Shari Petresky, a name well-known in the Hermosa Beach community, is far more than just the librarian who manages shelves of books. She represents the heart and soul of a thriving community hub that fosters learning, creativity, and connection. Hermosa Beach may be famed for its scenic ocean views and laid-back coastal lifestyle, but behind the doors of its local library, Petresky has been working tirelessly to build a space that offers more than just the traditional roles of a library.
This article delves into the life and career of Shari Petresky, exploring her journey to becoming Hermosa Beach’s librarian, her commitment to the local community, and her role in revitalizing the concept of public libraries in the digital age. Through her leadership, Hermosa Beach Library has become a place where information, inspiration, and collaboration come together. We will also take a closer look at how Petresky has adapted the library’s services to meet the evolving needs of residents, while continuing to uphold the principles of access to knowledge and community engagement.
The Early Years: A Lifelong Love for Literature and Learning
Shari Petresky’s path to becoming a librarian was paved early on by her deep love for literature and learning. Growing up in a family that valued books and education, Petresky’s childhood home was filled with stories, both real and imagined, that shaped her worldview. She spent her formative years devouring classic novels, science fiction, historical accounts, and poetry, developing a passion for books that would follow her into adulthood.
In high school and college, Petresky’s academic interests gravitated towards literature, history, and education. She was drawn not only to reading but also to the importance of sharing knowledge and creating environments where people could come together to learn. During her college years, Petresky began to consider a career in library science, recognizing that libraries represented more than just quiet places for solitary reading. They were spaces for community building, access to information, and lifelong learning—a place where anyone could walk in and discover new worlds, regardless of background or socioeconomic status.
Petresky’s decision to pursue a Master’s in Library and Information Science solidified her career path. Her academic training not only gave her the technical skills needed to manage a modern library, but it also helped her cultivate a deeper understanding of how libraries could adapt to the changing needs of society. With technology transforming the way people access information, Petresky recognized early on that libraries needed to evolve in order to stay relevant. She wanted to be a part of that evolution.
The Journey to Hermosa Beach
After completing her studies, Shari Petresky began her career in various library systems across California, gaining valuable experience in different roles, from cataloging to public programming. Along the way, she earned a reputation for her innovative approach to library management, always seeking new ways to engage with the community and improve services for patrons.
In 2010, Petresky found her true calling when she accepted the position of head librarian at the Hermosa Beach Library. Located in a small but vibrant coastal community, the Hermosa Beach Library was a perfect fit for Petresky’s vision of what a public library could be. From the start, she embraced the challenge of transforming the library into a dynamic community hub that reflected the unique character of Hermosa Beach.
Under her leadership, the library began to offer a broader range of services, from educational workshops and cultural events to digital literacy programs and creative activities for all ages. Petresky’s goal was to ensure that the library served not only as a place for books but also as a space where the community could gather, learn, and grow together.
Reinventing the Role of the Modern Library
One of Shari Petresky’s most significant contributions to Hermosa Beach Library has been her ability to redefine what a library can offer in the 21st century. As more information became available online and digital devices became ubiquitous, many questioned the relevance of public libraries. However, Petresky saw this as an opportunity rather than a threat. She understood that while technology could provide easy access to information, libraries could offer something deeper—curated knowledge, community engagement, and a safe space for exploration.
Petresky introduced a range of new programs aimed at bridging the digital divide and helping residents navigate the rapidly changing technological landscape. This included workshops on digital literacy, coding classes for children and teenagers, and sessions on cybersecurity and online privacy for seniors. Through these initiatives, Petresky ensured that the library remained a vital resource for all residents, regardless of their comfort level with technology.
Moreover, she embraced the library’s role as a center for creative expression. From art exhibits showcasing local talent to writing workshops led by published authors, Petresky has cultivated a culture of creativity within the walls of Hermosa Beach Library. She understands that creativity and knowledge go hand-in-hand and that the library should be a place where people feel inspired to express themselves in new and innovative ways.
