A new 5 questions with interview is here! For this instalment, we had the pleasure of interviewing Ben Robinson, Supervisor at the Westminster Square branch of the Guelph Public Library.
The Guelph Public Library, one of the oldest public libraries in Ontario, welcomes over 1,500 people every day. The Westminster Square branch, which has been providing services to the community since 2006, offers children’s and adult programs, local art display, makerspace, board games, puzzles, outdoor games, and much more.
Read Ben’s answers to our questionnaire below.
1. Which myth about libraries or library staff do you most want to bust?
I’m always amazed when parents who don’t use the library assume that our books are either dirty, old, or both. There is this idea that libraries are behind the times and only have older titles and I’m not sure how that got started. It’s concerning for me, because I believe that all parents can make great use of the library to save money, have access to a larger cross-section of books than is available at bookstores, and find community with other parents and families.
2. What compelled or inspired you to pursue library work?
Though it sounds old-fashioned, I like being around books. Later, while doing graduate studies in history, I realized how much I enjoyed the research process. I thought I would end up working in an academic library, which I did for a time. But, I recognized how public libraries tend to the needs of communities in vital, direct ways daily. Public libraries support and serve the public in a variety of ways, but initially, I was drawn to this fact that they minister to people.
3. What has been your favourite library event?
In my previous role as Children’s Librarian, I used to do lots of programs. Once I did an event for teens that tried to split the difference between murder mysteries and D&D. It was called Camp Weird, and it was a live event that was partially scripted by me. I set the scene, laid out some red herrings, and made a map of the campgrounds. Teens had characters, but most of the story creation was up to them. It was really fun and we did it a second time. Of course, I’m sure ChatGPT can easily do this kind of thing now. Too bad, because it’s fun to do that stuff yourself!
4. What is the most pressing issue facing libraries today?
I think that harm reduction is among the biggest issues facing libraries today. People suffering from mental health issues, homelessness, and addiction really depend on the library, which is great. Libraries have to find new and better ways to ensure that these patrons can use the library safely and are cared for to the extent possible.
5. What forthcoming book are you most excited about?
Well, it’s not going to be out for a while but I was very excited to learn that Bill James will be updating his Historical Baseball Abstract. It’s been over twenty years since the last edition. If you love baseball history, and I guess it’s a small minority of readers, James’s books are among the best.
BONUS: Printer jams! What is the most surprising thing in your day to day that you spend more time on than you were prepared for?
Ugh, scheduling.
Thank you Ben for taking the time to answer our questionnaire! Read more instalments of our 5 questions with series here.
Are you a library staffer, Canadian independent bookseller, or small publisher interested in being featured in our 5 questions with blog series? Get in touch!
The BISAC to Thema translator has been updated.