Community Impact interviewed Hoglund about her new role, priorities and vision for the library system. The following interview has been edited for length and clarity.
What drew you to this leadership role, and what are your top priorities as the new executive director?
Stepping into this role is both a responsibility and a gift. Library readership is first and foremost about service, empowerment, information access, team development and community well-being. This is where you lead from, your foundations. Moreover, being in the library leadership role is about being inspired by the evolving role of libraries today. Public libraries today are community anchors that support everything from digital equity and education, innovation, social interactions, to job readiness, civic engagement, collaboration and welfare. ... As for my top priorities, I will name the following few:
- Community engagement and partnerships: I would like to deepen relationships with the diverse communities we serve, listening actively and ensuring that our services reflect their voices and needs.
- Staff empowerment and organizational culture: It is vital to be focused on creating a workplace where the library team feels valued, supported and inspired to innovate.
- Strategic innovation: As information technology and public expectations continue to evolve, we need to invest wisely in digital resources, advanced technology, flexible spaces and comprehensive programming that meet current needs while planning for the future.
- Grants and other funding opportunities: There are multiple grant opportunities that could allow us to expand or improve library services outside of the county budget funds.
Ensuring that our library services evolve with community needs starts with listening ... to our library team and the people we serve. The plan is to ensure a continuous cycle of community engagement, feedback and responsive planning. That means conducting regular surveys, collecting feedback and comments and building partnerships with local schools, nonprofits and community organizations to stay closely connected to what is happening within the community. ... Additionally, I believe in using data to guide decision-making. Using both quantitative data ... and qualitative data ... helps us identify trends, gaps and opportunities we might not otherwise see. Internally, I will be encouraging a culture of innovation and flexibility.
What is your vision for the library system? What new things can people expect?
My vision is for the library system to be a truly dynamic, innovative and future-ready resource that meets people where they are—whether that is in our library locations, online or out in the community. I see the library not only as a place for books, which is very important, but also as a central community hub for connection, creativity, learning and opportunity for all ages. Some of the initiatives that will be implemented [include] expanded and improved digital access; reimagined library spaces; inclusive and responsive programming; [and] stronger community outreach.
With the opening of the new Kevin Brady Library, we will be introducing an Innovation Center that will include a professional podcast studio with audio and video production capabilities as well as a collaborative maker space with advanced maker technology. We hope to introduce these innovative services later this year as well as to expand maker services to other locations in [the] future.
What role do you see the library system playing in regional partnerships, such as with schools and nonprofits, to broaden access and impact?
The library system can be a powerful connector and collaborator in regional partnerships. We are uniquely positioned as a trusted and safe space that serves all ages and backgrounds, which makes us an ideal partner in broadening access to resources, education and opportunity.
With schools, for example, we can support student success through shared literacy goals, shared resources, homework help programs, digital access initiatives and summer learning partnerships that help close achievement gaps. ... With nonprofits, we can amplify their missions by offering space, visibility and shared programming. ... Libraries can also serve as referral hubs, connecting patrons to essential community services. ... By working together, we avoid duplication, share resources more efficiently and reach people more effectively. My vision is for the library to be not just a partner but a catalyst in building a more connected, informed and innovative environment.
What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the library system right now, and how do you plan to address them?
Digital equity remains as one of the main challenges. While many people rely on the library for internet access, devices and digital literacy support, demand is growing faster than resources. We are prioritizing investments in technology infrastructure and expanding digital literacy training to help close the gap. Sustainable funding is an ongoing challenge for public library systems. This is not new. As our communities grow rapidly—and with them, expectations for library services—so must our ability to advocate for the library’s value. I plan to work closely with our county elected and appointed officials, community leaders and residents to communicate the library’s impact and make the case for continued investment.
What excites you most about leading the library system into the next five years?
It is an incredible opportunity to redefine what a modern library can be and to do so in partnership with the community. Public libraries are launching pads for lifelong learning, digital access, innovation, creativity, civic engagement and connection. In the next five years, I see us deepening our impact in areas like digital inclusion; early literacy; workforce development; online and traditional collections; and maker and innovation lab services. I am excited to lead a system that is willing to innovate.
What do you want people to know about the county’s library system?
I want people to know that our Montgomery County Memorial Library System is a vital, welcoming resource for everyone in our community. Whether you are looking for help with job searching, free internet access, access for knowledge and information, yearly literacy programs for your children, or just a quiet space to think and learn, the library is here for you.
