Category: Library Leadership

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Milestone Birthdays

Kathy Husser

Milestone Birthdays

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Birthdays are the best, even better when you reach milestones in your life. Here is my view of the best birthdays and why everyone’s time line is very different.

When I was 18, my parents threw me a surprise party at the local pizza parlor. All my friends (no parents) were there and I was officially an adult. But the best part was knowing my parents understood what I wanted (my friends) and a true surprise with the celebration.

Becoming an Adult

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When I turned 21 I could have a cocktail and would graduate from college. But my grandmother had been killed by a drunk driving during her evening walk a few years earlier. I didn’t drink or want too. However, graduating with honors offered a great job with KRAFT, and the opportunity to live on my own across country. I was learning about life, the good and the not so good aspects.

But I missed my family and moved back to Arizona after a few years in the South. In a few short months, I met my future husband. At 25 we celebrated my birthday to together and at 26, we were married.

Parent Years

Being a parent is the most challenging time but happiest years! Right before my 29th birthday, I had our first son. Another baby boy arrived after my 31st birthday. Teaching preschool kept my hand in education and enabled a tight circle of friends, all young moms. We learned about illnesses, TV exposure, (*this was before social media) and our “mom” fears being together weekly. Being a parent opens up your world to more compassion, selflessness, and the needs of others. It is a growing experience for you and your family.

School Years

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I went back to work in the library field when both boys were in school. I wanted to pursue my dreams and career goals. Earning a Master’s Degree was a great achievement, and my boys were proud! Working hard led to promotions in my field, which provided the example to my children, of what was possible. Your mindset and perseverance will get you to where you need to go, always.

The Future

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What does the future hold? Well, my family is expanding, welcoming a new wife and new baby due next year. My sons’ families are happy and healthy as am I. We don’t live in the same cities, but travel has always been my go too. I’m looking forward to the next chapter as exciting and new, just like every other milestone birthday I’ve had these past decades.

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Spring Holidays

Spring is a season of renewal, growth, and celebration in many cultures. Around the world, various holidays mark the arrival of spring, symbolizing rebirth and hope. Easter is one of the most prominent spring holidays, celebrated by Christians globally.

Other cultures also observe significant spring-related festivals. These celebrations, often tied to the changing seasons, provide insight into the rich diversity of traditions and beliefs that mark this time of year.

Easter: A Christian Celebration

Easter is one of the most important holidays in Christianity, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The holiday is observed in various ways depending on cultural traditions, but common elements include church services, festive meals, and the decoration of eggs, which symbolize new life.

In the United States and many Western countries, Easter is marked by egg hunts, where children search for hidden eggs, often filled with candy.

Eastern European countries like Poland and Ukraine, have Easter eggs painted in a tradition known as “pysanky.” In Greece, Easter celebrations include midnight church services followed by feasts that last through the night, featuring traditional foods like lamb and dyed red eggs.

Passover: A Jewish Festival of Freedom

In the Jewish tradition, “Passover” often coincides with the spring season. This holiday commemorates the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt. The festival is marked by a Seder, a special meal where symbolic foods are eaten, such as matzah (unleavened bread) and bitter herbs.

The Seder includes storytelling, prayers, and songs, helping Jewish families remember the hardships of their ancestors and celebrate the arrival of spring with renewed hope.

Holi: India’s Festival of Colors

In India and Nepal, the arrival of spring is celebrated with **Holi**, also known as the Festival of Colors. This Hindu festival, rooted in ancient traditions, celebrates the triumph of good over evil and the arrival of the spring harvest.

Participants throw colored powders at each other, dance, and feast, symbolizing the vibrancy of the season. Holi is also a time for forgiveness, with people repairing relationships and embracing the renewal of spring.

Nowruz: The Persian New Year

For over 3,000 years, “Nowruz,” or the Persian New Year, has been celebrated across parts of the Middle East, Central Asia, and beyond. This ancient holiday, which marks the first day of spring is deeply rooted in Zoroastrian traditions.

Nowruz is celebrated with family gatherings, the cleaning of homes (known as spring cleaning.)  The preparation of a traditional “Haft-Seen” table. This includes seven items representing health, prosperity, and fertility.

Songkran: Thailand’s Water Festival

In Thailand, “Songkran” is the Thai New Year’s festival, celebrated in mid-April. It marks the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. Songkran is most famously known for its water fights. People splash each other with water as a way to cleanse and refresh for the new year. Water also symbolizes the washing away of past misfortunes and a blessing for the future.

