Behind the Books

Bob and Anna catch up with Kathleen Nash, Adult Services Librarian at the Hopewell Branch. They also speak with author Aimee Pokwatka about her recent novel, Accumulation, discussing the inspiration behind the book and its themes.Word Games and Ghost StoriesIntro and Welcome5:12 Catch up with MCLS: Kathleen Nash14:19 Programs and Services @ MCLS18:03 Interview with Aimee Pokwatka31:55 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Aimee Pokwatka at http://www.aimeepokwatka.com/.Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Calendar, located at https://events.mcl.org/.Discover resources at the Virtual Branch and Digital Entertainment available with your MCLS library card via https://resources.mcl.org/virtual.Opening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Behind the Books continues the celebration of National Library Week! Bob and Anna talk with patrons and staff about where they find joy at the library, catch up with local Jeopardy! champion Jamie Ding, and in "60 Seconds with Shannon," Shannon Tuorto shares her pick: Don't Think About Dinner by Jenn Lueke.Joy and Jeopardy!Intro and Welcome1:59 Find Your Joy!7:42 Programs and Services @ MCLS11:49 Sixty Seconds with Shannon13:02 Interview with Jamie Ding26:51 Summary and Closing Show Notes:"60 Seconds with Shannon" features Don't Think About Dinner by Jenn Lueke, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mcl.Learn more about the MCLS Teen Advisory Board at https://mcl.org/events/teen-advisory-board/.Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Calendar, located at https://events.mcl.org/.Music for National Library Week segment created by minhquang123 via Pixabay.Opening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Bob and Anna sit down with Dana Benner, Marketing Librarian for the Mercer County Library System and Adult Services Librarian at the Hopewell Branch. Dana shares how she brings her own interests and enthusiasm into her work—from shaping engaging programs to helping make the library a welcoming, vibrant place for the community. Then, our co-hosts turn to author Victoria Dillon to discuss her debut novel, Ava. They explore the inspiration behind the story and the themes at the heart of this unique and thought-provoking book. Shannon Tuorto returns with a "60 Seconds with Shannon," featuring The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion series by Beth Brower.The Work We Love, the Stories We ImagineIntro and Welcome4:10 Catch up with MCLS: Dana Benner13:51 Programs and Services @ MCLS18:04 Sixty Seconds with Shannon19:16 Interview with Victoria Dillon29:53 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Victoria Dillon at https://victoriadillonauthor.com/.The documentary to which the author refers is Aftershock (2022). Additional information available at https://www.aftershockdocumentary.com/."60 Seconds with Shannon" features The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mcl.Attend the 2026 TrashedArt Awards Reception. Registration and additional information available at https://mcl.org/events/trashedart/.Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Calendar, located at https://events.mcl.org/.Celebrate National Library Week with MCLS, April 19 through April 25. More information at https://mcl.org/national-library-week/.Opening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Anna and Bob speak with Amanda DeCillis, part-time Youth Services staff member at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch, about her work with young readers. They also talk with scriptwriter Shawn Hainsworth, founder of SHP Comics, who shares his creative process and previews his upcoming books, Zicky: Wrath of the Rat King and Woodstake. Shannon Tuorto is back with a "60 Seconds with Shannon," featuring Billy Collins' new collection of poems, Dog Show.No Fooling: From Youth Services to Indie ComicsIntro and Welcome3:20 Interview with Amanda DeCillis13:00 Programs and Services @ MCLS16:45 Sixty Seconds with Shannon17:54 Interview with Shawn Hainsworth31:19 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Shawn Hainsworth at https://www.shawnhainsworthproductions.com/ and SHP Comics at https://shpcomics.com/."60 Seconds with Shannon" features Billy Collins' newest collection of poetry, Dog Show, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mcl.Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Calendar, located at https://events.mcl.org/.Submit a poem to read in the virtual poetry event, A Poetry Happening: Mercer Poets Read, at https://mcl.org/call-for-poems/.Opening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Bob and Anna catch up with Janine Hoekstra about her current role as Assistant Administrative Analyst in Library Administration. Author Kimberly Behre Kenna also joins us to discuss her Brave Girl collection, including the newest installment, Lola Gillette and the Summer of Second Chances.Bravery at All AgesIntro and Welcome4:25 Catch Up with MCLS: Janine Hoekstra12:04 Programs and Services @ MCLS16:08 Interview with Kimberly Behre Kenna32:03 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Discover more about Kimberly Behre Kenna at https://www.kimberlybehrekenna.com/.Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Calendar, located at https://events.mcl.org/.Explore NJ Makers Day programs at MCLS via https://mcl.org/nj-makers-day/.Vote for your favorite 2026 TrashedArt entry at https://mcl.org/events/trashedart/.Opening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Anna and Bob talk with Emma Reyes of the Adult Services Department at the West Windsor Branch about her pathway to librarianship and how she's bringing the community together through tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). Then our co-hosts chat with illustrator and debut author Greer Stothers about their new novel, Apparently, Sir Cameron is Dead, including their creative journey leading them to writing fiction on their own terms.Plot Twists IRLIntro and Welcome4:44 Emma Reyes14:16 Programs and Services @ MCLS18:09 Interview with Greer Stothers29:33 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Discover more about Greer Stothers at https://www.greerstothers.com/.Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Calendar, located at https://events.mcl.org/.Explore a selection of programs celebrating Women's History Month at MCLS via https://libraryaware.com/3B1WHM.Download your Academy Awards ballot for the 2026 Oscar Predictions Contest at https://mcl.org/oscars-contest/.Opening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

