Meet our Librarian

Grace Lutheran School is blessed to have Keary Bramwell joining us as our new school librarian this year. Get to know her in this Glimpse of Grace.

Tell us a little about yourself.   

My Dad and Step-Mom are both librarians, and my Mom is an English teacher so I grew up around books. It seemed natural for me to combine the two and become a children’s librarian. After getting my Master’s degree in Library Sciences, I worked at the Mount Prospect Public Library for 11 years as the Youth Collection Librarian. I then took some time off working to be a stay home mom once I had my daughter. But I have stayed active in the field through committee work, including through my current work on the Newbery Committee. 

What do you like to do when you aren’t working?

When I’m not working, I’m probably spending time with my husband and daughter or reading. But I also love spending time outside, working on craft projects, and baking.

What are you most looking forward to about working at Grace?

I’m really looking forward to talking about books with kids again. I love finding books for kids that make them excited, and I love hearing what kids think after they read it. I also can’t help recommending titles once I know what sort of books a kid likes.

Grace Lutheran School is often described as a place where children grow in faith and character as well as academics. How does this apply in your position?

I think of the library as a place to support students both in and out of the classroom. This means that in addition to strong research skills, students need to have access to a diverse collection. Books can be windows or mirrors and children need both to grow. 

Anything else you’d like us to know?

I taught Irish Dancing while I was in college.

What a fun fact. Thanks for sharing!