Fayetteville Public Library: Susie Jenkins Interview

Occupation: AB in English Literature from Douglas College for Women (part of Rutgers University). Worked as a secretary to the production manager of National Lead Co. in New York City, office manager of The Baywoods, a garden center and landscaping business in the Hamptons, Long Island
Family: A son, a daughter, 6 grandchildren
How long have you lived in Fayetteville?: 5 years
Favorite novel: All of Jane Austen’s works
What are you reading now?:Thomas Fleming’s series of books from the American Revolution until after the Civil War

What are your favorite things about the Fayetteville Public Library?

It’s so light and cheerful with comfortable chairs and tables surrounding the stacks of books.

Why do you support your local library?

It’s a feasting place for people who like to read.

What was your favorite childhood book?

Heidi by Johanna Spyri

What is your favorite memory or event attended at the Fayetteville Public Library?

The first time I looked through the doors of the new library. Libraries had always been dark, gloomy buildings so it was a joy to see books surrounded by lots of light and comfort.

For your fantasy dinner, which four fictional characters would you invite?

Horatio Hornblower, Ivanhoe, Harvey Flashman, Rhett Butler

What book are you recommending to friends right now?

Liberty Tavern, the first of Thomas Fleming’s series

What are your hobbies?

Reading, especially about the Napoleonic Era and the founders of this country, jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, sewing and knitting

What are some of your favorite things about Fayetteville?

The lack of skyscrapers, the Walton Arts Center, the beautiful countryside and, of course, the library!

Favorite place in the library to meet friends?

I like the coffee shop when I have visitors.

Favorite place in the library to read?

The comfortable chairs just beyond the magazine section, looking out on the valley and the mountains in the distance.

Name: Jessie Broadfoot