What is the best way to get to know a librarian? By getting them to talk about books, of course! Each month, we will introduce you to one of the librarians of Ohrstrom Library. This month, we talked to Ms. Janel Flanagan, our new Public Services Assistant.
We asked Ms. Flanagan…
What was your first library?
“That I worked in? Mason Library at Keene State College! I had a work study as a part of my financial aid package and really lucked out with my placement. Despite being an obsessive reader as a kid, I never really thought about a career in libraries until that job- I’m glad it clicked!”
Who are your top five favorite authors?
What are your three “desert island” books?
Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
Hyperbole & a Half by Allie Brosh
The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner
What is the last book that made you laugh or cry or both?
“Oof, tricky one. I actually can’t remember a specific instance of book-cries in recent years, but that’s probably because I’ve stridently avoided books that look “too sad”. I make enough of that emotion without a book’s help. The last book that put me into hysterics, though- that would be Hyperbole & a Half. Truly unhinged.”
If you could time travel, when and where would you go?
“That depends- am I immune from catching historical diseases and plagues? If yes, then I’d like to see ancient Grecian temples to the Olympian Pantheon at their most beautiful (whenever that would be). If no, then I’d probably pop back to just before the covid-19 pandemic and dispense some very specific warnings to past-Janel.”
What is your favorite room in Ohrstrom Library?
“Baker Reading Room! It’s just such a pretty space, regardless of the time of day. I like watching the water through the big windows whenever I wander past.”
What was your favorite subject/class in school?
“Art, without a question. I love to draw and paint and design things.”
Why do you like being a librarian at SPS?
“Honestly, the atmosphere is just so pleasant here. The library is beautiful, the students are focused and polite, and my coworkers are delightful. It’s nice to work at a place that has the amenities it needs to run properly.”
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