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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.
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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
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.
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.
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.
1977-1993: Expansions
- 1977: Audiovisual wing added
- 1984: Children’s wing added
- 1993: Alaska reference room added
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.
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Meet the Board
Marti Sager
Chairperson
Marylynn McFarland
Vice Chairperson
I have been a board member for approximately two years. I am happy being a part of the KPLA team and working on ways to support our local Kodiak library and making books available to the community. In my experience with thrift shops, local school libraries, and bookstores, I have seen the plethora of books that are looking for readers and homes. KPLA is able to recycle these books into the little libraries, book sales, and interest groups in the community. I like that!
Mike Sirofchuk
Secretary
Patricia Ossowski
Treasurer
Abigail Hanna
Board Member
Melissa Haffeman
Board Member
Over time, I have seen more and more the deep meaning of Kodiak’s library and the role that KPLA plays in our community. I’m happy and honored to be a part of this organization which seeks to provide such enrichment to Kodiak and supports a celebration of literacy. I’m a graduate of Kodiak High School and am the founder and co-owner of The Islander Bookshop.
Brian Himmelbloom
Board Member
Rachel Jermann
Board Member
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.
Roberta Austring
Board Member
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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.
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.