It's Library Lovers Month! Anna and Bob hit the floor to ask patrons what they love most about the library, then sit down with USA Today bestselling author Annelise Ryan to discuss Monster in the Moonlight, the latest installment in her Monster Hunter Mysteries series. Listeners may also know her by her real name, Beth Amos, or her other pseudonym, Allyson K. Abbott.A-Hunting We Will GoIntro and Welcome4:07 Library Lovers Month Segment12:00 Programs and Services @ MCLS15:33 Interview with Beth Amos29:06 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Discover more about Beth Amos at https://bethamos.com/; learn more about Annelise Ryan's Monster Hunter Mysteries at https://anneliseryan.com/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Calendar, located at https://events.mcl.org/.Find additional information about the 2026 TrashedArt Contest at https://mcl.org/events/trashedart/.Apply to host an author table at the 2026 MCLS Book Festival via https://mcl.org/events/book-festival/.Opening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Bob and Anna catch up with Bekka Trapp from Adult Services at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch to talk about her work at the library and her plans to expand multi-generational programming. The episode also features an interview with husband-and-wife authors Emlyn Rees and Josie Lloyd about their latest collaboration, You & Me & You & Me & You & Me.Fun Across the Generations… and the DimensionsIntro and Welcome1:50 Catch Up with MCLS: Bekka Trapp12:41 Programs and Services @ MCLS16:43 Interview with Emlyn Rees and Josie Lloyd37:06 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Discover more about Emlyn Rees at https://www.emlynrees.com/ and Josie Lloyd at https://www.josielloyd.com/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Calendar, located at https://events.mcl.org/.Find additional information about the 2026 TrashedArt Contest at https://mcl.org/events/trashedart/.Explore America 250 resources and events at https://resources.mcl.org/america-250 and https://mcl.org/events/america-250/Opening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Bob and Anna catch up with Shanna Caines from Adult Services at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch, discussing her work at the library and the impact of Adult Services in the community. The episode then features an interview with middle-grade author Diana Harmon Asher, who talks about her latest book, Trouble Finds Evie Lefkowitz, and the themes that matter most to young readers. Shannon Tuorto's "60 Seconds with Shannon" features works by Noelle Ihli, specifically Ask for Andrea.Front and CenterIntro and Welcome3:05 Catch Up with MCLS: Shanna Caines12:10 Programs and Services @ MCLS16:26 Sixty Seconds with Shannon17:06 Interview with Diana Harmon Asher30:07 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Diana Harmon Asher at https://dianaharmonasher.com/"60 Seconds with Shannon" features works by Noelle Ihli, specifically Ask for Andrea, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog at https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mcl.Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Calendar, located at https://events.mcl.org/.Participate in the Winter Reading Program via https://mcl.org/events/winter-reading-program/.Participate in the Dr. MLK Jr. Day(s) of Service 2026: Card & Letter Writing Drive. Additional information and card templates located at https://mcl.org/mlk-jr-day-of-service/.Opening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Bob and Anna catch up with MCLS staff member Pam Murphy from the Acquisitions and Cataloging Department, then sit down with author Tomika Reid to chat about her writing journey and her newest book, The Girl in the Cave.Expansion of ExperienceIntro and Welcome5:25 Catch Up with MCLS: Pam Murphy12:47 Programs and Services @ MCLS16:26 Sixty Seconds with Shannon17:36 Interview with Tomika Reid25:28 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Tomika Reid at https://www.tomikareid.com/"60 Seconds with Shannon" features Hostage, by Eli Sharabi, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog at https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mcl.Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Calendar, located at https://events.mcl.org/.Explore the 2026 Reading Challenge via https://mcl.org/events/reading-challenge/.Participate in the Dr. MLK Jr. Day(s) of Service 2026: Card & Letter Writing Drive. Additional information and card templates located at https://mcl.org/mlk-jr-day-of-service/.Discover additional information about the MCLS Haiku Contest at https://mcl.org/events/haiku-contest/.Opening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Bob and Anna catch up with Grace Mandato at the Robbinsville Branch before sitting down with bestselling young adult author Samantha Markum. The conversation includes a sneak peek at Markum's upcoming novel, The Roommate Arrangement, along with insights into how she connects with her young adult readers.Audience Connection - Interview with Samantha MarkumIntro and Welcome6:51 Catch Up with MCLS: Grace Mandato14:17 Programs and Services @ MCLS17:48 Sixty Seconds with Shannon19:00 Interview with Samantha Markum32:47 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Samantha Markum at https://samanthamarkum.com/"60 Seconds with Shannon" highlights a selection of Shannon's "Books [still] to Read" list from 2025: Heart the Lover by Lily King, The Compound by Aisling Rawle, The Correspondent by Virginia Evans, The Mad Wife by Meagan Church, and Conform by Ariel Sullivan, which are all available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog at https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mcl.Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/.Discover additional information about the upcoming MCLS Haiku Contest at https://mcl.org/events/haiku-contest/.Opening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Bob and Anna catch up with Jen Crabtree at the West Windsor Branch and meet up with author Margery Cuyler, who has written more than 60 children's books, including her latest, Stompie the Zombie. She shares her insights on the ever-changing landscape of children's literature and what continues to inspire her work.Intro and Welcome4:31 Catch Up with MCLS: Jen Crabtree14:10 Programs and Services @ MCLS18:30 Sixty Seconds with Shannon19:42 Interview with Margery Cuyler32:30 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Margery Cuyler at https://www.margerycuyler.net/"60 Seconds with Shannon" highlights a selection of Shannon's current reads: Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy, Merry Christmas, You Filthy Animal by Meghan Quinn, and The Winners by Fredrik Backman, which are all available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog at https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclRegister for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/Peruse the MCLS catalog of Museum Passes at https://mcl.org/catalog/museum-pass-info/Discover Language Learning resources at MCLS at https://resources.mcl.org/language-learningOpening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Bob and Anna catch up with Jamie Clay at the Robbinsville Branch. New York Times bestselling author Sarah Beth Durst chats with Anna and Bob about cozy fantasies, including her most recent release, The Enchanted Greenhouse.Intro and Welcome3:50 Catch Up with MCLS: Jamie Clay14:11 Programs and Services @ MCLS17:54 Sixty Seconds with Shannon19:05 Interview with Sarah Beth Durst30:58 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Sarah Beth Durst at http://www.sarahbethdurst.com/"60 Seconds with Shannon" features The Burning Library, byGilly Macmillan, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclRegister for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/Opening and closing music provided by ⁠Skilsel⁠ via ⁠Pixabay⁠;music between segments is provided via ⁠Pixabay⁠.

