For Michele Graves, 25 years at Eagle Mountain Public Library has never felt better

For a quarter of a century, Michele Graves has been a familiar and steady presence in Eagle Mountain.

As the City’s Public Library Director, Graves has witnessed the community grow from a small, developing town into a bustling community with families, schools and new neighborhoods.

Over those 25 years, she has guided the library through some big changes, expanding its role from a small collection of donated books to a vital community information resource that serves residents of all ages.

“I started in a very small room with a lot of donated books,” Graves recalls. “Back then, the library was primarily for parents with small children. That was our focus.”

In those early years, the nearest library was in Lehi, and Saratoga Springs didn’t even exist.

For Graves, the library was a chance to bring reading and learning closer to home, not only for her two sons, but for the families of Eagle Mountain.

“It was my mission to make this library a community center, and all the people involved then, and now, were like-minded,” she says.

Over the years, Michele’s vision for the library has grown alongside the city itself. Today, the Eagle Mountain Public Library offers much more than books. Residents can check out e-materials, STEAM items, games and even borrow resources to explore new interests.

The library hosts a community pantry to help families in need and runs programs designed to educate, entertain and engage the public.

“We’ve evolved to be a resource for our community to learn, engage, and meet others,” Graves says.

One story she often shares illustrates the library’s impact on residents. Years ago, a young boy came in frustrated with reading assignments for school. Despite his mother’s encouragement, he refused to engage. Graves asked about his interests and suggested a few titles tailored to him.

“It wasn’t long after that he came back in, looking for more recommendations,” she says, smiling at the memory. “He became a regular library user until his family moved. That moment made me so happy. It reminded me of the role we can play in shaping how people view reading.”

Technology has also reshaped the library under Michele’s leadership.

The library now features enhanced Wi-Fi throughout the building, including outdoor areas, and is constantly exploring new tools to support the community. Space, however, remains a challenge. As the city continues to grow, Graves sees a need for more meeting areas and rooms for education, recreation and community gatherings.

Programs and services have been another area of growth and pride. She highlights the library staff’s dedication and their unique contributions as key to the library’s success.

“Customer service is my focus, always first and foremost,” she says. “Getting feedback about how wonderful our staff is, it makes my day.”

Among the programs Michele points to are the community pantry, started by a staff member and used almost daily, and the Toy Closet, which helps families provide gifts for the holidays.

The library’s role as a community gathering space is particularly significant in a fast-growing city like Eagle Mountain. Graves emphasizes that it is a space where new families can connect with others, learn and share experiences.

“We provide programs that entertain and educate the public about our community and the resources available,” she says.

Looking ahead, Graves hopes the Eagle Mountain Public Library will continue to be a positive force in the community. She envisions a library where people of all ages and backgrounds can meet, learn, and grow together.

“This is really one of the best places to be. You don’t need money to enter, you don’t need to pay to use items, and you get to attend programs and learn things you may not have otherwise,” she says. “It’s gratifying to see different people, cultures, and experiences, all in one space, sharing and learning from each other.”