I am Kasey St. Clair (née Leaf), the Head of Youth Services here at Cedarburg Public Library. I began working here as an assistant in 2018 and quickly fell in love with the library. For 3+ years I worked closely with the former Head of Youth Services, Nancy K., and am excited to continue my mentor’s outstanding work as well as bringing fresh ideas to the children’s department. In 2021 I completed my master's in library science from UW-Milwaukee and took courses focusing on children’s literature, collection development, and library management.
The most rewarding part of my job is preparing for and hosting the annual summer reading program. The children’s department comes to life when the school year is done! Another joy of being a librarian is helping young readers find their next favorite book or series – to find a book that makes them want to stay up past bedtime and read “just one more chapter.” Another joy is welcoming new families to Cedarburg and sharing with them all the amazing activities this library – and this community – have to offer.
My favorite children’s books are ones that feature courageous main characters or lovable animals – such as Because of Winn Dixie, Black Beauty, Charlotte’s Webb and The Golden Compass. My focus is on young adult literature and programming, but I wear many “hats” as well.
In my spare time, horseback riding and getting fresh air after a day working inside the library. I grew up in Mequon and live in Thiensville with my husband and three dogs.