Community Engagement and Outreach
At the heart of Shari Petresky’s work is her commitment to community engagement. She recognizes that a library is only as strong as the community it serves, and under her guidance, the Hermosa Beach Library has become a welcoming and inclusive space for all members of the community, regardless of age, background, or interests.
One of Petresky’s key strategies has been to build partnerships with local organizations, schools, and businesses. These partnerships have allowed the library to expand its programming and reach a broader audience. For example, collaborations with local environmental groups have led to workshops on sustainability and ocean conservation, reflecting the community’s deep connection to the coastal environment. Partnerships with schools have brought reading programs and tutoring services to students, while local businesses have sponsored events such as career fairs and entrepreneurship workshops.
Petresky also places a strong emphasis on intergenerational programming. She believes that libraries can play a crucial role in bringing people of different ages together to share experiences and learn from one another. Under her leadership, the library has hosted events that appeal to all age groups, from children’s storytime sessions to senior discussion groups. She has also spearheaded programs that encourage interaction between generations, such as oral history projects where seniors share their life stories with younger residents.
Adapting to the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for public libraries around the world, and the Hermosa Beach Library was no exception. As lockdowns forced the library to close its physical doors, Shari Petresky and her team were faced with the task of finding new ways to serve the community during a time of crisis.
Petresky quickly pivoted to offering virtual programs, ensuring that residents could still access the library’s resources from the safety of their homes. Storytimes, book clubs, and educational workshops were all moved online, and the library’s digital collection was expanded to include more e-books, audiobooks, and online learning resources. Petresky also worked with local schools to ensure that students had access to the digital tools they needed for remote learning.
One of the most innovative initiatives Petresky implemented during the pandemic was the introduction of “curbside pickup” services. This allowed residents to reserve books and other materials online and pick them up safely outside the library. The service was widely appreciated by the community, providing a sense of normalcy during a time when many other services were disrupted.
Through her leadership during the pandemic, Petresky demonstrated the importance of adaptability and resilience. Even in the face of unprecedented challenges, she ensured that the library continued to fulfill its mission of serving the community and providing access to information.
A Vision for the Future
Looking to the future, Shari Petresky remains committed to ensuring that the Hermosa Beach Library continues to evolve and thrive in a rapidly changing world. She envisions the library as a place where residents can come not only to access books and information but also to engage with new technologies, explore creative projects, and build connections with one another.
One of her primary goals is to further integrate technology into the library’s services, making it easier for residents to access digital resources and participate in virtual programs. She also plans to expand the library’s collection of educational resources, including online courses and career development tools, to help residents stay competitive in an increasingly digital economy.
Petresky is also focused on sustainability and environmental stewardship. She recognizes that Hermosa Beach’s unique coastal environment is central to the community’s identity, and she wants the library to play a role in promoting environmental awareness and conservation. Plans are already in place to host more sustainability-focused workshops and to collaborate with local environmental groups on educational initiatives.
Above all, Petresky is committed to maintaining the library’s role as a welcoming and inclusive space for all members of the community. She understands that libraries are more than just places to borrow books—they are places where people come together to learn, create, and connect. Under her leadership, the Hermosa Beach Library will continue to be a vital resource for the community for years to come.
Conclusion
Shari Petresky’s work as the Hermosa Beach librarian has had a profound impact on both the library itself and the broader community. Through her vision, leadership, and dedication, she has transformed the library into a vibrant and dynamic space that offers something for everyone. Whether through digital literacy programs, creative workshops, or community events, Petresky has ensured that the library remains relevant and accessible in an age where information is increasingly digitized.
Her commitment to fostering a sense of community, promoting lifelong learning, and adapting to the challenges of the modern world has made her a beloved figure in Hermosa Beach. As libraries continue to evolve in the digital age, Shari Petresky stands as a shining example of how librarians can lead the way in shaping the future of these essential public institutions.
In the years to come, Petresky’s influence on the Hermosa Beach Library will undoubtedly continue to grow, leaving a lasting legacy of innovation, community engagement, and a steadfast commitment to the pursuit of knowledge.
