Meet Tracey Jones—FCPL's Latest Library Limelight

Get to know the newest member of the Forsyth County Public Library Board of Trustees with the Library Limelight!

Originally from South Florida, Tracey Jones moved to Forsyth County in 2007 after she and her husband fell in love with North Georgia while visiting family. They chose to raise their four children here, and over the years, Forsyth County has truly become home for their family.

Tracey has many fond memories of spending time at the library throughout her life. She learned the card catalog and Dewey Decimal System in elementary school, researched Robert Frost in middle school (“I had to get an A on that paper!” Tracey shares), and spent countless hours studying through high school and college—microfiche and all!

When her first child was born in 1997, she started bringing her family to the library for Mommy and Me (similar to Books & Babies at FCPL). It became a place where they could learn, explore, and participate in wonderful child-centered activities that helped foster a love of reading in all of her children.

“The reward for volunteering is usually more volunteering!” Tracey likes to say. She is a volunteer at heart, so when Laura Semanson asked if she would consider serving on the Library Board, it felt like a natural, meaningful opportunity to give back to an institution that means so much to her and her family.

In her new role, Tracey hopes to bring a fresh perspective, a willingness to listen and learn, and a strong commitment to our community. She enjoys bringing people together, asking thoughtful questions, and looking at opportunities from different angles. She looks forward to contributing her experiences and skills while learning from staff, fellow Board Members, and the patrons we serve.

Tracey is excited to explore more of the ways that Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL) serves the county. “At our first Board meeting, I was genuinely surprised by the breadth of programs, services, and resources,” Tracey said. “I was so impressed to learn that our library is a leader in the state!”

She looks forward to further understanding the needs of our community and helping FCPL continue to grow and thrive. Tracey is especially excited about the opportunity to support the library's role as a place where everyone can learn, connect, and feel welcome.

Colorado holds a special place in Tracey’s heart. Her family lived there for a short time years ago, sparking a love of the mountains and an active lifestyle. She and her husband passed their “Rocky Mountain fever” on to their children through annual trips to ski, hike, and enjoy everything the state has to offer. 

Of all the places Tracey has traveled, Copenhagen, Denmark, stands out the most. Because her grandmother was from Denmark, visiting felt like a special opportunity to connect with a part of her family’s history. She loved exploring the city, and one of her favorite memories was how many people thought she was a local. “I took that as a great compliment!” Tracey said.

Tracey’s latest hobby is Mah Jongg! She plays every few weeks with close friends and is absolutely hooked. She also loves hiking and anything involving handcrafting—so much so that her creative passion led her to found two businesses. As a proud season ticket holder, Tracey can’t mention her interests without including the Florida Gators. “I know I’m surrounded by plenty of UGA fans and friends, so… sorry, y’all! Go Gators!” she exclaims.

Up next on Tracey’s reading list is When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi, a book she found so thought-provoking the first time around that she’s returning to it for that same inspiration. When asked the essential question, “Paper books, eBooks, or audiobooks?” her answer is clear: “Not even an ounce of hesitation for me—paper all the way! I love the feel of a real book in my hands and turning the pages. I’m a traditionalist when it comes to reading!”

As she exits the Limelight, Tracey shares a thoughtful message:

“I’m honored to serve alongside such a dedicated team and excited to help give back to a place that has been such an important part of my own life and my family’s.”

Thank you, Tracey, for sharing your story and passion for serving others. We are grateful for your commitment and look forward to seeing your contributions to our library and community!

Sara Higgins
Communications Specialist

Meet Jessica—FCPL's Latest Library Limelight!

Get to know Jessica, Information Specialist (MLIS), at the Denmark Library!

Although she was born in South Florida, Jessica considers Canton, Georgia, her true hometown, having moved there at the age of two. After spending two decades in Canton, she has since lived in various parts of North Georgia, including Dawsonville and her current home of Clermont.

Being a librarian was her dream job as a child, but she never seriously considered it until she lost her job in archives when COVID hit. She was in the midst of her MLIS degree when she decided to apply for library positions. “If only 8-year-old me could see me now!” says Jessica.

If she could describe her role in five words or fewer, it would be: “Curating stories, connecting our community.” She finds being an Information Specialist unique because every day brings a fresh experience. In her six years at FCPL, she has never had the same day twice. Whether it’s a meaningful patron interaction, a shared moment with her coworkers, or a unique program, there is always something exciting happening.

