Molly Reinero

I am a Librarian I in Youth Services at the Lawrence Branch of the Mercer County Library System, where I have worked since March 2021.  After graduating from Rutgers University’s Master of Information program in December 2021, I became certified in New Jersey as a Professional Librarian and School Library Media Specialist.  I also have an M.Ed. in Waldorf Education, and several years of work experience as an educator and administrator for community organizations involved with education and the arts.

I feel that librarianship is my true calling. I want to create a welcoming gathering space for community members of all ages and backgrounds, and help them explore their passions both within and beyond the realm of academic learning. I'm particularly interested in public libraries as sources of information and social connection for young people and their caregivers. I find it very satisfying to connect young people with books that will transport them; make them feel seen; help them empathize with others; and cultivate a lifelong love of reading.  I enjoy exploring new digital creation and curation tools and using them to engage, inform, and cultivate global literacy and connection.  Most of all, I appreciate the opportunities I have as a youth services librarian to share my artistic and musical gifts with the community. I especially love blending my creativity and enthusiasm for sustainable living by developing programs and makerspaces that focus on creative reuse and mending.