Meet the Libby Librarians — Sarah Filiberto

As we slide into summer, so many of us are using our public libraries more than ever. And who’s behind all those amazing services? Librarians, of course. And as Sarah, one of our very own Libby librarians, will remind you, “Thank your public librarians the next time you see them!"

We’re continuing our staff series, shining a spotlight on the experts behind your favorite book recommendations and the people who help public libraries keep their digital collections in top shape. 

This month, we meet Sarah, who’s been a librarian at Libby for over three years (but worked in a library for a decade prior), and is your go-to when it comes to YA or romance reads. Find out exactly how many chapters it takes before she declares a DNF—plus how tall she is (measured in James Patterson books).

What's in your mug? 

I’m not a coffee drinker, so it’s usually tea of some kind. In the fall and winter, I default to hot chocolate. 

What is a reading hill you will die on? 

DNF THE BOOKS! 

There are too many books out there to read something you aren’t enjoying. I’ll give it two chapters or 50 pages depending on how generous I’m feeling. 

Describe your reading style in 3-5 words. 

Chaotic. Varied. All or nothing.  

Ebooks or audiobooks? 

Mostly ebooks, but I have been trying to listen to more audiobooks! 

Name a book you think everyone should read.

Have you heard about Dungeon Crawler Carl... ?

If you could only ever read one book again, what would it be? 

Project Hail Mary.

I read it for the first time in February because I wanted to read it before the movie came out. When I finished the last page, I immediately wanted to start it again. I knew I’d enjoy it, but it still wouldn’t be the same as that first read through. Needless to say, getting the book signed after the movie came out was a highlight. 

What inspired you to become a librarian? 

While I was deciding what to do for grad school, I had several friends going for their Master’s degree in Library Science; one at Kent State and one at the University of Wisconsin. I listened to them talk about their courses and it just sort of clicked that this was something I was interested in too and could see myself doing long term. I wish there was some profound story behind it, but it was an easy choice once I sat down and thought about it. 

What did you do before becoming a Libby librarian? 

I worked in public libraries for 10 years where I worked in reference and answered more tech questions than I could’ve ever imagined. I also did adult programming, outreach to senior citizens, summer reading (for adults!), and a host of other things.

⬅️ Sometimes part of being a librarian is measuring your height in James Patterson books for social media.   

What’s one thing about being a librarian you wish more people understood? 

Librarians are out there doing a lot of work with very little to work with. 

Every program you’ve ever attended, display you’ve ever borrowed a book from, and summer reading challenge you’ve signed you or your kids up for have all required months of planning and communication. Seriously, thank your public librarians the next time you see them.  

What's the last book you read? 

I listened to The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins and read The Butcher’s Masquerade by Matt Dinniman. 

Your best reading advice: 

Read outside of your comfort zone. 

You might find something you love, or you might find something that’s not for you, but at least you’ll have tried something new. Before I started at Libby, I read a lot of YA. As a professional goal, I’ve tried a few romances and been hooked on them ever since. I’ve read authors and genres I never would’ve considered years ago. 

Want to read more from Sarah?

Check out a few more posts she’s written for Libby Life: 

🌺 8 beautiful floral book covers to bring spring vibes to your shelf

🚀 May the 4th be with you: A Star Wars reading list

👍 Not just another teen book: YA reads that adults will enjoy

Come back next month for another behind‑the‑scenes look at another of our Libby librarians and be sure to subscribe to our weekly newsletter so you don’t miss out.

Sarah’s book recommendations:

*Title availability may vary.