Editor’s Note: This is the seventh in a series of Q&As with Framingham Public Library staff. The main Framingham Library and the Christa McAuliffe Library branch were physically closed for more than a year due to the coronavirus pandemic. During that time period, a new director and assistant director were hired. During those months, new staff was hired, some left, and with the library back to its pre-pandemic hours, SOURCE thought it would be great during the prime summer reading season to introduce and re-introduce key library staff to the community, and have staff discuss what the library has to offer and their favorite parts of the libraries.
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Alison Beattie
Position: Head of Research and Information Services
When started in current position: July 2021
How long with Framingham Library: I actually grew up in Framingham, so technically I’ve been with the Framingham Library my whole life. But professionally, just over seven months.
I am responsible for: Leading the Reference Department
Favorite Children’s book: Fritz and the Beautiful Horses
Favorite Book: The Tiger’s Wife by Téa Obreht
Favorite author: Tamora Pierce
Favorite section of the Framingham Library to browse: New fiction
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When I’m in the library, I just can’t help myself and: Look at the Framingham Room collection. It’s so cool that we have all this local history available for patrons.
The best part of my job is getting to work at the Reference Desk! I love being able to interact with the community and help them answer all kinds of questions.
I wish people knew the library offered: Inter-Library Loan! If you can’t find it in the Minuteman catalog, chances are we can find it at another library in Massachusetts or even in another country!
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The Framingham Library needs: Patrons to know the building is open! There are definitely some who come through but there could always be more!
Last thing I took out with my library card was The Black Prism by Brent Weeks
I would recommend: Checking out our digital video collection. It’s got some great movies and TV shows that you’ve definitely been meaning to watch.
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MetroWest Medical Center