This week, I'm introducing you to Melissa Paris at the Manor Public Library! Melissa has been a part of the library for 2 1/2 years, where she works as the Children's Library Assistant. Read on to learn more about Melissa!
Why did you decide to become a librarian?
I actually didn’t decide to become a librarian, but it’s the perfect place for me! I have been involved with Manor Public Library since my kids were toddlers, and mentioned to the Director how much fun it would be to work at the library, and how, maybe when my kids were older, I’d enjoy that. The weekend before my younger daughter started kindergarten, I got a call from Stephanie, and she asked me if I was serious about wanting to work at the library, and did I want to come in for an interview. I’ve always loved reading and sharing books, and had a background in education, so it’s a great match.
Tell us a little about your background.
I have a BSE in chemical engineering from Pitt, and a MAT (Master of Arts in teaching) in Secondary Mathematics from Towson State University in Towson, MD. I’ve changed careers a couple of times. I worked in engineering for about 5 years, and decided it wasn’t for me, and took a position in Baltimore County Public Schools teaching high school math. I loved teaching, but when my second daughter arrived, it was time to take a step back and be a full-time mom for a few years!
What is your favorite part of your job?
I love the variety I encounter every day when I go to work. Since I work at a very small library, I plan and run the children’s programs, but I also work the circulation desk on a daily basis, purchase and catalogue books, and generally help my director, Stephanie, keep the place running smoothly. So, one day, I’m reading books and singing songs with the preschool kids or running science experiments with elementary kids and the next day, I’m helping adult patrons find their new favorite authors.
What are a few of your all-time favorite children's stories?
That’s a super tough question, and tomorrow I’ll think of 10 more stories I want to add or like better. I loved the Golden Book “The Happy Man and his Dump Truck” when I was a kid. I wanted to drive a dump truck for a long time, and I still have my Dad’s copy of this book from the 1950s at home. I also love “The Little Engine That Could” and “Goodnight Gorilla” for little kids and “Anne of Green Gables” is my all-time favorite children’s book for bigger kids.
What new(er) children's books are you most excited about?
There are so many fun books coming out that get kids excited about reading. One series I love is the Treehouse Series by Andy Griffiths / illustrated by Terry Denton. There are 8 books out in the series, and “The 104-th Story Treehouse” just came out in March 2019! I also like books that parents can read with their children, and they both laugh, like the “Urgency Emergency!” books by Dosh Archer.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I’d rather be outside walking in the woods with my family than just about anywhere else, and I have been known to order mashed potatoes for dessert.
What would people be surprised to learn about the library in general?
I think a lot of people are surprised to learn some of the services we offer at the library – sure we have books and DVDs, but we also offer audio and e-books you can download for your tablets and phones.
Manor Public Library also has a collection of toys and educational items that you can use with your families while you are at the library – we have a set of Science Discovery Kits on topics such as geology, magnetism, momentum, snap circuits and even a digital microscope (give us a heads up if you want to use it – it’s totally free to use in the library--we just need to set it up!) We have a wide range of items so that there’s something for kids of all ages. We also have a set of early education “get ready for school” items such as an early math center, lots of folder games on patterns, colors, counting, and more. We also offer free programs to adults and children, including a very popular adult craft night, story times, Bright Builders (STEAM) programs for elementary, and various special programs. We’ve recently hosted a few “Breakout” type challenges for older kids, and they are a lot of fun!
What are a few upcoming events you'd like to share with our readers?
Upcoming events:
April 11 at 6:30 p.m.: Bright Builders “Edison Robots” – Learn how to operate the robots, and then compete again your friends and their robots. Grades K – 6. FREE, registration encouraged.
April 13 from 2 to 4 p.m.: “Electricity and Magnetism” – Drop into the library for a fun and informative program about electricity and magnetism. You will be able to use snap circuits for projects such as an electronic trombone and a light controlled siren, use potatoes and lemons as power sources, and make your own electromagnet. This program is designed for kids ages 10 – 14, FREE, registration encouraged.
May 9 at 6:30 p.m.: Bright Builders “LEGO Paper Bag Challenge” – Slightly different LEGO challenge – we’ll give you a bag of bricks – what can you create? Grades K – 6. FREE, registration encouraged.
For more information or to register for any of these programs, please call or email Manor Public Library (724)864-6850 or manorpublic.library@comcast.net.
Let's connect!
Follow Macaroni Kid North Huntingdon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!
Don't miss out! Get a FREE kid-friendly event calendar for the North Huntingdon-Greensburg-Latrobe area full of festivals, fairs, activities, events and more!
