By Carol P. Bartold

Jul. 8, 2015:  "I started working in a library when I was fourteen, so I kind of grew up in a library," said Christine Utchel, interim director of the Bronxville Public Library. "As a kid I was always checking out books."

Utchel took over as interim library director on May 18, following the resignation of former director Gabriella Radujko, who left the Bronxville Public Library on May 7.

Utchel began her library career at the Hastings-on-Hudson Public Library and worked her way up the ranks before joining the Bronxville Public Library almost twelve years ago, where she has served as the adult reference librarian.

With an undergraduate degree in English literature from Mercy College and a master of library science degree from Long Island University, Utchel has been able not only to develop relationships with patrons as adult reference librarian, but also to use her inclination toward organization to serve as interim library director. She describes organization as a "good fit" for a librarian.

"Up here on the second floor, though, you're a bit isolated," Utchel said. "I have less contact with the general public." Instead of recommending reading material to library patrons, she explained, she deals with vendors and contractors. She takes care of building problems and staffing issues. "The staff have made it a lot easier," she noted. "They have been very supportive and encouraging to me."

Utchel described her interim director position as the opportunity of a lifetime and one she treasures. "I'm enjoying myself," she said. "This is something different and a good way to see if directorship is something I want to pursue." She pointed out that full-time librarian positions are difficult to find.

In her spare time, Utchel designs and makes jewelry. "I have always been a jewelry freak," she said. "I could never find the specific colors of jewelry I wanted." She followed her mother's suggestion to make her own custom pieces. "It has been a dangerous hobby ever since," Utchel said with a laugh.

Utchel has brought her "dangerous hobby" to the Bronxville Public Library, where she has led popular and well-attended beading workshops before the Christmas holidays.

When asked what she feels makes the Bronxville Public Library special, Utchel said, "Anybody can walk through these doors and feel welcome. Anybody can have access to our materials. We treat everybody the same. When it comes to the library, the community is a community with no borders."

The board of trustees of the Bronxville Public Library will accept resumes from candidates interested in the library director position until July 26.

Pictured here:  Interim library director Christine Utchel. 

Photo by N. Bower