Thank you very much for joining us today at GLI’s Arts-In-Action Leadership Insights. First, could you please give us a little overview of who you are and what you do at the Brooklyn Public Library?
Yes, it was nice to talk to you and see you after all. My full name is László Jakab Orsós. I’m the Vice President of Arts and Culture at the Brooklyn Public Library System. You probably notice my accent and my definitely non-American name, László. I’m Hungarian. I moved to the States quite a while ago as a cultural diplomat. For the last socialist government in Hungary, I was running the Hungarian Cultural Center in New York. Afterward, I ran one of the world’s biggest international literature and human rights festivals at PEN America with Salman Rushdie. I was then headhunted by the Brooklyn Public Library for this role, which was a brave move for the library. It’s a large system with 62 branches and a huge, diverse platform. They established this new role, and I’m essentially a producer within the library system, working with a team of 14 curators, financial people, and line producers. I’ve been here for seven years now, marking the end of my seventh season.
That sounds fascinating. In a few sentences, what does impact mean in the context of your work?
The impact is really hard to measure in our context because it’s elusive and difficult to quantify. For us, it’s about maintaining an ongoing dialogue with our audience. Impact is reflected in the steady, if not growing, interest in our work, the respect we garner, and the curiosity we stimulate. Our audience is quite large, which aligns with the size of Brooklyn. The level of participation and engagement from various stakeholders –– from audiences to patrons and partners –– is high, which requires an approach that balances bottom-up ideas with numerous suggestions from our patrons, all of which we take seriously. This trust, curiosity, and openness signify success for us.
On that note, what activities or elements do you enjoy the most or focus on in your day-to-day work?
Programming at a library is quite complex. While people might expect that library programming is limited to literary events, we do much more. Our programming includes a wide range of ideas and activities. My day-to-day work involves a lot of meetings with potential partners, fundraising with our development department, and collaborating on creative projects. We function like a small production company within the library system. My role is to constantly offer stimulating new ideas and concepts and bring in new partners, both financially and creatively, to develop our programs. It’s a dynamic and engaging process.
Can you share any innovative initiatives or different approaches that have recently impacted your organization?
Certainly. One of the biggest challenges is changing the perception that libraries are predictable. We aim to turn things upside down and create programming that inspires creative and engaging dialogue. For example, one of our flagship events is the Night of Philosophy, a 12-hour overnight event featuring lectures by philosophers and public intellectuals alongside films, music, and other activities. It draws thousands of attendees and has become a revolutionary event for us. Another initiative is University Open Air, where we hold classes taught by immigrant professionals in Prospect Park. It’s been incredibly successful, and we now also offer it indoors during the winter. We also created the People’s Ball, an inclusive, free event with a catwalk where our patrons can show their innovative outfits. The People`s Ball held as an alternative to the exclusive Met Gala. These events are designed to engage the community in unique and meaningful ways.
How do you balance the library’s mission with the need for financial sustainability?
Balancing the mission with financial sustainability is challenging. The library receives two-thirds of its funding from the city, and we actively fundraise for the remaining one-third. This fundraising effort extends to all departments, including ours. From the inception of any idea, we consider how it can be supported financially. This requires a mix of creativity and strategic thinking. We must constantly identify and engage potential sponsors who align with our vision. While it’s a challenging process, it tends to be rewarding when we see the impact of our programs on the community.
Finally, how do you see the role of arts leaders evolving in the coming years?
The role of arts leaders is becoming more radical and responsible. Arts have a significant role in addressing societal issues and fostering dialogue on political and cultural questions. Arts leaders must balance risk-taking with honesty and a deep understanding of their audience. They need to create spaces where people feel dignified and empowered. This responsibility is global and has been amplified in recent years. Arts can’t promise material benefits, but they can strengthen people’s resolve and dignity, which is crucial today.
About László Jakab Orsós | Vice President of Arts and Culture at the Brooklyn Public Library System
About Brooklyn Public Library
The Brooklyn Public Library is an independent library system for the 2.5 million residents of Brooklyn. It is the fifth largest library system in the United States with 60 neighborhood libraries located throughout the borough. BPL offers free programs and services for all ages and stages of life, including a large selection of books in more than 30 languages, author talks, literacy programs and public computers. BPL’s eResources, such as eBooks and eVideos, catalog information and free homework help, are available to customers of all ages 24 hours a day at our website: www.bklynlibrary.org.