Another unique part of her role is that she has been able to experience the Youth Services side of things. While Information Specialists focus on adult programming and services, they get to test their youth knowledge while covering the Ask Us desk or roaming the branches. After ending the day with sore legs from assisting with a Youth Services program, she has a newfound respect for how much energy, time, and love goes into their program planning and execution.

Her favorite part of her job is her coworkers. Regardless of how her morning begins, they consistently make coming to work a joy. “I’m particularly grateful for the Denmark branch team—the process of opening that location brought us together in a way that feels incredibly unified,” said Jessica.

She highly values the interactions she has with patrons. Being in a public-facing role, she has been asked some of the most interesting questions that sometimes lead her on a hunt for an answer. Her favorite questions will always be focused on book recommendations. “The excitement of being able to match a person with a book is the best feeling,” exclaims Jessica.

Jessica studied abroad in Berlin in 2018 and calls it one of the best experiences she has had. She took classes on German history and language, involving daily field trips around the city and surrounding areas to historical sites. “I’ll never forget the day one of my professors brought a small group of us to a tiny park on the outskirts of Berlin,” Jessica recalled. “He led us to the entryway of a crypt where we could still see bullet holes from WWII, dating back to when a German soldier sought refuge from chasing Russian forces.”

In her spare time, Jessica enjoys hiking, kayaking, traveling, and spending time with her family, including her two rescue dogs. Before having her daughter last year, she had just started quilting, and hopes to pick that back up soon. Now that she lives further north, she is hoping to explore the nearby state parks.

After studying history in college, Jessica reads mostly nonfiction, particularly history and memoirs or biographies. Every now and then she will pick up a historical fiction, thriller, or horror novel as a palate cleanser. Jessica just started listening to This Land is Your Land: A Road Trip Through U.S. History by Beverly Gage, and recently finished The Hidden History of the White House: Power Struggles, Scandals, and Defining Moments by Corey Mead. Audiobooks are her go-to since her commute is an hour each way, though she still enjoys a physical book when she is on vacation and has time to sit down and read.

Thank you, Jessica, for sharing both your journey towards joining FCPL and the experiences that make you unique! We appreciate your dedication to tracking down the answers to patron questions, helping out across departments, and bringing your knowledge of history to FCPL.

Sara Higgins 
Communications Specialist

Meet Kristen Prince—FCPL's Latest Library Limelight!

Get to know Kristen Prince, Collection Support Aide (CSA) at Sharon Forks Library, in the May 2026 Library Limelight!

Originally from Brownstown, Michigan, Kristen lived in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for twenty years before moving to Georgia in 2013. No matter where she moves to, one of her first priorities is always finding the local library. She has always loved the atmosphere and enjoyed taking her child to storytimes, and joined the Forsyth County Public Library team in 2022. 

If Kristen had to describe her role in five words or fewer, they would be: shelving, organizing, and helping. She feels that handling every book that passes through gives her a deep understanding of the collection—from new arrivals to the current favorites of both children and adults. In true CSA style, she is organization-obsessed. “A place for everything and everything in its place,” says Kristen.

Outside of work, Kristen enjoys reading, solving puzzle books (anywhere from crosswords to sudoku), going to concerts, and her biggest passion—tennis! She has played since high school, and loves that she can play year-round in the Georgia climate.

One of her favorite travel memories was a trip to Japan when she was 18. Her brother spent a year there to study abroad, so she visited for his graduation with their parents and traveled as a family. “It was beautiful, such a wonderfully different culture from ours. The people were so kind, and It helped immensely that my brother spoke Japanese! It was a trip I will never forget,” said Kristen.

While she enjoys a wide variety of genres, fantasy is her favorite. Right now she is reading the Book of the Ancestor trilogy by Mark Lawrence. Although there are no wrong answers when it comes to how one chooses to read, we had to ask: paper books, eBooks, or audiobooks? Her response was very clear—paper for the win!

Thank you, Kristen, for your hard work as a CSA in the busiest library in Georgia, and for giving us the opportunity to learn more about you! 

Sara Higgins 
Communications Specialist

Meet Sara—FCPL's Latest Library Limelight

I recently sat down with myself to ask—and answer some questions for the March Library Limelight!

I joined Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL) in July of 2025 as one of the eight Sara(h)s…and also the Communications Specialist. Community is what I value most in life, and I’ve always admired the services and spaces that libraries provide. My school libraries were my safe haven, and I was so excited to see a position that aligns with my creative interests open up at FCPL. I grew up in the area, and the Cumming Library was the first library I ever stepped foot into!