Spring celebrations around the world share common themes of renewal, hope, and rebirth, but each culture adds its unique flavor to these festivals. These holidays reflect the diverse ways in which people embrace the changing of the seasons.

They remind us of the universal human desire for growth, connection, and renewal as the world emerges from winter’s grasp.

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Read Fiction

Graphic with the words Libraries are for Everyone
Credit: American Library Association

Reading fiction books plays a vital role in personal development and emotional well-being. Fiction transports readers to different worlds and experiences. This escapism allows individuals to break free from everyday stress and routine.

Fiction stimulates imagination and creativity. Engaging with diverse characters and settings encourages readers to think outside the box. It fosters empathy by allowing readers to see the world through others’ eyes. Understanding different perspectives is essential in our interconnected society.

Moreover, fiction promotes critical thinking skills. Readers often encounter complex plots and characters, prompting them to analyze motivations and themes. This mental engagement can sharpen cognitive abilities and enhance problem-solving skills.

Many people enjoy fiction for its emotional significance. Stories evoke a wide range of feelings, from joy to sorrow. This emotional connection can provide comfort and validation. Readers often find solace in characters facing similar challenges or triumphs.

Fiction also serves as a spark for conversation. Many books start discussions about important social issues and human experiences. These conversations can foster connections among friends, family, and book clubs.

Furthermore, fiction can serve as a source of inspiration. Characters overcoming obstacles and achieving their dreams can motivate readers to pursue their own goals. This sense of hope can be transformative.

In addition, the act of reading itself offers relaxation. Curling up with a good book can be a soothing escape. It allows individuals to unwind and recharge after a long day. If you have a library card it’s easy to check out print and eBooks to satisfy any reader.

Reading fiction is important for emotional well-being, creativity, and critical thinking. People enjoy fiction for its escapism, emotional depth, and ability to inspire conversation. Embracing fiction enriches lives and cultivates a deeper understanding of the human experience.

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Mindset Matters

Sunflower from my garden.
A bright sunflower growing in my front yard garden.

Mindset Matters

Having a positive mindset matters and is essential, especially in the face of challenges and uncertainties these days. A positive mindset can significantly impact overall well-being, resilience, and interpersonal relationships. Despite the inevitable ups and downs of life, maintaining a hopeful perspective can lead to a more fulfilling and joyful existence.

Mental Health

A positive attitude enhances mental health. It allows individuals to cope better with stress, anxiety, and depression. When faced with adversity, those with an optimistic outlook are more likely to see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than impossible obstacles. This shift in perception can reduce the impact of negative emotions and promote emotional stability.

Resilience

Moreover, a positive outlook fosters resilience. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to difficult situations. Individuals with a positive attitude are more likely to approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset. They are inclined to seek support, learn from their experiences, and move forward with determination. This resilience not only aids in overcoming personal difficulties but also encourages others to adopt a similar approach. Positivity is contagious!

Physical Health

Having a positive attitude also enhances physical health. Research suggests that optimistic individuals experience lower levels of stress and inflammation, leading to better overall health. They are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors, such as regular exercise and balanced nutrition. This proactive approach to health can result in increased longevity and a higher quality of life.

Relationships and Beyond

Furthermore, a positive attitude can improve relationships. Individuals who maintain a positive outlook tend to be more supportive and encouraging to those around them. Their enthusiasm and positivity can be contagious, creating a more uplifting environment. Stronger relationships contribute to a robust support system during challenging times, further reinforcing resilience.

In addition, a positive outlook can lead to greater success in various aspects of life, including career and personal goals. Optimistic individuals are often more motivated and willing to take risks, which can lead to new opportunities. They tend to approach tasks with enthusiasm, enhancing creativity and productivity.

Maintaining a positive attitude and good outlook on life is vital for mental and physical well-being. Embracing optimism fosters resilience, improves health, enhances relationships, and promotes personal success. By focusing on the bright side, you can navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and strength. This ultimately will lead to a more fulfilling and enriching life.

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Career Education

Have an agenda and your goals will be accomplished
There is no agenda in life, just be flexible.

What I’ve learned over a 43-year career in education and public service is quite simple. And here’s my story to illustrate a few lessons from experience.

