As of July 1, 2024, the Frankenmuth Wickson District Library has welcomed Jennifer Harden into the newly established role of full-time Adult Services/Outreach Librarian. This appointment marks a pivotal moment for the library as it seeks to enhance its adult programming and community outreach initiatives. Jennifer, who has been transitioning into this role throughout the past nine months, has already made a huge impact, significantly increasing adult programming at the library.
Throughout the summer, Jennifer has organized a wealth of adult programing including a three-part series on food preservation, an Interurban Railroad presentation, a “Make Your Own Adventure Journal” workshop, an Automobiles 101 presentation, and a “Langue of Flowers” workshop which will teach the meaning of various herbs and flowers and give registered patrons a chance at making their own tussie mussie bouquet, to name just a few.
Recognizing the growing demand for educational, cultural, and social programs within the community, the library has prioritized expanding its services. With Jennifer now on board full-time, the library aims to establish and strengthen partnerships with the City of Frankenmuth, various community civic organizations, schools, and assisted living facilities.
Jennifer’s journey into this role has been shaped by her extensive experience and education. After graduating from Frankenmuth High School in 1992, Jennifer pursued her academic interests at Saginaw Valley State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Communication/Theater with a minor in English. She furthered her studies at Wayne State University, where she obtained a Master of Library and Information Science with a specialization in Public Libraries—Adult Services.
After college, Jennifer spent 10 years working with Public Libraries of Saginaw. She began her career as a part-time Adult Reference Library Assistant at Zauel Library and transitioned to a full-time Reference/Marketing Librarian at Hoyt Library. Later, she worked as Branch Head at Wickes Library, and ended her career with Public Libraries of Saginaw as Branch Head of Butman-Fish Library.
Jennifer has been with the Frankenmuth Wickson District Library for two years. Here, Jennifer’s role transcends mere job responsibilities, embodying a profound passion for community engagement and connectivity. She delights in bridging the gap between the library and the community through diverse programs, engaging speakers, dynamic discussions, outreach activities, and of course, books. Jennifer loves recommending books to patrons and is always open to new programming ideas for adults.
Reflecting on her experience with Wickson Library thus far, Jennifer expresses immense gratitude for the opportunity to deeply connect with the Frankenmuth community. She emphasizes, “It has been an absolute pleasure getting to know our community in a much more in-depth way than I ever dreamed possible. I do not take this opportunity for granted and am grateful every day that I get to go to ‘work’ doing something that I love in a community that means so much to me.”
As Jennifer Harden steps into her role as Adult Services/Outreach Librarian at Frankenmuth Wickson District Library, she brings with her a wealth of experience, a passion for community service, and a commitment to enriching the lives of patrons through diverse and engaging programming. Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the library, promising expanded horizons and deeper community connections in the days ahead.
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