by Zach Miller
Quick Summary
The Minitex Policy Advisory Council advises the Minnesota Office of Higher Education and Minitex in the planning, development, and evaluation of Minitex programs and services. The council has six new members in 2024, including Scott Duimstra, who represents Metro Area Public Libraries.
Scott Duimstra is the library director at Hennepin County Library. He is in his first three-year term representing Metro Area Public Libraries on the Policy Advisory Council. Representatives may serve up to two terms.
What got you interested in library work?
When I was in high school, I started working as a shelver at my local library (Grand Rapids Public Library in Grand Rapids, Michigan). By working at the library, I saw how rewarding it was for staff. I went on to get my degree and then worked as a librarian, head of technical services, assistant director and library director. I’ve worked in libraries now for almost 30 years.
How do you feel your current organization and the staff you work with make a difference in your community?
I see the difference they make every day. Most recently, we started a service called Let’s Read. Through the program, K-5 students who are 6 months – 2.5 years behind grade level in reading proficiency can get 1:1 tutoring at 6 of our locations. The tutoring is based on science of reading and assessments are taken throughout the tutoring to see how the students are progressing. The feedback we’ve received from this program has been truly inspiring. Students and their families feel a connection to reading, literacy and, in turn, our libraries.
How do you hope to be a voice for your constituency on the Policy Advisory Council?
I hope to be a voice for my constituency by advocating for the needs and interests of public libraries in the Twin Cities metropolitan area.
