By Meghan Peterson, Ph.D.
(Jan. 14, 2020) — Located at 920 Saybrook Road (Rt. 154) in Haddam, the Brainerd Memorial Library provides a variety of adult, adolescent, family, and children’s literary resources, educational programming, and cultural arts events. As such, it serves as a dynamic hub for people to learn, gather and experience community together. We recently contacted Marissa Lehmacher, Head of Youth Services/Children’s Librarian at Brainerd Memorial Library here in Haddam, to speak more about the role BML plays in the lives of Haddam (as well as surrounding area) residents and library patrons.
How did you come to call Haddam Brainerd Memorial Library your home?
Lehmacher: I started at the Brainerd Library as the Young Adult Assistant while I was finishing my MLS and transitioning out of the social work field. Shortly after joining the team at Brainerd, I gave birth to my first son which rekindled my love for children’s literature. As I spent more time in the Children’s Department, I knew this was the ultimate direction my career would take. I was fortunate to become the Co-Coordinator of Youth Services with Patricia Coleman, an experienced retired school librarian. She taught me many critical aspects of the job, including the importance of readers’ advisory and how to create a successful storytime program. In October of 2017, when Pat retired from public library service, I was offered the position of Children’s Librarian & Head of Youth Services which I happily accepted. I feel honored to be able to serve the community in this capacity.
What is your background? Please provide a bit of biographical as well as professional information.
Lehmacher: I grew up in Killingworth and attended Providence College where I received bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Women’s Studies. After moving back to CT and working in the field of social work for ten years, I decided to make a career change. I wanted something that made me happier, and I had always admired the work of librarians. I loved that libraries have always served as great democratic institutions, providing access for all, protecting intellectual freedom, promoting literacy, and building community engagement. I obtained my MLS in 2014 and look forward to continuing education opportunities in the field.
How do you see your role not only at the library but in the community?
Lehmacher: I primarily see myself as a facilitator. Not only do I connect people to information and ideas, but I also help connect people to people. In designing and implementing children’s programs and partnering with local community organizations, I’ve watched many new relationships develop between community members. From new parents and grandparents meeting each other during our story and music programs to homeschooling groups getting together in the afternoons to children finding new friends at our Lego Club, it’s been a joy to see people come together and enrich each other’s lives.
What are some of your favorite aspects of your job?
Lehmacher: No two days are the same in the Children’s Department, and I love the energy and opportunity that flows from that. I’m constantly meeting new patrons and introducing them to the materials and services we offer here, many of whom don’t realize that all of our programs are free. Watching our young patrons discover a love of reading and connecting them with the right resources is particularly satisfying. It’s fun to see them evolve as readers and chat about their favorite series. I love that I’m continually learning alongside our patrons. Lastly, developing our collection and selecting new materials that are of interest and value to our patrons has been a fulfilling part of my position.
What are some goals/objectives/vision(s) you have for the library children’s department?
Lehmacher: I would love to see the Children’s Department continue to grow as a vibrant hub for our community. Increasing and diversifying our programming, staying abreast of the latest trends, and continuing to provide a welcoming and fun environment for children and their families are top priorities for me. I look forward to our upcoming renovation where patrons will have easy access to the Department with a new entrance and additional parking. Eventually, we will be re-configuring the interior of the Department to better accommodate our patrons by lowering the shelving units and shifting the layout to maximize space for programming, new materials, studying, crafting, and playing.
Any other thoughts to share with residents, patrons?
Lehmacher: We value input from our patrons regarding how we can continue to improve the Children’s Department to meet the needs our community. If you have any suggestions for us, we hope that you will share them so that we can create the best possible experience for you. Don’t be shy in our Department! We love laughter, activity, and seeing kids having a great time. Bring your snacks, nurse your babies, make some noise, and make yourself feel at home. This is your library!
