We’re thrilled to welcome Lauri Miller as our new adult services librarian. She takes over for Maryellen Kanarr — who was recently promoted to director — and not a moment too soon.

Lauri joins us just as the adult section is about to undergo big changes. After the children’s and teen collections move into the new wing, adult patrons can look forward to a new reading lounge, an expanded ‘new’ section, and a book-sale nook.

So, before Lauri gets too busy, we asked her to share a bit about herself …

Where are you from originally?
I was born and raised in the Wyoming Valley, PA, in a small town called Shavertown.

What role have libraries played in your life? What inspired you to become a librarian?
My father was a public high school teacher for 35+ years, so I have always valued education, reading, and libraries. Another inspiration was Mrs. Rudolph, the former children’s librarian from the Back Mountain Memorial Library. I loved her story times! I have a lot of wonderful memories of libraries.

Tell us a little about your background and work experience.
I spent the last four years working as a librarian at Northampton Community College in Bethlehem, where I helped students do research and create citations, taught information literacy classes, did marketing and graphic design for library outreach activities, made book displays, and created web guides and digital instructional materials. Prior to that, I spent time in a diverse range of jobs, most notably archaeologist.

Archaeologist? Okay, tell us more about that! Any interesting discoveries?
I was a historical archaeologist at Historic St. Mary’s City, which is a “living museum” with reconstructed buildings and interpreters in period dress on the site of the first colonial capital of Maryland. I helped excavate several sites including slave quarters, a printing press, and the plantation house of a prominent politician. One of my most memorable artifacts was a beautifully etched metal button with the image of a flower on it.

What are you most looking forward to in your new position as adult services librarian?
I am most looking forward to doing reader’s advisory, connecting patrons with books they’ll really enjoy. Many college students don’t have time for recreational reading, so I didn’t have those fun reading conversations with our users at my last job.

What are your hobbies or interests outside of work?
I’m an avid reader, of course. I’m also interested in graphic design and watercolor painting. I love to bake, primarily cookies, but I spend most of my time chasing my boys around (1 and 3 years old).

What’s your favorite book, author or genre?
It depends on my mood. I’m a longtime fan of the Walt Longmire mystery series by Craig Johnson. I love Stephen King, Charles Dickens, Tana French, Neil Gaiman. I dip into nonfiction on occasion, most recently Katrina: After the Flood.

Lightning round! Favorite tv show:
Parks & Recreation

Favorite junk food:
Kettle-cooked chips

Last book you read:
Frankenstein, in honor of the book’s 200th anniversary.

You’ll be seeing a lot of Lauri at the desk and at upcoming events. Be sure to say hi and welcome her to EPL!