The Library employs nearly 300 people across multiple locations: the Central Library, plus nine branches, a digital branch, and an outreach program. This 150^th anniversary capstone celebrates the creative talents in a multimedia exhibition called An Exchange of Gifts: The Art of Kansas City Public Library Staff.

More than 40 staff members across the system submitted artwork ranging from the humorous to the contemplative. Works include paintings, drawings, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, photography, and collage.

Staff were inspired by nature, literature, animals, history, travel, and human connection – and by the Library’s first full-time director, Carrie Westlake Whitney, who became known as the Mother of the Kansas City Public Library.