If I had to describe my role in five words or less, it would be “not just talking to people.” No day is the same in the realm of Communications! From assisting with program promotions, to organizing our social media calendar, and even putting on a fashion show in the hallway, there is never a dull moment.

I love getting to visit all the branches, as well as taking a ride on the Bookmobile from time to time! One of my favorite moments so far was joining Joanie and Leslee at a Lobby Stop. It was amazing to see how much of an impact those visits have on the residents, and I even got to show a few patrons how to use Libby.

My least favorite moment so far was accidentally giving a snake nestled on the side of my car a ride to work. I wish I had been calm enough at that moment to take photo evidence, but I have Preetha as a witness!

Some of my favorite cities that I have traveled to are Savannah, Chattanooga, and Denver. Any time I travel, I have to find a train or boat ride to go on. In fact, my favorite “ride” at Disney World is the ferry boat that takes you between parks. I have a guilty pleasure of bidding on cheap cameras on eBay, and enjoy documenting my travels with them!

A shirt I bedazzled for my best friend. 

Outside of traveling, I am a serial hobbyist. My leisurely activities mostly depend on the season. From spring through fall, I spend my off-days trying new coffee shops and visiting different parks. In winter, I hibernate and craft. This winter’s craft of choice was bedazzling!

When it comes down to paper books, eBooks, or audiobooks, I will always choose paper. I like being completely separated from my phone or iPad notifications when I’m reading. I’m currently reading And a Voice to Sing with: A Memoir by Joan Baez, one of my favorite singers.

I am truly thankful to be part of the FCPL team, where I can help share the incredible materials, programs, and resources that we provide! Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on Library happenings.

Sara

Communications Specialist

Forsyth County Public Library

Meet Traci Priego—FCPL's Latest Library Limelight

Get to know the newest member of the Forsyth County Public Library Board of Trustees with the Library Limelight!

Originally from Hillsville, Virginia, Traci Priego has been a patron of Forsyth County Public Library since 2005. Some of her fondest memories are from bringing her children to storytimes, often spending those programs down on the floor with them, fully immersed in the experience. The library played a meaningful role in her family’s life, especially during those child-centered programs that nurtured their love of reading.

Meet Payton—FCPL's Latest Library Limelight!

Our latest FCPL staff rockstar in the Library Limelight is Valdosta-born Payton Jenson! As a former Collection Support Aide (CSA) at Hampton Park Library, she had the unique task of checking in every book by hand, and enjoyed serving as the “first line of defense when finding damaged items.” While it may seem meticulous to others, she finds genuine joy in being hands-on with the materials, and feels like she is able to gather a deep understanding of what our patrons enjoy reading. Payton greatly valued her experience at Hampton Park Library, and is excited to have recently joined the Outreach Department as the team’s first ever Outreach Collection Support Aide (OCSA)!

Meet Kaity—FCPL's Latest Library Limelight!

Stepping into the Limelight this month is Kaity who recently enjoyed her third anniversary with the Forsyth County Public Library family as a Youth Specialist at the Cumming Library. In a role she’s been preparing for since her early teens, Kaity finds satisfaction in helping both avid readers and reluctant ones discover the joy found between the pages of just the right book.

A Georgia girl from birth, Kaity has spent most of her life living not too far up the road from Forsyth County. “I've lived in many towns in the northeast of the state,” she says. “I spent the longest growing up in Commerce and Statham, near Athens.”

Meet Our New Library Director: Adrianne Junius

Stepping into the Library Limelight this month is Adrianne Junius who will join the Forsyth County Public Library family on January 6 as the new Library Director. From the front desk to IT to hauling boxes, Adrianne has experienced every aspect of library life. Like any good novel though, her story arc has had a few unexpected twists and turns.

Photo credit: Peachtree Co. 

Meet Brianna Schantz—FCPL's Latest Library Limelight!

You know when you meet someone who loves what they do so much it stands out in everything they do? That was my experience when I met our latest Library Limelight, Brianna Schantz, who fosters creativity in so many ways at Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL).

Brianna currently serves as an Information Specialist at Sharon Forks, and embodies the passion and dedication that make libraries such vibrant community hubs. With four years of experience at FCPL, Brianna began her journey as a Collection Support Aide before advancing to her current role.