Bob and Anna catch up with Caitlin Decker in the Acquisitions and Cataloging Department. Tim Brown discusses his journalism background and how it contributes to his book endeavors, including his most recent release, The Tao of the Backup Catcher: Playing Baseball for the Love of the Game.Intro and Welcome4:03 Catch Up with MCLS: Caitlin Decker13:22 Programs and Services @ MCLS16:27 Interview with Tim Brown30:39 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Tim Brown at https://www.bytimbrown.com/Additional Information about the 2025 Diaper Drive and Bundling Event at https://mcl.org/diaper-drive/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/Opening and closing music provided by ⁠Skilsel⁠ via ⁠Pixabay⁠;music between segments is provided via ⁠Pixabay⁠.

Bob and Anna debut a new segment, "Catch Up with MCLS" toperiodically revisit past guests from the MCLS staff. This episode they touch base with Youth Services Coordinator, Christine Crawford. Jayci Lee discusses her latest release, King Foretold, the second book, in the Realm of Four Kingdoms series, as well as her most recent contemporary romance, Give Me a Reason. Shannon Tuorto's "60 Seconds with Shannon" highlights the book, The Late-Night Witches, by Auralee Wallace.Intro and Welcome2:48 Catch Up with MCLS: Christine Crawford11:17 Programs and Services @ MCLS14:29 Sixty Seconds with Shannon15:39 Interview with Jayci Lee31:22 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Jayci Lee at https://www.jaycilee.com/Additional information about library hours on Election andVeterans Days is available at https://mcl.org/about/hours/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/"60 Seconds with Shannon" features the book, The Late-NightWitches, by Auralee Wallace, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclOpening and closing music provided by Skilsel via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Anna and Bob close out their fifth Behind the Books year with two author interviews! First, they chat with bestselling author, Carrie Turansky, a local creator of inspirational historical and contemporary novels and novellas. Then from across the pond, author, comic artist, and Illustrator, Lara Pickle, talks about her 2025 Alex Award graphic novel, I Feel Awful, Thanks! Shannon Tuorto is back with a "60 Seconds with Shannon", featuring How to Survive a Horror Story by Mallory Arnold. Intro and Welcome3:59 Interview with Carrie Turansky12:39 Programs and Services @ MCLS15:44 Sixty Seconds with Shannon16:53 Interview with Lara Pickle32:39 Summary and Closing Show Notes: Learn more about Carrie Turansky at https://carrieturansky.com/ Learn more about Lara Pickle at https://www.larapickleart.com/ Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/ The winning photos and entire gallery of submissions for the 2025 Amateur Photo Contest is located at https://mcl.org/events/amateur-photo-contest/ "60 Seconds with Shannon" features, How to Survive a Horror Story by Mallory Arnold, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog at https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mcl Opening and closing music provided by SoulProdMusic via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Joe Jenkins, Head of Circulation at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch, shares with us all the magic that happens at the Circulation Desk. Auralee Wallace discusses her latest book, The Late-Night Witches. Shannon Tuorto's "60 Seconds with Shannon" provides a teaser to the recently released edition of the children's book, Hansel and Gretel, authored by Stephen King with illustrations by Maurice Sendek.Intro and Welcome 4:02 Interview with Joe Jenkins 15:37 Programs and Services @ MCLS 18:52 Sixty Seconds with Shannon 20:0329:39 Interview with Auralee Wallace Summary and ClosingShow Notes:Learn more about Auralee Wallace at https://auraleewallace.com/Additional information about Socktober is available at https://mcl.org/socktober/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/"60 Seconds with Shannon" features the children's book, Hansel and Gretel by Stephen King, illustrated by Maurice Sendek, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclOpening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SoulProdMusic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Soumya Balaji from the Circulation Department at West Windsor joins Anna and Bob to talk about the small joys of library cards and impromptu book chats. Jane Willan discusses her latest book, Widow's Walk. Shannon Tuorto provides an overview of The Rom-Com Cookbook by Tara Theoharis during "60 Seconds with Shannon."Intro and Welcome4:45 Interview with Soumya Balaji13:11 Programs and Services @ MCLS17:03 Sixty Seconds with Shannon18:15 Interview with Jane Willan30:03 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Jane Willan at https://www.janewillan.comAdditional information about the 2025 MCLS Book Festival is available at https://mcl.org/events/book-festivalRegister for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org"60 Seconds with Shannon" features The Rom-Com Cookbook by Tara Theoharis, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclOpening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SoulProdMusic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Anna and Bob have a talk with Laiba Khurshid about her role in Circulation at the Hopewell Branch. Andrea Zuill, author and illustrator of children's books, discusses her most recent release, Bob the Vampire Snail, as well as the challenges and joys of creating books for a younger audience. Shannon Tuorto is back with a "60 Seconds with Shannon," featuring the book, Capture the Moment by Suzanne Woods Fisher.Intro and Welcome 3:46 Interview with Laiba Khurshid 14:40Programs and Services @ MCLS 18:19 Sixty Seconds with Shannon19:30 Interview with Andrea Zuill32:05 Summary and ClosingShow Notes:Learn more about Andrea Zuill at https://www.andreazuill.org/Additional information about the 2025 MCLS Book Festival is available at https://mcl.org/events/book-festival/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/60 Seconds with Shannon features Capture the Moment by Suzanne Woods Fisher, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclOpening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SoulProdMusic⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Debby Scherholz, Friends of the Hickory Corner Library President, shares the magic that happens behind the scenes of one of our invaluable Friends groups. Jonathan Gould discusses his latest book, Burning Down the House: Talking Heads and the New York Scene That Transformed Rock. Shannon Tuorto provides an overview of A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna during "60 Seconds with Shannon."Intro and Welcome3:13 Interview with Debby Scherholz13:29 Programs and Services @ MCLS17:38 60 Seconds with Shannon18:49 Interview with Jonathan Gould32:47 Summary and ClosingLearn more about Jonathan Gould at https://www.jonathangouldauthor.com/Learn about the 2025 Amateur Photo Contest, "Our Vibrant World" at https://mcl.org/events/amateur-photo-contest/More information about Friends of the Library groups at the different branches is available at https://mcl.org/about/friends-of-the-library/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/60 Seconds with Shannon features A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclOpening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠⁠⁠SoulProdMusic⁠⁠⁠⁠ via ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Tyler Restucci discusses with Anna and Bob her role at the Twin Rivers Branch. Contemporary fiction author XiXi Tian delves into her upcoming novel, All the Way Around the Sun, available September 30. Shannon Tuorto is back with a "60 Seconds with Shannon" to share her thoughts on Matchmaking for Psychopaths by Tasha Coryell.Intro and Welcome3:12 Interview with Tyler Restucci13:34 Programs and Services @ MCLS17:50 60 Seconds with Shannon19:21 Interview with XiXi Tian32:07 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about XiXi Tian at https://www.xixiwrites.comAdditional information about the 2025 Summer Reading program is available at https://mcl.org/events/summer-reading-program/Learn about the 2025 Amateur Photo Contest, "Our Vibrant World" at https://mcl.org/events/amateur-photo-contest/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/60 Seconds with Shannon featured Matchmaking for Psychopaths by Tasha Coryell, which is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclOpening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠⁠SoulProdMusic⁠⁠⁠ via ⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠.

