Names in the News: Library Director Laura Leonard

Her name is Laura Lenoard.

As the director of the , one could say she is the keeper of knowledge and enlightenment in the city. Always hosting fun events for community members of all ages, the library has also been keeping up with the times. Last year the library completed .

Twinsburg Patch: How long have you lived in Twinsburg?

Laura Leonard: I've lived in Twinsburg 44 years.

Patch: What do you like most about the community?

Leonard: I like the fact that even though Twinsburg has changed a lot since I was in high school, the basic small town feel is still there. There is this mysterious sense of home that brings people back here. Just look at all the people on the “You Know You Are From Twinsburg” Facebook page. I have been very lucky to be involved with some community activities and that is the best way to meet the diverse people who make up Twinsburg!

Patch: In a digital age where information is everywhere, how do you think books and libraries can stay relevant to people?

Leonard: The digital book is just another format for “reading” which is really what libraries are all about. You still need the library to connect you with that new author, a favorite classic, or the “right” place to go for information. If I could teach everyone who just “Googles” to discover databases provided through the library, where the information is edited, gathered and even shows you how to cite the work, they’d find much better and useful information.

Libraries  also guide users how to use new technology. We are going to be circulating E-readers filled with titles for customers to borrow starting June 4. Of course, where else can you send your child to a free story-time to learn the early tools for reading?

Patch: Who is your favorite author and why?

Leonard: I am currently reading a lot of mysteries including Elizabeth George and Louise Penny. But my all-time favorite is Jane Austen. She was writing at a time when women didn’t have a lot of opportunities, but her characters were strong women who also had great loves who were dashing, intelligent and humorous men.

Patch: What is your favorite book and why?

Leonard: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. I have read it over and over again. It is my rainy day book. Her character Lizzy Bennett is strong and funny, but her opinions and prejudgments get her into trouble. An inevitable happy ending results with Mr. Darcy appreciating Lizzy’s independence, and a very equal, mature and strong love.