Library Limelight: Amy Szvetecz, Youth Services Supervisor, Post Road Library

Library Limelight is intended to be a quick read to help FCPL patrons get to know our librarians, staff, and volunteers. We hope you enjoy learning about the people who make our libraries great!

Amy Szvetecz

Youth Services Supervisor 
Post Road Library

Where is your hometown?

I grew up outside of Philadelphia.

How long have you been at FCPL?

I just had my 5 year anniversary!

What other jobs have you had at FCPL?

I was a Youth Specialist for 3 years at Post Road

Why did you choose to work in a library?

I have always loved books and reading, but once I had kids, I became even more passionate about them and especially children’s literacy. Much of my 20 year span as a school volunteer centered around reading – as a reading parent at Montessori Preschool, chairing the elementary school’s Accelerated Reader program, coordinating Media Center volunteers, and just coming in as a Mystery Reader every month. When I was ready to return to the work force, finding a job that allowed me to work with children in a library setting was the perfect fit.

Describe your job in five words or less.

Problem-solving, managing, creating, mentoring, and being flexible.

What is unique about your job?

Every day is different. I get to work on behind the scenes tasks such as budgeting, scheduling, and planning, then spend time out on the floor interacting with patrons. New questions and challenges are the norm. It’s rewarding coming up with creative ways to handle the unexpected!

What is your favorite part of your job?

I love every part of my job! From sorting carts, to working with my staff, to chatting with regular patrons, just being in the library brings a smile to my face.

What’s the most interesting place you’ve lived or traveled?

I was fortunate enough to live in Singapore for four years right after I got married. That was a great launching pad for trips to Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, Thailand, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Bali. I got to experience so much culture, religion, history, and cuisine. Oh the cuisine!

What are your hobbies?

Hiking, kayaking, playing with our 2 golden retrievers, and hanging out with my family. 

What are you reading right now?

I’m reading Bossypants by Tina Fey and The Secret Lives of Church Ladies by Deesha Philyaw and listening to Faithless in Death by J.D. Robb

Paper books, eBooks, or audiobooks?

All of them! eAudiobooks for my daily commute, eBooks when I travel, and good old fashioned paper when I’m reading at home. 

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I love my job and am so fortunate to have found the perfect second career here at FCPL!