Staff at Kitchener Public Library are committed to developing programs and services that exceed expectations. We support lifelong learning and work hard to help families get a strong start.
Karen works as a Children’s Programmer and Senior Library Assistant at Country Hills Library. She plans and implements programs for children from birth up to age 12 including Babytime, Getting Ready for Kindergarten, Reading Buddies and more. You may also see her doing class visits at schools, creating new children’s displays and supporting customers of all ages.
After finishing university, Karen joined the library as a volunteer and then as a staff member in a few different roles. Over the years she has worked in Circulation Services and Children’s and Teen Services before becoming the Children’s Programmer and Senior Library Assistant at Country Hills Library in 2011.
It’s a role that requires a little bit of everything. In addition to children’s programs, Karen also supports customers of all ages with reading suggestions, tech support and borrowing library materials. Connecting with our community, especially with children and families is rewarding work for Karen.
“It is great to get to know the children and families in the community. Children that start coming to programs as babies continue with summer programs and some even become teen volunteers,” said Karen.
Being well connected with the community has its perks. “It is heart-warming to be recognized by young customers who remember me coming to their school to share books. I feel like a rock star!”
Whether in-person or virtual, for babies or school-aged kids, Karen is working to create programs and services that reflect our community and support our community’s needs.
Get to know Karen!
This or That
- Fiction or non-fiction: I enjoy both!
- Digital or vinyl: vinyl
- Coffee or tea: tea
- Summer or winter: Winter – I love going for long hikes in the snow.
- Dogs or cats: I am allergic to both, so I enjoy feeding the birds in my backyard.
- Night owl or early bird: I try to be an early bird!
- Search the catalog or browse the stacks: Search the catalogue.
Favourites
- Movie: Sunset Boulevard
- Snack: Cheese and crackers
- Hobby: Baking, needle felting, and of course, reading!
- Sports team: Winnipeg Blue Bombers (for my family in Manitoba)
- Holiday: Christmas