There’s a buzz of excitement at the Aurora Public Library District (APLD) — though, to be fair, we always find the library exciting! This time, however, we’re thrilled to share that some big changes are on the horizon for our West Branch. Renovation plans are in the beginning stages of development, and we can’t wait to reimagine the space with our community’s needs in mind. Among this transformation is our new West Branch manager, Kiri Palm, who brings a wealth of library experience, a collection of unique hobbies, and an eager anticipation for all that the library’s future holds.
Kiri’s journey to APLD is as vibrant and multifaceted as their interests. A lover of books and horror films, Kiri is currently reading Blood and Germs: The Civil War Battle Against Wounds and Disease and Lunar Boy. Outside of work, Kiri’s interests run delightfully deep—from a theatre degree and a fascination with Javanese shadow puppetry to dreams of becoming a polyglot. “Being able to pick up languages quickly… would be a huge boon, especially in a community like Aurora,” they say. Since joining APLD, one thing that’s stood out to Kiri is the genuine joy their colleagues bring to the job: “Everyone I’ve met seems really happy to work here… that’s not something you often see in a job.” And we couldn’t agree more! The library is a great place to be for both staff and customers.
As a child, the library and its welcoming staff was Kiri’s refuge. “The librarians started keeping my favorite series (Dorrie the Little Witch by Patricia Coombs) at the desk for me when they were returned by other kids (which rarely happened; I think I might have been the only person reading them), ”Kiri reminisced. As an adult now working in libraries, Kiri transfers that desire to create a welcoming space into the plans they make. At their last library, they worked closely with experts in health & wellness and community engagement to lead highly successful initiatives that provided customers with free menstrual products, access to blood pressure machines, Narcan and fentanyl test strips. When offered the position of West Branch Manager, Kiri referred to the upcoming renovations as the “cherry on top” of the offer and a pivotal factor in their acceptance. “I’ve always wanted to be a part of a library renovation! I’m excited to really sink my teeth in and put all my efforts into the West Branch community.” The work is just getting underway, and as meetings with the architects begin, customers will have the chance to share their ideas—ideas that Kiri will help bring to life through exciting, community-inspired changes at the library.
With Kiri at the helm, the future of West Branch is bright, collaborative, and rooted in community. Their passion for inclusive spaces, creative thinking, and genuine connection makes them a perfect fit to lead this next chapter. As the renovation process unfolds, Kiri is eager to listen, learn, and build alongside the people who call our West Branch their home library. Stay tuned—big things are coming, and our community is part of the story. Welcome, Kiri!
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.