#CPLStaffSpotlight | Chapter 8
Meet Sarah Holtkamp, Children's Librarian at Sulzer Regional Library!
What did you study in college, and how did it shape your path to becoming a librarian?
I hold a bachelor of fine arts in Theater from DePaul University. My theater training has proven invaluable — whether I’m leading an energetic story time, engaging with groups of students during school visits or facilitating programs for families. Much like being on stage, these moments require enthusiasm, creativity and the confidence to step in front of an audience and connect with people of all ages. One of the most joyful aspects of being a children’s librarian is embracing the art of playfulness and spontaneity. A willingness to be a little silly is essential! My theater background has helped me approach these moments with authenticity and joy, creating a welcoming environment where imagination and learning thrive.
Beyond performance skills, my theater education instilled in me a strong sense of collaboration and teamwork. I often think of our library’s operation, programs and large-scale events as ensemble productions: each staff member brings a unique role and talent to the process, and together we create something greater than the sum of our parts. This perspective has shaped the way I plan, organize and support my colleagues. Perhaps most importantly, my theater experience taught me the value of flexibility and adaptability. These skills are vital in the dynamic environment of a public library. No two days are ever alike. One morning we might be welcoming a kindergarten class receiving their very first library cards, and the next we could be hosting a group of seniors gathered for a lively game of mahjong (a 19th century Chinese tile game). Each day brings new interactions, new stories and new opportunities to serve our community. That sense of variety and discovery is what makes library work both meaningful and endlessly exciting.
How long have you worked at CPL and did you grow up in Chicago?
I grew up in Iowa and moved to Chicago in 2000 to attend college. Like many who come to this city, I was immediately drawn to its energy, diversity and rich sense of community. My library career began in the suburbs, where I had the opportunity to work at several public libraries before joining Chicago Public Library in 2011. I was especially compelled to work for CPL because I wanted to serve and connect with Chicago’s many vibrant and diverse neighborhoods. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working at several locations across the city including Greater Grand Crossing Branch, Douglass Branch, McKinley Park Branch, Albany Park Branch and now Sulzer Regional Library. Each neighborhood has its own unique character and charm, and getting to know Chicago through its libraries has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.
Since May 2019, I’ve had the honor of serving as the manager of the Children’s Department at Sulzer. I’m passionate about fostering a love of reading and learning among our youngest patrons and helping families feel welcome and supported at the library. As a Lincoln Square resident myself, one of the true joys of my role is being able to serve the very community I call home. Working for CPL has not only deepened my appreciation for Chicago’s diversity but also strengthened my connection to the people and neighborhoods that make this city so special.
What is your favorite part about working at Sulzer Regional Library?
As one of the busier locations within Chicago Public Library, Sulzer Regional Library is always full of energy and activity. There is truly never a dull moment here. We benefit from a large staff, extended operational hours and the capacity to offer a wide array of programs and services to meet the diverse interests of our community. This allows us to create a vibrant schedule of events that range from educational programs and cultural celebrations to hands-on workshops and family activities that bring people together and make Sulzer Regional Library a lively hub of learning and connection. Working in such a bustling environment is both invigorating and deeply rewarding. While some may imagine libraries as quiet or underused spaces, Sulzer Regional Library is anything but and there’s always something exciting happening.
One of the greatest joys of my work is watching the children in our community grow and evolve over the years. It’s a privilege to support families throughout their children’s development and to play a small part in their journey. There is something especially meaningful about seeing familiar faces return: teens walking into our YOUmedia space who were once the little ones attending my story time programs. I love watching our “story time graduates” come back as first graders on school visits, proudly showing that Sulzer Regional Library still feels like their place. Witnessing that sense of belonging and pride in their community is one of the most rewarding aspects of what I do.
I also feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside such a talented and dedicated team. Our staff is large and diverse, with each person bringing their own strengths, creativity and expertise to the table. Together, we foster an environment where collaboration thrives, ideas flourish and our shared commitment to serving the community remains at the heart of everything we do.
Sulzer Regional Library is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. What does the accomplishment mean to your team and the community? Any special programming that families should be on the lookout for?
