As you make your way through Central Library, you will find the Children’s Department tucked just beyond the staircase to Level 2. It is a fun space where magic happens each and every day. One of the first people you might meet on a visit to the Children’s department is Shaena, a library assistant with Children’s and Teen Services.
One of Shaena’s main responsibilities is working on the Children’s desk supporting children and family while they visit the library. She helps children use the 3D printers or choose the next book to read.
Growing up Shaena loved to read and visit the library. Shaena first started at the library as a high school co-op student. She then took on a role as a shelver at Central Library and moved between different departments and roles until landing in her current role.
Through volunteering as a teenager and working at the community libraries Shaena knew that she loved helping kids discover and learn new things. When an opportunity for a library assistant in Children’s and Teen Services became available Shaena knew it was the right fit for her.
“I help people – especially kids – find the book they are looking for and I make recommendations for those who don’t know what to read next,” said Shaena. “There is no better feeling then finding the perfect book for a child.”
Behind-the-scenes Shaena also helps with program preparation, making book lists, fulfilling Billie’s Book Picks requests and creating displays.
“One of the most fun parts of my job is creating the displays you will find throughout the department. I love coming up with ways to make the department more colourful and welcoming.”
Supporting children and families is rewarding work but it takes a village and Shaena is grateful for the entire Children’s and Teen Services team.
“I truly appreciate how everyone works to help and support each other. We are a small but mighty team!”
Get to know Shaena
This or That
- Fiction or non-fiction: Fiction
- Digital or vinyl: Digital
- Coffee or tea: Tea
- Summer or winter: Winter
- Dogs or cats: Dogs
- Night owl or early bird: Night Owl
- Search the catalog or browse the stacks: Browse the stacks
Favourites
- Movie: The Age of Adaline
- Snack: Chips and Dip
- Hobby: I like to learn something new every year or so. This year I learned how to crochet.
- Sports team: Sports?
- Holiday: Christmas