STAND-UP LIBRARIAN created by Meredith Myers

Floridian of the Month

2012-02-23T17:29:00.000-05:00

It was one month ago today I was getting on a plane and leaving Los Angeles for Florida with nothing but faith that things would be okay once I got there. I still wanted to be a funny librarian doing what I loved. While things weren’t where I wanted them to be in LA, it was still a five-year investment and difficult to walk away from...even though I was probably the unhappiest I have ever been in my life.

Would I find library work in Florida? Acting roles? Places to perform comedy?

My faith paid off…in a matter of days.

I applied to five library jobs and submitted a proposal to plan a fundraising event. While at the library interviewing a local author for this blog, a comedy club owner booked me for a show. In reading the local paper, I learned a film with James Franco was going to start shooting down the street.

Was it really my faith that those opportunities happened? Or was it me making an effort to find them? I like to think it was both. Of course, whether I get those jobs or people laugh at my jokes is out of my control and I’m done worrying about it. More important than the acceptance of others is just me learning to be happy again wherever I am, because that is probably the one thing actually within my control and always has been. After all, geography is just a zip code or a difference in humidity. Only now instead of sitting in traffic for an hour to get to the beach, all I have to do is walk outside.

And performing at a comedy club on the beach? Well, just watch how many times I smile. Enjoy…

I LOVE Morris Lessmore!

2012-02-13T18:12:00.000-05:00

In honor of Valentine’s Day, I want to declare my love for…MORRIS LESSMORE!

He isn’t People magazine’s ‘Sexiest Man Alive’ or the newest cast member on “Glee,” but he is the star of the Oscar-nominated short film ”The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore.” But don’t expect to see a MoAngelina on the red carpet at the Oscars talking to Joan Rivers. Morris is an animated character who more or less would rather be at the library than brushing shoulders with Meryl Streep. And you would too, if you saw the library he frequents.

Remarkably, I had the wonderful opportunity to see Morris’ film back in December in a private screening room at the Dreamworks Animation studios in Glendale, and that is where my love for him began. But perhaps it is the publicist in me that waited until now to share it with you as the film is now nominated for an Academy Award in the Animated Short Film category and I hope this post will help generate some votes! (To any of the 6,000 Academy members who might be reading this, for the sake of reading, please vote for Morris!!!)

It is no secret to any of my Facebook or Twitter followers that like a broke Harvey Weinstein, I have already been “campaigning” for Morris and “The Artist” for months (that cute dog Uggie should have had a nomination!) However, now I am getting the chance to explain why my love is so strong. I am a huge fan of silent movies and especially the physical comedy of Buster Keaton (my other thrill of 2011 was seeing Buster Keaton’s “The Cameraman” at the historic Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood with a live orchestra as a part of the TCM Film Festival), and both Morris Lessmore and “The Artist” are exceptional films because they are perfect examples that even today in a world full of information overload, a great story can still be told without spoken words.

I know I know, a comedian applauding silence – rare. But like reading a great book, silence often enables one to truly individualize the different textures and emotions of the story, allowing for varying interpretations. And to me, that is what makes great art in any format, in any decade - storytelling resulting in a personal experience motivating one to think, feel, and hopefully, motivate as well. What Morris Lessmore does in a variety of innovative filmmaking techniques, is tell the story of how stories can change your life.

I have shared many personal experiences on here in how the library has changed my life for the better. If I wanted to learn a new skill, I went to the library. If I wanted to start a new career, I went to the library. If I felt lonely or lost, I went to the library. Thanks to William Joyce and Brandon Oldenburg of Moonbot Studios, we now have this beautiful gift of film as a reminder of just how magical the library is. A true love letter to literacy, if there ever was one.

So forget chocolate, flowers, and jewelry this Valentine’s Day, just give the love of books & libraries to your valentine by downloading the FREE film – that’s right, it is free right now on iTunes AND you can download the award-winning iPad app as well. BUT because I love all of you very much, I have provided it here as well (thanks Vimeo!)

Happy Valentine's Day!
Love,
MM (& Morris!)

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore from Moonbot Studios on Vimeo.