We are truly fortunate to be part of a community that holds a deep and genuine love for its library. One of the most rewarding experiences for me is meeting parents who bring their children in to get their very first library card because often those same parents were once young readers here themselves. This beautiful cycle of connection and growth is a testament not only to the dedication and hard work of our current team, who continuously strive to provide valuable resources and meaningful programs, but also to the legacy of the library staff who came before us over the past 40 years. Their commitment laid the foundation for the wonderful services we proudly offer today.
I believe Sulzer Regional Library’s vitality reflects the health and spirit of the neighborhood it serves. For decades, it has been much more than just a place to borrow books. It has stood as a vibrant community hub and a welcoming space for people of all ages to gather, learn and grow together throughout their lives. As we celebrate this significant anniversary, it is not only a moment to honor the rich history of CPL but also a reminder of the incredible support and trust our patrons have shown throughout the years. It is because of this community support that the library continues to thrive, evolve and remain a cherished resource for generations past, present and future.
There are several upcoming programs that I am particularly excited to share. Among my favorites are our evening story time sessions, including Bilingual Storytime, opens a new window and Pajama Storytime, opens a new window. It is wonderful to see families visiting the branch after work to enjoy these engaging activities with their children. Additionally, I am looking forward to our upcoming Comic Festival, scheduled for the first weekend in December. The dedicated team organizing this event has been working diligently, developing many creative and innovative ideas to make the festival a memorable experience for all attendees. Another highlight is our annual Noon Year’s Eve celebration, which offers a unique way to welcome the new year. This event takes place on December 31, with a festive countdown at noon! We also offer a diverse range of events for adults and teens, including craft workshops, opens a new window, Dungeons & Dragons sessions and book clubs, opens a new window. There is truly something for everyone here, ensuring that our community remains engaged and connected throughout the year.
When did you know you wanted to become a Librarian?
When I graduated from college, I wasn’t entirely certain what career path I wanted to pursue. I did know, however, that I wanted to work with children and continue engaging with the world of stories and imagination that had always inspired me. I have been an avid reader for as long as I can remember and have always had a deep appreciation for children’s literature. It was actually a friend who worked for the American Library Association who first suggested, almost in passing, that I might be well-suited to a career in libraries. That casual comment sparked my curiosity, and as I began researching the field, I quickly realized it was a perfect fit. Librarianship combined everything I loved: working with people, fostering learning, promoting literacy and building community all through the shared joy of books and information.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is helping people find the answers they’re looking for. Every question feels like a small mystery waiting to be solved, and I find real satisfaction in connecting patrons with the information or story that meets their needs. If I weren’t a librarian, I like to think I’d still be solving mysteries, perhaps in a cozy coastal town in Maine, much like Jessica Fletcher from “Murder, She Wrote., opens a new window” Fortunately, I’m grateful to have found a career that feels both purposeful and endlessly engaging.
How do you identify and create programs that resonate so much with families?
One of the most essential aspects of my role as a librarian is remaining responsive to the evolving needs and interests of our patrons, who often have valuable insights and ideas about what they would like to see in the library. Listening to those perspectives and translating them into meaningful programs and services is at the heart of what I do. We offer a range of evergreen programs such as story times and LEGO Club, opens a new window that have become beloved staples of our community and that families look forward to each week. However, it is equally important to evaluate who is attending our programs and who is not. By observing attendance patterns, engaging directly with patrons and staying attuned to community feedback, I strive to identify gaps in our outreach and programming to better serve all members of our neighborhood.
Staying aware of broader cultural moments and community events is another vital part of this work. Families are often looking for enriching, enjoyable activities they can experience together, and there are few places as welcoming, inclusive and accessible as Chicago Public Library. In a time when the cost of entertainment and educational experiences can be a barrier for many families, our ability to offer free, high-quality programs is profoundly meaningful. Whether it’s a summer kick-off celebration, a cultural festival or a hands-on creative workshop, I see these events as opportunities to build connections, celebrate diversity and bring joy to our patrons.
Collaboration is also central to the success of our programming. I am fortunate to work alongside an exceptionally talented and creative team of librarians who continually inspire me with their ideas and enthusiasm. I make it a priority to collaborate closely with my colleagues, drawing on their expertise, experiences and perspectives to design programs that are engaging, inclusive and impactful. Together, we strive to ensure that the library remains a vibrant, welcoming space that reflects the interests and needs of our entire community.
What is one thing you wish people knew about CPL that they might not know?
