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BY HILLARY VIDERS
OF NORTHERN VALLEY PRESS
Englewood Library welcomed its new director, John Arthur, as dozens of community members came to a July 11 meet and greet that included refreshments and one-on-one greetings.
Since Arthur took over the library director position on June 25 he has already embraced the community with great enthusiasm.
“I love it here in Englewood, because it has a large library and a very diverse community,” said Arthur. “I love libraries!”
Arthur has an impressive body of academic and practical expertise. He did his undergraduate work at Rutgers University in history and philosophy and he obtained his master’s degree in information systems, also at Rutgers. He also completed an internship at the Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies.
Before coming to Englewood, Arthur was the director of the Metuchen Public Library and has worked as a children’s librarian and director of youth services.
One of the attendees at the event July 11 was Nina Nanasi, who has been one of the seven members of the Englewood Public Library’s Board of Trustees for the past six years.
“We carefully reviewed and interviewed candidates for the director position, and John Arthur was the best,” said Nanasi.
Arthur also brings a burst of youthful zest to his job, as evidenced by his gift for engaging children. The July 11 welcome event began in the library’s Mackay Room, where Arthur delighted a group of youngsters aged 6 to 8 and their parents with a singalong.
In addition to his library skills, Arthur is an accomplished guitarist and singer, and he led the children in a host of songs from the Beatles to the Beach Boys, and had them dance to the lyrics to “Surfin’ USA.” He also gave an impromptu lesson in guitar strumming and gave each child a turn using his pick to pluck his guitar.
Throughout the afternoon and early evening, families and friends chatted with Arthur, and were pleased with his plans for the library and its role in the community.
“I want this library to be the best resource it can be for everyone,” he said. “I will ensure that it has high quality collections (print books, digital services, audio books, etc.) and programs for all age groups. Programs will include technology classes, language classes, classes for children, motivational and educational presentations, and much more.”
Arthur is particularly excited about celebrating the library’s upcoming 50th Anniversary this fall.
“We are planning several days filled with festive events,” he said. “It will be wonderful!”
Photo by Hillary Viders
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