Notes from a New Staff Member

The library is always in a constant state of motion. There are events popping up every month, different displays featuring the best-selling or themed books. It can be a little confusing to know what has changed. For instance, the printing and copying stations love to move around the library; they currently reside right between the patron computers and the circulation desk. I try to see the positivity in all the changes at the library. One example, adding new staff members is an amazing change. Every change is for the improvement of the library.

I’ve seen the library from both sides, as a patron and now as a staff member. As a patron, I remember discovering my new favorite books in the children’s department. I’ve had some of my best adventures reading stories. As a staff member, I’ve now learned that keeping everything organized is its own adventure. It is a wrestling match against DVD movies that love to appear in the wrong place and books that love to fall off the shelf when you try to alphabetize them. But to keep the library running, staff need to keep running (or just walking in a purposeful and professional manner). We must keep moving and stay focused on each task at hand. I’ve learned that the busyness is what makes the job exciting. The best days are the busiest days; they are also the most exhausting. If you see staff members in a state of busyness, (focused on our computer screens, carrying too many books at once, and our attempts at multitasking) that is a sign that we are working to keep the library thriving.

If you are ever in doubt about what has changed, if you are unsure how to access what you need, staff are there to help. You can call the library to ask what times we are open, renew a book, ask a reference question and inquire about programs and services. The library’s open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:30am-8pm and Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8:30am-5:30pm. The library’s McGrady-Brockman historical/genealogical research center is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30am-5:30pm.

When you visit the library, look for our nametags and don’t be afraid to ask for assistance. I am always curious about what you may consider an odd question. And be on the lookout for any signs and instructions. They will tell where to find the new books or tell you how to scan-to-email. The KCPL website is another place to find information. Look for the Events List at the top of the home screen. You will find events for all different ages, like the next painting class.

I am constantly learning something new at the job. There is always that learning experience that appears in the middle of an already busy day. Each new experience helps to prepare for questions and guidance I can give to patrons in the future. A library and a community go hand in hand. They support one another. Through all this constant change, what I know is that we can do our best to prepare. But when preparation doesn’t quite work out, then we adapt. There is something comforting and exciting knowing that change will come, but not knowing what it will bring. I am here for this change.