Over 20 years ago I was new to America. Everything was new. I left behind my family and friends in India. I was fortunate that even before I learned to drive, I was introduced to the Public Library. I was not used to Public Libraries as we do not have them in India. I was used to school, college and university libraries, circulating libraries run out of garages or special libraries to which we had to purchase membership.
I was amazed at all the books, magazines, DVDs and CDs that I was able to check out for free with my library card. I could use the internet and computer at the library. The librarians were welcoming, friendly and helpful. I learned to navigate my way through the library.
It was mind boggling to learn that most communities in the United States had a Public Library. They supported new Americans with services like learning English and community connections and provided a safe space for discovery and learning. You can read as many books as you like without having to buy them. Libraries are a fun environment for children to explore and find resources. All the programs offered by the library were free. I was very impressed to learn that the summer reading programs are an amazing and fun way to keep up the reading skills of children during summer vacations.
What I understood and imagined about America from family, friends and books was very different from my actual experience here. Living here, meeting people, making friends and most of all reading books, helped me understand this country. Historical Fiction in the Children’s Department became my favorite genre. Every book I read was an Aha! moment for me.
I am ever thankful for the connections, hope, friendships, books, authors and illustrators that I discovered at Lisle Library District in Lisle, Illinois They all helped me create a new home with friends and connections in a new land. Even though I wanted to blend in, my accent, skin color and mannerisms were a dead giveaway that I was new. This did not intimidate the librarians, it only seemed to act as a catalyst for them to want to reach out and be of assistance.
My love for Public Libraries, what they stand for and what they mean for their communities made me take steps to explore a career in libraries. I wanted to be part of this marvelous institution that makes a difference in the life of each and every person who enter the doors.
My journey towards this career started at College of Dupage in Wheaton, Illinois. Then I went to Dominican University in River Forest, Illinois to get my MLIS degree. I enjoyed my classes and soaked up all the new information taught. In my professional journey I have had many mentors and friends that rooted for me and guided me. I am eternally grateful to all of them.
I do not know if I can call myself a new American any more. After all these years my desire to blend in and not be seen has not gone away. I am learning to accept and embrace courageously that I will I stand out due to my skin color, accent and mannerism. Even though I work at a Public Library, I regularly use resources at my local Public Library. You will catch me telling friends and family to visit their public library and use the resources.
I enjoy working with children, doing storytimes, and sharing the power of reading and stories with them. Many parents tell me I am a star to their children, when I hear that my first instinct is to look over my shoulder for someone else. Then I let it sink in that they are talking about me, I feel grateful and hope I am giving back to the community all that I received and much more.
Today’s blog post was written by Uma Nori, Head of Youth Services at Thomas Ford Memorial Library in Western Springs, IL, on behalf of the ALSC Managing Children’s Services Committee. She can be reached at uma@fordlibrary.org
This blog relates to ALSC Core Competencies of I. Commitment to Client Group; II. Reference and User Services.
Kelly Doolittle
Wonderful post! Thank you for sharing your history and your insights. Thank you for highlighting the importance and sheer wonderfulness of public libraries. Thank YOU for your wonderful work and your wonderful brain 🙂
We are lucky to have you in this country. After all, we ARE a country of immigrants! And you are a part of what makes it great!
Celebrating diversity just feels so good 🙂
Uma Nori
Thank you Kelly, all of together make the institution a wonderful place. 🙂
Padma Wudali
So insightfull and true. Thank you for sharing your story ❤️
Uma Nori
Thank you <3
Murali Vedula
This blog by my niece gave me goosebumps! I am very proud of her. I feel excited whenever she tells me about a new book that she has discovered and happy that she inspires so many children to find the joy in books.
Uma Nori
Thank you!
Sridhar Nori
Wonderful look into your world
Uma Nori
Thanks Sridhar!
Dr subbalakshmi Vedula
All I can say I am proud of my niece Uma Nori
Uma Nori
Thank you!
Erin Cleary
I can confirm that Ms. Uma is a star at our library! My girls and I loved her story times when they were little and still look forward to seeing her when we visit the library, which is often. I am grateful for all she does for our community.
Uma Nori
Thank you Erin, it is wonderful to work at Thomas Ford Memorial Library. The children and families are amazing. The overwhelming response to what we do, excitement and love for reading and the library is amazing. I also work with amazing people at the library. I feel thankful and grateful.
Maria Trivisonno
A few days behind my blog reading. So WONDERFUL to hear your thoughts, Uma, and so glad that you are here in the US and in the library world sharing your gifts! <3
Uma Nori
Maria,
Thank you so much. I am so glad that I got to know you working on the ALSC, MCS committee. You have been amazing, kind and extremely helpful. Many a times you have shared resources with me and have been excellent to work with.
Uma Sundar Somisetty
Wow! What a wonderful post!!!
I know Uma N for many years now.
She spoke all about her experiences related to public libraries in the US which is wonderful to read but I know more about how rich she is from inside. The human values that she has incorporated into her life is amazing.
She is a beautiful example to know how to conduct oneself with ups n downs in life.
Rendering service to the community by volunteering, singing devotional songs n being a wonderful cook, always on the path to learning, her beautiful style of interacting with everyone…she knows what to talk with every age group, maintaining beautiful family bonds…
the list would go on….is the other side of Uma, that I know of.
There is always so much to learn from this beautiful soul.
I ADMIRE HER!
Uma Nori
Thanks Uma! you have many admirable qualities too. Thanks for you kind and generous comments.
Ratnamala Nori
So nice to see this post Uma Feel proud to see that you have adapted yourself so well to your work and life in the library and giving joy to others and yourself Always look forward to the books donated for story adaption with my puppets All the best
Uma Nori
Thanks, at a subconscious level maybe seeing you work with children, teach art and bring stories to life with puppets had an impact on me. You are an inspiration in all that you do.