Nevada’s new library director has a history rich in administration, but it might surprise people to know that her career as a librarian started just 10 years ago.
Amanda Brewer, a native of Sioux City and LeMars (from sixth grade on) was a student of social work and history, earning a bachelor’s degree in social work before being accepted into the first class of UNI’s social work graduate program in 2001.
“I completed my master’s in social work with a concentration in administration in one year, while working full-time as an administrator in a residential care facility in Waterloo,” she said.
From there, she was offered an executive director position at Denison’s WESCO Industries, which provides services to people with disabilities.
“That position (with WESCO) began my career in the administration of non-profit organizations that serve individuals with disabilities,” she said.
When she had her first and only child in 2015, Amanda wanted more time with her son, Oscar, leading her to look for a change. The Harlan Community Library needed a director, so she took a leap into the library world in 2016. “And I have loved every minute of it,” she noted.
After nine years at the helm of the Harlan library, Amanda applied for the director position at the Nevada Public Library.
“I am always attracted to smaller communities because I love how welcoming they are. Nevada feels comfortable, the people are approachable and willing to lend a hand.”
In addition, Amanda loves the way Nevada balances the “small town vibe” while keeping up with the needs and expectations of residents who enjoy the pleasures found in urban areas. “It feels like we get the best of both worlds.”
Amanda is looking forward to the future in Nevada, and will benefit from her experience in Harlan. “They (in Harlan) had a very seasoned library staff … I continue to learn best practices in library services, but most importantly, I’ve learned that a library needs to be a reflection of its community. So, I’ll focus on excellent customer service, providing literature that the community wants to read in a variety of formats to meet changing needs. I also will focus on providing community members a place to learn, play, socialize, and connect. Libraries are becoming vital places of social connection and resources, especially in rural communities.”
MORE ABOUT AMANDA BREWER:
- During her younger years, she worked three summers at Well’s Blue Bunny Ice Cream Plant
- A great book you’ve recently read? I have been bingeing audiobooks with all my travels lately. One of the most memorable was “The Butcher and the Wren” by Alaina Urquhart. It’s a bit dark, but if you enjoy a good suspense, it is worth your time to read. It also has a sequel.
- Your favorite book genres? Historical fiction, mystery, crime, dystopian, and psychological thrillers
- Your favorite authors? I have many authors I enjoy. I find myself reading Lisa Jewell regularly, Frieda McFadden, Kristin Hannah… I am a sucker for a book with an eye-catching cover.
- Besides reading, what are your other hobbies? I spend lots of time with my 9-year-old. We like fishing, exploring new places, trying new foods… He loves playing sports. I enjoy my flowerbeds, time with friends, and walking.
- Family members: son, Oscar; mother, Diane Brewer, who lives in LeMars. “She instilled in me a strong work ethic, taught me to cook, sew, quilt and do other handiwork.” Also, one sister, two nieces, one nephew, and a 1-month-old great-niece.
–Written by Marlys Barker, City of Nevada
