Kip M Roberson, Western Representative

Teton County Library, Jackson, Wyoming


Professional Background

Kip graduated in 1989 with his MLS from Indiana University's School of Library & Information Science. His career has taken him across the country and internationally, from reference librarian positions in Northwest Indiana to director roles in New England, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Oregon, with a notable stint as Public Services Manager at Ajax Public Library in suburban Toronto and as Midwest Regional Manager for Seattle Public Library. Throughout his journey, he has consistently been drawn back to small and rural libraries, where relationships, creativity, and adaptability matter every day.Headshot of Kip Roberson.
 
Today, Kip serves as the Director of Library Services for the Teton County Library in Jackson, Wyoming, where the Library is truly beloved by the community. In addition to his director responsibilities, he serves on the Wyoming Library Association's Legislative Committee and is currently president of the WYLD Network's (statewide consortium) governing board. Kip holds an M.L.S. from Indiana University at Bloomington, a B.S. in Finance from the University of Southern Indiana, and an A.S. in Business Administration from Vincennes University.
He is a firm believer in continuing education and lifelong learning, having participated in numerous training workshops, webinars, and library conferences over the years. His experience spans community-centered service, strategic planning, and responsible stewardship of limited resources, with a strong focus on helping libraries thrive despite geographic, financial, and political challenges.
 
What inspired you to get involved with the ARSL board?
I was inspired to get involved with the ARSL board because ARSL has always felt like a professional home for people working in rural and small libraries. ARSL truly reflects the realities of our work—resourceful, relationship-driven, and deeply rooted in community. I want to help give back to this organization that has provided connection, support, and practical guidance, and to help ensure rural library voices continue to be heard and valued at the national level.
 
"My current role keeps me closely connected to the day-to-day realities of rural and small libraries—balancing community expectations, limited budgets, staffing challenges, and evolving service needs."
 
This hands-on experience directly informs my work on the ARSL board, grounding strategic discussions in practical, on-the-ground perspectives. It allows me to advocate for programs, professional development, policies, and other organizational and member needs that are realistic, supportive, and truly useful to library workers serving their small and rural communities.
 
Why is ARSL's mission important to you?
ARSL's mission is important to me because I see every day how rural and small libraries serve as essential, trusted spaces—often filling gaps far beyond traditional library services. Working in a rural community has shown me how isolating this work can be without strong networks and shared expertise. ARSL's commitment to connection, practical support, and advocacy ensures that rural library workers are not working alone, and that the unique strengths of small and rural communities are recognized and supported.
 
I have served on ARSL's Grants, Awards, and Scholarships Committee for four years, helping expand recognition for individual members and libraries. Co-emceeing the Awards Luncheon has been especially rewarding, giving me a front-row seat to the heartfelt pride and excitement of winners. Being part of this work allows me to celebrate and support the remarkable contributions of rural and small libraries.
 
My vision for ARSL's future is an organization that continues to be the go-to resource, advocate, and community for rural and small libraries and their staff members, helping them thrive despite geographic, financial, or political challenges. I'm especially passionate about initiatives that expand access to professional development, mentorship, and recognition programs, ensuring all libraries—regardless of size or location—have the tools and support they need to serve their communities effectively. I also hope to see ARSL strengthen its role as a collective voice for rural libraries in advocacy and policy discussions at the state and national levels.
 
What are your favorite library programs and personal interests?
Outside of work, I love exploring new places—aspiring one day to follow in the footsteps of Rick Steves! I'm also a devoted coffee enthusiast and enjoy discovering new wines, often pairing my travels with local coffee shops and vineyards whenever I can. My adventures are most enjoyable when experienced with my partner and our awesome bulldog Ella!
 
I enjoy a mix of genres, including horror (especially Stephen King), travel books, and historical nonfiction. I love stories that transport me to new places, explore human resilience, or reveal fascinating insights from the past (from which I hope I learn and grow).
 
My favorite library program, or rather service, has been partnering with the local Wonder Institute to create our library's first makerspace, the WonderLab, which includes a recording studio. Seeing community members of all ages explore, create, and experiment in a space designed for hands-on learning has been incredibly rewarding.

 

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