New Elizabeth Taber Library director works to integrate community with library
Kayla King recently became the Elizabeth Taber Library's new executive director. Photo by Grace Roche
Kayla King recently became the Elizabeth Taber Library's new executive director. Photo by Grace Roche
MARION — Kayla King sees the Elizabeth Taber Library as so much more than a place to borrow books.
Her goal as the library’s new executive director is to help people realize how many resources are available, from social opportunities to alternative materials available to borrow.
King originally planned to attend law school and worked at a law firm after graduating from Emmanuel College in Boston, but working at a library had always appealed to her.
She began working as a library assistant at the Fall River Public Library while working towards her master’s in library and information science. She worked her way up to an assistant administrator role at the library before joining the Elizabeth Taber Library last month.
After about five years in the industry, she said she’s surprised how quickly she’s moved up.
“It's kind of the timing — part luck, part working hard — and I'm really fortunate to be here right now,” King said.
She said she’s excited to be working in a tight-knit community like Marion, especially after working in a city previously, and is ready for the challenges that come with leading a library.
King described herself as a natural leader who’s approachable, fair and kind.
“I'm not the kind of person who has a big ego or wants power, but I think I naturally get along with and have success leading people,” she said.
She sees the library as an important community resource, a place people can come to hang out without spending money. With Sippican School next door, she said the library is a go-to hangout spot for kids.
It’s also a place people can join clubs, attend programs and meet other people in the community.
There’s plenty of reasons for people to visit the library even if they don’t enjoy reading, she said.
“You can come here and be part of it and use it, even if you don't like books. And if you like books, then it's a bonus for everyone,” King said.
She said patrons are always welcome to stop in her office and say hi.
