Shelf Talk is usually written by the MCLS PR and Customer Service Specialist, Beth Roberts. But this time your MCLS director, Lowell Walters, has written to recognize Roberts as the System’s Employee of the Quarter.
Roberts was nominated by several of her colleagues for this recognition, and I heartily offer it to her. She is always willing to do whatever it takes to get things accomplished.
Some of the things that she has done include drafting of grant applications, constant maintenance of the System’s social media posts and communication, maintenance of this biweekly column, and arrangement of displays at the Blytheville location while coaching the managers at the other five locations in such promotion. She also creates standardized signage and digital art for all six facilities as well as for use on advertising products, shirts, and billboards.
During this year’s COVID summer, Roberts worked swiftly and efficiently with all available MCLS personnel to convert the Summer Reading Program to a totally online environment. And she does all of this work on a part time schedule. The citizens of Mississippi County are getting quite a bit of ROI for their 1/8 cent sales tax when it comes to her work.
Roberts is a great employee, but here are some more personal things about her as she has answered some questions for us.
Why have you chosen to work in the MCLS?
When our family moved to Mississippi County in 2017, I was delighted to hear that the local library was hiring for a PR position. I've always loved libraries...what could be more fun than helping other people love them, too? The position has turned out even better than I'd hoped: in the last 3 years, I've learned new skills, engaged in creative thinking, helped plan, promote, and implement a variety of programs, and collaborated with an amazing team. I love being part of an organization that serves the community in such a vital way.
What part of your work brings you the most satisfaction?
Customer Service. The Mississippi County Library System has so much to offer our community, from engaging programs for all ages, to a variety of digital and print reading materials, to technology services. Nothing is more fun than connecting a customer to a service or resource that will make a difference in their life. I love talking about what the library has to offer and helping customers (both current and potential) see the many ways that MCLS can benefit them.
What is your favorite genre?
I love novels that show me the world from a different perspective. I like to read books by authors whose voices and life experiences are very different from my own. Genres vary, but I keep coming back to magical realists, memoirs, and mysteries.
What/who are your favorite titles/authors?
Sandra Cisneros, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Jorge Borges, John Dunn. Favorite books to read-aloud with kids: JK Rowling's Harry Potter, CS Lewis Lion, Witch, & the Wardrobe, JM Barrie's Peter Pan, Rudyard Kipling's Just So Stories.
If you see Beth Roberts out and about, be sure to join me in congratulating her on this recognition which is accompanied by a small monetary award.