Over the holidays I sat down to read a book recommended to me by teen librarian Liz Strauss. The book was One of Us is Next and was written by Karen McManus. I won’t go into the details about the plot. At one point in the book a popular athlete (Cooper) was coming home from college and everyone in town wanted to see him and get his autograph. A small group of Cooper’s friends planned to meet in the back room of a local cafe. But other people heard about the gathering and crowded into the cafe in hopes of getting a glimpse of the famous hometown hero. Here is the description of the crowded cafe: “not only is every table full, but Mr. Santos brought out all the extra chairs that are usually stored in the basement and it’s still not enough. People are standing in groups against either side of the wall, shuffling back and forth as I weave through them with a drink-laden tray for Addie and her friends.”
My library brain immediately thought: They should have had this homecoming in the community room at the library where more people could be accommodated.
That’s when it hit me. I am constantly on the lookout for possible programs at the library…even while I am reading for pleasure.
Many times, people come to me (or leave word at the front desk) suggesting a topic or speaker that would be interesting to people in our community. I always follow up on these suggestions and I almost always find a person willing to share their experience with us.
So, the invitation is open. Contact me if you are willing to present a program, or if you know someone who has had an interesting and unique experience, or if you would like to suggest a topic. I welcome your input. After all, this is YOUR public library!
Sherrel
Adult program specialist