Sarah Zareski

About Sarah Zareski

I am a Teen Librarian who excels in forging connections with youth through empathy, passion, and inclusivity. I bring creativity, passion, and collaboration to everything I do. I design engaging programs, build community partnerships, and create welcoming spaces where young people feel safe, seen, and inspired. My creative skills and technical knowledge empower me in turning ideas into meaningful experiences and connecting with the public through clear, creative, and engaging communications. Championing Inclusive & Empowering Teen SpacesAs a competent and highly organized professional, I am passionate about transforming libraries into vibrant, inclusive hubs where teens feel safe, valued, and inspired. More than just a place for books, the library should be a space where young people build confidence, explore creativity, and connect with a supportive community. My mission is to cultivate an environment where every teen, regardless of background, identity, or ability, feels heard, represented, and encouraged to thrive. Curating Diverse & Impactful CollectionsBooks have the power to change lives, and I am committed to curating a collection that reflects the diversity of teen experiences. From the latest graphic novels and manga to contemporary fiction, I ensure that every teen can find stories that resonate with them. My personalized readers’ advisory approach helps teens discover books that ignite their imagination, foster empathy, and keep them engaged in lifelong learning. Driving Innovation Through Technology & Digital LiteracyTechnology is a powerful tool for engagement, and I integrate it seamlessly into my library work. Whether coordinating Makerspace activities, teaching digital literacy skills, or helping teens navigate e-books and online research tools, I empower them to use technology confidently and creatively. Passion-Driven, Future-Focused LibrarianAs I pursue my Master of Library & Information Science, I combine academic expertise with real-world experience to create library experiences that are engaging, innovative, and deeply meaningful.Some of my key skills are as follows:Enthusiastic, Empathetic, and Emotionally Intelligent Team PlayerReader Advisory and Collection Development with a Specialty in Graphic Novel, Comic, and Manga FormatsLibrary Programming with Teen EngagementCommunity Outreach and PartnershipsIf you’re looking for a dedicated professional to elevate youth performance and contribute to your organization’s success, let’s connect and discuss how I can bring value to your goals!

Experience

1. Youth Services Librarian

   Derby Neck Library

   Apr 2023 — Present · Derby, CT, US

   As a Youth Services Librarian, I lead daily library operations with a focus on Teen engagement, seamless circulation, engaging reader advisory, and simple-to-understand technical support. Applying my key expertise, I design innovative programs that inspire children and teens, curating diverse collections of books, digital media, and resources to foster a lifelong love of learning. By forging strong community partnerships, I cultivate an inclusive, dynamic space that promotes literacy, creativity, and educational growth.Key Achievements: Directed youth and teen services, including 380+ programming hours annually. Helped shape policy and programming goals through data-driven reporting and analysis including the creation and the execution of the Derby Neck Library Annual Report. Boosted teen/tween visitation by 55% through redesigning the YA area and introducing interactive, high-energy programming. Introduced Storytimes, social and recreational clubs, themed events, and STEAM workshops that drew 5,780 youth attendees in the 20••••25 fiscal year. Revolutionized the Summer Reading program by launching book checkout giveaways, driving daily reading habits, and expanding literacy initiatives. Organized Summer Reading Kickoff and Summer Reading Endgames for the last three years, drawing 700+ community members cumulatively and elevating public engagement. Transformed the children’s nonfiction collection, increased YA nonfiction circulation by 224%, and reduced average nonfiction age by 10+ years. Designed a scalable vector logo adaptable for print, digital, and signage applications. Developed a complete branding kit, including branded templates for flyers, newsletters, and social media. Assisted in the 2023–24 library website redesign, advising on layout, accessibility, and brand alignment, contributing to a 38% increase in website engagement. Designed promotional materials reaching an audience of 9,500+ attendees over the 2024-25 fiscal year.

Education

• San José State University

  Master of Library & Information Science - MLIS, Library and Information Science

  2026

• Savannah College of Art and Design

  Sequential Art, N/A

  2017 — 2021