Meet a Librarian--Deb Nelson


Deb Nelson works in the children's department at the Menomonie Public Library, and they are lucky to have her there!  Deb's kind, humorous and dedicated self comes across very well in her answers!

How long have you been working at the library?   I will be starting my 9th year in October.

What other jobs or life experiences do you think have helped you develop into a youth services librarian?  Mainly, being a mom to four children and reading STACKS of books (no exaggeration), but the 13 years of in-home daycare helped an awful lot too.

What’s something you really like doing at your job?  I love planning the storytimes…there are always so many ideas to choose from.  I love the well-planned storytime that NEVER is implemented the way I have it in my head. But I know I work with kids…no more needs to be said!  I also thoroughly enjoy making bulletin boards in the library.  Those, on the other hand, are never well-planned, but are always a work-in-progress and I love the challenge.

What age group do you find especially fun to work with and why?  My favorite preschoolers are the 4’s.  They’re so innocent yet, but always so eager to share all their stories with me. ..owies and new shoes seem to be the most popular subjects!  They’re truly spreading their wings for the first time and I’m so happy for them and with them. 

Tell us about a book you’ve read recently (kids or adult) that you really liked—why was it so good?   Well, I’ve just started this one, but I can tell I’m going to like it.   Quiet:  the Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain.  My strong suit is not conversation so I’m getting a better understanding of, and a little validation for, my other strengths.

What is an activity you find reliable to help kids get back on track when their attention is wandering during storytime? Amazingly, just a simple directive activity…”Touch your toes.  Touch your knees.  Touch your hips, (always with a wiggle and a shake).  Touch your shoulders, etc.”   I always vary it, though, with my voice and/or how my fingers will touch.  One time they might crawl slowly, the next time my fingers might jump, or I throw the really hard ones in like ankles or elbows, or nostrils and even criss-cross across your back!

What gives you fuel when you are needing inspiration?  PINTEREST!  Love the visual ideas that people are so willing to share.  I don’t know how many times I’ve said, “Why didn’t I think of that” and “Hey, I think I can do that.” 

If you would like to share a little of yourself for one of these--please let me know and I'll be glad to send you some questions!!

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