Rebekkah Siegelheim provides the inside scoop of a student assistant's work amidst the carts of books at the Hopewell Branch. Angela M. Sanders discusses the last installment of her Witch Way Librarian Mysteries series, Witch and Tell, as well as a A Whiff of Murder -- a debut spin-off from Witch Way Librarian Mysteries -- due out February 2026.Intro and Welcome3:05 Rebekkah Siegelheim10:31 Programs and Services @ MCLS13:38 Interview with Angela M. Sanders26:41 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Angela M. Sanders at https://www.angelamsanders.com/Additional information about the 2025 Summer Reading program is available at https://mcl.org/events/summer-reading-program/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/Opening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠SoulProdMusic⁠⁠ via ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠.

Jennifer French discusses her role at the Ewing Branch with Anna and Bob. Mia Sosa, an award-winning and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance, discusses her most recent book, When Javi Dumped Mari. Shannon Tuorto is back with a "60 Seconds with Shannon," featuring a selection of "beach reads" for our listeners. Intro and Welcome3:52 Interview with Jennifer French11:57 Programs and Services @ MCLS15:38 Sixty Seconds with Shannon16:50 Interview with Mia Sosa30:58 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Mia Sosa at https://miasosa.com/Additional information about the 2025 Summer Reading program is available at https://mcl.org/events/summer-reading-program/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/Learn more about Arm in Arm and its services at: https://arminarm.org/Titles shared during "60 Seconds with Shannon" are available from MCLS: Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez, Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry, Love Haters by Katherine Center, as well as Deep End and Problematic Summer Romance both by Ali Hazelwood. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mcl

Angela Fee-Maimon from the West Windsor branch, shares her library experience with Anna and Bob.  Novelist and poet Laurie Sheck discusses her most recent novel, Cyborg Fever.  Shannon Tuorto provides an overview of Our Infinite Fates, by New York Times bestselling Young Adult author Laura Steven, during "60 Seconds with Shannon."No Cyborgs HereIntro and Welcome5:14 Interview with Angela Fee-Maimon14:11 Programs and Services @ MCLS17:50 Sixty Seconds with Shanno18:57 Interview with Laurie Sheck30:15 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Laurie Sheck at https://www.lauriesheck.com/Additional information about the 2025 Summer Reading program is available at https://mcl.org/events/summer-reading-program/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at ⁠https://events.mcl.org/⁠Our Infinite Fates by Laura Steven is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mcl Opening and closing music provided by ⁠SoulProdMusic⁠ via ⁠Pixabay⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠Pixabay⁠.

