Behind the Stacks: Kristen Chin, Barrington Public Library’s Visionary Director

The library is the heart and soul of a community’s intellectual and cultural life, serving as much more than a building filled with books. It is the linchpin around which the community gathers, learns, and grows. A strong Library Director connects people not only to information but to each other, fostering a sense of belonging, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Kristen Chin, the Barrington Library’s Director since 2017, honors and expands upon the legacy established by previous Directors, seamlessly blending their visionary leadership with new initiatives.

Leadership Rooted in Trust and Respect

Kris’ management philosophy centers on promoting collaboration, empowering staff, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement to enhance services and meet the community’s evolving needs. She attributes her success to these beliefs:

• Hire the best, trust them to do the job, and don’t get in the way

• Trust the culture; tread lightly

• Respect what came before me

• Maintain the inherited vision

• Don’t ask staff to do anything you are not willing to do yourself

• Never say no to a true opportunity

Kris is quick to credit the success of the library to the library’s talented and dedicated staff. “I am here to make sure they (the staff) have what they need to do the fabulous work they do.”

Libraries: Hubs of Learning and Community

In today’s world, where libraries have evolved into multifunctional spaces, the role of a library extends beyond managing collections. They orchestrate events, from author talks and educational workshops to children’s story hours and creative teen programs that enable the library to be a vibrant hub of activity. Kristen Chin and her staff transform our library into a space where diverse groups—students, job seekers, seniors, and young families—can thrive.

In this way, Kristen Chin is not just a figurehead; she is the bridge between knowledge and the people who seek it, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment that benefits the entire community. Her leadership empowers individuals and enriches the collective, making the library a cornerstone of Barrington’s identity.

Strengthening Community Through Partnerships 

Building a strong community is achieved through active collaboration, where partnerships with local organizations, stakeholders, and residents create a shared vision and foster an environment of mutual support, growth, and engagement. Kristen Chin continues to provide this for Barrington.

The Friends of the Barrington Public Library values the reciprocal relationship that is made possible through Kris Chin’s collaboration and innovation. We are able to provide over 85% of the programming support for the library through our Daily Book Sales, twice-yearly Book Sales, and memberships.

by Bonnie Aspen, Board Member, Friends of the Barrington Public Library

*adapted from article in "Greet Barrington"