Join us each month as we interview a Readers' Advisor at WPL so you can get to know the team a little better! Up next, we are featuring Adult Services Associate, Liz. Read on to find out what book she's always recommending, her tips for getting out of a reading slump, and more.
How long have you worked in libraries?
A little over 2 years
What is your favorite book from childhood?
Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder. It probably explains why I love history and historical fiction so much!
What is your favorite genre, series, or book?
I have always loved historical fiction, but more recently, domestic thrillers (Shari Lapena and Lisa Jewell are two of my favorite authors from that genre) and true crime.
What’s a book you often recommend?
To me, Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier is the gold standard of historical fiction, so I will recommend that to anyone who wants to try out the genre.
Do you re-read books? If so, which one and how often?
I like to sometimes re-read books that I read as a child or young adult. I recently listened to the entire Little House on the Prairie series through the Libby app, and it was fascinating to re-visit the series from an adult perspective.
What tips do you have for someone who might be in a reading slump or trying to get back into reading?
Joining a book club, whether here at the library, with friends, or even a virtual club like Read with Jenna, can make the process of choosing a book feel less daunting, and you will have more motivation to read so you can participate in the discussion! I also like participating in WPL’s winter and summer reading challenges or the yearly Goodreads reading challenge because it’s a fun way to track what you read throughout the year and have a friendly competition with yourself.
How can patrons discover books that might be of interest to them?
Think about a movie, show, or podcast that you really enjoyed and want to explore further. I listen to a dark history podcast and have read so many interesting books based on topics covered by the show, such as The Great Mortality and The Indifferent Stars Above.
Do you have any tricks for someone who might want to incorporate reading into their daily routine, but is struggling to do so?
I would start with a book that has been out for a while and doesn’t have any holds, so you don’t feel pressured to finish it in time before you have to return it. Find brief snatches of time every day when you can read even just one chapter, and you’ll have the book finished before you know it! Listening to an audiobook using one of our apps while doing chores certainly helps make whatever you’re doing more enjoyable (looking at you, dishes).