Library Limelight

Amy Billings

Youth Specialist

Sharon Forks Library

Where is your hometown?

Long Valley, NJ

How long have you been at FCPL?

3 years

What other jobs have you had at FCPL?

I have been in this position and at this branch since I started here.

Why did you choose to work in a library?

I have been a librarian my entire adult career. When I decided to go to library school, everyone I knew nodded their head and agreed it was a perfect fit. I’ve always been a reader and I like games and solving puzzles. A reference question is basically a puzzle to solve.

Describe your job in five words or less.

Engage, Assist, Encourage, Recommend, Instruct, (and currently, Disinfect)

What is unique about your job?

I love the chance to foster a love of books and reading in the very young, and the chance to influence how parents support their children’s educational and recreational reading.

What is your favorite part of your job?

I’d have to say there are two equal favorites: When a patron (adult or kid) comes back and tells me that they liked a book I suggested, it’s always a great moment. But I also really love those great big, happy, baby smiles that I get to see during baby storytime.

What’s the most interesting place you’ve lived or traveled?

Last year, my son, my husband, and I hiked to the top of Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park in Utah. It was extremely steep and narrow and was dangerous and very scary – the photos did not do it justice. I almost turned back halfway up but I pushed through. It was a very cool experience and way out of my usual comfort zone.

What are your hobbies?

Reading, jogging, trying new recipes, and playing tennis

What are you reading right now?

I just finished reading Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia and I’m listening to The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow. 

Paper books, eBooks, or audiobooks?

All three!

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I wish journalists who want to write articles about how “the library is a relic of the past” would visit our library on a Sunday afternoon or during a Summer Reading event!  There would be no more doubt that libraries are alive and flourishing and providing a great community service.