The new Livonia Library Director, Kristen Edson, has hit the ground running, launching the library’s first-ever strategic plan process, which will inform the future of library services.

Edson has an impressive background of 17-plus years of library experience and has worked in major library systems such as Chicago and Baton Rouge. We sat down with her briefly to ask about her life outside of the library.


Tell us about yourself.

That is so general! Well, I’m originally from Michigan – Swartz Creek. I spent 11 years in Chicago, six years in Louisiana, and most recently moved from Baton Rouge. Though I went back down there recently because a friend of mine was getting married. And I ride in a Krewe down there, which I joined last year.


What does that mean?

So, the Mardi Gras parades that you see? It is not just a day – it is a season. I joined because I was in a sorority in undergrad and part of being a Krewe is giving back and the concept of service. They raise funds for local nonprofits in the New Orleans area.


What an interesting seasonal part of your year. Does it tie-in with any other hobbies?

Yes, I do usually volunteer my time. Last year, I was doing Bags of Hope, a program at St. Vincent de Paul in Baton Rouge before I left. I also volunteered at a food bank. So, I still have to find those places that need help here. If you’ve got a recommendation, I’m looking!


Did you have a career before becoming a librarian?

I worked in a doctor's office managing records. Then I actually got into medical bill collecting while I was going to graduate school.


What led you into library school?

One of my college classmates worked for the Grand Rapids Public Library and said she wanted to be a librarian, which I hadn’t considered before. Later, we ended up being in the same class together at Wayne State.


Who inspires you in the library world?

Right now, I would say my heroes would be United for Libraries, a division of the American Library Association focusing on the freedom to read. Also, the Urban Libraries Council is doing really inspiring work with leadership across the country. One of my former bosses, who is still my friend and mentor, is also one of my library heroes. She helped advocate for funding for our department and cleared a path for me and other librarians to do more programming.


Do you have a favorite book you remember as a child?

I was definitely an avid reader and my first introduction to the library was in the public school system. I was always down for the Berenstain Bears when I was little. I read a lot of Danielle Steel in middle school and stuff my sister read, the Sweet Valley High series.


What kind of reader are you?

I used to be a fiction reader and probably over the last 10 years, I’ve become more of a non-fiction reader, especially around leadership development. Brené Brown is a favorite.


What has surprised you about Livonia?

The amount of volunteerism in the community. That has really surprised me! Also, everyone has been truly happy to meet me and is happy that I’m here. There has been a real openness in saying that and it feels really nice.