This week I'd like to introduce Glenn Fischer, Cromaine's Adult Services Manager, to you. Glenn joined our staff in January 2017, following the resignation of Mary Howard. Glenn came to us from Madonna University in Livonia where he was Co-director on a temporary basis, following a longer career as Librarian. His experience also included a significant period in Community District, a relatively new district public library in central Michigan (which included my former home, Perry, Michigan). There, he was responsible for all things tech--from setting up Internet services and training to the web site, PLUS direct reference services to the public. 

Glenn secret shopped Cromaine before he decided to apply and interview. His report to us in the interview was that the Cromaine staff did well at both the Adult Services and Circulation Departments --greeting patrons, knowledgeably helping them, and treating all with respect and kindness. While all of our interviews are conducted by committee, I knew that any librarian who valued public service enough to make sure he'd be in the right place was the right candidate for us. Frankly, I'd done the same before I applied to work at Cromaine!
 
Each of the managers I'll introduce to you were asked to answer two questions for me to include in this letter. Glenn's answers follow:
 
Why I have chosen Cromaine for my career:

I wanted a public library known for excellent service to the community where I could continue to develop as a librarian and supervisor. I visited Cromaine before I chose to apply here to see how the library worked during a typical day; I was impressed at how each member of the team worked together and with patrons in a polite, professional, and fun-loving manner. I knew this was the right place for me and hoped I could join the team. Since starting, I am regularly challenged to grow and serve the public. This is a hallmark of the kind of library where I want to work.

What it means to me to be engaged in public service:

Public service has been part of my life since I was in the 8th grade. I've always done some kind of volunteer work that is congruent with my personal values and interests. My parents raised me with the knowledge that public service is a vital component to living in a community; it's how we learn to get along with different people, have fun together, support each other during tragedy, and live richer lives in general. I am fortunate that being a librarian affords me the opportunity to pay homage to what it means to be a member of a community.
 
Glenn chooses his words carefully and, in my experience so far, answers our questions thoroughly and with care, making sure he's met the information need. He has a fun side, too - he likes to bicycle and a good day has a ten-mile cycle ride in it or a hike in one of our beautiful state parks. He has a cat that is very dog-like and highly likely to be seen wearing a costume at some future point. He is also a "foodie"--the program "Hacking Your Tastebuds" is Glenn's brainchild and, although it is full at this point, count on seeing more events that explore the intersection of science, food, and fun.
 
This Saturday, meet Glenn in person at the Hartland Farmer Market (new location in front of Rural King on M-59). He'll be talking all things summer reading--from the events to good reads for everyone to the solar eclipse party coming. You'll also find him, of course, at the library serving you from the Adult Reference Desk on the first floor.
Ceci Marlow, Library Director
Cromaine District Library
cmarlow@cromaine.org
810-632-5200, ext. 105 
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