Simpson Library Annual Report
Table of Contents
- Complete interview with our new Executive Director, Lizzy Seidel
- Former Executive Director Sue Erdman's Legacy
- Read the 2025–2027 Strategic Plan
- Video of 2025 statistics
- Share your library story!
- Financial information
Walking in Her Own Shoes: A Conversation with Lizzy Seidel
Stepping into the role of Executive Director at the Joseph T. Simpson Public Library is no small feat, especially following Sue Erdman, whose 29-year directorship shaped the library into the community pillar it is today. Since Elizabeth `“Lizzy” Seidel began her tenure in November, she has frequently heard a familiar refrain: "You have big shoes to fill!"
Lizzy’s response is as refreshing as her energy. "I am not trying to fill Sue's shoes," she says with a smile. "I'm trying to walk in my own—which, more often than not, are a pair of Doc Martens." While she acknowledges that following a leader of 30 years is daunting, she is eager to balance reflection on the library’s good work with excitement for what comes next.
A Lifetime of Library Love
Lizzy describes herself as a "library nerd" through and through. "When I'm not working at my own library, I'm visiting other libraries or I'm reading about them," she says. Her career has been a calling, leading her through roles as a District Consultant for York County Libraries, Director of Guthrie Library in Hanover, and manager of branches within the Dauphin County Library System.
It was during one of her deep dives into library history that she found the philosophy that guides her today. In The Library: A Fragile History, authors Andrew Pettegree and Arthur der Weduwen write: “What makes a library is, to a great extent, something that each generation must decide anew.”
Honoring the Past, Embracing the New
Lizzy believes that while the tools and spaces change, the core purpose of a library—as a community center for learning and engagement—remains functionally the same as it was in the days of Andrew Carnegie.
“The set dressing might look different, and the technology might be ever-changing, but the core mission remains the same: access to information for all,” she explains. While Simpson now offers electronic catalogs, DVDs, video games, language learning apps, and eBooks through platforms like Libby, the goal is still to connect the community with discovery.
The Power of Rediscovery
Lizzy takes the helm at a pivotal moment. The library just finished a Capital Campaign for a new building at 45 West Allen Street, which will provide a permanent home for the Friends’ book sales and expanded programming space.
She inherits a wonderful staff, an active Board of Trustees, and a community that loves its library every day. Her vision is to maintain the core values of knowledge and enrichment while inviting everyone to "rediscover the library anew". Whether you see her in the stacks or the lobby, she’s ready to engage and build on the legacy Sue crafted over three decades. Just don’t expect her to change her boots.
A Legacy of Service: Sue Erdman's 29-Year Tenure
When Sue Erdman was hired as Executive Director in 1996, the Joseph T. Simpson Public Library had outgrown its beginnings in a former church at the corner of Simpson and Frederick Streets, and a new chapter was waiting to be written on North Walnut Street. Sue led the renovation project and moved the entire library within her first six months as Executive Director!
Over the twenty-nine years that followed, Sue didn't just maintain a building; she cultivated a community. Under her leadership, Simpson expanded into three beautifully renovated floors and navigated the digital revolution, trading paper-based records for the internet and the latest media formats. She always looked beyond the library walls, securing funding and leading Simpson to become the first public library in Pennsylvania to receive the Standards for Excellence accreditation in 2015.
To meet the increasing demand for community programming and the Friends of the Library Book Sales, she launched a final Capital Campaign in 2023, guiding the acquisition and renovation of the former Agway Store. Now the Learning and Book Sale Center, this new facility at 45 West Allen Street provides a permanent home for the Friends of the Library and vital new space for community programs, a lasting gift from a leader who always looked toward the next generation.
Beyond the buildings and tech, Sue fostered a warm, supportive culture that staff call the "Simpson Library Family." As we begin our next chapter, we do so on the firm foundation Sue built over nearly three decades of dedicated service.
2025-2027 Strategic Plan
Our most recent Strategic Plan lays out a vision and goals to improve our property, collections, outreach, and impact in the community.
2025 Library Statistics
View the 2025 Library Statistics by ikryemadhi
Your Library Story
We'd love to hear your story about Simpson Library! Every patron has a unique journey with us, and your experiences help demonstrate the library’s impact on our community.
Financial Information
As a nonprofit public library, we prioritize fiscal responsibility. Take a look at our budget and audits.