About “The Fantastical Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore”:

“Inspired in equal measures, by Hurricane Katrina, Buster Keaton, The Wizard of Oz, and a love for books, "Morris Lessmore" is a story of people who devote their lives to books and books who return the favor. The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore is a poignant, humorous allegory about the curative powers of story. Using a variety of techniques (miniatures, computer animation, 2D animation), award-winning author/illustrator William Joyce and Co-director Brandon Oldenburg present a hybrid style of animation that harkens back to silent films and M-G-M Technicolor musicals. "Morris Lessmore" is old-fashioned and cutting edge at the same time.” – MorrisLessmore.com

Please visit the Morris Lessmore website to learn more about the film & links to download the iPad app:

http://morrislessmore.com/

Plus mark your calendars for July 24^th when the book version of Morris Lessmore will be released by Simon & Schuster:

http://books.simonandschuster.com/Fantastic-Flying-Books-of-Mr-Morris-Lessmore/William-Joyce/9781442457027

Where my love affair with Morris Lessmore began. The guy loves hats & books. DONE. Thanks Dreamworks!

At the Egyptian Theatre for a screening of Buster Keaton's "The Cameraman." Thanks TCM!

Seeing "The Artist" again, this time at the historic Tampa Theatre, built in 1926!

Back to Florida with Author Tim Dorsey!

2012-02-01T16:23:00.000-05:00

After spending most of January wrapping up my five years in Los Angeles and relocating back to my native Florida, it seems only fitting that my first video interview of 2012 should be with Florida author Tim Dorsey at the Gulf Beaches Public Library. It was there in 2005 that I met Library Director Maggie Cinnella and decided to become a librarian. I cannot thank Maggie and Tim enough for welcoming me back with such kindness and humor, reminding me that you can always come home again…and usually with a ton of crazy stories about the journey. Dorsey’s Serge Storms character seems mild compared to some of the people I have met over the years! Enjoy the video…especially the beach walk with me!

For more information on Author Tim Dorsey, please visit:

http://timdorsey.com/

For more information about events at the Gulf Beaches Public Library, please visit:

http://gulfbeacheslib.org/

Happy New Year!

2012-01-05T11:19:00.000-05:00

Since it is already the 5^th, most of you have probably put away your party horns and finally sobered up from all of those champagne toasts! I actually celebrated six months of sobriety yesterday – a decision I made back on July 4^th not as a result of alcoholism or drug addiction, but because I needed a very clear head to make an important decision that would perhaps alter my life in a big way - whether or not to leave Los Angeles.

As I am exhausted from traveling (and as a result developed a slight cold), I will utilize my activities and photos from New Year's Eve to tell a short story in how I made that difficult decision...

This past year was like a labyrynth of little bags of lights leading me on a path through the darkness of the unknown. Some days it seemed like I was on the right path, only to be faced with a dead end where I would then have to turn back around and attempt a different approach.

Once in awhile, out of the blue, a miracle would happen - like snow falling from the sky in Florida...

...or comp tickets to a Cheap Trick concert from an old friend, reminding me to remain hopeful and optimistic, things could change in a moment, often when you least expect them.

And while 2011 was full of obstacles and setbacks, there were several successes too. Celebrating the New Year not with a toast of champagne, but sparkling white grape juice? It took 20 years to accomplish that one!

And the next morning when I greeted 2012 with my eyes fully open - not influenced by alcohol or the opinions of others - I found that everything was suddenly so clear. The resolution I tied on this 10-ft 'Resolution Dress' wasn't about zip codes, income, or job titles, but about my willingness to accept life's journey wherever it may lead me.

I know now that leaving Los Angeles isn't about quitting, giving up, or failing. It isn't filled with anger or sadness either. It is just another step in the adventure that is my life. All I have to do is continue to put one foot in front of the other and keep moving forward.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

2011-12-25T02:06:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all of my friends and supporters of Stand-Up Librarian! I am back in Florida with my family, where I am mostly enjoying the beach because it is so hot here. Instead of a snowman, I had to build a sandman. I named him Neil, in honor of Neil Gaiman who wrote The Sandman comic book series, but you knew this right?

The sunsets are absolutely incredible here. This one inspired me to take off my flip-flops and Santa hat to go for a swim. Until I got to the water and realized how cold it was. Plus my parents were like "Put your clothes on, Meredith, there are kids out here!"

Then I got hungry and decided to make gingerbread because I am absolutely obsessed with it. I don't know if this is because I am a 'ginger' or a just a fan of bread, so I did some research like any good librarian would. Did you know we have Germany to thank for Gingerbread houses?

Instead of taking the next two days to make a Gingerbread Library, I settled on a Gingerbread Cheesecake, which I then topped with Gingerbread men cakes and Gingerbread men cookies. Each cookie represents a guy I once dated. Too bad I can't remember their names.

Anyway, if there is one thing I love more than libraries, it is the holidays! Whether walking on the beach, baking in the kitchen, or standing in a wooden wreath all by yourself, there are endless opportunities to give joy. Writing on this blog always brings me joy, but it is a true Christmas miracle that there are people like you out there reading it!

