Robin Hastings — Library Services Consultant, Northeast Kansas Library System (NEKLS), and Mountain Plains Library Association (MPLA) President

Robin Hastings supports more than 140 libraries across 14 counties in northeast Kansas through her role at NEKLS. Whether answering calls from new directors in their first library job or helping board members understand their roles, Robin is a steady and knowledgeable presence for small and rural libraries. “Being that supportive voice on the phone or at the other end of the email is something I’m most proud of,” she shares.

Robin is also actively serving as President of MPLA, where she’s helped launch a new Advocacy Committee and led a major tech transition. Her work across both organizations is grounded in the belief that growing the profession strengthens communities—a belief reflected in the success stories she’s seen firsthand, like the new director she mentored who is now a branch manager and future MLIS student.

In both roles, Robin builds relationships that empower library staff to better serve their communities:

“My community is the librarians and library staff I support,
I help them stretch their wings.”

Robin’s advice for rural and small library workers? Network. Whether it’s through NEKLS’s New Director Training, state associations, or ARSL itself, “Getting to know folks in your situation is key to being able to weather the storms.”

A longtime ARSL member, Robin first joined for the invaluable mailing list, but quickly found connection and inspiration through conferences, networking events, and friendships. “I’ve learned new things and built relationships at every ARSL event I’ve attended,” she says. “And I’ve had a lot of fun doing it!”

Written by the ARSL Office