KELONI PARKS

I am the branch manager of the West End branch library. My father grew up in Lincoln Court when he was very young. My mother’s hairdresser also had a shop in the West End, but her business was torn down during the FC stadium construction. I had an aunt who lived at the Stanley Rowe Houses and a friend who lived on Dayton Street. So I’ve had a lot of connections—various connections throughout my life.

Our branch is pretty small, but we’re very active. We use every inch of the space, and we have to be extremely creative. I think that reflects the spirit of the West End. It reflects our customers and their needs. We make every little bit work.

I just want all these kids to know what opportunities are available to them and to be able to pursue them. I want us and all the various community partners to help make that possible. That’s the main thing—I don’t want them to feel limited. If they have dreams, I want them to have the support and resources to go after them.