Darya Tahvildar Zadeh discusses her role at the Hightstown Memorial Library Branch with Anna and Bob. Ezra Jack Keats Award-winning author, Anne Wynter discusses her recent picture book, So Many Years: A Juneteenth Story, illustrated by Jerome Pumphrey. Shannon Tuorto is back with a "60 Seconds with Shannon," featuring an overview of #1 New York Times bestselling author, Fredrik Backman's newest release, My Friends. Faces and PlacesIntro and Welcome4:29 Interview with Darya Tahvlldar-Zadeh14:38 Programs and Services @ MCLS18:07 Sixty Seconds with Shannon19:27 Interview with Anne Wynter32:16 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Anne Wynter at https://annewynter.com/https://annewynter.com/Additional information about the 2025 Summer Reading program is available at https://mcl.org/events/summer-reading-program/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/My Friends by Fredrik Backman is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclOpening and closing music provided by SoulProdMusic via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Kartika Shree shares her experience at the West Windsor Branch with Anna and Bob.  Award-winning poet and novelist Diane Wald discusses her most recent novel, The Bayrose Files, as well as transitioning back and forth between poetry and fiction.  Shannon Tuorto is back with "60 Seconds with Shannon," featuring an overview of the newest release, The Vanishing of Josephine Reynolds, by USA Today bestselling author, Jennifer Morgan.Intro and Welcome3:16 Interview with Kartika Shree13:06 Programs and Services @ MCLS16:41 Sixty Seconds with Shannon17:51 Interview with Diane Wald30:16 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Diane Wald at https://dianewald.org/Additional information about Whazoodles is available at https://mcl.org/new-at-mcls-whazoodle-speaker-sidekick/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/The Vanishing of Josephine Baker by Jennifer Moorman is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mcl Opening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠SoulProdMusic ⁠⁠via ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠.

Anna and Bob talk with Susan Cox about her role in the Circulation Department at the Hopewell Branch. Juana Martinez-Neal discusses her experience as a picture book illustrator/writer, sharing details about illustrating the recently released, Alberto Salas Plays Paka Paka con la Papa (written by Sara Andrea Fajardo), as well as the upcoming release, A Gift of Dust (written by Martha Brockenbrough). Shannon Tuorto is back with a "60 Seconds with Shannon," featuring an overview of the picture book, Don't Trust Fish, written by Neil Sharpson and illustrated by Dan Santat.Intro and Welcome4:47 Interview with Susan Cox15:02 Programs and Services @ MCLS17:39 Sixty Seconds with Shannon18:52 Interview with Juana Martinez-Neal31:11 Summary and ClosingShow Notes:Learn more about Juana Martinez-Neal at https://juanamartinezneal.com/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/Don't Trust Fish, written by Neil Sharpson and illustrated by Dan Santat is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclOpening and closing music provided by ⁠SoulProdMusic ⁠via ⁠Pixabay⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠Pixabay⁠.

Marwa Khurshid discusses her role at the Hightstown Memorial Library Branch with Anna and Bob.  Emmeline Duncan talks cozy mysteries with a twist -- specifically her recent release, Fatal Brouhaha from the Ground Rules series, as well as the next installment of the Halloween Bookshop series, Mayhem at a Halloween Wedding (forthcoming July 29, 2025).  Shannon Tuorto is back with a "60 Seconds with Shannon," featuring an overview of the newest release, Death of the Author, by science fiction/fantasy author, Nnedi Okorafor.Ground Rules @ the LibraryIntro and Welcome2:54 Interview with Marwa Khurshid11:05 Programs and Services @ MCLS15:06 Sixty Seconds with Shannon16:19 Interview with Emmeline Duncan29:21 Summary and ClosingShow Notes:Learn more about Emmeline Duncan at https://emmelineduncan.com/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.orgDeath of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclOpening and closing music provided by ⁠SoulProdMusicvia ⁠Pixabay⁠;music between segments is provided via ⁠Pixabay⁠.

Anna and Bob talk with Lauren Fredrick about her position in the Youth Services Department at the West Windsor Branch.  Alka Joshi shares her pathway to being a writer, as well as insight to her newly released novel, Six Days in Bombay. Shanon Tuorto is back with a "60 Seconds with Shannon," featuring an overview of the newest release, Witchcraft for Wayward Girls, by horror/thriller author, Grady Hendrix.Intro and Welcome3:57 Interview with Lauren Fredrick13:07 Programs and Services @ MCLS16:55 Sixty Seconds with Shannon18:06 Interview with Alka Joshi34:00 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Alka Joshi at https://www.alkajoshi.com/Additional information about A Poetry Happening: Mercer Poets Read can be accessed via https://mcl.org/call-for-poems/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix is available from MCLS. Check the MCLS Catalog via https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mcl Opening and closing music provided by ⁠SoulProdMusic⁠ via ⁠Pixabay⁠;music between segments is provided via ⁠Pixabay⁠.

Anna and Bob talk with Anthony Mazakas-Dong about taking the Information Technology Library Associate position in the MCLS IT Department. Emily Everett shares the ins and outs of her debut novel, All That Life Can Afford. This episode debuts "Take Two," a segment featuring a past author guest. Kelly Bennett gives a sneak peak to her newest book, Out of the Mouth of Babe: Babe Ruth on Life: Pitching, Hitting, Striking Out, and Coming Back Swinging.Intro and Welcome2:38 Interview with Anthony Mazakas-Dong12:57 Programs and Services @ MCLS16:09 Take Two with Kelly Bennett18:11 Interview with Emily Everett30:11 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Emily Everett at https://www.emily-everett.com/Additional information about A Poetry Happening: Mercer Poets Read is located at https://mcl.org/call-for-poems/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/Discover more about Out of the Mouth of Babe: Babe Ruth on Life: Pitching, Hitting, Striking Out, and Coming Back Swinging, by Kelly Bennett at https://www.kellybennett.com/Opening and closing music provided by ⁠SoulProdMusic⁠via ⁠Pixabay⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠Pixabay⁠.

