Summer is the busiest season in the Youth Department; school is out and kids flood the department to participate in Summer Reading, attend programs, or find their next item to check out. Having some new smiling faces bring fresh energy is not only a way to better meet the needs of the community, but it also gives a sneak peek into what it’s like to work at the library. “Some summer associates have ‘graduated’ from volunteering as middle school students and it’s wonderful to see them continue to learn and grow,” said Youth Department Assistant Director Sophie Kenney. This year’s summer associates are Alexandra Vazquez and Olivia Terek.
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| Question | Alexandra Vazquez | Olivia Terek |
| Where are you in your career path? | I just recently graduated high school. | I graduated Glenbard West High School this year and I plan to attend College of DuPage, before eventually transferring to a 4-year school. |
| What’s your favorite thing about the library? | The environment; how friendly everyone is and being able to work with kids! | Seeing how excited people can be about books and reading. |
| What’s your favorite thing to do outside of the library? | I love to go shopping with my sister and my best friend Max — or going out to eat! | Playing softball, and spending time with my friends and family. |
| What are your future plans? | I’d like to be a teacher. Specifically, I want to lean into working in Special Education. | I’m planning to become a teacher or a librarian. |