Monongahela Library’s new director helping people to become lifelong learners
Amy Riegner doesn’t quite fit the stereotype that many people have of the typical librarian.
“I like to read, but I wouldn’t consider myself a bookworm,” said Riegner, who became director of the Monongahela Area Library last month. “That’s not what compelled me to follow this career path. I got into this field because I like to help people. I try to help adults and children further their knowledge and expand their horizons.”
Riegner pointed out that libraries have been a big part of her life — for as long as she can remember.
“As a child, I looked forward to attending summer reading parties,” she said. “I liked libraries so much that I became a page at the Carnegie Library of McKeesport during my high school years. It was fun shelving the books and helping people to find their way around the library.”
Riegner also had a love of maps and decided to major in geography while pursuing an undergraduate degree at Slippery Rock University. But early in her career, Riegner realized she was not following her true calling.
“I enjoyed making maps but that wasn’t fulfilling my desire to help people,” she said. “That’s when I decided to make a change.”
After returning to school to work on a master’s degree in library science at Clarion University, Riegner held positions at the North Versailles Library and the Carnegie Library of McKeesport. Along the way, Riegner realized that libraries are undergoing a major paradigm shift.
“Most people think that libraries are just a collection of books and periodicals,” she said. “And many others don’t even know that libraries exist. Today, libraries have become more of a community center. They are a place that facilitates lifelong learning. And that’s exactly what we strive to do at the Monongahela Area Library. Our mission is to educate, enrich and enhance the community.”
Since becoming director of the Monongahela library, Riegner has focused considerable attention on programming, clubs and classes. For instance, the library offers Story Time reading sessions for children 18 months and older, a Lego and K’nex club for children 4 through 12, cursive classes for young people and a writer’s group for people of all ages.
On Oct. 23, from 5 to 6:30 p.m., children are also invited to attend a Spooky Science class at the library.
“We’re going to have an evening of Halloween-inspired science experiments,” said Riegner. “It promises to be a fun evening for all the kids. Registration is required, so it’s important to contact the library in advance.”
In the near future, Riegner plans to offer one-on-one computer tutoring for adults.
“You would be surprised how many people lack basic computer skills,” she said. “I’m going to teach people how to do things such as filling out a government form online, set up a Facebook account and send an email.”
Riegner adds that the Monongahela library will continue to offer its users plenty of reading options — from traditional to non-traditional books.
“Some people like the physicality of holding a book in their hands while others prefer the convenience of reading the latest novel on their iPad. Audio books are also very popular for people who have to commute to work each day. At the Monongahela library, we provide access to all of these types of resources,” said Riegner, who enjoys reading nonfiction biographies, mysteries and young adult graphic novels.
Located at 813 W. Main St. in Monongahela, the Monongahela Area Library is open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“Our five staff members and various volunteers are eager to help users find whatever they need,” said Riegner. “We want to help people continue to learn, whatever their age may be.”