I hope all of you have a safe and enjoyable holiday season with your family and friends. It has been an interesting year but I am always aware that the true message of the holidays is to shop at Macy's. No wait, stupid commercial just came on again. The message is to BELIEVE. In Santa. In God. In returns without a receipt. Whatever. Just believe in something. We are all capable of anything if we believe...of course there is no guarantee on how long that will last, so that's where your family and friends come in. After all, sometimes the best gift is just having someone believe in YOU!

Naughty or Nice?

2011-12-20T12:24:00.000-05:00

“He's making a list

And checking it twice.

He's going to find out who's naughty and nice.

Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town.”

Looking at the ups and downs of 2011, I keep wondering if I am on Santa’s Naughty or Nice list this Christmas, as it really could go either way. For example:

Didn’t tell sales associate she undercharged me for dress – naughty

Movie hopped at theater without paying for second film – naughty

Pretended to be wine club member at winery to drink free – naughty

Kept prop used in TV show as a souvenir - naughty

Told waiter it was my birthday to get free dessert - naughty

Volunteered at library – nice

So obviously based on the research, it is hard to tell. Dang food & beverage temptations get me every time! I guess later in the week I will find out whether I get coal in my stocking...again. I kid I kid, Santa would never leave me coal. I’ve been bribing him for years with my famous gingerbread cheesecake! Naughty, again I suppose, but you've got to try the cheesecake. You think Santa got jolly on cookies? Yeah, right. Anyway, it got me thinking about what it really means to be “nice,” especially since 2011 is the nicest I’ve been in years because I spent it mostly showing my love for libraries! Yet here I am without a job and completely broke, while a ton of naughty folks get to keep working jobs they don't even do well (see above examples where I politely kept my mouth shut as not to embarrass them. So nice of me!)

“Nice” is usually reserved for those people who are likeable. Pleasant. Helpful. They are the people that never seem to say a bad thing about anyone or complain about anything. They are the folks that smile a lot or tell random people on the street they should smile too. Then again, maybe those last people are just weirdos. Anyway, I think these so called "nice" people are also some of our best actors.

Just a few hours ago I was fast asleep, blanket pulled to chin, head resting comfortably on pillow, attending a private Coldplay concert in my dreams, but suddenly jolted awake due to a tap-tap-tap on my arm. It wasn’t Gwyneth or Madonna but a fellow passenger on the plane asking me if I wanted crackers. Sure, it was thoughtful of her to be my private stewardess, deeply concerned about my nutritional needs, but I doubt this woman would have been so “nice” had they been giving out diamond necklaces on Southwest Airlines.

Which is exactly my point. Acting “nice” doesn’t make it true, nor does a "naughty" act make a person bad. Nice just has a better reputation than naughty does. A better publicist, perhaps.

Being called “nice” should be taken like an insult, people! It is a very non-creative, rather bland and lazy way to define a person, especially when we have such a vast vocabulary to pull from. I’m nice but regardless of my generosity, love, and kindness, would hardly be described as “nice” because there are so many other colorful words that better describe me, and I don’t just mean the four-letter ones.

In reality, this passenger being “nice” was either a lack of intelligence in not realizing I was sleeping and uninterested in snacks, or a deliberate act with the means to wake me so I wouldn't miss viewing the endless clouds outside my window. The reason didn't warrant an investigation as I wasn’t about to initiate further conversation out of fear in being trapped into a bored conversation about her love of breeding dogs or coin collecting. So being the nice person I am, I just said “that’s okay” and pretended not be bothered. Because the truth is, had I done anything else: told a joke, rolled my eyes, grabbed her crackers and threw them in her face; I would be labeled “naughty” according to the rules of our society, even though I was the one minding my own business!

And this is where us “naughty” people get a bad rap. “Naughty” is defined as being disobedient and mischieveous, however, sometimes we are simply nice people who point out the obvious, offer opinions, or ask questions that not everybody has the answer to. We are the people that when “nice” people screw up, might point out a solution to correct the problem, or seize an opportunity as a result of the error, which in my opinion, doesn’t make us bad people, it makes us smart! Sure, sometimes we write jokes or point and laugh at stupid people, but that’s probably only 50% of the time. And to those “nice” people I’ve met who seem to be looking for approval, acceptance, or conversation on an airplane, read a book! You might learn something naughty that might bring an even bigger smile to your face.

So the next time you come across a “naughty” person, you better think twice. Some of us naughty folks are actually pretty nice too. Unless of course, you wake them when they are sleeping...

