book anytime I need perspective. Frankl’s reflections on purpose, resilience, and hope in the face of unthinkable hardship are powerful and unforgettable. It’s one of those reads that stays with you and changes how you see life.

The Penguin Lessons by Tom Michell

This is pure joy in book form. After rescuing an injured penguin, a teacher finds himself on an adventure full of charm, chaos, and unexpected friendship. It’s funny, sweet, and impossible not to smile through. It’s perfect for anyone who needs a feel-good true stoy.

As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride by Cary Elwes

If you love The Princess Bride, this behind-the-scenes book is a treasure. Cary Elwes shares the stories, surprises, and magic that went into making the movie we all adore. It will have you wanting to watch the film again with fresh appreciation.

Cara Duncan

Jane Austen’s Bookshelf by Rebecca Romney

I’m used to thinking of Jane Austen as wildly popping onto the writing scene of the early 1800’s with no precedent, but in fact that is not the case. She was inspired by and built on the work of many women who were her writing contemporaries. Beyond the history (and of course, adding to my TBR) it was a beautiful reminder of synergy and how the creative process is a community process. 

Orbital by Samantha Harvey

This slim, genre defying novella is a dream-like, poetic look at the experience of six astronauts in orbit around earth in the International Space Station. It makes a thoughtful pairing with Taylor Jenkins Reid’s Atmosphere. 

Last Dance Before Dawn by Katharine Schellman

This is the fourth and final book in the Nightingale Mystery series. This is a wonderful series if you want to immerse yourself in jazz age New York City in a glamorous speakeasy with found family and just a pinch of will -they-won’t -they romance. With only four books, it’s not an overwhelming series to read from start to finish, but there are enough pages involved to get to know and love the characters and setting. 

Swept Away by Beth O’Leary

This contemporary romance is perfect for an escape read with a core problem that is (hopefully) far outside of your lived experience: ending up accidentally out to sea on a houseboat with a complete stranger and surviving to tell the tale. 

A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna

Whimsical and cozy, this is the relatively low-stakes, banter filled fantasy with a light touch of romance that is perfect for reading by the fire with a warm cup of your favorite winter beverage. If you read it, I want to hear whether you think the fox may have been better off as a fox… if you know you know! 

  • December 22, 2025

Written by Melissa Stan

From eBooks you can read on your preferred device to eAudiobooks you can enjoy on a morning walk, Johnson County Library’s digital collection makes it easy to stay connected to books wherever life takes you. Whether at home, on the go, or somewhere in between, thousands of readers and listeners rely on these resources every day. Donor support plays an important role in keeping this collection strong, relevant, and accessible to our community.

Accessibility That Meets People Where They Are

Digital books offer flexibility that many readers depend on. eAudiobooks can be sped up or slowed down, and eBooks allow readers to enlarge text, change background colors, or switch to dyslexic-friendly fonts.

“Digital eBooks and eAudiobooks can also be adjusted to suit the patron’s accessible needs,” eResource Collection Specialist Samantha Chinn explains. “These editing capabilities allows for more people to be able to enjoy their content.”

For many in our community, these features make reading easier, more comfortable, and more enjoyable.

Why Digital Books Cost More Than You Might Expect

Digital titles are licensed for a limited time or number of checkouts, whichever comes first. Because digital titles expire and must be repurchased, maintaining access requires ongoing investment.

“When we pay for a physical book, we pay a one-time fee and then that physical book can be checked out multiple times until it becomes too damaged or worn out to circulate,” Samantha says. “With purchasing an eBook, the pricing is higher to reflect the license involved.”

Once that license expires, the Library must repurchase the title to keep it available.

To put that into perspective:

· A popular print book may cost the Library about $17 and remain in circulation for years.

· The same title as an eBook may cost $27.50 for a one-year license.

· A one-year eAudiobook license for a popular title may cost $42.75.

Where Donors Make the Difference

“The digital collection is one that is so popular but also can be quite expensive to stock and replenish,” Samantha explains. “This is why donations really help our collection to continue to grow!”

Donor support helps ensure that high-demand titles stay available, wait times remain manageable, and new authors continue to be added. It also helps the Library be a good steward of tax dollars by offsetting rising licensing costs, allowing public funding to continue supporting essential services like programs, staffing, and physical collections.

Simply put, donors help keep the digital shelves full.

If you value the convenience, accessibility, and variety of the Library’s digital collection, we invite you to help sustain it. Your gift directly supports the purchase and renewal of eBooks and eAudiobooks, ensuring these resources remain available to everyone who needs them.

Make a gift today and help keep our digital library strong, accessible, and growing for our entire community.

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  • December 21, 2025

Celebrating Leadership and Years of Dedicated Service

As the Johnson County Library Foundation wraps up another meaningful year, we want to take a moment to celebrate an extraordinary leader. Through seven years of dedicated service, including time as Foundation Board President, Stann Tate is leaving a lasting impact on the Library and the community we serve.

Stann’s time on the Board is distinguished by its energy, creativity, and collaboration. He says what he is most proud of is the culture the Board has built together. “I’m most proud that our Board continues to be a productive and highly functional group. This is not because of me, but because of the respect we have for each other,” he explained. The Board thrives because its members challenge each other in ways that spark new ideas, all while supporting each other and learning from one another.

Johnson County Library Foundation President Stann Tate, Board Members Erwin Abrams and Julie Steiner

Stann first joined the Foundation after volunteering with the Foundation’s annual fundraiser, Library Lets Loose, for three years. He was inspired by the staff, who were always willing to listen and explore new ideas, and by the opportunity to help grow a signature event that brings the community together. Seven years later, he is still energized by working with staff leaders, fellow Board members, and volunteers. “Everyone has an understanding that change and new ideas are the keys to growth for our organization,” he said.

