Meet Woombye Library’s book buyer

Woombye Community Library news by Cathy Cash

Once each month Woombye local of 20 years Mel Green faces arguably the trickiest job in the library – choosing the new releases to buy for our catalogue.  

It’s a daunting task on a limited budget but one volunteer Mel has managed successfully since taking on the role of adult book buyer in 2022.  I asked Mel how she goes about making her choices. “The challenges of this role include finding the right balance of genres to suit our borrowers - from historical fiction to mystery to romance, plus interesting non-fiction titles.  I need to take into account our reader base demographic which is changing as the area develops and grows,” says Mel.
Apart from researching borrower special requests, reading reviews of new releases and checking out series from popular authors there is the responsibility to compare suppliers pricing to ensure the books purchased represent the best value for money Mel explains.
At the library’s AGM in July Mel was awarded a 10 year recognition of service certificate to considerable applause from her fellow volunteers.  In previous years Mel has also held the role of Treasurer for 2 years and assisted in building and updating the original website in 2021.  

Library members will also find Mel’s smiling face behind the desk on her regular fortnightly shift.  Mel also volunteers at the local Anglican Church Op Shop weekly and once a month for ECOllaboration, a local conservation organisation.
“I love the friendliness, inclusivity and support of a rural community and I enjoy giving back,” says Mel.

Well done Mel for contributing your time and skill to our library service and our wider community.  We appreciate you