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

It's a Wonderful Lifetime

2011-12-12T20:04:00.000-05:00

“You broke the rules of my house and you broke the rules of my office, and then on top of all of that, you lied about it. The truth is, you saved my company. Thank you.

Its Christmas, come on in.”

– Boss lady in “A Nanny for Christmas”

With Christmas just around the corner and no job to go to or car to drive, I have been spending most of my days being entertained by the endless holiday films on “It’s a Wonderful Lifetime,” because if you ever need a Christmas miracle, a marathon of Hallmark movies is a sure way to convince you they exist…if only in unrealistic storylines.

I just finished watching the one about the high-powered career woman who loses her job over a misunderstanding just before Christmas, then gets dumped by her boyfriend/fiancé but ends up meeting the man of her dreams a few days later - first at a coffee shop, then at a soup kitchen - where they fall in love until she learns he lied about being insanely rich so they have a huge fight where somebody goes to the airport on Christmas Eve and then the other follows, where at the gate they both suddenly realize that lying or even knowing each other isn’t that big of a deal, so decide to spend Christmas getting married where somehow everybody’s family is suddenly there and it is snowing.

Wait. That sounds just like…all of them?

But who doesn’t love the one with Tori Spelling as Scrooge? Or Kristen Chenoweth as a NYC PR executive who gets fired and can only get a job doing PR in Montana. Or my favorite, “A Nanny for Christmas,” the one that stars the lead actor from “Two Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place.” No, not Ryan Reynolds, he’s successful. I mean the other one, what’s his name? Anyway, he is the love interest of this girl who is an ad executive who gets fired and mistakenly becomes a nanny, then gets fired again because she lied about being an ad executive. Why did the lady hiring and firing this girl not read her resume? If she is supposedly running a successful ad agency, I would think reading copy would be critical, but that’s not the worst part, Dean Cain is in it. Remember him? Well, “Lois & Clark’s” Superman now has four scenes in a Hallmark movie. Jeez, I think that is the saddest thing about these silly movies, having to see all of these actors who once had promising careers, reduced to this.

And that’s when it hit me. A lot of really good-looking people get fired…but we can always count on Hallmark to pick up the pieces. What is the ad slogan? “When you care enough to send the very best.” See, that is probably what Dean Cain’s agent said to get him to do the film. Well, that and a huge paycheck, I would guess. The point is, Dean was the best name in that thing! It is still crap but Hallmark tells us to be the best crap you can possibly be, or something like that. Anyway, what I am trying to say is that we all used to have careers or jobs that didn’t work out because of a misunderstanding…like refusing to get a cappuccino because you can’t froth the milk, or you backed a Fed Ex truck into a tree trying to make a three-point turn. So what. You cared enough to accept the job, care enough to suck at it! Then leave that job with your head held high knowing you could always wear your uniform at Halloween.

And Hallmark also tells us that romance is all around! Who hasn’t met somebody at an airport, a coffee shop or soup kitchen, secretly hoping they might be really rich and sweep you off your feet? And so what if that rich guy ended up being a homeless guy in a donated Ralph Lauren sweater. He probably used to be but you were just too late and some other golddigger beat you to it. Everybody makes mistakes and Lifetime is right, it is a wonderful lifetime because life is full of wonderful mistakes, misunderstandings, and times with people who both stink and don’t stink. There are Christmas miracles happening all around us, you just have to believe…and having a ton of free time on your hands certainly helps.

For example, just the other day I was standing in line for coffee and this guy says to me, “I’ve never met anyone like you.” I couldn’t believe it! It was the exact line from the ten Hallmark movies I had seen, plus because I had recently lost my job, this was obviously the part where I was meeting the man of my dreams! I adjusted my plaid holiday scarf and reindeer antlers and turned to meet my Dean Cain. I suppose he was kind of like Superman. They both had dark hair, but this one was frowning and holding a snowman mug over his head like a weapon. I guess I had cut him in line and he wasn’t pleased, but how was I supposed to know? This stupid antler headband is like wearing blinders. You can’t see a thing. Oh well, so he wasn’t “the one” and unlike the films, didn’t want to laugh about it and go ice-skating in the park. I mean Sabrina the Teenage Witch kidnaps Slater in “Holiday in Handcuffs” and they still ended up together, so I don’t know what this guy’s problem was.

Oh well, no need to panic. I don’t leave for the airport till the 19^th so I’ve got plenty of time to fall in and out of love before rushing off to my plane, where Dean Cain will suddenly appear at the gate to prevent me from going. Hopefully we will live happily ever after…in a galaxy far, far away. Shoot. That is “Star Wars.” I really need to stop watching TV.