One of Stann’s favorite Library memories was the 1952 Society event featuring Arthur Muir, the oldest American to climb Mount Everest at age 75. He was captivated by Muir’s story of determination and perseverance.

“He did not let his age deter him from fulfilling his goals or dreams. He was absolutely brilliant and had me captivated from start to finish,” Stann recalled. It is the power of stories and the Library’s ability to connect people to those opportunities that keeps Stann inspired.

Stann also sees the Foundation’s work as more than fundraising. “We are ambassadors of the Library,” he said. Through conversations with peers, business leaders, educators, and arts organizations, the Board helps introduce more people to the Library and its programs. Growth, he explained, comes from these meaningful connections and the ripple effect of sharing the Library’s value with the wider community.

For the incoming Board President, Stann leaves a simple but powerful piece of advice. “We have a brilliant staff in place that does amazing work every day. Sometimes it’s best to listen and learn how we can add value to the strategic plans that are currently in place,” he said.

Thank you, Stann, for your leadership, your energy, and your vision in your time as Board President.

Incoming President Lisa Larson-Bunnell and outgoing President Stann Tate

Meet Library Hero Linda Setterburg
  • December 17, 2025

For Library Hero and volunteer Linda Setterburg, the Library is a place of purpose, friendship, and connection.

When Linda retired, she knew she still wanted to spend her days doing something meaningful. She found that purpose at Johnson County Library, where she volunteers twice a week. What means the most to her? The people.

“Being greeted with a hello and a smile, and hearing ‘thanks, we needed your help today,’ makes it all worthwhile,” Linda says. Over time, those small exchanges became meaningful relationships. She built real friendships with staff, sharing stories about family, travels, and life. “That social connection and warmth is very important to this retiree,” she says.

One of her proudest contributions is to the Library’s Home Connect service, which delivers books and materials to patrons who are unable to visit in person. With a lifelong love of crafting, Linda discovered she could create handmade bookmarks to accompany those deliveries.

“Covid came along, and all my supplies just sat there,” she remembers. “When I found out about the Home Connect service and that they needed bookmarks, I felt I had hit the jack pot! I had crafted for years. Making the bookmarks gives me mental stimulus and purpose.” Each bookmark she creates is a small gift of joy for someone who can’t make it to the Library themselves, and the responses are what keeps her inspired. “When I hear ‘thanks, they are gorgeous, beautiful, delightful,’ that makes my day!”

Home Connect has shown Linda how the Library builds connections in different ways and reaches people wherever they are. She shared how meaningful it has been to contribute her creativity to the service.

“I never really thought about the people who want books but can’t get to the Library. The fact I can create a small token to send along with books is very satisfying. I plan on sending many more creations to Home Connect!”

For Linda, the bookmarks are a way to show care and make someone’s day just a little brighter. They are a small reminder that everyone deserves stories, community, and joy, whether they visit in person or connect from home.

Your gift makes stories like Linda’s possible.

When you support the Johnson County Library Foundation, you help ensure that every person, whether they come through our doors or receive books at home, has access to learn, connect, create, and belong.

Donate to the Library and be the hero for someone in your community today.

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Meet Library Hero Kelly Kilgore
  • December 8, 2025

For Kelly, the Library has always been a meaningful part of her daily life, a place that fuels learning, creativity, and joy.

“I have been a lifelong reader and learner,” she said. “While I’m still a fan of reading physical books, I appreciate the opportunity to access books and magazines wherever I may be or whenever I may need them, and the switch to the Libby app has greatly enhanced the E-book experience.”

Beyond books, Kelly loves exploring the Library’s many hands-on tools and experiences. “I’ve also experimented in the MakerSpace and learned to use (with lots of help from the staff) the laser engraving machine and the vinyl cutter/heat press… In the Memory Lab, I did manage to transfer some old VHS footage to a thumb drive and plan to do more in the future.”

Experiences like these have shaped how Kelly sees Johnson County Library as a whole. “In my opinion, we are so very lucky to have one of the best (if not the best) library systems in the country at what I consider to be minimal cost to taxpayers overall.” It’s a sentiment shared by many patrons, but Kelly also carries the insight of someone who serves on the Library’s Board of Directors.

One milestone of that service she’s especially proud of is the decision for the Library to go fine-free.

“Going fine-free has to be the top highlight of my service as a board member so far. It was really important to the board and staff that there not be a barrier to those in the community who might not be using the library due to outstanding fees.”

She’s also grateful, and relieved, that the results affirmed the Board’s hopes. “Fees were not a big revenue generator and the overall financial has not been impacted, nor has the wait time for books which was a concern when making that decision.” Moments like this, where the Library puts people first, makes her proud to be part of the Board of Directors.

Serving on the Board has also deepened Kelly’s understanding of the Library’s role in the community. “We are laser focused on the library’s mission and vision to ensure people of all ages, abilities and means have access to all we have to offer and to hold ourselves accountable for the efficient and effective use of the resources committed to us.”

That commitment to access, equity, and meaningful community impact is exactly what your support makes possible.

Kelly’s dedication shows what a Library Hero truly is: someone who believes that access to knowledge and opportunity should belong to everyone. Her work on the Board and her love for the Library reflect the same mission your support makes possible. Heroes like Kelly lead the way, but it’s your generosity that helps turn those shared values into real impact for our community.

This Giving Season, we invite you to join Kelly in championing a library that welcomes everyone, inspires curiosity, and strengthens our community.

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