How long have you worked at the Dover Public Library? Are you retired from another career?
10 years. I was a hairdresser for 30 years in my past life.
What is your typical workday like?
I spend my mornings at the Tuscarawas County Senior Center manning their library. In the afternoons I make any deliveries that are scheduled or work on making new travel programs, which happens to be my favorite thing to do at work. I present these entertaining yet educational programs at all of the Dover care facilities and the TCSC.
Do you have any funny, positive, or heartwarming stories about the library?
Ha Ha! I have too many stories to tell. Like an 86 years young senior telling me I’m not bringing very many books that are “Juicy!” Or how about a lady who called to ask if I would check the books she returned the week before, because she thought she left the ticket stub for the “All Male Review” inside one of the books. Or the gentleman who always said “thanks, doll face!” The best is getting the nickname “Library Linda” from the residents at Hennis. Now, all of the facilities call me that.
What kind of books do you enjoy reading or listening to? Is there a book or series you would recommend?
I mostly like to read psychological thrillers (Heather Gudenkauf, Lisa Jewell). But I will also read romantic suspense (Helen Hardt), nice easy reads (Robyn Carr, Pamela Kelley) and historical fiction.
When you aren’t working what kinds of things do you enjoy doing?
I LOVE to cook. I grow my own herbs every year and I really enjoy experimenting with them. I’m also currently into making homemade vanilla extract. 😋 It’s like my own special science project.
I’m a retired school librarian and have been reading forever! In 2015 at age 66, I had surgery to remove a blood clot in my brain. I was placed in a beautiful room at the Inn at Northwood where I received excellent physical care. The doctors did not expect a full recovery. The high point of each week was when Linda visited me, bringing books she had selected just for me. I enjoyed our conversations and the intellectual stimulation from those talks and the books she brought. After a few months, I was able to return to my own home and a normal life! I give credit to the prayers of my church family, the wonderful doctors at the Cleveland Clinic, the friendship supplied by Linda, the Dover Public Library, and just the right books! Thanks, Linda!