Readers' advisory is all about connecting patrons to their next great read. Join us each month as we interview a Readers' Advisor at WPL so you can get to know the team a little better! We'll highlight their favorite genres, books they can't stop raving about, and tips patrons can follow for discovering new books. The first advisor we are featuring is Adult Services Department Head, Jennifer. Get to know her better below, and check back in December for our next interview.
How long have you worked in libraries?
16 years, with the last 2.5 in Wheaton. Readers’ Advisory has been my focus for the last decade. At WPL, I lead our team providing personalized recommendations via Book Match, creating displays, developing book lists, and more.
What is your favorite genre, series, or book?
I love romance and mystery and books that combine multiple genres. I particularly enjoy nonfiction about little known parts of history, such as Fever in the Heartland, The Girls of Atomic City, and When I Grow Up.
Have you ever read a book in one sitting? If so, what was the book?
During a reading slump, I picked up Arsenic and Adobo by Mia P. Manansala and could not put it down. It’s a delightfully charming cozy culinary mystery featuring a close-knit family and friends group. Be warned: afterwards, you’ll be craving Filipino food.
Tell us about a book you can’t stop raving about.
Thank You for Listening by Julia Whelan. If you only listen to one book in your lifetime, make it this one: A professional audiobook narrator writes (and narrates) a witty, uplifting romantic comedy about a professional audiobook narrator (and no, it’s not autobiographical, just a bit meta). Check out my full review.
What’s a book you often recommend?
Tuesday Mooney Talks to Ghosts by Kate Racculia. It’s a fun, quirky adventure filled with wit, intrigue, mystery, and a hint of spooky. People enjoy it for so many different reasons.
How can patrons discover books that might be of interest to them?
So many ways! Start on our website—we have a page dedicated to Reader Resources. Here, you can… sign up for newsletters to receive emails featuring forthcoming books, genre favorites, and more; browse staff picks—we love to read and share why we think you might enjoy these titles; and check out our recommendations—we’ve created custom lists on popular topics for all ages.
And, of course, come talk to us! We love to chat about all things books and help you find your next great read.
One of the ways patrons can get reading recommendations is though filling out our Book Match Form. Do you have any tips that patrons should follow when they fill out the form?
These lists are personalized based on what you share. The more we know about your likes and dislikes, the better we can curate your book selections.
Is there a readers’ advisory resource that you wish more patrons knew about?
Novelist. You’ll find readalikes (books similar to your favorites), series lists, and so much more. Access it via our website and explore. And as always, we are happy to answer questions.
