Librarian eyes new philosophy
Shannon Vonnegut continues duties at city-operated Santa Clarita Public Library
After a three-day closure, the Newhall, Valencia and Canyon Country libraries are now seeing full-city staffing, as the city takes direct control of the Santa Clarita Public Library.
In this capacity, Shannon Vonnegut is continuing her role as city librarian with the city-operated Santa Clarita Public Library. Previously, the city had contracted with Library Systems & Services, or LSSI, for its library service.
Vonnegut holds a master’s degree in library science from San Jose State University, and worked with the library in Santa Clarita since 2011. After the city took the library over from county ownership, she served as digital services manager. She was promoted to city librarian by LSSI in February.
After the city opened applications for its new leadership, Vonnegut applied based on her familiarity with the area and branches. She’s worked at all three locations, including serving as an interim branch manager for the Canyon Country Library.
“I originally applied to work for the Santa Clarita Library because I thought them taking over the library was interesting,” she said.
Vonnegut said her role as city librarian with LSSI prepared her for the transition.
“I’m looking forward to introducing the staff to representatives from the school districts and community partners, and seeing how they can build those relationships and grow in this community,” she said. “I’ve worked here for a while now, and I’m a firm believer in the library going out into the community and not expecting people to come physically into the branches to access our services.”
She hopes to provide the programming and materials the community wants, and provide a high level of service to the community, Vonnegut said.
“We want to instill the city’s philosophy in the library, which is something new for us,” she said.
The library is offering its annual Summer Reading Program through July 28. This year’s theme is “Reading Takes You Everywhere” and focuses on topics such as travel, art and culture from around the world. Registration is now open and is free with a Santa Clarita Public Library card. Participants can register at any time before the program ends at SCVSummerReading.com.