Profile - Kimberly Darneille, Adult Programming Librarian

Never let it be said I don't follow through.  As promised, this is the first blog with new, but still book-related content.  Jumping off the new year, I contacted and was graciously granted an interview with Kimberly Darneille, the adult programming librarian at my library, Harris County Public Library, Atascocita Branch.  To say Kimberly is a librarian seems far too simple and narrow a description, she's much more.  In her own words, her job encompasses,  "helping people in so many different ways, whether it's guiding someone to the perfect book, teaching a new skill, or solving a tricky question, every interaction feels like an opportunity to make a difference." 

Contrary to what is thought of as the typical route (a Master's Degree in library science) to becoming a librarian, Kimberly took a different path. She got her degree from the "school of hard knocks".  She's worked in libraries for 18 years, beginning in 2006 as a shelver and circulation assistant in the Montgomery County Library System.  Once she moved into the Harris County Library System in 2014, she followed the road to her current position working as a library technician and programming specialist.  In recent years, Harris County changed the requirements for librarians, which enabled Kimberly to combine her Bachelor's Degree with a wealth of experience qualifying for the position of librarian. 

As expected, in 18 years there have been some changes in the way libraries📚 do business!  Kimberly expanded on some of those key differences during our chat. During the COVID 19 Pandemic many libraries extended due dates or eliminated fines for overdue books in order to make allowances for those impacted by the virus. Libraries also made curbside pick-up available just like commercial merchants.  Seeing the value to their patrons, some libraries have stuck with those more relaxed policies and services.   

She also recounted some of the ups and downs as to in person library usage.  The more technically adept people become, they find the convenience and availability of eBooks, streaming entertainment services and on-line retail access to books and other media easier than getting in the car and driving to the library.  I believe that the varied and wider services now available at libraries are the answer to this trend.

Where libraries were once thought of as "storehouses for dusty books" they are now places of learning and community.  Many offer services such as tax preparation, crafting classes, teen programming, book clubs, and so much more. All free!  In addition to opening new avenues to learning and entertainment for patrons, these services have also created learning opportunities for library staff.  They have had to sharpen their tech skills, become program leaders, and trainers for those accessing a host of new resources.

I got to know Kimberly when she became the leader of our library book club, Lit Chat.  Her energy and engagement with this group is clearly the tip of the iceberg of what she demonstrates in all her responsibilities.  She says she "really loves working with the VolunTEENS. Watching them learn from their experiences."  I'm sure that feeling is communicated to them too.

Favorite book = Twilight by Stephanie Meyer 

If you get a chance, stop by the Atascocita Branch of the Harris County Library and spend a few minutes visiting with Kimberly Darneille.  You'll come away with a new friend! 😀