Sharon Karpiel
Head, Kids' Library

Sharon.Karpiel@elmhurst.org

First worked as an adult services reference librarian for 15 years, and has been Head of the Kids' Library since 1993.

"The Kids’ Library serves children from birth through eighth grade, as well as their parents, teachers, and other caregivers.
In accordance with the Library’s vision, the Kids’ Library staff strives to develop a love of reading in children. We also help children succeed in school, pursue interests that will enrich their lives, and understand changes in technology, society, and culture. We offer children and parents opportunities to gather and interact with each other. If you have any suggestions or comments about the Kids’ Library, please let me know."

Gloria Walsh-Rock

Assistant Department Head, Kids' Library

Gloria.Walsh-Rock@elmhurst.org

"The Library offers many programs throughout the year including series story hour programs for specific ages, special programs highlighting a variety of different performances, workshops, author visits, and craft events. If you have any questions about our programs, contact me in the Kids' Library."

Judy Ekblad
School Services Librarian
Judith.Ekblad@elmhurst.org

Student taught at Hawthorne School and has worked at EPL since 1976.

"As School Services Librarian, my goal is to provide support and resources to assist elementary and middle school students and teachers. Please contact me in the Kids’ Library to help locate information for your school project or to find a good read.”

Lori Lorenz
Kids’ Librarian
Lori.Lorenz@elmhurst.org

Worked as a high school English teacher for three years and as a high school librarian for three years. Lori has worked at EPL since 1992.

"EPL offers storytimes every Saturday! I do the weekly drop-in Family Storytime at 10:30 every Saturday morning, as well as leading monthly 4th and 5th grade book discussions."

Kim Scott
Middle School Services Librarian

Kimberly.Scott@elmhurst.org

"As Middle School Librarian, I am responsible for providing service specifically for our patrons in grades 6 - 8. I also coordinate the volunteer program throughout the school year as well as during the summer. If you have any questions about programs, literature, or volunteering, please contact me in the Kids' Library."

Sarah Burnside
Kids' Preschool Services Librarian

Sarah.Burnside@elmhurst.org

Taught drama classes in Elmhurst and elsewhere for many years. Sarah has worked at EPL since 2005.

"It's my job to support the library's goal to help parents raise great readers. I happily host Road to Readiing for 3- to 5-year-olds and visit the local preschools with stories and puppets.  Since I'm in charge of the picture book collection, I spend plenty of time reading them.  If you need just the right picture book, I'm the one to ask."

Nuala Maloney-Murphy
Kids' Library Associate

Nuala.Maloney@elmhurst.org

Worked in the social service field for nine years, counseling children, teens, and adults. Nuala has worked at EPL since 1999.

"Our Saturday drop-in story times are great for busy families who have working parents and want to share a class experience with their child at the library. Singing songs and telling stories to our youngest patrons is my privilege during Rhyme Time for 1- and 2-year-olds every Saturday at 9:30. See you there!"

Marti Valasek
Kids' Library Associate

Martha.Valasek@elmhurst.org

Worked in the public school system for 13 years.

Served Elmhurst Public Library for 13 years during the summer at the summer reading table.

"I was recently hired by EPL to work all year round; currently I am responsible for the toy collection, adaptive toys, and the Learning Garden."

Shaira Rock
Kids 'Library Associate

Shaira.Rock@elmhurst.org

"When I am not obsessing over and ordering graphic novels, I have the opportunity to perform Rhyme Time on Wednesdays. I am also the resident tech expert, given that I love to get my hands on new gadgets. If you have any questions about gadgets, please contact me in the Kids’ Library."

Billy Basso

Kids' Library Computer Assistant

Billy.Basso@elmhurst.org

"My main responsibility is to help with anything tech-related in the Kids' Library. I do a lot of graphic design for our programs and displays. I also do a little bit of everything else as I never know what random jobs await me."

Seraya Fulton
Kids' Library Computer Assistant

Seraya.Fulton@elmhurst.org

"I am responsible for any computer questions that you have in the Library. When the computers are sick, I pet them and make them feel better. If the printers need a drink, I give them ink. If the printers are hungry I give them paper! As you walk by the Computer Help Desk, I may be working on something pretty cool!"

Anna Blaser
Kids' Library Clerk

Anna.Blaser@elmhurst.org

"The Kids' Library has lots of "behind-the-scenes" work that needs to be done! I assist the librarians in various tasks such as prepping for programs, keeping our booklists and shelves stocked and ready, directing volunteers, and many other random jobs that come about."

Brian Andrusyk
Kids' Library Associate / Director of Puppets on the Wilder Side

"I am the director of the Elmhurst Public Library's Puppets on the Wilder Side. This puppet troupe is made up of middle school and high school students. Our shows are written by puppeteers based on folk tales and picture book stories. We perform in December, May and on the Summer Reading Kick-Off Day. I am also the School Librarian at Immaculate Conception High School. For more information about Puppets on the Wilder Side please contact me in the Kids' Library."