Kodiak Public Library Association

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About KPLA

Since 1953, the Kodiak Public Library Association has supported the mission, programs, facilities and collections of the Kodiak Public Library, through advocacy, fundraising, and public outreach.

KPLA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your contributions are tax deductible.


Be a KPLA Member

About Us  |  Our Story  |  Meet the Board  |  FAQ  |  Top

Our Story 

Over the past five decades, the Kodiak Public Library Association has worked behind the scenes to build and support two library buildings.

While our library is operated by the City of Kodiak, KPLA is a vital partner that is heavily involved in fundraising and public outreach.

 

Timeline

 

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1953: Formation

KPLA was formed to build a local library for the growing community of Kodiak and to move the library’s collection from skid shack to a permanent building.

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1956-1964: The Move Downtown

The library moved into a small shop building on the downtown school grounds for eight years until the 1964 tsunami eroded its log foundation and the building was condemned.

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1968: The First Library Building

December 8, the new A. Holmes Johnson Memorial Library was dedicated and named for a local physician who had long been a champion of library service in Kodiak, who had also been active with Rotary. The original building cost $245,000.

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1977-1993: Expansions

  • 1977: Audiovisual wing added
  • 1984: Children’s wing added
  • 1993: Alaska reference room added
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2013: Today's Library

After three years of fundraising and support from the City of Kodiak, State of Alaska, and Rasmuson Foundation, Kodiak has a new library facility at 612 Egan Way. 

About Us  |  Our Story  |  Meet the Board  |  FAQ  |  Top

Meet the Board

Mike Sirofchuck

Mike Sirofchuck

Chairperson

I got my first library card when I was six years old and I have been checking out books ever since. I joined the board because I believe in the mission and benefits of the Kodiak Public Library and I want to actively support them.
Rachel Jermann

Rachel Jermann

Secretary

I was raised by a librarian and a book binder, so my early childhood was spent “helping” in the college library or eating snacks in the university book bindery in my hometown. Libraries are an amazing resource—I joined the board because I love books and I love spreading the joy of reading! I am the Physical Therapy Director at KANA during the day. 

Patricia Ossowski

Patricia Ossowski

Treasurer

I am an avid reader. Can’t think of a better way to spread this joy than to be part of the Kodiak Public Library Association!
Bayli Berry

Bayli Berry

Board Member

I have a degree in Library and Information Sciences and have worked as a librarian in Florida and Kodiak. I have always loved the relationship between libraries and the community, and I am excited to support libraries in a new way! 

Nicole Campbell

Nicole Campbell

Board Member

I believe that one of life’s greatest gifts is the ability to read (and to be read to).  Whether reading for the purpose of being educated or to escape into other worlds (real or imaginary), it is an incredible vessel for endless opportunities to develop and challenge our minds and souls.  That public libraries make this experience possible at no cost to the community is something I’m honored to be able to support.  I joined the Board after being blown away by the Kodiak Public LIbrary’s facilities, materials, and leadership — truly impressive for any small community that no doubt rivals much larger ones — with the intention of contributing to the continuance of that excellence.
Jessica Risley

Jessica Risley

Board Member

I’ve always loved books, but as an educator, I’ve also seen how powerful access to the right books can be for students. I joined the board because I believe libraries help open doors (for readers of all ages!) and I’m excited to support that work in Kodiak.

Marti Sager

Marti Sager

Board Member

I have been on the KPLA board since November 2019. I have been one of the officers since 2020 and is currently the chairperson. I am a lifelong reader (currently favoring audio books) and enjoys being a part of an organization that celebrates and support the public library. I am an elementary teacher, and I do my best to instill reading in the lives of fourth and fifth graders.

Starr Shanley

Board Member

I have vivid memories of making regular visits to my first library with my mom.  I can still remember the library smells and feeling overwhelmed by all the books I could get! It was a place of wonderment and, even now, there is something about walking into a library that still feels the same way. 

My mother was always proud of the American public libraries and I am proud to be a KPLA board member to carry on that legacy and to support KPLA’s mission of supporting Kodiak Public Library.

Vacant Seat

Board Member

Join Our Board

Would you like to help KPLA support public library service in Kodiak through fundraising, special events, and programs? Please submit an application.

Tell Me More

About Us  |  Our Story  |  Meet the Board  |  FAQ  |  Top

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I help KPLA with its mission to support the Kodiak Public Library?

You can help us by becoming a member. We are always looking for volunteers to help with our various fund raising activities. Watch this page for volunteer opportunities.

How do I become a member of KPLA?

Any donation of $10 or above automatically enrolls you as a member. Membership is good for one year from the date of your donation. 

Become a Member

How can I join the KPLA Board of Directors?

If you are interested in joining our board and are a current member of KPLA, simply send us an email expressing your interest and why you would like to join the board.