To find success in business, you have to first figure out what your target market wants and respond to it. As society and the technology we depend on changes at breakneck speed, it can be challenging for traditional businesses to keep pace. Breathing new life into a service as timeless and constant as the library takes innovation, grit and the support of the surrounding community to pull off. Advancing technology had the potential to make libraries obsolete, but instead brilliant leadership took advantage of new tech to reinvigorate a beloved neighborhood staple. The St. Louis County Library (SLCL) began a revitalization project to strengthen its ties to the community and keep it relevant in their eyes.Kristen Sorth, director and CEO of SLCL, joined But Who’s Counting? hosts Dave Hartley and Missy Kelley to discuss the innovative approaches SLCL took to keep libraries on the cutting edge rather than a relic from a different time. Kristen, the recipient of the Visionary Award by St. Louis Magazine, explained how the library earned a seat at the community’s table and why she adapted libraries to meet social needs. The discussion also touched on:The innovative programs and partnerships that are having an enormous impact on the communityWhat role technology has played in revitalizing the libraryThe library’s role in advancing digital equity initiativesHow they “stood standing” during a crisis and what that meant for the publicA unique role the library hired and the difference it’s made for staff“Make sure that innovation means something to someone other than you. If you spend all your time innovating something that is going to have zero impact on people, then you have wasted a ton of time and money.” – Kristen SorthResources to Count OnWant more insight into the conversation? Check out these resources:Visit the SLCL websiteFind out more about the Tap In CenterLearn about the Small Business Center located in the Clark Family BranchKeep up with all the upcoming events hosted by the libraryMake sure to never miss an episode by subscribing on Spotify, Pandora or Apple Podcasts and let us know what you think by rating and reviewing. Keep up with more Anders insights by visiting our website and following us on social media:Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | TwitterSend us a text

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