In this episode of That Sounds Terrific in the 585, hosts Nick Koziol and Christine Green sat down with Deena Viviani, a dedicated librarian at Brighton Memorial Library. Deena shares her journey into the world of libraries, her passion for children’s and young adult literature, and her efforts to connect young readers with books that resonate. She also discusses her contributions to (585) magazine, where she highlights local authors and their works, and her own aspirations as a writer.
From Library Page to Literacy Advocate
Deena’s journey into the world of libraries started in high school when she worked as a page at Parma Public Library. Though she briefly ventured into the corporate world, she quickly realized her heart belonged in the library. She earned her Master’s in Library Science from the University of Buffalo and has been at Brighton Memorial Library since 2008. In her role as a Young Adult Services Librarian, she works closely with teens and tweens, fostering a love for reading and discovery.
A Love for Books and the Power of Storytelling
A voracious reader, Deena sets a personal goal to read at least ten books a month, not including picture books. She believes in the importance of staying current with literature so she can make relevant recommendations to young readers. Her passion extends beyond just reading—she’s also a writer and reviewer, contributing book recommendations to (585) magazine, local schools, and library patrons.
Deena emphasizes that literacy comes in many forms, from audiobooks and graphic novels to traditional books, ensuring that every child can find a format that suits them. She champions diversity in literature, noting that children’s and young adult books are leading the charge in representation, giving readers both "mirrors" to see themselves and "windows" into different experiences.
Connecting with Local Authors and the Rochester Literary Scene
Through her work with (585) magazine and the Rochester Area Children’s Writers & Illustrators group, Deena has built strong connections with local authors. She helps promote their work, ensuring that Rochester’s literary talent gets the recognition it deserves. Her deep involvement in the community allows her to bring new and exciting literature to local families, reinforcing the importance of storytelling in shaping young minds.
Writing Her Own Stories
Deena is also a writer herself. She has published short stories and nonfiction articles in Highlights and Cricket magazines. Recently, she completed a picture book manuscript about Margaret Woodbury Strong, the visionary behind Rochester’s Strong National Museum of Play. While the manuscript has faced challenges due to its regional focus, Deena remains committed to finding the right publisher to bring this important story to young readers.
Final Thoughts
Deena’s dedication to books, literacy, and the Rochester literary community is truly inspiring. Whether she’s recommending books, writing reviews, or working on her own projects, her passion for storytelling shines through. As she puts it, finding the right book can be life-changing for a child, helping them discover their love for reading and, ultimately, their place in the world.
For more about Deena, be sure to check out the whole episode, 117 Turning Pages with Deena Viviani. Also If you want to learn about Deena’s book recommendations visit Brighton Memorial Library or check out her reviews in (585) magazine.
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