Library Staff
Members of the Library staff strive to make everyone feel welcome and get the most out of the Library’s many resources by offering help in the use of the catalog, the book and media collections, and electronic databases. All staff members are prepared to help with any questions and explain any of our services.
Library Director
Karen Neal (email: kneal at grinnelliowa.gov)
Assistant Director (oversees Youth Services department)
Mallory Snow (email: msnow at grinnelliowa.gov)
Youth Services Coordinator
Grace Morrison
Library Assistants
Walker, Lucy, Amy, Veronica, Michelle
Circulation Clerks
Tang, Nico, Madison, Robin, Emily
Library Pages
Anna, Mackenzie, Jocelyn, Penelope
Board of Trustees
Members of the Library Board of Trustees are appointed by the Mayor to serve for a six-year term. The Board meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month with the Library Director to oversee library operations, set library policies, and approve expenditures. By keeping informed about library issues, developments, and technology, they work to bring the best in current library services to the Grinnell community. The public are welcome at these open meetings.
Interested in serving as a library trustee? Application available here
President: Theresa Pagliai
Vice President: Avery Lindley
Corresponding Secretary: Lee McFee
Members:
- John Hammond
- Luke Saunders
- Emily Fenner
- Emily Guenther
Library Board Records
Meeting minutes from most recent two years. Older records are available in the library archivesFriends of DCL
Connect with FDCL to learn how to support the library
The Library’s Core Commitments
Vision
We continually evolve to provide access and inclusivity.
Mission
We are a dynamic, inclusive hub that stimulates discovery and strengthens community bonds.
-adopted by the Library Board of Trustees, December 2023
Our Core Values
Collaboration
We value collaboration and new ways of imagining the library.
Community
We value serving as a community hub to gather, engage and discover.
Learning
We value ongoing learning for our staff, volunteers and patrons.
Quality
We value being a helpful knowledgeable, and trustworthy community resource for all.
Resources
We value access to information and services for people of all ages, abilities, and means.
Respect
We value all human beings, their safety, their space, their individual right to privacy, and their intellectual freedom.
Stewardship
We value efficient and effective use of all resources: people, time, assets, and funds.
About Our Building
Drake Community Library, designed by architects Meyer, Scherer & Rockcastle (MS&R) of Minneapolis, opened in November 2009. The building is 31,500 square feet and is a LEED Gold Certified building. The building features include geothermal, clerestory for abundant natural light, LED lighting, flooring and furniture made from recycled materials, water saving fixtures, permeable pavers, prairie and native landscaping.