The Northwest Branch Library unites staff from the former Dayton View, Ft. McKinley and Northtown-Shiloh Branches under one new roof. It takes a group effort to run the largest and busiest Branch in the Dayton Metro Library system! Our Children and Teen Services Librarians conduct hundreds of programs that keep kids engaged in learning activities, from preschool storytimes to computer coding for teens. Staff members teach lively computer classes and can meet individually with patrons who want one-on-one assistance. The two Northwest Branch managers and staff will continue to grow partnerships with area schools, daycare centers and community organizations that were developed by the three previous Libraries.
Ms. Taste started her career as a Library Aide at Madden Hills while still in school. Since then, she has worked in a variety of positions, departments, and locations all across the Dayton Metro Library system. Sharon believes, "The field of Librarianship is one of the most rewarding careers with open door opportunities for inspiring individuals to achieve their endeavors, strengthen communities and explore tools for navigating this journey called life. I try to live by the saying 'If not me, then who? If not now, when?'"
Bradley Kuykendall is the new Assistant Branch Manager at the Northwest branch. He was previously the Reference and Instruction Librarian at Lincoln University in Jefferson City, MO. As a military child born in Anchorage, AK he has lived or visited over half the country. Bradley earned his MLIS from the University of Illinois in Champaign/ Urbana. He is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity inc. He is a believer that libraries are the gateways to culture and knowledge where activities and services creates a community of creativity and innovation.
The first step in making the Northwest Library a reality began with conversations with the Library patrons, neighbors and neighborhood groups, and partners including the Phoenix Group, Salem Avenue Business District, and Dayton Public Schools. The shared vision was a 21st century facility that would be a neighborhood anchor and greater Dayton destination, celebrating the site’s rich history.
To deliver on that vision, the new Library houses a Rookwood Fountain from Fairview High School, as a tribute to the institution that long sat on that site. In addition, the Library’s first long-term Opportunity Space partner will be the Funk Music Hall and Fame and Exhibition Center. The Funk Center will host rotating displays and programs related to Dayton’s funk legacy and the history of funk music.
The staff at the Northwest Branch will continue the partnerships to schools, daycare centers, and other organizations developed at the three branches that are coming together and look forward to building new partnerships made possible by this wonderful new civic commons.
The Northwest Branch Library unites the former Dayton View, Ft. McKinley and Northtown-Shiloh Branches into one new facility proudly serving the Northwest Dayton community. It is the largest Branch in the Dayton Metro Library system. Opened in April 2016, the Branch offers the best of both new and traditional Library services, with plenty of spaces for exploring, learning and gathering. It features a meadow-themed Children’s Area and four art installations created specifically for this Library. Learn More