After searching this summer for just the right person, the Garfield County Libraries hired Jesse Henning as the new branch manager of the Rifle Branch Library.

While Henning is new to the Garfield County area, he is well-versed in libraries. Most recently he served as youth services librarian at the Westerville Public Library in Ohio. Henning has a master’s of library and information science, and is currently working on a master’s of public administration, both from Kent State University in Ohio.

While recently searching a new position in libraries, Colorado had been on his short list of places to look. But it was the Rifle Branch Library’s building and people that ultimately made his decision.

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“It really was … the one I kept coming back to just because it gave that warm fuzzy feeling,” Henning said.

When asked about the importance of libraries, Henning acknowledged the collection of books, but also said libraries “create an area where people find a sense of community.”

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And community seems to be a key point for Henning. In Ohio he most enjoyed doing outreach in the local schools.

And in Rifle he’s looking forward to a smaller, tight-knit community where he can partner with more schools, nonprofits and other organizations.

“We are looking forward to Jesse’s approach to librarianship, which is a mix of high energy customer service and outreach to the community. Jesse impressed us all with his wit, intelligence and subtle sense of humor,” said Sandi Kister, interim executive director for the Rifle Branch Library.

It’s clear that Henning is passionate about libraries, but he also enjoys hiking and gaming. He refers to himself as a “board game nerd,” and said he is excited about the TableTop Game Nights on Wednesdays at the library.

If you ask for a book recommendation, he might just give you three. But his favorite children’s book is “Dear Zoo” by Rod Campbell.

“If you haven’t read ‘Dear Zoo’ to a kid, you need to … immediately,” Henning said.

If you visit the Rifle Branch Library please help us welcome Jesse Henning by saying “hi.”