Snow Hill - Neuse News is beginning a series to introduce Greene County readers to some of the influential, interesting, and decision-making leaders of our community. Consider this “Meet Me Greene County” column a look into what makes Greene County the special place it is to live, work, and play.

This installment features Amber Hargett, the Engagement and Youth Services Librarian at the Greene County Public Library. Hargett shared that, “I have worked here (for the Neuse Regional System) for 11 years, and in my current position I split my time between the Greene County Public Library and the Digital Resource Rover (DRR).” 

Hargett described The Digital Resource Rover as “The Neuse Regional Library’s ninth location. Similar to a traditional bookmobile, the DRR has the added benefit of wi-fi connectivity and technology such as laptops and iPads. I have always been intrigued by bookmobiles and wanted to ride on one. When the opportunity to be the bookmobile librarian arose, I knew it was the right position for me.”

The DRR offers printing, scanning, and notary services, so patrons have access to the same services as they would in our brick and mortar locations. The DRR serves the Neuse region - Lenoir, Jones, and Greene Counties, with multiple stops in each county. She also participates in community events, festivals, and school outreach visits. The DRR follows a 3-week rotation and goes out on Wednesdays and Thursdays of each week.

Hargett started working with the Neuse Regional Library System in July 2011 as a part-time staff member in the Youth Services Department. She became a full-time Administrative Librarian in August of that year, and the Head of the Youth Services Department in December of that year.

She said, “My heart has always been in Youth Services, and it was a privilege to serve as the department head for nearly 10 years.”

As the Engagement Librarian, Hargett oversees a wide variety of programs focused on youth in Greene County.

“I lead story time, STEMology, and outreach programs with local daycares and the Boys and Girls Club. I also work with our teen volunteers and offer homework help services upon request.” Her passion for working with kids is hard to miss.

Hargett shared that her role’s most important aspect is serving the community. “It is a pleasure to serve the citizens of Greene County at the Greene County Public Library. We strive to provide a welcoming community-oriented space with quality information services and access to technology. I am fortunate to be the Youth Services Librarian and get to work with our youngest patrons.”

When we talked about what the greatest challenges were for Greene County, communication again seemed to be a common thread. “Rose (Burton- Head Librarian) and I have discussed this at length, and we agree - marketing and promoting programs are a challenge. I am not sure if it is bad timing, competition with other events (we try to prevent scheduling conflicts with other community events as much as possible), busy schedules, or lack of transportation.”

Hargett went on to talk about the efforts the library goes to provide unique services to the community. “We also want to make sure people know about the Greene County Public Library and all of the services we have to offer. (These articles will really help with that.) A library card is not required to utilize the majority of our services, your first library card is always free, and for GCPS students, their student id number serves as their library card.”

When I asked Amber to share words of wisdom with our readers, her simple phrase was “In a world where you can choose to be anything, choose to be kind. “

Next time you visit the Greene County Library, be sure to share a kind hello with Amber and tell them Neuse News sent you!