My Librarian: Yoshiko

While growing up in Japan, my favorite weekend destination was going to the library and fighting with my siblings over the few extra books to check out on my parents’ card. My first surprise at CRRL was that there is no limit to how many books you can check out, which I quickly got used to.

The next surprise, which I still cannot get over, is the shelves upon shelves of Manga, including my old favorites: Slam Dunk! and Library Wars, as well as new titles, such as Demon Slayer and Ascendance of a Bookworm. Did you know that Japanese libraries typically do not carry Manga? Even now? While I selfishly wish that they were in the original Japanese, I am happy for the Manga fans here that they can read Manga from the public library.

Being a children’s librarian and presenting Grow A Reader storytimes, I am a huge fan of picture books. It is fascinating to see a book that may not be as impressive to me captivate a toddler and vice versa. I am also addicted to audiobooks, especially since that was the only way to read while working on my MLIS. I love reading books recommended by friends and am looking forward to sharing mine with you.

In addition to reading, I am passionate about sharing some Japanese culture through library events, such as those focusing on origami, kimono, Ikebana, and Aikido.