Recent SILS graduate recognized by unique public library fellowship

Emily Weiss, a School of Information and Library Science (MSLS ’05) graduate, has joined the Darien Library as the first Louise Parker Berry Fellow. As the recipient of what is believed to be the only fellowship in public libraries in the country, Weiss will work for two years with Library Director Louise Berry as her mentor on a series of specific projects that include program development, community outreach, technology implementation and personnel and budget responsibilities.

“We’re very happy to have Emily working with us on a number of projects that are important to the Library,” said Louise Berry. “As I had hoped, she has brought a different perspective and additional skills to our staff. We’re going to get a lot out of this experience, and so will she.”

Weiss’ first project was the creation of the Darien Community Matters Blog, which is intended to be both a focal point for information about the Town of Darien, and a forum for discussion. The blog can be found at: www.darien.org/communitymatters/blog

“I’m really excited to be beginning my career at one of the best public libraries in the country, and it’s icing on the cake to have Louise Berry as my mentor. There is a lot going on here, and it’s great to have the guidance to put things in perspective,” Emily explained.

The fellowship was created in 2004 to celebrate Louise Berry’s twenty-five years as Director. It provides a succession of two-year full-salaried positions for recent Master in Library Science recipients who demonstrate exemplary scholarship and show significant leadership promise.