Beyond Books: How the Bentonville Public Library is Reinventing Community
04/21/25 • 38 min
About the Show:
"Libraries are not just about books; they are about community, connection, and creativity."
- Hadi Dudley
In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn visits the Bentonville Public Library, where he engages with Library Director Hadi Dudley and Marketing Communications Head Tara Clark. This conversation dives deep into the library's recent $16 million renovation and expansion, showcasing how the library has transformed into a vibrant community hub that embraces learning in all its forms.
Hadi and Tara share insights on the library's new features, including a makerspace, outdoor learning gardens, and an exciting "Library of Things" collection that allows patrons to check out items beyond just books. They discuss the library's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that everyone in the community feels welcome and has access to valuable resources.
Listeners will discover the various programs offered at the library, from gardening initiatives to tutoring services, and learn how the library is adapting to meet the needs of its growing community. This episode is a celebration of the library's role in enhancing the quality of life in Bentonville and the importance of community engagement.
Key Takeaways:
- Community Hub: The Bentonville Public Library serves as a welcoming space for all residents and visitors, fostering connections and learning.
- Innovative Offerings: The library features a makerspace, outdoor learning gardens, and a diverse "Library of Things" collection.
- Inclusivity: Programs and resources are tailored to meet the needs of the community, ensuring everyone feels represented.
- Volunteer Opportunities: The library encourages community involvement through various volunteer programs for all ages.
- Digital Resources: Patrons can access online learning tools like LinkedIn Learning and Tutor.com with their library cards.
All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
Website: Bentonville Public Library
Follow on Facebook
Follow on Instagram
Follow on LinkedIn
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.
This episode is sponsored by*
Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"
*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:
- Grab our Newsletter
- Email Us at [email protected]
- Connect With Our Facebook Page
- Connect With Us on Threads
- Connect With Our Instagram
- Connect With Our LinkedIn Page
- Join The Facebook Group
- Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn
Thank you for listening ...
About the Show:
"Libraries are not just about books; they are about community, connection, and creativity."
- Hadi Dudley
In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn visits the Bentonville Public Library, where he engages with Library Director Hadi Dudley and Marketing Communications Head Tara Clark. This conversation dives deep into the library's recent $16 million renovation and expansion, showcasing how the library has transformed into a vibrant community hub that embraces learning in all its forms.
Hadi and Tara share insights on the library's new features, including a makerspace, outdoor learning gardens, and an exciting "Library of Things" collection that allows patrons to check out items beyond just books. They discuss the library's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that everyone in the community feels welcome and has access to valuable resources.
Listeners will discover the various programs offered at the library, from gardening initiatives to tutoring services, and learn how the library is adapting to meet the needs of its growing community. This episode is a celebration of the library's role in enhancing the quality of life in Bentonville and the importance of community engagement.
Key Takeaways:
- Community Hub: The Bentonville Public Library serves as a welcoming space for all residents and visitors, fostering connections and learning.
- Innovative Offerings: The library features a makerspace, outdoor learning gardens, and a diverse "Library of Things" collection.
- Inclusivity: Programs and resources are tailored to meet the needs of the community, ensuring everyone feels represented.
- Volunteer Opportunities: The library encourages community involvement through various volunteer programs for all ages.
- Digital Resources: Patrons can access online learning tools like LinkedIn Learning and Tutor.com with their library cards.
All this and more on this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
Website: Bentonville Public Library
Follow on Facebook
Follow on Instagram
Follow on LinkedIn
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.
This episode is sponsored by*
Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"
*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:
- Grab our Newsletter
- Email Us at [email protected]
- Connect With Our Facebook Page
- Connect With Us on Threads
- Connect With Our Instagram
- Connect With Our LinkedIn Page
- Join The Facebook Group
- Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn
Thank you for listening ...
Previous Episode
Paul Gatling on The Power of Partnerships: How UCA, UofA & NWACC Are Transforming Workforce Education
About the Show:
"Education is the key to unlocking the potential of our workforce."
- Paul Gatling
In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn reconnects with Paul Gatling from the University of Central Arkansas (UCA) to discuss the pivotal role higher education plays in workforce development and regional economic growth. Paul, who previously served as the editor of the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal, shares insights into his new role and the exciting initiatives UCA is launching in Northwest Arkansas.
