College News

Barton Library launches new ambassador program

Dr. Kacie Garstecki addresses faculty and staff at the Barton Library Open House, where she was introduced as the college’s first Library Ambassador, a volunteer role focused on outreach and community engagement.
Dr. Kacie Garstecki addresses faculty and staff at the Barton Library Open House, where she was introduced as the college’s first Library Ambassador, a volunteer role focused on outreach and community engagement.

August 22, 2025
Story and photo by Maggie Harris

The Barton Community College Library has launched a new Library Ambassador Program, designed to strengthen relationships and outreach with area public and high school libraries and communities across the region.

Dr. Kacie Garstecki has been named the first Library Ambassador and will serve as a bridge between Barton’s library and the wider community. In this volunteer role, she will collaborate with area public and school libraries, host events to encourage reading, and highlight the wide range of services available to both students and community members through the Barton Library.

The new program and Garstecki’s role as ambassador were announced at the library’s recent open house for faculty and staff, where attendees learned more about upcoming initiatives and community engagement efforts.

“The goal of the Library Ambassador Program is to help people become more familiar with all the Barton Library offers,” she said. “Whether that’s access to resources, spaces, or just fostering a deeper love of books and reading.”

Another primary focus for Garstecki will be strengthening community connections.

“We also hope to spark interest in improving reading skills, promote service to our libraries, and encourage people to see the library as a vital hub for learning and connection,” she said.

The Barton Library offers a wide range of resources accessible to community members, including books, research databases, study spaces, and technology tools. In addition to connecting patrons with these resources, the Library Ambassador plans to host a few events throughout the year, such as reading challenges, book clubs, and collaborative programs with local schools and public libraries.

The new volunteer program is part of Barton’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities and strengthening community partnerships throughout Barton County and its service area.

For more information about the Barton Library or its community resources, visit bartonccc.edu/library or contact library staff at (620) 792-9365.