By the end of the week, Leila Graham will be absorbing a whole new set of responsibilities in her job at the Thompson Public Library.
While library assistant Amanda Sanders has been organizing and promoting events for the past four years she is taking maternity leave starting Aug. 19, which will keep her away from work for over 12 months.
In her absence, Graham will be responsible for organizing library-centric activities such as story time, free movie nights, and various workshops.
“I have some experience with programming because I actually worked in the library as a teenager,” said Graham, who’s been employed at the library in an official capacity since June. “I’m kind of been helping out a little bit, easing into it. But it seems like it’s going to be really fun. There’s going to be lots of cool new things to try out.”
According to Sanders, one of the biggest obstacles that Graham will face in her new position as library assistant is coming up with events and programming that appeals to teens and adults.
“The small kids we’re always able to get in but it’s been a challenge [attracting] the older groups,” she said. “For the past year we’ve been running wine and paint nights and those are probably our most successful ‘older crowd’ program.”
In addition to propping up the library’s pre-existing programs, Graham said she wants to organize two special events every month, including brand new activities of her own design.
“Right now I’m planning on doing a bath bomb night where you can come and make your own bath bombs,” she said. “So I think that will be really successful.”
Even though Graham is simultaneously excited and nervous at the prospect of taking on these new responsibilities, she remains committed to making sure the library continues to be a place where all people are welcome.
“I love the people the most. That’s always got to be the most important part of your job in any form of customer service.”
For more information on the Thompson Public Library’s new block of programming, please contact Graham at lgraham@thompsonlibrary.com.