Rejection is Re-Direction

My very first interview was with Jack-in-the-Box, a fast food restaurant. I knew the Assistant Manager, a friend from high school, and thought I’d be great at the job. A job I needed to pay my way for a Student Council Conference in Nevada that summer. I didn’t get the job, despite my friend, Peter’s, recommendation. Disappointment set in, until a week later the supervisor for our public library called me for an interview!  In two weeks, I would be shelving books, in the air-conditioned comfort of my local library.  Thank you, Mary!

Keep Growing

This first high school job, turned into a promotion, raises, and life experience managing people. Working at the library, with our team and leadership during this time was the best learning experience to set me on my career path.  I earned a degree, moved across country and worked for two food companies expanding my people skills into another industry.

I learned from other people different from me. I grew in my career (with more promotions) when young women were just starting to venture out independently in their careers. For example, I was one of the first women to wear pants in my company. I didn’t know I “shouldn’t” in the early 90’s, and I started a “trend” for the female staff.

Take a Break

Taking a break from your career is also a personal decision, my family made when I had children. There was no option to work remotely, and women were still the main caretakers during those years.  This “re-direction” worked out, because when my youngest was 5, I started working again at my public library. And this is the Universe providing the opportunity I needed, at the right time in my career.

I had the best boss, since the manager that hired me left two weeks into my tenure. But, he told me, “You’re ‘good people’ Kathy, and you’ll do well even after I’ve retired.”  After 25 years, that compliment and the break he provided me was the start of something even better.

Good Habits Equal Success

Back at the library, I learned every aspect of City government and managing large and smaller teams. My growth was due to volunteering for opportunities and always helping others which strengthen my people skills. Over time these work habits, plus self-awareness, and my solid reputation enabled me to reach my ultimate goal of Director. The one thing I didn’t do, was applaud my own success. (Women tend not to “toot their own horn,” even today…. but we’re getting better!)

Over time with more rejection and redirection, I’ve discovered your career is not linear. Your career will take detours for many reasons. At times, you have no control over your path. But my innate character qualities, strong habits, and work ethic allowed me to succeed in other roles.

Roles that gave me more learning opportunities and success beyond my dreams.  I even returned to work for an organization that got me started early in my career. They knew me, my work, and my kind-heartedness. Match made in heaven!

For more career inspiration check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Kindness Equals Wellness

"Be wary of Negative People..."

In today’s fast-paced world, the concepts of wellness and kindness are often treated as luxuries, secondary to ambition or success. However, scientific research tells a different story: both wellness and kindness are essential for a fulfilling, healthy life. They are not just feel-good buzzwords. They are backed by scientific evidence showing their power to enhance mental, emotional, and even physical well-being.

Physical Connection

Wellness is generally defined as a holistic combination of physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance. Research has revealed that practices like mindfulness, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep directly influence brain function and emotional regulation.

Mindfulness meditation has been shown to reduce the activity of the brain’s stress center. This while strengthening connections which directs your rational thinking and emotional control. A 2011 Harvard study found that just eight weeks of mindfulness training increased gray matter in areas of the brain associated with memory, empathy, and stress regulation.

Similarly, physical exercise boosts endorphin levels, natural mood lifters. —increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein linked to improved cognitive function and reduced anxiety. Sleep, too, plays a vital role: studies show that chronic sleep deprivation impairs judgment, increases irritability, and weakens the immune system.

The Science of Kindness

Equally convincing is the research on kindness. Acts of kindness—whether helping a stranger, volunteering, or simply expressing gratitude—have profound effects on the brain and body. Engaging in kind behavior triggers the release of oxytocin, sometimes referred to as the “love hormone.” Oxytocin reduces blood pressure, strengthens social bonds, and improves overall heart health.

An Oxford research study showed that people who performed acts of kindness for seven days experienced a significant boost in happiness. Even witnessing kindness, rather than directly participating in it, can elevate mood and foster a sense of connection.

Moreover, kindness is linked to lower levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Lower cortisol means less inflammation, better sleep, and improved immune function. In essence, kindness not only feels good—it literally does good.

Kindness and Wellness

What makes these findings especially powerful is how wellness and kindness reinforce each other. When people take care of their own well-being, they are more likely to be empathetic, patient, and kind. Conversely, engaging in kind behavior boosts self-esteem and emotional resilience, making it easier to maintain wellness practices.

This interplay creates a positive feedback loop: wellness promotes kindness, and kindness enhances wellness. It’s a virtuous cycle that benefits not only individuals but communities as well. Schools that use social-emotional learning programs, which emphasize empathy and mindfulness, report reduced bullying and better academic outcomes. Workplaces that encourage employee well-being and compassion see higher job satisfaction and lower turnover.

