HPL

The Hays Public Library recently added two new librarians to its staff: Samantha Dean and Vera Haynes.

Samantha Dean is the new adult librarian. She originally hails from Mankato, but moved to Hays in 2012 to attend FHSU where she received both a bachelor’s and master’s in history. Dean frequently visited the library as a student

“I utilized the library’s resources and was impressed by the facility, collection and staff. I really wanted to be a part of the library in some way,” she said.

“Hays has such a rich history and sense of pride,” Dean added. “I think the library has a great connection to the city and offers a vast number of resources for the public’s use.”

Once she orients herself to the library’s daily processes, Dean plans to reach out to the community as well as other departments.

“I would like to do more programming that will attract adults of all ages – from college to retirement, as well as collaborate with other library departments,” she said. “I really want to help better the library!”

Vera Haynes is the new young adult librarian. She comes to us from Columbia, Mo., where she received her bachelor’s in communication from the University of Missouri. Being new to the community isn’t keeping her from exploring Hays.

“The Fall Art Walk and Oktoberfest were so much fun and really well attended. It’s amazing to live in a community that unites around events like that,” she said.

As for her impression of the library so far, Haynes said “I love the atmosphere of the library’s second floor. There’s a huge focus on serving the young adults and children first. The patrons are my favorite thing about the library so far! They’ve already been so welcoming.”

Haynes also brings some new skills to the library.

“I’m conversationally fluent in American Sign Language — and I love to play the ukulele,” she said.

You can reach Samantha Dean and Vera Haynes at the library by calling 785-625-9014 or email [email protected] or [email protected].