Years ago, I stepped into Carnegie Library for a college assignment, expecting a straightforward study of library layouts and materials. But the moment I walked through those doors, I felt a warmth that went far beyond the building itself. Cozy, quaint, and clearly loved, Carnegie Library felt like a storybook version of what a small-town library should be. Ever since, it’s been my picture-perfect vision of a community-centered library, serving Ritzville and its surrounding towns with heart.
Hello there! My name is Stefani Kanzler, and I’m thrilled to introduce myself as your new Library Assistant II. I grew up in the Sprague/Lamont area and spent countless summers in the Lind/Ritzville area, with my grandparents. I spend my days as the librarian and IT coordinator for Sprague/Lamont School, where over the years I have taught library skills, computers, robotics, and coding for both elementary and high school students. I live with my family on a small homestead where we raise and prepare all our own food, and last spring, I graduated from Western Governors University. When I saw an opening here at Carnegie, I felt it calling to me. This library, which left such a lasting impression on me over a decade ago, was a perfect fit for the next chapter of my life—and I couldn’t be happier to be here!
Over the past few months, I’ve been amazed by the dedication of this team and all the wonderful services they offer—some of which I never knew existed! Carnegie truly is a community gem, a place where people come together to share, learn, and grow.
One program I’m especially excited to dive into is Liquid Lit! If you haven’t heard, Liquid Lit is Carnegie’s monthly book club, where we gather to discuss our latest read over a delicious meal at Mi Jalisco. It’s an evening filled with food, friendship, and lively conversation—a perfect blend of literary love and local flavor.
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, Liquid Lit will be taking a cozy little break for November—but don’t fret! We’ll be back in December with a brand-new book to enjoy together. Keep an eye out at the library, around town, or on our social media for the December book pick. Once it’s chosen, you’ll be able to check it out right here at the library! If you’re a digital reader, we’ve got you covered—many of our selections are available on Libby, our digital library app. Some titles are even available on Libby as audiobooks, so you can listen while you cook, commute, or simply relax!
And here’s a little something extra: if you can’t join us in person for Liquid Lit, you can still join in the fun on the Fable app, where we chat about the standout moments and themes that capture our attention as we read. It’s a lovely way to stay connected, even from afar!
If you’ve got a book in mind that you’d love for us to read, please share it with us! Swing by the library, drop us a message on social media, or bring your idea to a Liquid Lit gathering in person. I’m so excited to embark on this new reading adventure with all of you, and I can’t wait to see where our stories will take us!
