Rockford Public Library
The Rockford Public Library Podcast brings the heart of our community's literary world directly to you. Join us for engaging conversations with authors, local historians, community leaders, and library experts as we explore diverse perspectives, celebrate storytelling, and give you a behind the scenes look at library operations. Each episode offers insights into books, community resources, upcoming events, and the many ways the Rockford Public Library serves as a hub for learning, creativity, and connection. Whether you're a lifelong library goer or new to the Rockford community, this podcast invites you to discover the transformative power of libraries in today's world. Subscribe now to be part of our ongoing story at Rockford Public Library.
Episodes
14 episodes
Threads that Bind: Celebrating Ramadan Through Global Fashion
We’re proud to partner with the Muslim Women of Rockford to celebrate culture, connection, and community at Rockford Public Library. In our latest podcast episode, Bridget Finn sits down with Sameena Zahurullah to talk about the spe...
Early African Americans in Rockford (1834–1871): Uncovering Untold Stories
We're talking with Rockford Public Library librarian, Sarah Stumpf, about the book African Americans in Early Rockford (1834-1871). This groundbreaking book uncovers the lives, strength, and contributions of Rockford’s earliest Black residents—...
Rockford Reads: Curated by Your Library Crew
Join us as Rockford Public Library staff share their top picks in three exciting genres: biography, mystery, and science fiction. Whether you’re curious about inspiring life stories, love unraveling thrilling whodunits, or ...
Pop, Paradox, and Found Objects: A Conversation with Local Artist Brett Whitacre
Join us as we sit down with local artist Brett Whitacre to explore his exhibition, Everything’s Fine: cheerfully poking at the disconnect between bright pop imagery and underlying struggles. Brett shares the inspirations behind h...
Silenced & Significant– A Conversation with Dave Pedersen on Banned and Challenged Books
Banned, controversial, essential—Army veteran, poet, author, and owner of the independent bookstore Maze Books, Dave Pedersen joins the RPL Podcast to explore the power of these books. Stay tuned for a great conversation and hear...
Who Chooses the books? An interview with RPL Librarian Sarah Stumpf
Ever wonder how Rockford Public Library decides which books make it to the shelves — and how that affects you as a reader? In this episode, I talk with Adult Collections librarian Sarah Stumpf about the behind-the-scenes process of bui...
A New Chapter at the Library–Meet the New Executive Director Anthony Cortez
We’re excited to introduce you to Anthony Cortez, the new Executive Director of the Rockford Public Library. With a strong background in IT and finance, Anthony is stepping into a role that’s all about connection, creativity, and community impa...
Smart Library Hacks: Go Digital and Save Big
In this episode, we’re joined by Katelyn Coombes, Digital Content Specialist at the Rockford Public Library, who shares the inside scoop on the library’s digital offerings. From free e-books and audiobooks to powerful online databases, Katelyn ...
60 Years of Library Service: A Conversation with Jean Lythgoe
Jean Lythgoe began her career at Rockford Public Library at just 18 years old. Six decades later, she's become a beloved fixture and true legend of the institution. In this episode, we sit down with Jean to explore how libraries have transforme...
Fabled Forms: Kristin Beyers’ Dragon Installation in Rockford
Artist Kristin Beyers joins us to share the story behind her enchanting dragon installation at the Rockford Public Library — a blend of fantasy, sculpture, and community magic that brings mythical creatures to life among the bookshelves....
Book Your Summer: Rockford's Summer Reading Challenge Explained
Join us for an exciting dive into the Rockford Public Library's Summer Reading Challenge! In this episode, we sit down with Erin Birdsong, the Youth Services Manager who's bringing an epic reading adventure to life. Whether you're a curious kid...
What the Bioswale? Ecological Solutions with Rebecca Olson
We welcome to the podcast Rebecca Olson, a passionate conservationist who has dedicated her career to land and water preservation throughout Northern Illinois and beyond. As the founder and president of Olson Ecological Solutions, a woman-owned...
Community Spaces: More Than Just Books - An Interview with Rockford Public Library Executive Director Lynn Stainbrook
Join Bridget Finn, RPL Marketing Director, as she sits down with Library Executive Director Lynn Stainbrook to explore the inspiring vision behind the new main library. Discover how thoughtful design and a commitment to accessibility are transf...
Historian, Dr. Kat Williams and her book All the Way: The Life of Baseball Trailblazer Maybelle Blair
Join us for an exhilarating conversation with Lara Griffin, RPL podcast host, and historian Dr. Kat Williams. Women's baseball has been a lifelong passion for Kat, beginning when she was a girl playing in the streets and fields around her home....