In Volume 20 we have the pleasure of speaking with Rebecca from Thorold Public Library.

You can find Thorold Public Library on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThoroldLibrary

Word of the Week

Pugilist
An old / formal word for fighter, particularly a professional one, deriving from the Latin pugnus, meaning “fist”. Inspired by the fact Anthony Joshua was outside the Exact Editions office this afternoon in the very sunny London.

The Interview

What’s your role in the library? 
I’m the Public Services Librarian/Deputy Chief.  I like to add the second part in because 1) it’s true, and 2) it makes me sound like I’m from the Wild Wild West.

What’s great about your library? 
A wide variety of programs, huge resource selection, friendly faces, community feel.  Perhaps it’s easier to list what’s not great about our library.  We do have a few ceiling tiles that need replacing and the 3D printer is on the fritz again (thank goodness for warranties, am I right?).

Who’s your favourite author? Why?
Margaret Atwood, always and forever.  No explanation necessary. 

If you could change one thing in the library world, what would it be?
Am I allowed to say budget for this one?  No?  Ok, financial capacity?  No?  OK, no starting emails with “Please be advised” unless you plan to sign them with something like, “Cordially yours”.  It’s called consistency.

How do you think libraries are going to change in the next decade?
I think libraries have changed significantly and will continue to do so.  More of the same shift toward community hubs, diversification of learning, and safe spaces for all demographics.  Change is constant and libraries have rolled with it very effectively only becoming more vital, vibrant, and necessary (darn it, really wanted that last one to start with a V too).

What’s your favourite club, workshop or competition that your library runs?
I will always remain loyal to my book clubs.  The depth of conversation, friendship, and pure enjoyment is unmatched.  Though Adult Craft Night is such an engaging and enthusiastic group.  And Kids’ Garden Club is the best.  Ok, all.  I’ll go with all.

If you could live in any fictional world, which would it be?
Wonderland, please.

Which mythological creature would you like to exist?
Unicorns would be wonderful.  To be clear, I was a big unicorn fan well before they hit the mainstream.

Any questions for me?
What is your favourite part of the Thorold Public Library?
We love seeing how much effort go into your projects/clubs, and the Twitter feed (particularly enjoyed the seagull tweet recently).

Many thanks Rebecca for your contribution to the series!

Are you a librarian? Would you like to participate? Get in touch with the team at institutions@exacteditions.com