Meet Barbara Pettijohn, Tolland's New Director of Library Services

As if there isn't enough excitement already at with a and , the library welcomed new Director of Library Services Barbara Pettijohn this week as she began work this Monday.

Pettijohn, who most recently worked as the Head of Reference and Adult Services at the Manchester Public Library, would have marked her tenth year in Manchester this coming Saturday. She said that she decided to move to Tolland's library to take on new challenges.

"I just needed to do something more, and I heard great things about Tolland," she said. "It's a good size to start out, not an overwhelming size."

Pettijohn worked her way up the library ladder, starting as a page and climbing to circulation, reference and finally, librarian. She also has an MBA and finished a certification program for public library administration. A deep love for reading, community and a good challenge has inspired her throughout her career.

"I think getting to know the people in the community and the challenges of running a library, that's the exciting part for me," she said. "And this is a real cliche; I love to read."

And despite her many years of experience in Manchester, as well as another 12 in West Hartford, Pettijohn said that she is approaching her work in Tolland with an open mind and open ears.

"I'm going to sit back and learn and talk to people to see what the community of Tolland needs in terms of a library. [The library] is for the people of Tolland," Pettijohn said.

Although she has only been in town for a couple of days, Pettijohn said that she can already see that vibrant community groups like the Friends of the Tolland Public Library and the Tolland Public Library Foundation will be essential partners in her work.

"I was so impressed with both groups," she said of their meeting earlier in the week. "They were so friendly and supportive and efficient."

If you feel like braving the town hall/library parking lot, make sure to stop by and say hello to Tolland's new librarian. She's waiting to meet library patrons.

"I'm excited to be here," she said. "Please come visit. We are open and eager to serve."