Brianna is well prepared for an exciting

backpacking adventure in North Carolina

Meet FCPL's September Library Limelight: Board Member Flo Valdes!

This month, we are so pleased to welcome Flo Valdes as FCPL’s new Board member representing District 2!

Originally from Miami, Florida, Flo offers a fresh perspective and a passion for community service to FCPL. Despite being new to the Library Board, Flo is already bringing lots of enthusiasm and is ready to make an impact. 

Flo's decision to join FCPL as a Board member comes from her deep-rooted commitment to community engagement. "Community service is a passion of mine," she explains. "I enjoy connecting with my fellow community members in meaningful ways." Flo views her position as an opportunity to support literacy, education, and access to information while influencing positive changes in the library system. She looks forward to getting to know the patrons and staff that make our system so exceptional.

Meet Brooke Richards, FCPL's July Library Limelight!

Today, we are spotlighting Brooke Richards, whose enthusiasm for libraries and learning is absolutely contagious to patrons and staff alike!

Basking in the beauty of Hidden Lake in Glacier National Park

Meet Swati Mugave, FCPL's Latest Library Limelight!

Submitted by Joanie Goforth

Meet Swati Mugave, a Collection Support Aide whose multifaceted talents bring a passionate love for learning and helping others to the Post Road Library. Originally from Maharashtra, India, Swati has been sharing her enthusiasm for libraries with FCPL for five years.

When asked about her favorite part of the job, Swati extolled

Meet Ashley Mason, FCPL's Latest Library Limelight!

Meet the magnificently memorable Ashley Mason, Information Specialist extraordinaire of the Post Road Library!

Ashley hails from sunny Sacramento, California; we have been fortunate to have her with us for four years. Before becoming an Information Specialist, Ashley's passion for prose led her to serve as a Collection Support Aide. So what drew this literary lady to a life amidst the library stacks?

Meet Katie LeDuc, FCPL's October Library Limelight!

Ever heard of a “joyful community book fairy”? You have now! Allow me to introduce the newest member of the FCPL Outreach team, Outreach Specialist Katie LeDuc! She uses that creative moniker to describe her job at FCPL in five words or less.

Katie at Fisherman's Bastion in Budapest, Hungary with the famous parliament building in the background

Hailing from Granby, Connecticut, Katie is a lover of education and reading, which she says makes the library the perfect place to be. Those two passions prompted

Meet Elizabeth Hernandez, FCPL's June Library Limelight!

You may have seen her walking around one of the branches with a hand truck and a bin full of books or passed her driving through town in the Library box truck. She’s a critical component of FCPL, making sure that the branches stay connected and clean. Her name is…

Meet Brooke West, FCPL's May Library Limelight!

Brooke West began a little over a year ago as the Information Services Supervisor at the Hampton Park Library, but FCPL is only a chapter in her story. 

Brooke studied Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at Georgia State University. While completing this degree, she was required to do an internship. Brooke chose to intern at a microscopic library in her hometown of Athens, GA, where she worked with a Spanish speaking community. She found joy in connecting people to the resources that they needed. Knowing that she wanted to pursue a master’s degree, she decided on Valdosta State University as her next stop. Brooke’s mother was also a big reader, so working in libraries is something that makes her feel connected to her. 

Meet Shannan Wade, FCPL’s April Library Limelight!

Shannan began her journey with FCPL as a CSA. As a lifelong lover of books, she found it natural to apply for a job at the library shelving, taking care of the collection, and being surrounded by the very things that brought her so much joy and comfort as a child. After working in that position for about nine months, she made the jump to Youth Services. 

Library Limelight: Michelle Van Leer, Collection Support Aide

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!

Name: Michelle Van Leer
Position: Collection Support Aide (CSA) 
Location: Cumming Library

Where is your hometown?

Miami, Florida. I moved to Georgia with my family when I was 14. 

  

How long have you been at FCPL?

5 years.

What other jobs have you had at FCPL?

Library Limelight: Andre Paquette, Web Applications Technician

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!

Name: Andre Paquette

Position: Web Applications Technician

Location: Administrative Offices

 

Where is your hometown?

Montreal, QC.

How long have you been at FCPL?

Library Limelight: Melissa Reed, Information Specialist

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!

Name: Melissa Reed

Position: Information Specialist

Location: Post Road Library

Melissa in Scotland a few years ago
at a New Year’s festival called Hogmanay.

Where is your hometown? 

Fort Lauderdale, FL

How long have you been at FCPL?