Benjamin Franklin is credited with founding America’s first lending library and being the predecessor of the free public library. Public libraries are one of the few truly public places left in America – places that are inclusive and that welcome everyone. But they aren’t without challenges such as inadequate funding, book ban battles, and becoming less a repository for books and more all-purpose community centers offering community interaction and access to social services, in addition to traditional materials and programs. Local libraries are no exception. On Saturday, April 12, the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Oakdale, Riverbank, Escalon Branch will hear from Stanislaus County Librarian, Sarah Dentan, on how local free public libraries are handling all these roles.
The upcoming meeting is open to members, guests and prospective members and will be held in a member’s home on Saturday, April 12 starting at 10 a.m.
Individuals wanting more information about the meeting or about AAUW’s mission can email membership director Gail Marganelli at gmarganelli@att.net.
Promoting reading and literacy is still a primary focus for the library. As such, Dentan will discuss the state of book challenges and related legislation nationally, and the passage of the California Freedom to Read Act, including the bill’s context, history and requirements. She will also discuss how the library builds and maintains a collection designed to serve a community of diverse needs, perspectives, and interests, including addressing community concerns. Additionally, she will bring us up to date on the recent funding changes to the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), an independent agency of the United States federal government whose mission is “to advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grant making, research, and policy development.”
Dentan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from Cornell University, and a Master of Library Science degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo.
After a brief stint as a Teen Services Librarian in Texas, Dentan served as a Teen Services Librarian in Stanislaus County from 1996 to 1999. Since that time, she has gained a range of knowledge and experience working in libraries in Sacramento, Berkeley and the United Kingdom. She was appointed Stanislaus County Library Director in October 2019,
Focused on providing excellent customer service and community-centered materials and programming, Dentan has managed a wide range of public services. In addition to overseeing adult and family literacy programs and youth services, she has implemented research-based early childhood development programs and comprehensive Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education initiative for all ages.
Currently, Dentan is focusing on a number of library refurbishment projects, including a major renovation of the Modesto Library. She is also working with staff to implement the Library’s new Strategic Plan, supporting a vibrant reading community, ensuring access to resources, and fostering community.
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) advances gender equity for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy. Branch information is at http://ore-ca.aauw.net or by emailing the branch at AAUW.ORE@gmail.com. Graduates holding an associates or higher degree from an institution of the AAUW list of qualified institutions and persons holding an honorary degree are eligible for membership in AAUW.
