An original podcast from the Michigan Library Association and Library Cooperatives of Michigan, featuring inspiring and interesting stories, emphasizing the importance of these narratives in understanding the value of librarianship.
Library Leadership in Action: What’s Shaping Michigan Libraries
Host Dillon Geshel interviews Jenny Marr and Steven Bowers, who examine the evolving role of Michigan libraries in community engagement, intellectual freedom, and adapting to challenges like censorship and staff retention.
11 Sept 2025
Literacy and Leadership: Building Community Through Librarianship
Host Dillon Geshel and Christine Peele interview Susan Taylor, branch manager at the Detroit Public Library, about building community through librarianship and the future of libraries.
14 Aug 2025
Community First: Strengthening Services in a Resource-Limited Library
Hosts Dillon Geshel and Kate Pohjola Andrade interview Clinton Township Public Library Director Mary Gallup about strengthening library services with limited resources and fostering community connections.
10 Jul 2025
Small-Town Innovation: Renovating and Reimagining the Library Experience
Library director Briynne McCrea discusses her journey transforming the Bad Axe Area District Library through renovation and community engagement with hosts Dillon Geshel and Kate Van Auken in this interview.
12 Jun 2025
From Small Town Roots to Library Leadership: Defending Access and Inspiring Community
In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Jennifer Balcom talk with Tracy Logan-Walker, director of Cadillac Wexford Public Library in Cadillac, Michigan. Tracy reflects on her journey from small-town beginnings to a career in librarianship, sharing the early influences that shaped her path. She highlights the vital role libraries play in their communities, recalls meaningful moments from her career, and addresses current challenges—including the fight for intellectual freedom and the spread of misinformation. Tracy also shares her hopes and excitement for the evolving future of libraries.
Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings.
8 May 2025
Creating Safe Spaces: Outreach, Inclusion, and the Modern Library
In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Mallorie DeVilbiss talk with Olivia Olson, head of community engagement at the Troy Public Library. Olivia reflects on her early love of libraries and the path that led her into library work. She shares how the community engagement department came to life and how programs like the bookmobile and the English Language Learners Book Club are expanding the library’s reach. From serving diverse communities to creating safe, welcoming spaces, Olivia offers insight into the evolving role of libraries and the powerful connections they foster. Her stories of working with patrons and her vision for the future remind us why libraries remain essential pillars of community life.
Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings.
10 Apr 2025
From Shelves to Support: Evolving the Library Experience
In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Andrea Estelle sit down with Sarah Skinner, director of the Bridgman Public Library in Bridgman, Michigan. Sarah reflects on her path to library leadership, sharing key moments that shaped her career and community impact. She highlights standout initiatives like Project Connect, and discusses the evolving role of libraries as vital hubs for connection, support, and access to essential services. The conversation also touches on the challenges libraries face today, including funding concerns and the ongoing push to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings.
13 Mar 2025
Cataloging Change: The Evolving Role of Libraries
In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Dillon Geshel sit down with Amanda Griggs, cataloger and technical services specialist at Dickinson County Library in Iron Mountain, Michigan. Amanda shares her journey from childhood library visits to becoming a key player in cataloging and technical services. She discusses the evolving role of libraries, public misconceptions, and the essential services they provide to communities. The conversation also delves into challenges like book bans and the ongoing fight to ensure open access to information.
Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings.
13 Feb 2025
How Libraries Serve as Community Hubs
In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Steven K. Bowers sit down with Azita Frattarelli, director and youth librarian at the Riverview Veterans Memorial Library in Riverview, Michigan. Azita shares her journey from journalism to librarianship, her earliest library memory, and the meaningful relationships she’s built with patrons. The discussion explores how libraries have evolved into vital community hubs and emphasizes the power of kindness and connection in serving the public.
Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings.
9 Jan 2025
Strengthening Communities Through Libraries
In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Carol Dawe sit down with Virginia DeMumbrum, director of the White Lake Community Library, to explore her inspiring journey from children’s librarian to community leader. Motivated by her children’s needs, Virginia has transformed the library into a hub of impactful programs, including evening storytimes, resources for non-English speakers, and community events like the beloved "one long table." She shares her vision for improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities, expanding library services, and integrating sustainable initiatives such as solar panels. Virginia also reflects on the power of community support within Michigan’s library system and the meaningful relationships she’s built with patrons over the years.
Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings.
12 Dec 2024
Fostering Learning and Connection through Libraries
In this episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Linda Adams chat with Peter Wurdock—musician, award-winning photographer, author, and library assistant at the Tahquamenon Area Library in Newberry, Michigan. Pete shares his inspiring journey from studying at a music conservatory to becoming a passionate advocate for libraries. He explores the vital role libraries play as community hubs, particularly in small, underserved towns like Newberry, and discusses how librarians spark a love for reading and lifelong learning. Pete also addresses the challenges libraries face, including staffing cuts and the transition to digital resources, while sharing his unwavering dedication to creating meaningful services and experiences for patrons of all ages.
Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings.
14 Nov 2024
Building Community and Embracing Innovation
In this inaugural episode, hosts Debbie Mikula and Eric Palmer welcome Ryan Tackabury, the new director of Ruth Hughes Memorial District Library in Imlay City, Michigan. With over 20 years in library services, Ryan shares his journey from starting as a high school library page to becoming a library director. He discusses his vision of libraries as essential community hubs, his passion for serving people, and the meaningful connections he’s made along the way. Ryan also delves into his family’s deep ties to libraries, his experiences with digital services and tech outreach—especially with senior patrons—and how community feedback has shaped his work. Looking to the future, he reflects on both the challenges and exciting opportunities ahead for libraries.
Chapter & Verse is produced by Association Briefings.
11 Sept 2024
Chapter & Verse Trailer
The Michigan Library Association and Library Cooperatives of Michigan present Chapter and Verse: Story Time from the Stacks. Join us as we feature inspiring and interesting stories, emphasizing the importance of these narratives in understanding the value of librarianship. Check out the trailer for season one!
Who has been a guest on Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Jenny Marr
Steven Bowers
Susan Taylor
Mary Gallup
Briynne McCrea
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
6 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 14 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
15
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
Contact Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Questions about Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks
Who hosts Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks?
Dillon Geshel host the show. Published by mlapodcast.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes weekly, based on its RSS feed.
Does Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks take guests?
Yes. Guests have been identified in episode analyses.
Host of Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