Listeners will learn about the upcoming NWA Blitz, a week-long series of events designed to strengthen ties between UCA, the University of Arkansas, and Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC). Paul highlights the importance of collaboration among educational institutions to address workforce needs and discusses the special roundtable event scheduled for April 23rd, 2025, which focuses on the intersection of education and regional development.
Whether you’re a student, educator, or community leader, this episode is packed with valuable information on how local institutions are adapting to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market.
Key Takeaways:
- Community Engagement: UCA is committed to building relationships with local businesses and alumni to foster workforce readiness.
- Workforce Development: The upcoming roundtable will address key industries such as healthcare, aviation, and engineering that are crucial to Northwest Arkansas' economic growth.
- Educational Opportunities: UCA offers innovative programs, including a debt-free pathway for Arkansas students, to make higher education accessible.
- Collaboration Over Competition: UCA aims to complement other institutions in the region, working together to enhance educational offerings and workforce preparedness.
- Future Initiatives: The NWA Blitz will feature various events aimed at engaging students and the community, showcasing UCA’s commitment to the region.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
Email Paul Gatling
LinkedIn: Paul Gatling
Website University of Central Arkansas
NWA Blitz Information UCA NWA Blitz
Follow UCA on Facebook
Follow UCA on Instagram
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.
- NWA Council Website
- NWA Council on Instagram
- NWA Council on Facebook
- NWA Council on LinkedIn
- NWA Council on Twitter
- NWA Council Email
This episode is sponsored by*
(Sponsored by)
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
Northwest Arkansas Council - "Life Works Here!"
*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
Connect more with I Am Northwest Arkansas®:
- Grab our
Next Episode
Reimagining Farm to Table in Northwest Arkansas: The Story Behind RYN and Sun Painted Farm
About the Show:
"We're a reflection of those who came before us and those yet to be. So honor everyone, and we all learn, evolve, and grow together. We can't do it without each other."
– Chef Matt Cooper
In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Chef Matt Cooper—owner of Conifer in Downtown Bentonville—and his partner Paul Esterer to share the exciting story behind their newest project, RYN Bentonville. This new farm-to-table concept isn't just a restaurant—it's a vision years in the making that blends history, community, and sustainability in the Ozarks.
Together, Matt and Paul share how their partnership and shared values helped create RYN Bentonville, a boutique 10-course tasting menu restaurant nestled on Sun Painted Farm, just minutes from downtown Bentonville but worlds away in atmosphere. They talk about honoring history through restoration, supporting local food producers, and fostering a true sense of place where guests can feel connected to the land, the food, and the people behind every dish. With a commitment to sustainability, community education, and innovative dining, this is an episode for food lovers, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in what makes Northwest Arkansas special.
Key Takeaways:
- Farm-to-Table Dream Realized: RYN Bentonville is a small, reservation-only restaurant focused on multi-course tasting menus driven by ultra-local, seasonal ingredients grown right on Sun Painted Farm.
- Place Matters: Thoughtful restoration of a historic farm property creates an immersive environment, allowing guests to truly experience their food’s origin and Arkansas’s natural beauty.
- Community-Focused: The project serves as a hub for collaboration in the local food scene, supports local farms, and offers educational events.
- Team Culture: Matt Cooper’s approach places a high value on taking care of his team with benefits, fair pay, and fostering a work environment based on respect and growth.
- More Than a Meal: RYN Bentonville will host farm stands, community gatherings, and educational opportunities and provide a way for more people to connect with farming, food, and the NWA community.
- Future Vision: This restaurant is just the beginning, with plans for more experiences and partnerships on the farm to benefit the wider region.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
RYN Bentonville Instagram: @rynbentonville
Conifer Bentonville Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coniferbentonville/
Indiegogo Campaign for the RYN Documentary: Support the Journey (search "Wren" on Indiegogo for the current campaign)
Brightwater: Center for the Study of Food
Local farm partners: Tuckaway Farms, Turnbuckle Farms, Honest Dirt Farms
Featured Chefs/Restaurants: Jason Paul, Atlas, Pizzeria Ruby, Michael Robertshaw, Elliot Hunt, Luke Mitchell
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.
This episode is sponsored by*
*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
Connect more with I am Northwest Arkansas:
- Grab our Newsletter
- Email Us at [email protected]
- Connect With Our
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