Sara Wilson
Sara Wilson is a dedicated Consultant and Program Coordinator at the Southwest Kansas Library System, where she supports over 32 libraries serving approximately 103,000 residents across southwest Kansas. With a strong foundation in library science and operational guidance, Sara empowers member libraries through strategic training, program development, and robust support systems. She is deeply committed to advocating for equity, access, literacy, and lifelong learning, serving as the system’s accreditation and continuing education liaison. Sara’s career spans various roles in library management, including acting library director and collection specialist, where she has driven innovation in programming, resource management, and community engagement. A graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a Bachelor of Science in Education in Library Science, she combines her academic knowledge with hands-on experience to enhance library services and foster community connections. Sara is also passionate about inclusive programming and continuous professional development, contributing to workshops and system-wide initiatives that promote literacy and educational growth.
• Getting Started with Artificial Intelligence
• Introduction to Trauma-Informed Care
• Career Essentials in Generative AI by Microsoft and LinkedIn
• University of Nebraska at Omaha - B.S.Ed.
• Dodge City Community College - AA
• Emporia State University - MLS
• Kansas Library Association
• American Library Association
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from Erica Rose at the University of Nebraska Omaha. She always emphasized the importance of recognizing the difference between a program that is truly built for you and one that isn’t. That insight has stayed with me throughout my career. It reminded me to stay focused on how to best serve the patrons or end users—and to find ways to make programs and systems work for both them and for myself. It’s about staying adaptable while always keeping the bigger purpose in mind.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to prioritize gaining hands-on experience. While education is valuable, real-world experience is truly essential to success in this industry. You can earn advanced degrees, but there’s no substitute for the insight and confidence that comes from working directly in the environment. I highly recommend volunteering or interning at a library while you're pursuing your education. It’s a great way to build practical skills, understand the day-to-day realities of the profession, and make meaningful connections that can support your growth.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are creativity, inclusiveness, equity, and diversity. I believe it’s essential to be a good person who stays connected to others and fosters collaboration. Embracing diverse perspectives and working together not only enriches the environment but also drives meaningful and innovative outcomes.