NORTHERN WISCONSIN — What exactly do libraries do in today's digital world? How are they funded? Why do e-books through Libby sometimes have long wait times? And what does the future hold for local libraries?
Those were just some of the topics discussed during the latest episode of Make It Make Sense, which streamed live on Thursday, July 2, 2026, on DrydenWire's Facebook page.
Hosted by Ben Dryden and Emily Gall, the monthly program brings in subject matter experts to answer common questions and help viewers better understand topics that impact everyday life.
This month's guest was Sherill Summer, Director of the Webster Library in Burnett County, Wisconsin, who provided an inside look at how public libraries operate and the important role they continue to play in communities across Wisconsin.
During the conversation, Summer explained how public libraries receive funding, including the role of local property taxes and other funding sources. She also addressed common misconceptions about libraries and shared statistics and insights into how libraries are used by residents.
The discussion also explored the growing popularity of digital resources, including the Libby app, where patrons can borrow e-books and audiobooks using their library card.
The conversation concluded with a look toward the future of libraries, how they continue to evolve alongside technology, and why they remain valuable community resources for people of all ages.
Watch the full episode on DrydenWire’s YouTube channel or stream below:
Last Update: Jul 02, 2026 10:33 am CDT
