Have you ever had a moment in a library that changed your life? Maybe it was the book that sparked your imagination, the librarian who helped you find the right resource, or the space that gave you room to dream. At Spokane Public Library, we believe in the power of these transformative moments. That’s why we’re inviting you to join us for My Library, My Story—a community-wide celebration of the impact libraries have on our lives.
Right now, libraries across the country are facing challenges in providing access to books and essential services. But we know that libraries are so much more than just buildings filled with books—they are vibrant hubs of connection, learning, and belonging. This is your opportunity to remind the world why libraries matter.
Your experience could inspire someone else to discover the power of libraries. We invite you to share your personal library experience on social media. Tag us @spokanepubliclibrary to collaborate with us and amplify your voice!
Don’t have social media? Share your story in the comments below!
Hear how the library welcomed Leah on day one in Spokane and became a part of her journey.
67 responses to “Share Your Library Story”
My entire life was changed by Spokane Public LIbrary! As a lonely child being raised by elderly grandparents, my primary refuge was the Manito Branch Library—the old one on 30th. And even before that building, the little storefront on 29th. Toni was in charge there. But it was the branch on 30th that truly changed my life. I was there so often that, when a job as a Page opened up the librarian, Pauline commented that I spent so much time there that I might look into actually working there! And so I applied for a job and received my training—along with some other teens—at the old storefront branch on Perry. I worked as a Page throughout high school and then as a clerk at Manito while I took classes at Holy Names College and Gonzaga. When I left to move to Seattle my job there was at the Seattle Public Library. Eventually I went back to school (UW) and received my Masters in Library Science and worked until retirement in various positions. Would any of this happened without Pauline’s intervention and encouragement? I am filled with gratitude to her and all the others who aided my journey. Libraries can and do change lives!
The library has always been a place of peace and wonder for me. When I was in high school the downtown library was my home away from home. I would check out fashion books and magazines to later read in my bath tub. I was a very shy, artsy teenager and things made sense when I went to the library.
As I grew up and came out of my shell, it was a fun place to meet people and using the free internet. I remember using the internet with my mom who needed to apply for her citizenship. She did it at the downtown public library. And even later still…the accessible private study room in the Shadle library was where I had an interview to get my first salary job. Thank you Spokane Public Library.
I took my grandson to the Medical Lake library to sign up for the summer reading program – Cecilia was such a joy! Her passion for reading and her book recommendations for him made all the difference that year!
Sharma Shields is an amazing person and resource for writers and creators. After gathering up the courage, I went to one of her “Write Together” sessions at the Indian Trail Library. I felt included and encouraged to continue my writing journey. I have since attended other library events and more of her sessions and each time she has been supportive and brought a joy to the room. She is amazing and I am thankful for her and the Spokane Library for providing these priceless resources to our community. It truly makes Spokane a richer place to live.
My three brothers and I grew up with the luxury of having access to the Bookmobile, during our otherwise, boring
summer break from school.
Reading has shaped our world view & was instrumental in having a few published authors in the family.
At the former Eastside branch, it was the librarian, Doris Ibach who always made one feel welcome! All the “original” staff
from Stone street; this is a Positive “shout out” – to you all!
Thank you all for assisting me & my far reaching requests; such as the Inter-Library Loans (Colleen).
I have always cherished the library for the abundace of books available (I prefer paper books to the digital kind). I have also come to enjoy the meeting spaces in all of the new libraries. I’ve attended presentations at my local library as well as joining my crafting groups on a regular basis at various libraries. They have also provided space for various meetings I’ve needed to hold. While I’ve really enjoyed the expanded services our libraries provide I will always enjoy time wandering through the shelves to pick out my next read.