Get to know Orange City’s newest library board member – Autumn Den Boer

Autumn Den Boer was elected to serve on the Orange City Public Library Board this year. This group of seven members meets every month, and some of their duties include establishing library policies and strategic goals, initiating and overseeing the budget process, advocating for the library in the community, and hiring and evaluating the library director.

Autumn recently shared with us about her appointment, saying:

As a 7th and 8th grade English teacher for the past 12 years, I’ve had the privilege of guiding students in discovering the joy of reading, writing, and expressing themselves. At home, I’m mom to three wonderful kids, and one of my favorite activities is reading to them every night. There’s something magical about sharing stories together and watching their imaginations grow.

My husband, Daniel, and I are deeply rooted in our small-town community, and we love being involved in ways that bring people together. For me, joining the Orange City Public Library Board is a natural extension of that passion for connection, learning, and service.
I’ve always been an avid reader, and I’ve loved losing myself in stories and exploring new worlds through books. Growing up, the library was one of my favorite places to be. It wasn’t just about the books—it was about the sense of community, the idea that anyone could walk in and find exactly what they needed, whether it was a new novel, a research tool, or simply a safe, welcoming space.

That love for libraries never left me. Libraries are more than just buildings filled with books; they’re hubs of creativity, learning, and connection. They bring people together, offering resources that enrich lives and opportunities that open doors.

When I was invited to join the library board, I saw it as an opportunity to give back to an institution that has been so meaningful in my life. I’m excited to support initiatives that ensure the library remains a vital resource for everyone in our community, from young readers discovering their first favorite book to adults exploring new ideas and skills.
I’m particularly passionate about literacy, outreach, and making the library a space where everyone feels at home. I hope to bring my experience as a teacher and a parent to the table, helping the library grow in ways that reflect the needs and dreams of our small town.

You can find more information about the Orange City Public Library at orangecitylibrary.org. Thank you, Autumn, for serving our community in this way!