N.B. library welcomes new children's librarian
BY JENNIFER AMATO Staff Writer

Anna Shifton

NORTH BRUNSWICK - Anna Shifton has been named the new children's librarian at the North Brunswick Library.

Shifton, 31, of Hamilton Square, has a master's degree in library science and previously worked in a public library and academic library in the children's, young adult and adult sections.

She said she has always wanted a job as a children's librarian but had a hard time finding a position. She said she "wanted to share my love of books and nurture children with a love of reading, and develop programs that help children develop their talents, dreams and wishes."

With a 1-year-old son at home, to whom she reads "Goodnight Moon" by Margaret Wise Brown, "Hush Little Baby" by Sylvia Long, and Dr. Seuss stories, Shifton said, "Having a young baby at home makes the experience more special because I know someone will be doing this for my son one day."

Thus, she hopes to share her experiences with young readers. Her intention is to expand the children's selections, add more magazines, build up programming and develop a summer program. Her other responsibilities include ordering books, evaluating the collections and reinvigorating the section as a whole.

"There was always something when I entered the children's room. It's almost like a transformation takes place," the former records analyst for the Mercer County Clerk's Office said. "I want to make this one of the best children's libraries in New Jersey."

Shifton said that despite the popularity of bookstores and the Internet, libraries are "vital" and are "the heartbeat of the community."

"Anyone can come to a library and check out books or CDs or DVDs or magazines," she said. "I want to make a positive change and be a positive force for children and families."

Shifton began on Jan. 28, replacing Hilary Mirrer, who pursued another opportunity after serving in North Brunswick for the past 15 years, according to Library Director Cheryl McBride. Shifton said for the first time in her life she "is happy to come to work" and that she "[goes] home exhausted but it's the best kind of exhaustion."

"I'm very fortunate the North Brunswick community has welcomed me with open arms," she said.