LaShunda Williams — Gadsden Public Library, Public Services Manager, Gadsden, AL

LaShunda Williams has always been a library champion. From an early age, her passion for reading made the library a treasured part of her life. Today, she leads that same passion as Public Services Manager at the Gadsden Public Library in Alabama.

Under LaShunda's vision, the library is committed to offering a range of programs that reflect and respond to the needs of an increasingly diverse, growing population. Those programs extend well beyond what is ordinarily provided in libraries, reaching out to the business, social, fraternal, and governmental communities of the Gadsden and Etowah County area.

LaShunda describes how Gadsden Public Library has dedicated itself to providing diverse programs designed to meet the needs of its increasingly diverse community. Among her most treasured professional accomplishments is the library's annual Black History Month celebration, which she calls "an unqualified success in the eyes of the community." Beyond celebrating history and culture, the event creates meaningful connections among residents.

LaShunda views the new library as a unique facility where patrons can translate individual passions into productive community service. Among her fondest professional experiences has been meeting other librarians through ARSL's very first "Outfielder" program in Salt Lake City. Her meeting with them introduced her to ARSL and has kept her involved ever since.

Through ARSL, LaShunda enjoys the opportunity to connect with co-workers throughout the nation. Through the exchange of ideas and experiences, she finds inspiration for programs that improve and unite her community. 

"One of the prime benefits of being a part of ARSL is the networking opportunities.
It is encouraging and edifying to discover what libraries in other regions of the country are doing in their communities."

Written by the ARSL Office