Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Tolman.
Hi Michelle, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am passionate about learning and love libraries. I discovered that our library district that had contracted with the city library for 42 years had a big decision to make. I attended board meetings and started doing research and presented a plan that would allow us as a library district to create our own library system rather than continuing the city contract, which was going to increase dramatically what It would cost taxpayers. When the decision was made. Although I didn’t have formal library experience I knew how to create something new. I am a business owner of Ahhhsome Relaxation in West Jordan, Utah and Ammon, Idaho. After interviewing people from around the country, the library board gave me a six month interim contract to move us forward and prove myself. I had four months and only $400,000 to create four branches. We had never been an active Library system so there was a great deal of work just in settling up those systems properly. My husband and business partner, Shawn Tolman used his expertise and Masters of Business degree to help make that happen. It took me over a month to have everything set up sufficiently to be able to hire employees. I was able to utilize volunteers to clean the rented space, lay carpet, assemble shelves, paint walls and many other things. I was able to hire a handful of wonderful employees that were committed to putting in their all. We knew how much a library meant to our community. We welcomed any volunteers no matter what their age or ability. Little hands stamped and wiped off books, other hands helped alphabetized books onto shelves. Youth groups sang and giggled while covering books. It was beautiful. It was THEIR library system! We were supported by other libraries in the area, sharing time, resources, best practices and support. Miraculously we held a grand opening the day after our city contracted ended. It was truly a miracle. Not only had we build a library system, we built our communities as well.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There was a great deal of confusion and misinformation accompanying the decision and our library board endured accusations and angry comments until people found out more information. The time constraints were intense. I literally worked almost every waking hour and appreciated my dear family’s support.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My husband and I own Ahhhsome Relaxation. It is a unique concept. It’s a 24/7 Stress, Relaxation, and Wellness Center. Guests are welcome to visits during staff hours. Members have unlimited access to some of the best self- guided therapies collected from around the world. Those who come consistently describe it as life changing.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
We grow and adapt to meet the need of the people we serve.
Pricing:
- $75 – $99 per month
Contact Info:
- Website: https://AhhhsomeRelaxation.com
- Instagram: ahhhsomerelaxation.westjordan
- Facebook: Ahhhsome Relaxation at Jordan Landing
