Congratulations to Kristen Sorth, Director and CEO of the St. Louis County Library, and recipient of our 2025 Excellence in the Public Sector Leadership Award!
The Excellence in the Public Sector Leadership Award recognizes an individual, government, quasi-government agency, or tax-supported entity that:
Develops or protects policy that supports investment in communities.
Demonstrates innovative use of resources for community improvement.
Is proactive, persistent, professional, and efficient in finding ways to support community building initiatives.
Kristen Sorth always had the drive, but she never expected the St. Louis County Library to be the vehicle that would fuel her passion for community transformation. It has turned out to be quite a ride. After earning her Master’s degree in Public Administration, she began her career at the Department of Economic Development. When her husband's career brought the family to St. Louis, she took her second adult job at the library. Despite feeling underqualified, she quickly rose to the challenge, stepping into the role of head of HR for 600 employees—a position she excelled in. Twenty-seven years later, she has never looked back, dedicating her career to driving change and reinvention within the library system.
Kristen spearheaded an ambitious renovation plan to reimagine library spaces as vibrant, welcoming community hubs. Over the next decade, she led the transformation of 20 branches and an Administrative Building, turning them into fun, dynamic, innovative spaces where people of all ages can learn, connect, and grow. Her holistic approach to library services has expanded their role far beyond bookshelves. Under her leadership, the library has become a trusted safe space, offering everything from Wi-Fi and Chromebooks to 3D printing workshops, book signings, and frequent community events.
Her motto? “Start with yes”—always putting the community’s needs first… and also, no “shushing” allowed. Libraries are loud.
Kristen has also made a significant impact by addressing the social needs of the community. In partnership with Epworth Children & Family Services, the library now employs six social workers to assess and support individuals in need. Even in the face of challenges like book banning and political distractions, she remains steadfast in the library’s commitment to improving the area's literacy challenges through initiatives like the "Gateway to Reading" program, which focuses on the science of reading and brain development.
When she’s not shaping the future of the library, Kristen enjoys life with her supportive husband, Mike, their son Jack—who is away at college—and their three standard poodles, who no doubt keep things lively at home.
