The New Librarian
At The Library
The Greater Park Hill Community welcomes Leslie Williams as Pauline Robinson Branch Library’s new librarian. We spoke to Leslie about what drew her to the neighborhood and the field of library science, and found out some of her favorite books.
What library are you coming from and why the interest in Pauline Robinson?
I’m coming from the Byers Branch Library. I’m interested in Pauline Robinson because of how it serves the community. It’s a great branch with a lot of history and community outreach opportunities and I’m very passionate about working in the community and informing people about what the library has to offer.
How do you feel about your library being on such a vibrant piece of land? Has the library seen an uptick in use with the new community center focus at Holly Square?
I’m excited that the library is part of this vibrancy in Northeast Park Hill. We have seen an increase in usage here – it is probably because of all that’s going on as well as our increased hours since April thanks to Measure 2A.
What drew you to library science?
After receiving my Bachelor’s degree in Communications, I couldn’t find a job. I visited the library everyday because it served as a peaceful and promising refuge for me. I fell in love with the library and applied for a job. My colleagues encouraged me to go back to school to become a librarian and I did.
What are your favorite books? Adult AND Kid.
Wow, there’s so many. Kids books: Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin, P.S. Be Eleven by Rita Williams-Garcia, the Elephant and Piggie books by Mo Willems. Adult books: I like everything written by Kimberla Lawson Roby.
Do you plan to make any changes, or keep things as is?
I’m not sure yet. You should come by the library and check us out! (smile)
What’s happening at the library in October?
We will have our popular After School is Cool programs from Mondays through Fridays from 4 – 5pm. We have new storytime starting the third Saturday of October; it’s for families with children of all ages, and it will go from 10:30 – 11am. Please check our website at denverlibrary.org and go to events and programs for more details.
Events at the Park Hill Branch Library
All Ages Storytime: Thursdays at 10:30am
All ages are welcome for this storytime! We may do a craft, play musical instruments, or have some fun with the parachute! No registration is required.
Book Babies: Early Walkers: Thursdays at 11:15am
Stories, action songs, and rhymes developed to meet the needs of babies on the move and their caregivers. Playtime and socialization immediately follow the program. No registration is required.
Tales for Twos: Fridays at 10:30am
Join us for a storytime just for two-year-olds and their caregiver. We will share books, sing songs, and provide movement activities. No registration is required.
Book Babies: Pre-Walkers: Fridays at 11:15am
Stories, rhymes, and lap songs developed to meet the needs of infants and their caregivers. Playtime and socialization immediately follow the program. No registration is required.
Pajama Storytime: Wednesdays at 6:30pm
Join us for the Park Hill Branch Library’s new PJ storytime! Stories, songs, and fun for all ages. Come in your pajamas! Stuffed animals and blankies welcome! No registration is required.
Star Wars Reads Day: Saturday, 10/5 11am – 12:30pm
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away… the Park Hill Branch Library vowed to spread the use of the Force far and wide. Join us as we prepare to defeat the Dark Side with games and crafts designed to hone your Jedi skills. There will be a costume contest, so costumes and Star Wars attire are encouraged but not required.
Genre Chat Book Club: Thursday, 10/17 3:30pm
A book club for grades 2-3. We will explore a variety of book genres, and participate in discussions, crafts, and activities related to the story. This month we will read Earwig and the Witch by Dianna Wynne Jones. Be ready to make your own potions afterward for our snack! *Registration is suggested but not required.
Teen Advisory Board (TAB): Tuesday, 10/22 6 – 7:30pm
Students in grades 6-12 are invited to join the Park Hill TAB. Help plan library events and projects at the Park Hill Library, talk about your favorite books, and make your opinion count! Join us the second Tuesday of each month.
Teen Book Club: Thursday, 10/24 4pm
A reading group for teens in grades 6-12 that meets to talk about books, eat snacks, play games, and have some laughs. Bring your friends! Help us think up a better name for our book club! Check with the reference desk for more details. *Registration is required.
Halloween Party/Karaoke Night! Friday, 10/25 6:30 – 8 :30pm
Students in grades 6-12 are invited to an after-hours Halloween Party/Karaoke Night, hosted by the Park Hill Teen Advisory Board! Come in costume, nosh some pizza, sing some tunes. *Registration and a permission slip are required. Check with the reference desk for more details.
The Pauline Branch Library is located at 5575 E. 33rd Ave., 720-865-0290. The Park Hill Branch Library is located at 4705 Montview Blvd., 720-865-0250. Visit denverlibrary.org for more information.