Blog

Hi, I’m Max, the production specialist a.k.a. staff photographer here at the library. If you’re a regular you’ve likely seen me around taking photos at a program or two. My position is always evolving and recently I’ve been turning my focus towards featuring you the patrons of Skokie Public Library, and sharing your stories on our social media channels. I’m always interested in meeting people who are willing to share their unique experiences at the library and in the Skokie community.

People like Mercedes who left her native Peru during an unstable time and came straight to Skokie where her family found their favorite space at the library.

Or longtime Skokie resident Myra who has been a familiar face on the Bookmobile for almost 40 years.

I'm also starting to share stories about our library staff, like Assistant Bookmobile Librarian Matt. When he walks into work each morning, there’s no telling what may unfold that day. That unpredictability is a big reason why he enjoys his job so much. “I have quite a bit of variety in my job,” he said. "One minute you’re helping a little kid find a book on trucks, the next minute you’re helping an older gentleman find a nonfiction book or recommending a movie to a family.” That variety can also include doing basic maintenance on the Bookmobile. But what Matt can consistently look forward to is connecting with Skokie residents--something he has done since he first started working in the library as a security guard. Now, after three years on the Bookmobile, he feels a strong sense of community with the staff as well as the patrons. “95 percent of the people we see are regulars. People are talking to each other about their kids, their vacations—it becomes a social gathering and a meeting place.”

If you know of anyone with an interesting Skokie-related story to tell, feel free to reach out to me at *EMAIL*. And be sure to follow us on Instagram @skokielibrary.