In Balch Springs, Texas, the public library is more than a place to check out books. It is a place where neighbors meet, skills are shared, and partnerships grow into something bigger than any one program.

For Teresa Smith Conley, programming is not just part of the job. It is a passion rooted in creativity, connection, and a deep understanding of what her community needs.

Building a Career on Connection

Teresa has been with the Balch Springs Library for over a decade, working her way through nearly every role along the way. That experience has shaped how she approaches programming today, with a strong belief that meaningful community engagement often starts with a simple conversation.

“Programming is one of my passions,” she said. “You can create something from nothing if you’re willing to get out there and talk to people.”

Early on, her budget for summer reading programs was just $1,500. That limitation became an opportunity. Instead of relying on outside vendors, Teresa began looking inward, tapping into the people already serving the city.

A conversation with the fire chief led to an author talk after she discovered he had published several books. As news of the author’s talk spread, others in the community stepped forward, including a city marshal who had written a children’s book and wanted to participate in storytime.

From there, Teresa built a model that continues to guide her work. She meets people wherever she can, at city events, in schools, or through local outreach. Business cards and handwritten notes turn into a carefully organized spreadsheet of community partners, now hundreds strong. She shares those connections across departments and remains intentional about who she works with, always keeping the community’s needs front and center.

“My business cards are always in my pocket,” she said. “If I meet someone who could help the community, I make a note and follow up. That’s how these partnerships start.” Her advice to other librarians is simple. Show up, introduce yourself, and ask. The worst answer you can get is no.

Programming That Reflects Real Life

What makes Balch Springs Library stand out is how closely its programming reflects everyday needs. Teresa noticed that many patrons lacked basic life skills that others might take for granted. That insight led to hands-on programs like Mechanics 101 and tire maintenance workshops, where local professionals taught attendees how to check oil, charge a battery, and understand tire safety. These programs drew teens and adults alike, proving that practical knowledge is always in demand.

“It came from a real need in the community,” she said. “Some of these things we assume people know, but they don’t always have someone to teach them.”

Other offerings grew directly from community conversations. Financial institutions partnered with the library to host sessions on saving for college and planning for retirement. Local scouts taught survival skills, while city departments helped bring large-scale events like Touch-a-Truck to life.

The library has also embraced turnkey partnerships that expand what is possible without stretching staff capacity. Collaborations with organizations like Texas A&M and the Perot Museum have brought high-energy STEM programming into the space. Meanwhile, partnerships with the North Texas Food Bank now provide free meals to families, meeting essential needs beyond education.

Teresa has reached a point where partners are coming to her with ideas. To manage the demand, she created a form for community partners to fill out and propose programs, including guidelines that align with the library’s mission. It ensures quality while allowing the community to take an active role in shaping what the library offers.

Through creativity, persistence, strong organizational skills, and a willingness to ask for help, Teresa has built a space where everyone has something to contribute. And in doing so, she offers a powerful reminder for libraries everywhere. You do not need a large budget to make an impact. You need strong relationships, a clear sense of purpose, and the openness to let your community lead alongside you.