CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - One of the busiest libraries in Sacramento County, the Carmichael Library, has a new branch supervisor.

Sheri Garcia comes to the Marconi Avenue hub from Ella McClatchy Branch (mid-Sacramento). A 39-year veteran of library service, Garcia was Carmichael-raised and occupies her old family home.

Her previous library postings required commutes; the new job is just minutes from her street. “Working here is the culminating experience of my career,” says Garcia. “I get to see people from where I grew up. As you move around in a library system, you can find yourself in places where you have to work at building connections. Last week I helped a lady from my street. It feels great to be so dialed into a community.”

The mother of two attended Rio Americano and saw her two daughters graduate from El Camino High. One is now a pharmacist in the Bahamas; the other handles human resources for Sacramento Public Libraries.

“Using this facility was huge for them,” confirms their mom. “I brought them here when they were toddlers. They were reluctant at first – libraries were places where mom worked – not cool. But my girls became great readers. I credit this library for getting them into colleges and helping them into careers they love.

“I also came here as a little girl. The building was a different shape but it had the same metal giraffe on the wall. I was curious about all sorts of things. I found answers in books. My friends and I would get shushed by the librarians for chatting. We don’t shush people these days. We want libraries to be happy, welcoming, motivating places.”

After more than two years of pandemic closures, Carmichael branch is back in business five days per week. Much has changed in the interim. Like many local agencies, the facility copes with Carmichael’s transient population. Per public library policy, no one is turned away.

Popular activities like Family Story Time (10:15 am, Thursdays) are restarting. The library also offers free lunches to patrons aged 18 and under. The Tuesday-to Friday program fills the gap in school meal availability during summer vacation.

“Free lunches also get children into our library,” explains Garcia. “It’s wonderful to hear young voices here again. Some patrons might find kids rowdy and disruptive. But libraries are all about learning.

“Children’s learning is our future. We’re delighted to have kids back.”

Carmichael Library is located at 5605 Marconi Avenue. Open hours are from 10 am to 6 pm, Tuesday through Saturday. Doors are closed Sunday and Monday. To contact Branch Supervisor Garcia, email [email protected].