On April 13, seven uniquely qualified Brookfield residents came together in a conference room to meet the call to serve as community partner facilitators for the Library’s new One Small Step initiative. These facilitators-to-be for the Brookfield In Conversation, part 1 event on April 27 at 7 p.m. represented varying demographics, yet just one collective sentiment: that of coming together to create a tight-knit community regardless of one’s political stance.
Throughout 2026, the Library and the larger Brookfield community will creatively deliver One Small Step events, mostly by talking to one another using StoryCorps’ diplomatically crafted playing card decks. Every card asks a question: How has your life been different than what you imagined? Who has been the most influential person in shaping your world view? From there, participants begin a conversation to discover unexpected commonalities. The goal is to foster cohesiveness and fellowship among and between the unlikeliest of compatriots, and to gently remind us that despite the divisive and often ugly times in which we find ourselves, we are, to quote Maya Angelou, more alike than we are unalike.
Brookfield is a diverse community, and diversity is a great strength for a thriving democracy.
The Library is proud to represent all Brookfielders, and in One Small Step, we aim to do our part to ensure that our town, and our world, remain connected. See you at the Library Monday, April 27th to help kick off the first annual One Small Step community conversation event with your facilitator neighbors who will ensure a safe, comfortable and supportive experience for all.
Kimberly Coughran, Director
Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library