Reading Library's Corinne Fisher Inducted Into Hall of Fame

Reading Public Library's Children's Services Head Librarian Corinne Fisher was the first children's librarian recently inducted into the Massachusetts Library Association (MLA) Hall of Fame. 

Fisher received her award at the MLA's annual Conference held April 30 in Hyannis. According to the MLA nomination guidelines, "The honor is bestowed upon practicing or retired librarians who have made a substantial sustained contribution to advancing the cause of Massachusetts librarians or librarianship over a career of at least 10 years." Fisher was also recently honored at a selectmen's meeting.

Fisher began her professional career in Arlington 30 years ago.  A year later, she accepted the position as head of children's services at Reading Public Library and has been there every since.

In addition, Fisher has served as the chair of children's section for the New England Library Association, public relations chair and the chair of the Jordan Miller storytelling committee for the MLA. 

Reading Public Library's award-winning summer reading program is a model for other libraries.  According to Fisher, there is a huge turnout for summer reading.  

Fisher views her longevity in her position as a wonderful experience that is constantly changing .

"I've been lucky to be able to hire the best staff and keep them every year."

Fisher is grateful to her staff: Mary McIntire, Brenda Wetergreen, Rachel Baumgartner and Ashley Waring.  "We work as a team," and emphasized that the staff deserve much of the credit in her receiving this award.

Library Director Ruth Urell nominated Fisher for the award and spoke about her nominee at the conference.  She described her as" a children's librarian beyond compare and a mentor to other librarians throughout Massachusetts." 

Urell explained that Fisher receives many inquiries about various programs, especially the award-winning summer reading program from librarians throughout the region.

Urell praised Fisher in her "commitment, passion and professionalism that resound through the local and state community."  According to Urell, Fisher has developed an outstanding staff by encouraging professional development and full participation in all aspects of children's services. 

"She provides support and encouragement, often taking multiple desk shifts herself so that others can run a program or attend a class," said Urell.

Baumgartner is one of Fisher's staff that has benefited from her leadership.

"She encouraged me to get involved with YS (Youth Services) leadership, and we both attended programs for it." Baumgartner describes Fisher as "extremely creative and forward- looking." She added that Fisher was instrumental obtaining a grant for Smartstart, a literacy program for toddlers and infants.

Urell said there are few things more thrilling to Fisher than a child or parent transformed by their library experience. "Those are the stories she wishes to share, and while they inspire her to create ever-more interesting programs, they inspire the rest of us to do our best in service to all patrons," she explained.

In fact, a former child patron, now in her 20s recently called to congratulate Fisher on her award and told her that she inspired her to write children's books. 

"Those calls are the best part of receiving this honor," said Fisher.