Mother

KL Biggerstaff, Department Secretary for Arts and Sciences at Western Iowa Tech Community College, shares a voicemail from her mom, Debbie Hawk. Debbie is KL's best friend, partner in laughter, and the other half of countless inside jokes like being the "World's Best Ironer." The message is short, but it holds everything—joy, connection, and the comfort of knowing someone loves you so completely.Have a message you keep? Email us at voiceimprints@kwit.org.

Holly Meis shares a voicemail her son, David, left giving thanks for boxes that were donated by one of his students' parents to his classroom. It’s an ordinary moment that reveals his extraordinary warmth. David loved his students, he loved the theater, and he loved performing. His voice reminds Holly of the joy he carried into every role—on stage, in the classroom, and in life.Have a message you keep? Email us at voiceimprints@kwit.org.

Maryam Elgoni shares a recording of her mother, Howayda Farah, reciting the Islamic prayer for travel. Maryam listens to her mother recite the prayer every time she travels. Every word carries protection and love, and each breath is a reminder of the quiet power of a mother’s love.Have a message you keep? Email us at voiceimprints@kwit.org.

Listen to Jenn Delperdang as she recommends Our Missing Hearts by Celeste Ng.

Listen to Michael Maxwell as he recommends Dog Flowers: A Memoir by Danielle Geller.

This is Kelsey Patterson with the Sioux City Public Library and you’re listening to Check It Out. Today, I’m recommending The Night Always Comes by Willy…

Not so long ago I stumbled on the little book by a man who lived in a place where people haven’t and likely shouldn’t even try to live. It’s a memoir.…

You went down on August 26—my 29th birthday. That’s what the doctors and nurses kept calling it, anyway. It didn’t take long for me to understand that…