Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks Episode: How Libraries Serve as Community Hubs
Release Date: February 13, 2025
Hosts: Debbie McCullough & Steve Bowers
Guest: Azita Frattarelli, Library Director and Youth Librarian at Riverview Veterans Memorial Library

Introduction

In the February 13, 2025 episode of Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks, hosts Debbie McCullough and Steve Bowers engage listeners with an illuminating conversation about the pivotal role libraries play as community hubs. Sponsored by Midwest Tape and Hoopla, the episode features Azita Frattarelli, a dedicated library director and youth librarian, who shares her inspiring journey and memorable experiences within the library ecosystem.

Guest Background

Azita Frattarelli serves as both the library director and youth librarian at the Riverview Veterans Memorial Library. With seven years at Riverview, Azita brings a wealth of experience and passion for fostering community connections through librarianship.

First Library Memory

Azita opens up about her first memorable experience with a library, highlighting its lasting impact on her love for books and community:

"[00:57] My first memory of a library is from when I was in first grade... I still remember that question. And I was like, any book, you know, And I kept thinking, and I was very and still am very in love with Sesame Street."
— Azita Frattarelli

This early encounter not only cemented her love for reading but also instilled a sense of belonging and welcome, which she continues to prioritize in her professional life.

Career Path into Librarianship

When asked about her unconventional journey into librarianship, Azita reveals a path marked by serendipity and evolving passions:

"[04:33] I actually started my undergraduate wanting to be in medicine... It just kind of like evolved into a career... And then my daughter hit kindergarten, and they were looking for volunteers for the Scholastic Book Fair. And something just clicked."
— Azita Frattarelli

Her transition from journalism to librarianship underscores the diverse backgrounds from which library professionals can emerge, emphasizing that passion and opportunity often guide career shifts.

Memorable Library Stories

John the Articulate Child

Azita recounts her heartwarming interactions with a young patron named John:

"[10:33] John was one of the most articulate, interesting children I had ever met. He spoke like an adult, complete sentences, and talked about his grandparents like they worked for him... Every year at the holidays, he's still asked to come and see me."
— Azita Frattarelli

This enduring relationship exemplifies the profound, lasting connections librarians can form with their patrons.

Patron Supporting ailing Wife

Another touching story involves a patron whose wife was battling health issues. Azita’s efforts to provide personalized book selections had a significant emotional impact:

"[12:00] He said, I just want you to know... what a difference you made in her life. She looked forward to the books and you guys would slide in something new to see if she liked it."
— Azita Frattarelli

This narrative highlights the library's role not just as a repository of books, but as a source of comfort and support for community members in times of need.

The Bird in the Library

Injecting humor into the episode, Azita shares a delightful anecdote about an unexpected visitor:

"[19:12] We had a bird flying around the library... I made a trail of bread to guide it out, and it happily ate every piece as it left. Only in a public library, Azita."
— Azita Frattarelli

This story showcases the unpredictable and charming moments that make working in libraries uniquely rewarding.

The Role of Journaling

Azita delves into her passion for journaling, linking it to her professional and personal growth:

"[22:08] I keep journals of paper everywhere... I have a planner, and I jot down tidbits about patrons and memorable interactions to remember them."
— Azita Frattarelli

Her commitment to journaling not only aids in preserving memories but also enhances her ability to connect with and remember the diverse individuals she serves.

The Future of Libraries: Hope and Challenges

Concluding the discussion, Azita offers an optimistic outlook on the future of libraries amidst evolving societal needs:

"[25:12] I feel hopeful about the future... I staunchly believe, even though I'm newish to this profession, that libraries really aren't going anywhere. We may have to shape shift a little bit, but we do that really great."
— Azita Frattarelli

She acknowledges ongoing challenges such as funding but remains confident in the resilience and adaptability of librarians to continue serving their communities effectively.

Closing Remarks

The episode wraps up with heartfelt gratitude towards Azita, emphasizing the invaluable role she and her colleagues play in making libraries vibrant community hubs. Both hosts encourage listeners to support and cherish their local libraries, recognizing them as cornerstones of community engagement and personal growth.

Notable Quotes:

• "Libraries are about access, respect and belonging."
  — Steve Bowers [00:34]

• "Little acts of kindness."
  — Debbie McCullough [19:01]

• "Go libraries and go librarians."
  — Azita Frattarelli [25:12]

Timestamp Highlights:

• [00:03-00:57]: Introduction of hosts and guest Azita Frattarelli.
• [01:47-07:40]: Azita shares her first library memory and career path.
• [10:33-17:35]: Memorable stories from Azita’s time as a librarian.
• [19:00-24:23]: Humorous bird story and the significance of journaling.
• [25:12-27:35]: Thoughts on the future of libraries and closing remarks.

This episode of Chapter & Verse: Storytime from the Stacks eloquently illustrates how libraries function as vital community hubs, fostering connections, supporting individuals in need, and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of information and community service. Azita Frattarelli’s stories and insights offer a compelling testament to the enduring and evolving significance of librarianship in enhancing community well-being.