Mary Beth Adams is the new Community Engagement Librarian for the Alamance County Public Libraries. We welcome her in this newly created position with the hopes of improving our community relationships, increasing engagement, and getting the libraries out into the community!
How long have you worked with the County?
I have worked for Alamance County for 3 years.
Where are you from originally?
I am a North Carolinian, born and bred! I was born in Sanford, but didn’t live there long. I grew up in Greensboro, and Raleigh, and also have lived in Charlotte as an adult.
What are you most passionate about?
I believe libraries are the hub of the communities they serve. We need to develop and strengthen partnerships with key organizations in our county and state so we can be that hub, offering information and services alongside our partners. Often, that means meeting people where they are. We can no longer expect people to always come to us in our library buildings, although we really want them here! I hope by going out into the world and shining a light on what libraries can do for you, I can encourage people to come to their local library branch and know they will be welcome and find what they need.
Do you have a hobby?
I used to make my own jewelry, and still enjoy doing that occasionally! I am a member of a kickboxing gym, so I get to vent my frustrations on a punching bag a few times a week.
When you were little, what was your dream job?
I wanted to be a writer. I used to write poetry. I don’t think I am the only one in the library world who wanted to be a writer! I have always lived in my imagination.
What was the best part of your week/weekend?
My family has a Friday night ritual – we eat takeout from one of our favorite restaurants, then go get ice cream or frozen yogurt. The places vary week to week; we try to support all of our county’s restaurants and ice cream and frozen yogurt stores!
If your life was a song, what would the title be?
Walking on Sunshine. I am a positive person who really tries to always have a smile on my face.
Are you involved in any community projects or organizations?
I’m an inactive member of the Alamance County Service League (meaning I finished my years of service and now just help out every once in a while). I am an elder at First Presbyterian Church in Burlington, and am involved with the youth group, as my son enters high school next year.
What is the weirdest thing you’ve ever eaten?
Frog legs and alligator, on a date with my husband at a Cajun restaurant.
What’s your favorite TV Show?
This is Us
What is your favorite thing to spend money on?
Clothes. And food (see our family’s Friday night ritual as evidence!). I read too much to be able to afford all of the books I want, so I am thankful that I work in a library!
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve learned recently?
There was a freedmen’s colony on Roanoke Island on the Outer Banks of North Carolina during and after the Civil War. I learned about it, of course, through a book (So Many Beginnings by Bethany C. Morrow).