One of the principles I deeply believe in is that Chicago Public Library is truly a place for everyone. In today’s world, there are few spaces that welcome all individuals without exception and provide free access to a wide array of resources and services. Public libraries serve as vital community anchors, offering not only physical materials but also a wealth of digital resources including audiobooks and e-books accessible through platforms like Libby, opens a new window, as well as numerous specialized databases, opens a new window that patrons can conveniently use from their own homes. Beyond being repositories of knowledge, libraries function as essential community spaces. Many Library locations, including ours, offer meeting rooms, opens a new window where local groups can gather, discuss important issues and foster dialogue around shared interests and concerns. This openness to community engagement helps strengthen the social fabric and ensures that Chicago Public Library remains a hub for connection, learning and civic participation.
I am particularly passionate about the principle of intellectual freedom, which is central to the role of librarianship. As a youth librarian for a library system in which all library locations are Book Sanctuaries, opens a new window, I am acutely aware of the challenges posed by attempts to restrict or ban certain books. Often, these challenges arise from differing opinions about what is considered “appropriate” for young readers. It is important to recognize that intellectual freedom means respecting diverse perspectives and ensuring that young people have access to a broad spectrum of ideas and stories that reflect the complexity of our society. Being a librarian means serving as a dedicated steward of information. This responsibility entails carefully collecting, managing and protecting a diverse range of materials to ensure that our patrons have access to high-quality, reliable and meaningful content. Our role is not only to provide information but to uphold the principles of equity, inclusion and intellectual freedom, thereby empowering individuals to explore, learn and form their own informed viewpoints.
What are some of your favorite hobbies or interests?
I have a diverse range of hobbies that keep me inspired, curious and engaged in both relaxation and personal growth. One of my favorite pastimes is working on puzzles, which provide a wonderful way to unwind while exercising my problem-solving skills. Alongside this, I enjoy listening to podcasts, which allow me to explore new ideas and learn about a wide variety of topics. A passion that truly enriches my daily life is what I like to call “beauty hunting,” which is a mindful practice of seeking out and appreciating the natural beauty that surrounds us. I enjoy taking leisurely walks around my neighborhood. Lately, I have been focusing on learning to identify different tree species.
As an avid museum enthusiast, I am proud to be a member of both the Art Institute of Chicago and the Chicago Botanic Garden. I make it a priority to visit these cultural institutions regularly, immersing myself in their rich collections and exhibitions. Theater also holds a special place in my heart. Having been a “theater kid” from a young age, I maintain a strong connection to the performing arts by attending at least one production each month. Supporting Chicago's vibrant local theater scene is important to me, and these experiences offer a wonderful blend of storytelling, community and inspiration.
What are you currently reading?
I'm currently working my way through "Book and Dagger, opens a new window" by Elyse Graham. It's an outstanding work of nonfiction that tells the true story of how a small group of academics (including librarians and archivists) were recruited by U.S. intelligence agencies and played a pivotal role in shaping the foundations of modern intelligence.
I'm also re-reading Lucy Maud Montgomery's, opens a new window Anne of Green Gables series. I was a huge fan of the books as a kid, and this summer I finally made the pilgrimage to Prince Edward Island to live out my Anne daydreams. Being on the island was such a special experience and now I’m revisiting all my favorite characters with fresh eyes.
As a youth librarian, I read a lot of books intended for children and teens. They're often just as compelling (and more fun) as books for adults. I’m currently serving on one of CPL’s Best of the Best, opens a new window committees which compiles the best books for adult, teen and kid audiences each year. This year I’m part of the team focusing on informational books for young readers. I’m a big fan of nonfiction, and I love seeing how authors and illustrators bring complex topics to life for younger (and older!) audiences. Two of my favorites from my reading this year are "When a Tree Falls: Nurse Logs and their Incredible Forest Power, opens a new window" by Kristen Pendreigh and "Make a Pretty Sound: A Story of Ella Jenkins, opens a new window" by Traci N. Todd. Both books are about topics near and dear to my heart and I thoroughly enjoyed diving in with their beautiful illustrations and text. Up next in my "grown-up" reading queue is "Cue the Sun, opens a new window" by Emily Nussbaum. As a longtime reality TV enthusiast, I’m especially excited for this one as it’s a cultural history of reality television and I can’t wait to dive in.
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