Nordonia Library back in full force with new branch manager, programs

by Laura Bednar

Many community services were negatively affected by the pandemic, including local libraries like Nordonia Hills. The library has since returned to in-person programming and hired a new branch manager, Sarah Rosenberger.

Rosenberger came to the library in the spring, taking on the role of adult librarian in addition to branch manager. Previously, she worked at the Akron main library for 10 years as a teen librarian and assistant youth services coordinator. She also spent five years at the Cleveland Heights library, also working with teens and youth.

“This is my first adult services position and I’m enjoying it,” Rosenberger said.

She chose Nordonia because she is still in the Cleveland area and said the library is “the best of both worlds between Cleveland and Akron.” She also noted that the library is close to Cuyahoga Valley National Park and she is hoping to partner with it in future programming.

“Everyone is so friendly,” she said. “It’s nice having multiple communities the library serves.”

Rosenberger said her first five months have been great, as she transitioned from teen to adult librarian.

“I still love teens; they get a bad rap,” she said. “It was time for a change and for younger folks to work with them.”

As the only adult librarian at the branch, she runs all adult programming, including creative crafting for adults and teens, three different adult book clubs and a Socrates discussion group, to name a few.

“There are always interesting perspectives being shared,” Rosenberger said. As an avid reader, she enjoys the book club choices, especially mysteries. She also works with the Friends of the Nordonia Hills Library, Nordonia Hills Community Connection and the Nordonia Hills Chamber of Commerce.

After a pause due to the pandemic, she has again started outreach to senior living communities. Most recently, she created a “Jeopardy” game for residents and is planning an autumn-themed poetry event this fall.

Rosenberger hopes to ramp up library programming, including musical performances and speaker presentations. The staff is already working on a 25th anniversary celebration of the library building in 2024. Rosenberger’s loudest message is that the library is back and open to all. “Feel free to share your thoughts and ideas about the library,” she said.