This week's spotlight is on Caitlin, who can usually be seen working in the Children's room here at NPL. Though Caitlin is part-time, this being her second job, she has made many lasting connections with patrons here, and the children all love her! I've asked Caitlin a few questions, to get to know her better.
Q: How long have you worked at Newark Library?
A: I've been here so long I lose track of the years...I think 11? I might be coming up on my 12th year!?
Q: What made you interested in working at the library?
A: My mom works here and the then director asked me if I wanted a job shelving books...and that job shelving books ended up getting me so involved with libraries that I went on to get my Masters Degree in Library Sciences!
Q: Tell me one interesting or unusual fact about yourself.
A: I have been a vegetarian for over 15 years.
Q: What do you like to do when you're not working?
A: When I'm not working, I like to read, go out with my husband and friends, and take my dog for walks around town.
Q: What would you do if you didn't work at the library?
A: I can't imagine what I would do if I didn't work in a library...it's all I've ever done! On that note, I do also work in a school...as a librarian. So if I'm ever not here, that's where you'd find me!
Q: What is your favorite book?
A: The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling is my all time favorite series. I am also incredibly obsessed with The Raven Cycle series by Maggie Stiefvater. Actually, I have to add a third as well -
The Night Circus by Erin Morganstern!
Q: What do you enjoy most about working at the library?
A: I enjoy being so involved with the community I live in. My family is from here, I grew up here, and my husband grew up here as well. I love being able to give back to our community, and I enjoy getting to know more about the people who live here and love this place as much as I do.
Q: As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A: I could never decide as a kid, but most often I said I wanted to be a teacher...and that is what I did! I am a K-12 certified Library Media Specialist!
Q: What do you consider your greatest achievement?
A: I would say my greatest achievement at work here would be the connections I've made with the families that frequent the library. I've watch some of these patrons grow up, and I love when they come by to visit when I'm working.
Q: What fictional character best represents you?
A: Probably Hermione Granger. We have a lot in common, from our love of books to our frizzy hair!
Q: If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be?
A: I think if I could visit anywhere I'd visit Italy, Australia would be a pretty neat place to visit, too! I'm jealous because my parents are finally getting to go Italy next year!
Q: Favorite song at the moment/favorite band?
A: I'm a country music fan, and I listen to Miranda Lambert constantly!
Q: Pet peeves?
A: People who drive well under the speed limit (especially when I'm on my way to work!!).
Q: One thing you couldn't live without?
A: BOOKS! I also couldn't live without cats and dogs...and my family and friends!
Q: If you were a superhero, what would your power be?
A: Does time travel count? I would definitely want the power to time travel...and to bring people with me!
Q: Who would play you in a movie?
A: I would probably choose Emma Watson! She played my two favorite fictional characters... Hermione Granger and Belle from Beauty and the Beast!
Q: What's on your bucket list?
A: I think for my bucket list, I'd like to visit Italy, or Greece...or BOTH!
Q: What is an ability you wish you had?
A: I wish I had one of those memories where you could read or hear something one time and remember it exactly.
Q: Favorite quote?
A: "And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it.' - Roald Dahl,
The Minpins
