By Melissa Moore-Randall
Many people think of a public library as a place that has resources and is quiet enough to read or work. DIana Luongo, Director of Revere Public Library, is leading her staff in this endeavor. Luongo claims that her days are spent brainstorming and collaborating with staff to improve the library. The library has been out of favor for some time now. My primary goal is to bring it back on track. I want the library as a safe space where all Revere residents can feel at home. This includes creating an environment that is attractive and welcoming by our staff. Luongo said that customer service is a major part of our job and that he strives for excellence.
Luongo, a Salem State alumna, earned a B.A. Luongo is currently a Simmons graduate student studying Library Science. She is a Business major with a minor in Psychology. (MLIS). Apart from trying to bring new programs to the Library, and studying for her Masters, she is also a mom to a 16-year old and a 2-year old. George, Diana’s husband keeps them busy with Nicholas, a tri-sport athlete and member in high school ROTC. Hanna is a mini dancer/gymnast and ice skater under the Learn to Skate program.
Luongo is not the only staff member she has at the Library. Krystee is our Childrens Librarian. Her role is to manage the children’s collection materials. This involves removing old books from the shelves to make space for newer books and materials. She also oversees programming for children. Either she hosts them herself or she brings in performers from other countries. She also manages all social media, including our monthly newsletter, which is sent via email to all patrons who sign-up, and is featured on the Revere Journal
Rhea Heaven serves as our Technical Services Librarian. She manages our interlibrary loans, database management, and catalogs all our books. She also organizes all our shelving. She is our secret librarian!
Ross Croghan, our Collections Development Specialist, is his name. He is responsible for all collections, including books, online resources, etc. He also maintains our website. He also assists in the area of Adult Services Librarians, which we do not have at present.
Our newest employees include Rachid Doukali (Lisa Ferrara), Madison Yeomans (Madison Yeomans), and Rachid Doukali (Racid Doukali). All of them are assistant librarians. They are responsible for all functions of the library. They are integral to the library’s day-to-day operations and interact with patrons. They answer phones, help with computers/fax/copy/prints, and they circulate our items. They help patrons locate books and other materials and offer many other services.
Many of the programs are now geared towards children, including movie nights, story time, and free play. Hotspots is also offered to patrons. This is one of their newest services.
The Library has many programs and events coming up. There are many programs on the Library’s February calendar. But, even more exciting is our new additions. We will be adding virtual reality and a makerspace area over the next few months. Makerspace is basically creating something from nothing. We will include a 3D printer as well as other tools to help with building and creating. Makerspace is a great STEM-centered learning platform. It will allow patrons to express their creativity and improve their intellectual and learning abilities. These new technology features will be coming soon. Keep an eye out! We are currently renovating the main floor and creating a new (YA) young adult space. This space will be available for anyone between 12-18 years old. The Revere Public Library never had a space specifically for YA or a Young Adult Librarian who is specialized in programming and collections for our patrons. I want to change that. I am looking for someone with the skills and qualifications to manage and promote our young adult space.
The Revere Public Library opened its doors on November 6, 1880. The Library was also severely damaged in the fire that destroyed Revere Town Hall. Revere was able to receive a grant of $20,000 from Andrew Carnegie, philanthropist as well as the Revere Journal through a campaign by the Revere Womens Club. The Womens Club raised funds which were used to furnish two main reading areas of the new library. There is one reading room for adult books and one for children’s books.
According to its website, the library building has a significant place within the history of the City. It is a great example of the freedom and dedication to service that Carnegie libraries across America tried to embody. The landmark building’s interior demonstrates no less elegance in style and craftsmanship. The interior of this landmark building is filled with hand-rubbed oak paneling, millwork, and other details that are reminiscent of a simpler time. It is hoped that a well-planned addition to the building will make it shine brighter.
The Revere Public Library can be found at 179 Beach Street. It is open Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. You can also learn more by visiting the website at https://www.reverepubliclibrary.org.