Supporting Dayton-area youth takes a team. That’s why Dayton Metro Library invests in its Youth Services Department, where directors, managers, coordinators, and assistants work together to provide programs and services that meet the needs of its young patrons. One member of that team is Annie, DML’s Youth Experience Manager.
In her role, Annie supports the Library’s Early Literacy, Elementary Age, and Teen Services Coordinators with projects, programs, and initiatives such as Career Adventures Day, Kindergarten Club, and First Club. She also leads the Summer Reading Challenge committee, coordinates the youth and adult challenges, and plans the Adult Winter Reading Challenge.
Annie is originally from California and lived in Washington and Texas before moving to Ohio. “I had my eye on Ohio when I began my MLS program in 2020, and after working in the San Antonio Public Library for a few years, I got the opportunity to interview for a Teen Services Librarian position at DML, which brought me to Dayton,” Annie said. In 2023, along with two cats and a long audiobook, Annie made the cross-country drive to Dayton to become a DML Teen Services Librarian. Now, as DML’s Youth Experience Manager, she enjoys working with her department and public services staff to offer programs and services to the community.
When not serving DML communities, Annie enjoys spending time with her three cats and reading in all formats across many genres. In fact, some of her favorite Library services are Libby, ComicsPlus, and Kanopy, three of DML’s popular digital services. She enjoys horror, fantasy, historical fiction, science fiction, and mysteries, and graphic novels are her latest favorite.
As for picking a favorite program at DML, Annie says it would be difficult. “I love how many programs we offer for patrons of all ages. I recommend that anyone check out our events calendar to see what cool things are being offered.” Speaking of “cool,” it just so happens that Annie’s favorite time of year is almost here: Halloween. “Fall is the best! I love any excuse to dress up in costume,” she said.
DML loves Halloween too! Check out the many Branches offering programs for kids and adults, ghouls and goblins alike.
While you may not see Annie at a specific Branch, she’s busy working behind the scenes on Career Adventures Day, taking place at the Main Library Tuesday, November 3-Thursday, November 5, and the Adult Winter Reading Challenge, which begins in January. For updates on the Adult Challenge and its 2027 themes and activities, visit DaytonMetroLibrary.org/Winter/.
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