BEACON FALLS — Along with ushering in the new year, the town is welcoming a new program librarian.
Amy Enquist, a lifelong Beacon Falls resident, started on the job Friday morning at the Beacon Falls Public Library, where she helped lead preschool story time. She spent the rest of the day learning the ropes and preparing.
“Since I know the town, the transition will definitely be easier,” Enquist said. “I know quite a few of the children and a good majority of the people here. It’s been great so far.”
Although she has never worked in a library before, Enquist said working with children is her passion. She served as committee chair for Cub Scout Pack 2010, and was co-director of the Parks and Recreation summer camp for two years. Before taking the job at the library, Enquist worked as a nanny for a 3-year-old.
Enquist replaced Shari Merrill, who had been program librarian for two and a half years. Merrill left last fall after giving birth to her first child in September.
Enquist was chosen from a pool of 40 applicants, a list that was eventually narrowed down to two finalists who were presented to the Board of Selectmen. Library Director Sue Dowdell said Enquist stood out during the semi-final stage of the application process, in which she was asked to lead the preschool story time program.
“Amy brought such comfort and smiles to the children,” Dowdell said. “She was exactly the right thing we were looking for. She really hit the spot with us.”
Enquist said she’s looking forward to continuing to develop programs for both children and adults at the library, particularly bringing more interactive components for the children’s programs.
Dowdell said the library staff is excited to work more with Enquist, who Dowdell said is passionate and committed to the community.
“She loves Beacon Falls and we love having her here,” Dowdell said. “Amy is full of smiles and laughter and brings brightness to our library.”