Anna and Bob sit down and talk libraries with Elizabeth Hess, the Youth Services Librarian at the Twin Rivers Branch.  Sarah Harman discusses the unique circumstances leading to her highly anticipated debut novel, All the Other Mothers Hate Me. "60 Seconds with Shannon," featuring Hopewell Branch staff member Shannon Tuorto, provides a quick overview of the Jeneva Rose's mystery thriller, The Perfect Divorce, the sequel to The Perfect Marriage.Intro and Welcome2:52 Interview with Elizabeth Hess14:57 Programs and Services @ MCLS18:00 Sixty Seconds with Shannon19:24 Interview with Sarah Harman21:21 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Sarah Harman at https://www.sarah-harman.com/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/The Perfect Divorce, by Jeneva Rose comes on April 15, 2025. Look for it in the MCLS Catalog at https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mcl Opening and closing music provided by ⁠SoulProdMusic⁠via ⁠Pixabay⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠Pixabay⁠.

Anna and Bob chat with Chloe Peterson from the Circulation Team at the Ewing Branch. Mark Mustian discusses his newest book, The Boy with Wings, as well as the ins and outs of Word of South, a festival of literature and music, founded by Mustian in 2015. "60 Seconds with Shannon," featuring Hopewell Branch staff member Shannon Tuorto, provides a quick overview of the recently published Young Adult thriller, All Better Now, by Neal Shusterman.Intro and Welcome4:36 Interview with Chloe Peterson14:05 Programs and Services @ MCLS16:47 Sixty Seconds with Shannon18:00 Interview with Mark Mustian28:54 Summary and ClosingShow Notes Learn more about Mark Mustian at https://markmustian.com/Additional information about Word of South Festival can be found at https://wordofsouthfestival.com/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/Check out All Better Now by Neal Shusterman in the MCLS Catalog at https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclRead Chloe Peterson's blog post, "The Grammys: My Super Bowl," at https://mercercountylibrary.blogspot.com/2025/02/the-grammys-my-super-bowl.htmlOpening and closing music provided by SoulProdMusic via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Charley Christensen from Circulation at the Hickory Corner Branch shares her journey to the library with Anna and Bob. Carly Anne West joins this episode to discuss her craft of bringing the eerie to readers of all ages, as well as to share what's in store with her upcoming installment in the The Ghosts of Nameless Island series,The Boy Who Could Fly. A new segment, "60 Seconds with Shannon" (featuring Hopewell Branch staff member Shannon Tuorto) gives listeners a glimpse into the recently published novel,Black Woods, Blue Sky, by Eowyn Ivey.Intro and Welcome3:11 Interview with Charley Christensen14:33 Programs and Services @ MCLS17:39 Sixty Seconds with Shannon18:48 Interview with Carly Anne West31:15 Summary and Closing Show Notes:Learn more about Carly Anne West at https://carlyannewest.com/Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org/Check outBlack Woods, Blue Sky by Eowyn Ivey in the MCLS Catalog at https://merl.ent.sirsi.net/client/en_US/mclOpening and closing music provided by⁠⁠ SoulProdMusic ⁠⁠via⁠⁠ Pixabay⁠⁠; music between segments is provided via⁠⁠ Pixabay⁠⁠.

Anna and Bob talk with Soniya Kim from Youth Services at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch. Jennifer Nielsen, New York Times bestselling author, joins our co-hosts to discuss her upcoming historical fiction book, One Wrong Step, as well as her experience moving her focus between fantasy novels and historical fiction... Intro and Welcome 3:30 Interview with Soniya Kim 13:09 Programs and Services @ MCLS 15:49 Interview with Jennifer Nielsen 27:39 Summary and Closing  Show Notes: Learn more about Jennifer Nielsen at https://jennielsen.com Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://events.mcl.org Opening and closing music provided by ⁠SoulProdMusic ⁠via ⁠Pixabay⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠Pixabay⁠.

Anna and Bob talk with Asha Chukumba from the Reference Team at the Ewing Branch. Award-winning writer and illustrator. Bruce Hale, joins our co-hosts to discuss his new series, Outer Space Mystery Pizza Club, as well as strategies to encourage the reluctant reader. Intro and Welcome 5:25 Interview with Asha Chukumba 17:00 Programs and Services @ MCLS 19:24 Interview with Bruce Hale 33:19 Summary and Closing  Show Notes: Learn more about Bruce Hale at https://brucehale.com/   Information about the Card Making/Letter Writing Drive for Mercer County Meals on Wheels is available at https://mcl.org/mlk-jr-day-of-service-2025/   Details about the Winter Reading Program can be found at https://mcl.org/events/winter-reading-program/   Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://mercercounty.libcal.com/ Opening and closing music provided by SoulProdMusic via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

