Wendy D. Johnston — Director, Fleming County Public Library, Flemingsburg, KY 

Wendy D. Johnston began the path to librarianship as a child, with books all over the house in her father's library room in Southern West Virginia. Growing up in an area where the nearest full-service grocery store was often an hour from their home, she witnessed firsthand the knowledge gap that rural communities face.

"I realized early on that most people did not have access to the information that I did, and that there needed to be library access in these communities," Johnston states. Growing up, Johnston was fascinated by the library services that started in Appalachia, where one-room schoolhouses and packhorse librarians delivered books to isolated communities and homes in Central Appalachia. Upon attending college, Johnston remarks, "I knew that being the link to information for my people was my life calling." 

An executive director of Fleming County Public Library, Johnston directs cutting-edge programming that exceeds standard offerings. The library's "Library of Things" features an innovative collection of items to borrow beyond books – musical instruments, bubble machines, and even a ghost-hunting kit. Their Story Walk at Reservoir Park combines outdoor activity and literacy by featuring rotating storyboards along a walking trail. In contrast, their Science Play 2 Go exhibit offers hands-on learning for kids.

Currently overseeing a major library makeover that includes new teen and refurbished children's areas—funded through a $25,000 grant from the Steele-Reese Foundation—Johnston emphasizes the importance of establishing a strong bond with the community.

Her advice to librarians is simple:

"Be part of the community! Get to know your people."

As a Program Co-Coordinator on this year's Conference Committee, Johnston is deeply involved with ARSL and believes the organization provides rural libraries with the encouragement and camaraderie they need to thrive.

Written by the ARSL Office