Heather Barry

I enjoy working in all of our unique library spaces and surrounding communities. Whether managing small, tight-knit branches or larger, diverse branches, I am committed to providing excellent customer experiences that appreciate, value, and represent our differences. My priorities are to create safe, comfortable, and accessible spaces for ALL and to design displays and programs that encompass our EDI values.

I understand it is our staff who make the library exceptional and have almost two decades of direct hiring, onboarding, training, and coaching experience. I strive to foster a “togetherness” atmosphere so that all feel valued, heard, and appreciated. I support and encourage staff to use their talents and strengths to enhance library experiences and create inspiring and motivating working environments.

Having lived in the midlands for the past 28 years, I care deeply about our community and enjoy being part of organizations and initiatives that make Columbia a better place for all. I feel lucky to live in a city that promotes and appreciates diversity and I am excited to work for a library system that fosters and values our differences. I am a lifelong learner; Volunteering and community involvement are my outlet to learn about others' experiences while giving back to our community.

I understand that people come before processes and that without our customers we would just be beautiful buildings housed with the best collections and resources. I have been fulfilling and modeling our Promises even before they were crafted because I know that providing customized customer experiences enhances library and community relationships.

I eliminate barriers by cultivating meaningful, relevant, and diverse spaces, collections, and programming with the help of Collection Development, Events and Experience, and customer and staff input. I use a collaborative approach when problem-solving by communicating with diverse colleagues, utilizing customer-centered service design methods, and working with our Directors to find creative and lasting solutions that benefit all. As Learning Engagement would say, working together is more meaningful and smarter than working apart.

I was 20 years old when I began my career at Richland Library and decades later I still love having fun at the library! For example, in 2010 I submitted a Bright Idea suggesting that staff be approved to participate in library events during working hours. At that time, I was not only the manager at Ballentine but also the youth and adult programming lead for the branch. Since I was facilitating most of our programs I wanted to see what others were creating and I wanted to attend their fun events. My idea eventually became our #StaffItUp initiative where staff can participate in library programming without taking leave - just like our customers!

I am passionate about developing innovative, “out of the box” library programs and services that align with our mission and values, are relevant and timely, and represent Columbia's rich diversity. Motivating staff and having fun at work are key to staff retention and overall career satisfaction. During Cooper's renovations, I made sure staff saw each other via monthly dinners because transitions can be difficult. I have also posted KUDOS Walls so that staff can positively “shout out” to each other. Creating an inclusive, fun atmosphere is essential.