The message from science is clear: wellness and kindness are deeply connected and mutually reinforcing. They are not fringe ideals but essential elements of a healthy, thriving life. By taking small steps—meditating, exercising, sleeping well, or showing compassion—we harness the power of both wellness and kindness. These can transform not only ourselves but the world around us.

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Growth Mindset

Have an agenda and your goals will be accomplished
Have a plan and keep refining for success.

Learning from mistakes and adopting a growth mindset are important for achieving success in both personal and professional goals. Embracing these principles not only increases resilience but also fosters continuous improvement and development.

A growth mindset, a concept popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and learning. Individuals with a growth mindset view challenges as opportunities to grow rather than obstacles. This perspective encourages them to take risks and embrace new experiences, knowing that mistakes are part of the learning process.

Mistakes, while often viewed negatively, are valuable learning opportunities. When individuals make errors, they gain insights that can lead to better decision-making in the future. Instead of dwelling on failures, those with a growth mindset analyze what went wrong and why. This reflective process encourages a deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. This allows them to adjust their strategies and methods moving forward.

Furthermore, learning from mistakes promotes resilience. Instead of feeling defeated by setbacks, individuals can cultivate a sense of perseverance. Each mistake can be reframed as a stepping stone toward success. This resilience is essential in a world where challenges and failures are unavoidable. By developing the ability to bounce back, individuals can maintain motivation and continue working toward their goals.

A growth mindset also encourages a love of learning. Individuals become curious and open to feedback, seeking out opportunities for growth and improvement. This eagerness to learn can lead to the development of new skills and a deeper understanding of one’s field. As individuals continue to expand their knowledge and abilities, they position themselves for greater success.

In addition, cultivating a growth mindset promotes collaboration and support among peers. When individuals are open about their mistakes and willing to learn from each other, it creates an environment of trust and innovation. Team members are more likely to share ideas and take risks, leading to collective growth and success.

Learning from mistakes and embracing a growth mindset are vital for achieving success. By viewing challenges as opportunities for growth, individuals can develop resilience, foster a love of learning, and enhance collaboration. This approach not only leads to personal development but also contributes to a more innovative and dynamic environment. This sets the stage for lasting success in your career and personal life.

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What I Learned

Graphic with the words Libraries are for Everyone
Credit: American Library Association

What I’ve learned over a 43-year career in education and public service is quite simple. And here’s my story to illustrate a few lessons from experience.

Rejection is Re-Direction

My very first interview was with Jack-in-the-Box, a fast food restaurant. I knew the Assistant Manager, a friend from high school, and thought I’d be great at the job. A job I needed to pay my way for a Student Council Conference in Nevada that summer. I didn’t get the job, despite my friend, Peter’s, recommendation.

Disappointment set in, until a week later the supervisor for our public library called me for an interview!  In two weeks, I would be shelving books, in the air-conditioned comfort of my local library.  Thank you, Mary!

Keep Growing

This first high school job, turned into a promotion, raises, and life experience managing people. Working at the library, with our team and leadership during this time was the best learning experience to set me on my career path.  I earned a degree, moved across country and worked for two food companies expanding my people skills into another industry.

I learned from other people different from me. I grew in my career (with more promotions) when young women were just starting to venture out independently in their careers. For example, I was one of the first women to wear pants in my company. I didn’t know I “shouldn’t” in the early 90’s, and I started a “trend” for the female staff.

Take a Break

Taking a break from your career is also a personal decision, my family made when I had children. There was no option to work remotely, and women were still the main caretakers during those years.

This “re-direction” worked out, because when my youngest was 5, I started working again at my public library. And this is the Universe providing the opportunity I needed, at the right time in my career.

I had the best boss, since the manager that hired me left two weeks into my tenure. But, he told me, “You’re ‘good people’ Kathy, and you’ll do well even after I’ve retired.”  After 25 years, that compliment and the break he provided me was the start of something even better.

Good Habits Equal Success

Back at the library, I learned every aspect of City government and managing large and smaller teams. My growth was due to volunteering for opportunities and always helping others which strengthen my people skills. Over time these work habits, plus self-awareness, and my solid reputation enabled me to reach my ultimate goal of Director.

The one thing I didn’t do, was applaud my own success. (Women tend not to “toot their own horn,” even today…. but we’re getting better!)

