The 314 Podcast: Waller McGuire on Why Libraries Matter in St. Louis

In this episode of The 314 Podcast, host Sarah Fenske talks with Waller McGuire. The longtime CEO of the St. Louis Public Library talks about what brought him to St. Louis, what’s changed during his tenure, how two library branches survived a direct hit from the May 2025 tornado, and why libraries are more important now than ever. Then, Sarah chats with SLM staff writer Ryan Krull about how a plan to pay for public art around the city was passed by aldermen 16 years ago—only to be completely ignored ever since. Watch on YouTube and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever podcasts are available. Love the show? Be sure to follow or subscribe.

“It’s been wonderful to invest my life in something that I think has meaning and real value. Libraries have that. Libraries are a place of community, of progress, of possibility, of enrichment. They are a great American idea and it’s been wonderful putting my life into that.” —WM

This episode is presented by NCJWSTL The Resale Shop and sponsored by Cardinals Nation. The Resale Shop is gearing up for its biggest event of the year, Couturier, October 7–10. For over 60 years, this premier resale event has featured high-quality designer clothing, accessories, and home décor at a fraction of the cost. Proceeds support NCJWSTL programs benefiting local women, children, and families. Learn more.

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About The Hosts

Sarah Fenske

Sarah Fenske is St. Louis Magazine‘s executive editor. She manages news and business coverage and edits The Daily newsletter. She’s been a reporter, columnist, newspaper editor, and radio host, and she is currently host of the monthly Legal Roundtable on St. Louis Public Radio and a panelist on Nine PBS’ Donnybrook. She lives in the city, where she attempts to juggle herding her kids to sports practice and swapping political gossip over a good martini.

Ryan Krull

Ryan Krull is a staff writer at St. Louis Magazine, writing for the The Daily newsletter. A graduate of the University of Missouri-St. Louis, he taught there for many years before joining the staff of the Riverfront Times, where he was a reporter for the last years of the paper’s life. He lives near Tower Grove Park in the city with his wife and son.