Melissa is a Librarian at the National Sexual Violence Resource Center and the Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape. Melissa has experience working in youth corrections as a direct care staff and case manager. She also has experience working in the publishing field as a book buyer. Melissa holds a B.A. from Adams State University of Colorado, an M.S.L.S. in Library Science from Clarion University, and an M.P.S. in Instructional Design through Fort Hayes State University. She is an absolute book lover and enjoys spreading her love for books and the movement to others.
I have the honor and privilege to be one of the librarians at PCAR/NSVRC in charge of ordering books. It’s amazing to me that someone would let me in charge of the books, but they do. I find it a thrilling challenge to purchase new, unique, and quality materials for our library. Women’s history is also a fascinating subject for me. I have always enjoyed learning about those who have come before me and those who continue to work tirelessly so that I and others can have a life closer to what we deserve.
Three book recommendations to check out during Black History Month this February.
The New Year is upon us and with it may come new challenges, goals, and anticipations. As always, it is important that we take time for ourselves.
With September 15th-October 12th being Hispanic Heritage Month, I wanted to share a couple of children’s books that folks could possibly share with the kiddos in their lives. Children share a special place in my heart and it is very important to me to teach my own child about the importance of diversity. I believe the few books I’ve chosen to highlight this month, are wonderful resources that not only celebrate Latinx heritage, but also teach valuable lessons on perseverance, acceptance, and pride.
Being a child or teenager in today’s society is hard. Society dictates how they should behave, what they should like, and who they should be with. Those pressures can especially impact adolescents when they aren’t conforming or don’t want to conform to unwritten ideals about gender roles. Thankfully, there are great resources available for those working with or loving kids questioning their gender identity. The NSVRC library has some helpful titles worth checking out.
Long runs outside, walking the dog, yoga, singing, journaling or any number of self-care activities offer a much needed break from life’s stressors. Most people are in need of a little self-care. Our mental health is just as important as our physical health as it's a critical part of our overall wellbeing. Survivors, those who work in the field, and those close to these individuals, can benefit greatly from a variety of resources that can help our overall mental health.
Not only is April the time that we recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month, but it is also the month where we can expect torrents of rain. As I stare out the window wishing for the buckets of rain pouring down from the sky to cease immediately, I find comfort in reading about individuals who embraced their own voices to bravely stand up for themselves and others. The beauty that comes through in their words makes the dreariness outside a little more bearable.
March seems to be a bear this year, bringing with it continuous snow in the East. I stand hopeful for signs of new sprouting things and the onset of all things green!
I've always loved children’s books and now, as a mother of a toddler, I have become even more enthralled with them. At home we have books in every room, on the floor, on the furniture, and a few on shelves. It warms my heart that my little one loves books as much as I do. Today I wanted to share a few of the stories we have already enjoyed together and a few I will introduce to my kiddo later on. These stories, also held in the NSVRC/PCAR Libraries, are perfect for parents or caregivers to share with their little ones to help introduce and recognize Black History Month.
Who knew that the second Halloween was over the holidays would come tumbling in upon us? Thanks to every store I’ve entered since November 1st, I've been reminded that I only have so many days left to shop! It’s daunting and overwhelming to say the least.