Kirsten Iversen is a strategic leader and lifelong learner who believes access to knowledge should be easy, equitable, and available to everyone. As an avid user of the library’s digital services, she regularly checks out audiobooks and eBooks through the app, appreciating how the library makes it possible to learn and explore without barriers.

Professionally, Kirsten is a Lean Business Management Consultant with a background in process improvement, customer experience, and systems design. She brings a structured yet people-centered approach to her work and sees her role on the Friends of the Library Board as a way to apply those same principles in service of her local community.

After 14 years as Board President, John recently stepped back into the role of Treasurer. John has tirelessly advocated for a larger, better library for La Mesa. He looks back at his time as president with fondness saying, "I appreciate so much the members of the La Mesa community. You helped the Friends raise funds to support the library with materials, programs, and improvements." John's efforts have seen the nonprofit organization grow into a thriving troupe of volunteers dedicated to supporting library services in the La Mesa community. He has been instrumental in re-launching annual school visits to the La Mesa Civic Center, introducing all 3rd graders to important community services including the library, police and fire stations, city hall, and public works.

Christina joined the Friends earlier this year saying: "Although I grew up in San Diego, I’m relatively new to the La Mesa community, having moved here in 2019. I immediately fell in love with La Mesa’s small-town feel. As a lifelong book lover, I was just starting to seek out volunteer opportunities when I came across an opening with the Friends of the Library. It felt like a perfect opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I’m excited to serve as Secretary and eager to support the Board in any way I can!"

Leslie joined the Friends earlier this year, and when asked about her connection to libraries she recalled: "In junior high school, I would do my homework at the library until my mom, who was a teacher, could pick me up. My love of reading extended into college where I majored in English with an emphasis in Journalism at SDSU. When I heard the Friends needed someone to help promote their organization and the La Mesa Library, I jumped at the chance. I love supporting my community and making new connections at various events. In an online world that can be so divisive these days, I appreciate the opportunity to express my creativity, promote the library, and hopefully bring some joy to our social media followers and the greater La Mesa community."

Justin's Board role is overseeing Memberships. He recounts: "I started volunteering for the Friends of the La Mesa library almost seven years ago after moving to La Mesa with my husband. We are both big supporters of libraries and know how much they mean to our communities. I work as a web developer and began on the Friends board as "IT Support" for the organization. One of my first tasks was relaunching the Friends website. During the pandemic, my husband and I started selling books and DVDs online for the Friends to supplement our bookstore sales. I continue to maintain the website and work with the board to keep our technology up to date. I enjoy contributing my technical expertise and look forward to helping the Friends continue to grow and support the library!"