Anna and Bob talk with staff members from across the Mercer County Library System about books and movies they are looking forward to in 2025!  Intro and Welcome 2:09 Amelia's 2025 Picks 8:46 Corina's 2025 Picks 15:33 Em's 2025 Picks 21:50: Programs and Services @ MCLS 25:58 Shannon's 2025 Picks 36:13 Summary and Closing Show Notes: Amelia's List of 2025 Titles The Seven Rings by Nora Roberts (The Brides trilogy;  scheduled for release on November 18, 2025) Bonded in Death by J. D. Robb (In Death series; scheduled for release on February 4, 2025) Atonement Sky by Nalini Singh  (The Psy/Changeling series;  scheduled for release on July 15, 2025) Love Forbidden by J. R Ward (The Black Dagger Brotherhood series; scheduled for release on September 9, 2025) Corina's List of 2025 Titles In the Rhododendrons: A Memoir with Appearances by Virginia Woolf by Heather Christle (scheduled for release on April 15, 2025) The Third Reich of Dreams: The Nightmares of a Nation by Charlotte Beradt (new translation by Damion Searls; scheduled for release on April 29, 2025) The Stone Door by Leonora Carrington  (scheduled for release on June 17, 2025) Em's List of 2025 Movies The Fantastic Four: First Steps( Scheduled to release on July 25, 2025) Current Marvel movies in chronological AND release order -- https://www.space.com/marvel-movies-in-order. Em recommends watching in release order. Mickey 17 (Scheduled for release for March 7, 2025) The Ballerina (Scheduled for release on June 6, 2025) MCLS staff member, Jamie Anderson, recently blogged, "10 Movies Releasing in 2025" at https://mercercountylibrary.blogspot.com/2024/12/10-movies-releasing-in-2025.html Shannon's List of 2025 Titles: My Friends by Fredrik Backman (Scheduled for release on May 20, 2025) Onyx Storm by Rebcca Yarros (The Empyrean series; scheduled for release on January 21, 2025 The Stolen Queen by Fiona Davis (Scheduled for release on January 7, 2025) Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins (Scheduled for release on March 18, 2025) Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez (Scheduled for release on April 1, 2025) The Bachelorette Party by Camilla Sten (Scheduled for release on June 10, 2025) Additional information about the 2025 TRASHEDArt Contest is located at https://mcl.org/events/trashedart/ 2024-25 Winter Reading Program information and BINGO card is located at https://mcl.org/events/winter-reading-program/ Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://mercercounty.libcal.com/ Opening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SoulProdMusic ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Anna and Bob discuss some highlights from 2024, as well as meet up for a chat with editor and author, Lauren Ling Brown about her debut novel, Society of Lies. Intro and Welcome15:54 Programs and Services @ MCLS20:10 Interview with Lauren Ling Brown32:24 Summary and Closing Show Notes: Additional information about Lauren Ling Brown is available at https://laurenlingbrown.com/ A recording of "A Deep Dive in Character Development with Global Sensation Liane Moriarty" can be accessed at https://libraryc.org/mcl/56673. Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at ⁠⁠https://mercercounty.libcal.com⁠⁠ Opening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠⁠⁠SoulProdMusic ⁠⁠⁠⁠via ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Anna and Bob talk with Lydia Weltmann, author of the Wingomia Guide Trilogy (and who happens to work in the library's Administration Office). Elizabeth Bass, author of over forty novels of women's fiction, romance, and mystery under her own name and the pseudonyms Liz Ireland and Liz Freeland, shares the latest from her Mrs. Claus series, Mrs. Claus and the Nightmare Before New Year’s. Intro and Welcome2:13 Interview with Lydia Weltmann15:15 Programs and Services @ MCLS20:03 Interview with Elizabeth Bass32:21 Summary and Closing Show Notes: Learn more about Lydia Weltmann's work at https://www.lrweltmann.com/ Additional information about Elizabeth Bass and her books is available at https://elizabeth-bass.com/ Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at ⁠https://mercercounty.libcal.com⁠ Opening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠⁠SoulProdMusic ⁠⁠⁠via ⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠.

Anna and Bob talk with Christina Zipp from the Circulation Team at the Robbinsville Branch. Best-selling author, Catherine Bruns joins our co-hosts to discuss her latest book in the Maple Syrup Series, In the Blink of a Pie, and all things cozy! Intro and Welcome3:41 Interview with Christina Zipp14:16 Programs and Services @ MCLS17:29 Interview with Catherine Bruns29:49 Summary and Closing Show Notes: Learn more about Christine Bruns at https://www.catherinebruns.net Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://mercercounty.libcal.com Opening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠SoulProdMusic ⁠⁠via ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠.

Anna and Bob talk with Em Devlin from the Circulation Team at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch. Best-selling author, Juilet Grames joins our co-hosts to discuss the research and writing process involved with her latest novel, The Lost Boy of Santa Chionia. Intro and Welcome 3:28 Interview with Em Devlin 14:12 Programs and Services @ MCLS 17:02 Interview with Juliet Grames 31:34 Summary and Closing Show Notes: Learn more about Juliet Grames at https://www.julietgrames.com/ Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at ⁠https://mcl.org/events/⁠ Opening and closing music provided by ⁠SoulProdMusic ⁠via ⁠Pixabay⁠; music between segments is provided via ⁠Pixabay⁠.

Dave Troutt, from the Information Technology Department, join Bob and Anna to talk about his job as Website Administrator for MCLS.  New York Times best selling author, James Riley, discusses writing and his new, upcoming series, The Dragons Apprentice, with our co-hosts. Intro and Welcome 2:58 Interview with Dave Troutt 14:41 Programs and Services @ MCLS 19:05 Interview with James Riley 32:48 Summary and Closing Show Notes: Learn more about James Riley at https://jamesrileyauthor.com/ Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Page, located at https://mcl.org/events/ Opening and closing music provided by SoulProdMusic via Pixabay; music between segments is provided via Pixabay.

In this episode, Bob and Anna interview Paula Houghton from Adult Services at the Lawrence HQ Branch, and New York Times bestselling author, Livia Blackburne. Intro and Welcome 3:07 Interview with Paula Houghton 12:11 Programs and Services @ MCLS 15:35 Interview with Livia Blackburne 27:28 Summary and Closing Show Notes: Learn more about Livia Blackburne at https://liviablackburne.com Register for upcoming virtual programs and branch events, using the MCLS Event Calendar, located at www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MCL/EKP.cfm Additional information about upcoming Diwali events at MCLS are available on our website at https://mcl.org/diwali-events-2024 A selection of Halloween events taking place at MCLS is available on our website at https://mcl.org/halloween-events-2024 Opening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠⁠⁠AlexGrohl⁠⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠; music between segments is provided by ⁠⁠⁠⁠PaulYudin⁠⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode, Anna and Bob chat with Frank Falisi, who works on the Circulation Team at the Hopewell Branch.  Our co-hosts are also joined by award winning author, Lev AC Rosen, to discuss his most recent novel, Rough Pages, which is the third installment of the Evander Mills series. Intro and Welcome 2:48 Interview with Frank Falisi 13:29 Programs and Services @ MCLS 17:35 Interview with Lev AC Rosen 29:50 Summary and Closing Show Notes: Learn more about Lev AC Rosen at https://www.levacrosen.com/ The MCLS Event Calendar is located at www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MCL/EKP.cfm Additional information about the Awards Reception for the 2024 Amateur Photography Contest can be found at https://mcl.org/events/amateur-photo-contest/ Learn more about the "Socktober" leggings and socks drive via https://mcl.org/socktober-2024/ Opening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠⁠AlexGrohl⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠; music between segments is provided by ⁠⁠⁠PaulYudin⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠.

