YP August Luncheon recap

The Young Professionals of Dubuque gathered at Q Casino + Resort for their monthly luncheon, welcoming Carnegie-Stout Public Library Director Nick Rossman to the stage for a presentation titled, “Invest in Your Community: Don’t Let Your Impact Become Overdue.” The event also featured Centrally Rooted as the nonprofit spotlight, with voice instructor Megan Gloss sharing the organization’s founding story and mission. “Everything we do is through the lens of brain health,” said Gloss, inviting attendees to explore opportunities for both teaching and learning.

Rossman’s presentation kicked off with energy and humor, noting the occasion’s overlap with National Bacon Day and World Mosquito Day, though sadly (thankfully?) no bacon (or mosquitos) were present. He traced his journey from working at a video store in 2007, just as streaming services were emerging, to his current role as library director. His career in library services began at the Waterloo Public Library, where he started part time, working his way up to the circulation & technical services manager. When the director announced her retirement, Rossman had a moment of realization: “Oh, shoot.” That prompted him to pursue a Master’s in Library and Information Science, which he completed in 2019. He was then confronted the opportunity to step into the library director role. 

Rossman’s interview for the position was brief but memorable. “Will you ever leave us?” was one of only two questions asked. His answer? “No, except…” That “except” came into play when the longtime director of the Carnegie-Stout Public LIbrary announced her retirement after nearly 20 years. With roots in Dubuque, Rossman applied and was offered the position.

Stepping into the role, Rossman quickly because embedded in the Dubuque community, joining several boards and commissions. One of note is the Dubuque Area Library Information Consortium (DALIC) and their Dubuque County Reads initiative, a collaborative effort that brings together public and academic libraries across the count.

 “I’ve found a profession that essentially pays me to help people,” Rossman said, before flipping the attention to the audience.

Rossman invited attendees to brainstorm at their tables: What does the library do, what do you think it does, and what do you want it to do? Most tables generated more than 20 ideas in just three minutes, underscoring the library’s broad and evolving role in the community.

He then touched on the history of libraries, beginning with Benjamin Franklin’s subscription-based library model and the Young Men’s Library Association in Dubuque from the early 1800s. 

Andrew Carnegie, dubbed the “patron saint of libraries,” gifted Dubuque over $70,000 to build the “historic” part of the building. Coupled with a land grant from community member Frank Stout, the Carnegie-Stout Free Library opened in 1902, named after these two benefactors. 

“Libraries have consistently adjusted their services to match community needs,” Rossman said, teeing up a showcase of modern offerings. These include what library staff refers to as the “Library of Things”, which lends out cake pans, memory care kits, exercise equipment, hotspots, and more. The library’s Maker Space is “tech-forward,” featuring vinyl and canvas printing, a sublimation printer, and other tools for creative projects. With usage growing by over 10%, expansion plans are underway.

In addition to physical resources, C-SPL puts on a wide variety of programming which spans all ages, from story time and petting zoos for children to self-defense classes, line dancing, and summer reading programs for adults. Cultural enrichment is also a priority, with initiatives like Art @ Your Library, Music @ Your Library, and the Seed Library.

Rossman closed his presentation by revisiting Carnegie’s legacy. Once the richest man in the world, Carnegie gave away over 80% of his wealth. “Be like him and give us your money” Rossman joked. “Or, if you’re not on the shortlist for richest person, give your time and talent.”

He encouraged attendees to connect with those serving on boards and commissions, including himself, to explore ways to get involved.

The luncheon wrapped with a giveaway of Rossman’s book recommendation, Whistling Vivaldi: How Stereotypes Affect Us, and a call to action from YPD’s student outreach co-chair Bailey Ginter. She introduced the YP Next Up Mentorship Program, reminding attendees that this semester’s mentees were born in 2006 and 2007. Yes, the years of High School Musical, Harry Potter, and early Taylor Swift. “Hopefully that helps with any imposter syndrome you may be feeling,” Ginter said.