Working the customer service
desk at a public library gives me the opportunity to interact with
readers of all ages. I must admit it gives me a thrill to see young
readers borrowing the same books that I loved as a child (and believe
me, that was a few years ago). Beverly Cleary's books really bring back
memories, and I think anyone who has a younger sister will enjoy the Ramona
series, even as an adult.
And then there are the adult readers
who come to the desk in a panic stating, "I've finished reading all of the
books written by my favorite authors and I need someone new, now!" I
can certainly sympathize. There is
nothing quite as horrifying as a reading drought.
Since I read a lot of fiction,
especially mystery/suspense and sci-fi/horror, I often make suggestions of
authors who write in those genres. I get a feel for who might be
interested in lightweight or humorous mysteries, and who might be more into the
darker, hardcore private eye type stories.
There are also many different sub-genres within sci-fi/horror, so if a customer says they have been reading Stephen King, I might suggest Dean Koontz or F Paul Wilson. But, if someone asks me for a new author of romantic vampire novels, they are out of luck. Hey, vampires are supposed to be evil and bloodthirsty!
Feedback on these recommendations is
mixed. Sometimes a customer lets me know that an author I suggested
didn't quite meet their expectations, but I know I've been successful when a
familiar face pops up at the desk and asks, "What are you reading?"
-Ginny
-Ginny
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