Simplified: Sioux Falls' library system is on track to have its first new leader in decades. Meet Alysia Boysen.
Why it matters
- Longtime Director of Siouxland Libraries Jodi Fick will retire next month, and the city began a search for her replacement. Mayor Paul TenHaken said the city received applicants from all over the country, and that there was a lot of interest in the position.
- TenHaken on Thursday announced the appointment of Alysia Boysen as the next Director of Siouxland Libraries. That appointment will have to be approved by the Sioux Falls City Council before Boysen can officially take the job.
- Boysen started working with Siouxland Libraries in 2005 as a part-time employee in the Colton Branch. Though, she's been enjoying the library system for as long as she can remember – citing her upbringing in rural Lake County.
"Being on a farm, there was no better opportunity to get off and go into town ... my sister and I, the first thing we'd ask is if we could go along with our dad," Boysen said. "We wanted him to drop us off at the library."
Tell me more
Boysen said she's hoping to bring big ideas to residents, as well as continue the library system's commitment to making everyone feel welcome and support early literacy.
"We believe investing in our youngest residents will strengthen the future of our communities," she said.
She also knows she's entering this new role at a time when libraries face threats of funding cuts and pushback from some on the content available, specifically to children.
- Boysen said, if you're concerned about a book in the library, come talk to a librarian.
"We love interacting with our community," Boysen said. "We want to make sure everyone understands where we are coming from and what our policies are in making sure we have materials for everyone in our community."
What happens next?
Boysen's appointment needs to be confirmed by the City Council. The first reading is scheduled for June 3.