Over time with more rejection and redirection, I’ve discovered your career is not linear. Your career will take detours for many reasons. At times, you have no control over your path. But my innate character qualities, strong habits, and work ethic allowed me to succeed in other roles.

Roles that gave me more learning opportunities and success beyond my dreams.  I even returned to work for an organization that got me started early in my career. They knew me, my work, and my kind-heartedness. Match made in heaven!

For more career inspiration check out: KathyHusserTempe.com

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Professional Development

Leadership written in blue and hand writing the word visible.

Professional development includes a variety of learning opportunities that can enhance skills and knowledge in the workplace. Different types of professional development can significantly benefit individuals. Each education offering gives you advantages depending on your learning preferences and career goals. As a 25-year veteran of civil service and private business, let’s take a look at what is right for you and your ambitions.

Workshops and Seminars

These are typically short, focused sessions that dive into specific topics. Workshops often provide hands-on experience and real-time feedback. Participating in seminars allows for immediate application of new skills, making it easier to incorporate knowledge into daily tasks.

These formats encourage networking with peers and industry experts, fostering valuable connections. Traveling to a new city or industry event is also part of a workshop’s draw for professionals.

Online Courses

With the rise of digital learning platforms, online courses offer flexibility in scheduling and content delivery. Individuals can learn at their own pace. You select topics that align with their career aspirations and learning goals.  Online courses often provide a wide range of subjects, from technical skills to soft skills like communication and leadership. You also don’t have to travel anywhere but to your computer, allowing for a tailored and efficient learning experience.

Mentorship Programs

Engaging in a mentorship relationship provides personalized guidance and support. Mentors can share their experiences, helping mentees navigate career challenges and opportunities.

This one-on-one interaction fosters deeper learning and insight, promoting personal and professional growth. A word of caution is trust must be the foundation of your mentor relationship.  You will not benefit and could be hurt if trust is broken or never present in the mentor program.

Industry Conferences

Attending conferences exposes you to the latest trends, innovations, and best practices in your field. These events often feature keynote speakers and panel discussions, providing insights from thought leaders. Networking opportunities flourish, enabling professionals to connect with potential collaborators or employers.

ALA for librarians and education sales professionals enable connections to be made and sustained yearly. If you can attend, do it.  You will benefit in the long run and so will your career.

Certifications and Credentials

Pursuing industry-specific certifications demonstrates commitment and expertise in a particular area. These credentials can enhance employability and open doors to promotions. You will showcase dedication to professional growth and your commitment to your organization when you go that extra mile.

Various types of professional development offer different benefits. By exploring workshops, online courses, mentorships, conferences, and certifications, individuals can tailor learning experiences. These opportunities will meet specific needs and your individual career goals. Embracing these occasions can lead to improved skills, increased job satisfaction, and greater career advancement. 

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Continuing Education

Leadership written in blue and hand writing the word visible.Continuing education is crucial for professionals at any stage of their careers, even after achieving a stable position. In today’s rapidly evolving job market, staying current with industry trends and advancements is essential. Ongoing learning helps you adapt to changes in technology, regulations, and best practices. This ensuring you are relevant and competitive in your role.

Skills

One of the primary benefits of continuing education is skill enhancement. As industries evolve, new skills become necessary. By pursuing further education, professionals acquire new skills. This allows you to take on new responsibilities and improve job performance. A proactive approach can lead to career advancement, promotions, and increased job satisfaction.

Personal Growth

Continuing education fosters personal growth. Engaging in new learning experiences encourages critical thinking and creativity. It opens up opportunities to explore diverse perspectives and innovative solutions to challenges in the workplace. This not only enhances individual capabilities but also contributes to a more dynamic and productive work environment.

Networking

Networking opportunities also abound with continuing education. Workshops, seminars, and courses provide platforms for professionals to connect with peers and industry leaders. These connections can lead toward collaborations, mentorships, and other job opportunities. These will further enhance your career prospects down the road.

Lifelong Learning

Additionally, pursuing continuing education demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning. Employers value individuals who actively seek knowledge and self-improvement. This dedication can set you apart from peers, showcasing your motivation and ambition.

Education is vital for career growth and personal development. It enables professionals to adapt to changes, acquire new skills, foster creativity, and build valuable networks. Embracing lifelong learning not only enhances individual careers but also contributes to a more knowledgeable and skilled workforce. Prioritizing ongoing education is essential for sustained success in any profession.

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