New Director Takes The Reins At The Danbury Library

DANBURY, Conn. -- Katie Ventura, the new director of the Danbury Public Library, is looking to grow the library in the community and meet the technology needs of the 21st century. 

She was recently promoted from her earlier position as assistant director when the previous director resigned. Before coming to the library in 2013, she was at the Kent Public Library in New York for nine years, seven of which were in the role of assistant director.

She has a bachelor of science in information science from Pace University and a master's of library science from Queens College, and she is also a certified public library administrator from the American Library Association.

In a recent interview with the Daily Voice, she answered the following questions:

What are your goals for the Danbury Library? 

I want to continue to grow the library in the community and reach out to all parts of the city. I would like to add more materials for patrons to check out, grow our online offerings and increase all types of programming for the community.

What is your favorite book? 

"The Phantom Tollbooth" by Norton Juster

What books would you recommend? 

Go back and re-read some books from your childhood, sometimes you will find important life lessons you missed when you were younger.

What tech advancements have you made at the library? 

This past year, we implemented an RFID system for an easier check out/check in process. We have an iPad station for kids in the children's department loaded with educational games. The library has also begun to offer more computer classes and training for all ages. 

What makes the Danbury Library special in its community?

Danbury as a city is very unique due to the fact that there are so many different types of people. I believe the library is a place where we can bring all those different people together and help each one in his or her own unique way. 

How does the Danbury Library serve its community in the 21st century?

We continue to grow all of our services. We have added downloadable ebooks, movies, music and audiobooks. The library also lends out iPads, kindles, and WiFi hotspots. 

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