Submitted by Carolann DeMatos
The Somerset County Library System of New Jersey’s (SCLSNJ) new Director of Public Services Christopher “Chris” Korenowsky began working in public libraries when he was 15-years-old.
“I don’t know anything else besides libraries, I don’t remember a childhood or a life without the public library,” explained Korenowsky. “I saw this posting and I knew this was my dream job. I’ve been looking for a position that is exactly this, a position that would really play to my strengths and would allow these same strengths to become an asset to the library I am serving. I want to be on the floor, in the branch, working with customers, and focusing on public service management.”
Korenowsky joined the System as their newest public services director on April 16, 2018. Korenowsky, a graduate of Kent State University with his Master of Information Management and Library Sciences and Ohio State University with his Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, will replace W. Keith McCoy who is retiring after over 40 years of library service.
“I found Mr. Christopher Korenowsky to be extremely forthright and unequivocal in his responses to our inquiries; but more importantly, he convincingly imparted a positive and refreshing outlook that was underscored with an undeniable sense of confidence and authority,” said Library commission personnel committee member Dr. Anthony T. Suriano. “He is experienced, knowledgeable, and indeed approachable. I am certain that he will make a noteworthy contribution to the Somerset County Library’s ongoing and concerted efforts to perfect the services that it offers its patrons.”
“It is important to me and to this System that we continue to work to propel public services coaching and branch staff development, and to assure that superior public service is being offered to every customer who walks through the door, every single time,” explained Korenowsky.
“Chris comes highly recommended for his skills in team building and services planning, and this will dovetail nicely with our upcoming strategic planning process,” said County Library Administrator Brian Auger. “Additionally, his extensive background in nonprofit fundraising is sure to be a real asset as we grow our foundation.”
“The cornerstone of what we do is ensuring that we have staff that supports exemplary customer service, all day, every day; it is what we do, it is who we are. In my opinion, there is nothing more important. This is critical to any future Library success,” said Korenowsky.
According to Korenowsky, one of the best ways to get to know a new librarian is to take a peek at his bookshelf. Explore Korenowsky’s favorite authors and their corresponding “best” books (according to this seasoned librarian):
- Elizabeth Strout: “Amy and Isabelle,” “Olive Kitteridge,” and “Abide With Me”
- Colum McCann: “Let the Great World Spin” and “Transatlantic”
- Lauren Groff: “Delicate Edible Birds and Other Stories”
- Joan Silber: “Ideas of Heaven”
- Jane Hamilton: “The Short History of a Prince”
- Elizabeth McCracken: “The Giant’s House”
All books are available at your Library. Visit catalog.SCLSNJ.org to reserve your copy today.
Korenowsky can be contacted at ckorenowsky@sclibnj.org. For additional information about the Library visit SCLSNJ.org.