Rebecca Harris joins Anna and Bob for this episode to discuss her work on the Circulation Team at the Robbinsville Branch. New York Times best selling author, Kimberly McCreight shares insight about her most recent novel, Like Mother, Like Daughter, as well as her writing process. Intro and Welcome 5:15 Interview with Rebecca Harris 14:28 Programs and Services @ MCLS 18:27 Interview with Kimberly McCreight 34:10 Summary and Closing Show Notes: Learn more about Kimberly McCreight at https://kimberlymccreight.com The MCLS Event Calendar is located at www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MCL/EKP.cfm Sign up for a library card on the MCLS site via https://mcl.org/catalog/library-card-application Opening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠⁠AlexGrohl⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠; music between segments is provided by ⁠⁠⁠PaulYudin⁠⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠⁠.

Bob and Anna chat with Albena Tzankova, Adult Services Librarian at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch. Nisha Sharma, award-winning Young Adult and adult contemporary romance author, talks about her most recent books, The Letters We Keep (May 2024) and the third book of the If Shakespeare was an Auntie Trilogy, Marriage and Masti (August 2024). Intro and Welcome 3:44 Interview with Albena Tzankova 16:04 Programs and Services @ MCLS 21:20 Interview with Nisha Sharma 32:22 Summary and Closing Show Notes: Learn more about Nisha Sharma at https://nisha-sharma.com/ Information about the Amateur Photo Contest is available at https://mcl.org/events/amateur-photo-contest/ The MCLS Event Calendar is located at www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MCL/EKP.cfm Opening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠AlexGrohl⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠; music between segments is provided by ⁠⁠PaulYudin⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠.

Bob and Anna share some of their favorites moments from author and staff interviews to celebrate the 100th episode of Behind the Books. Show Notes: Opening and closing music provided by ⁠⁠AlexGrohl⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠; music between segments is provided by ⁠⁠PaulYudin⁠⁠ from ⁠⁠Pixabay⁠⁠.

Bob and Anna chat with Riley Rosenberger, an MCLS summer Intern in our Information Technology Department. Our hosts also have an insightful talk with author, activist, and attorney, Robyn Gigl about her latest book, Nothing But the Truth from the Erin McCabe Series. Intro and Welcome 5:20 Interview with Riley Rosenberger 16:11 Programs and Services @ MCLS 20:05 Interview with Robyn Gigl 32:15 Summary and Closing Show Notes: Learn more about Robyn Gigl and her Erin McCabe Series at https://robyngigl.com Information about the 2024 Summer Reading Program is located at https://mcl.org/events/summer-reading-program Information about the upcoming Amateur Photo Contest is available at https://mcl.org/events/amateur-photo-contest Register for the Taking Great Photos Workshop at https://www.eventkeeper.com/code/ekform.cfm?curOrg=MCL&curID=701424 The MCLS Event Calendar is located at www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MCL/EKP.cfm Opening and closing music provided by ⁠AlexGrohl⁠ from ⁠Pixabay⁠; music between segments is provided by ⁠PaulYudin⁠ from ⁠Pixabay⁠.

Bob and Anna have an lively talk with Susan Beebe, a member of the Circulation Staff at the West Windsor.  Our hosts also chat with local author, Susan Russo Haines about her the first book in her Guardian of the Moonstones trilogy.  Intro and Welcome 3:34 Interview with Susan Beebe 15:21 Programs and Services @ MCLS 17:35 Interview with Debora Russo Haines 29:48  Summary and Closing Show Notes: Information about the 2024 Summer Reading Program is located at https://mcl.org/events/summer-reading-program/ Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium, take a look and register for upcoming author talks, as well as explore recordings of past events via https://libraryc.org/mcl The MCLS Event Calendar is located at www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MCL/EKP.cfm Opening and closing music provided by AlexGrohl from Pixabay; music between segments is provided by PaulYudin from Pixabay.

Bob and Anna chat with New York Times best selling author, Mateo Askaripour, about his most recent release, This Great Hemisphere. Intro and Welcome 6:56 Interview with Mateo Askaripour 24:53  Summary and Closing Show Notes: Find additional information about Mateo Askaripour at https://www.mateowrites.com/. Information about the 2024 Summer Reading Program is located at https://mcl.org/events/summer-reading-program/. A directory of MCLS Book Clubs is found at https://mcl.org/events/book-clubs/ Brought to you in partnership with the Library Speakers Consortium, take a look and register for upcoming author talks, as well as explore recordings of past events via https://libraryc.org/mcl. The MCLS Event Calendar is located at www.eventkeeper.com/mars/xpages/M/MCL/EKP.cfm. Opening and closing music provided by AlexGrohl from Pixabay; music between segments is provided by PaulYudin from Pixabay.

Bob and Anna catch up with McKenna Miller, a member of the Circulation Staff at the Twin Rivers Branch.  Our hosts also chat with writer and award winning journalist, Hayley Krischer, about her most recent novel, Where Are You, Echo Blue. Intro and Welcome 4:21 Interview with McKenna Miller 13:37 Programs and Services @ MCLS 17:31 Interview with Hayley Krischer 31:53  Summary and Closing