Or if this doesn’t work out, be a nanny.

Link to It’s a Wonderful Lifetime:

http://www.mylifetime.com/movies/its-a-wonderful-lifetime

Link to Hallmark Channel holiday movies: http://www.hallmarkchannel.com/christmas/movies5

However, if you need some help this holiday season...

MINI Problems

2011-12-07T15:23:00.000-05:00

The first picture of my Mini after getting it in November of 2006.

Saturday night I ran a quick errand. Little did I know that it was the last time I would be driving my beloved Mini Cooper. The transmission died as I was exiting a parking garage at Hollywood & Highland. I was hurrying because I didn’t want to pay more than the already overpriced $2. Later, the mechanic would estimate that a new transmission would cost around $7,000. With not even seven hundred dollars in the bank, seven thousand was going to be impossible.

While the Mini is obviously just a car, it has however, been a dependable friend throughout my five years in Los Angeles. I could always count on my ‘Silver Bullet’ to be there for me and get me where I needed to go. It was security. It was freedom. It was also the first thing in my entire life that I handled completely on my own from the initial purchase to payments and insurance to gas and repairs. I was always proud that regardless of my money troubles over the years, I managed to remain responsible in my decision to buy and care for it.

I bought the silver 2003 Mini Cooper slightly used from a Lexus dealer in November of 2006. I had just moved to Los Angeles in September to focus on acting and comedy while finishing my library degree. I’d been driving a rental car while I figured out if I wanted to stay. After swearing that I would never do PR again after 2003, I caved and accepted a position working for a man who was paying me a ridiculous amount of money to take him to red carpet events so he could be “famous.” I hated it, but I was making good money and knew it was temporary until I got a librarian job.

I remember that first test drive in the Mini. It was dark, probably around eight at night, and I was speeding down the PCH. The windows were down, the sunroof was open, and the whole time I was thinking, I did it. After leaving NYC in 2004 confused and disappointed, I spent the next 2½ years repairing myself and getting out of debt. I had accomplished a great many things and was enjoying the moment. I knew the car was just the beginning of the many successes I would find in LA. I knew this time, I would find lasting success and happiness because I was a different person now. I was grounded. I had experience. I was going to be a librarian who told jokes.

That Mini took me to places I never imagined: countless jobs that didn’t last; auditions where I didn’t get the part; comedy performances where nobody came; and moved me in and out of five different residences. There were several road trips too, the most important being in November of 2009 when my brother and I drove it back to Florida so I could finish my Masters degree, where a year later, my dad and uncle would then drive it back to Los Angeles, because I was too busy with jobs to do it myself. The battery would die along the way, perhaps an indicator that trouble was on the horizon.

I met the love of my life in that Mini, where two years later he would also break my heart, ironically just before he was going to drive it across the country without me. It was like the Mini knew before I did that my relationship was really over, and the time spent repairing myself hadn’t made a difference to him. Perhaps one day when my heart heals, I will once again be open to driving in the carpool lane. Sometimes traffic is easier to take when you have someone to ride with, but until then I will enjoy cutting off men in Porsches. I mean, if you are going to get in an accident, make it a possible love connection, right?

So you can see that the Mini was never just a car to me. It was a symbol of freedom and protection. I call it the ‘Silver Bullet,’ not because I like Coors Light, but because I kind of thought of the Mini as my protection against the many monsters in Los Angeles. No matter how many times they tried to take me down, I could fight them off by putting up the windows and taking a few deep breaths. The Mini was also my way out. When things would get to be too much, I would drive down to San Diego or over to Big Bear and see friends who would tell me I was strong and should keep fighting.

Sadly, the damages to the Mini are just too large for me to repair this time. Like that car, I will finally admit that I too am broken. The body looks good but under the hood is years of wear and tear, resulting in a much bigger problem that can’t be fixed so easily. At this point in my life, I just can’t afford any more bumps in the road no matter how clear that street seems to look on certain days.

It’s like when you are on a road trip and you know you should stop for gas but keep telling yourself that if you can make it 10 more miles, you get the exit with the Wendy’s. Then you see a sign for an In-N-Out, which is only 20 more miles, even better, you think. Then there’s a sign for Red Robin in just 40 miles? Jeez, you are caught up in so many reasons why you should keep going that you ignore the reasons you shouldn’t – YOU ARE OUT OF GAS!

Most of the time, your procrastination doesn’t really change the course of your trip in a major way, but once in awhile fate steps in and your car slows to a stop. You are now in the middle of nowhere and there are coyotes approaching the vehicle. You kick yourself for liking hamburgers and seeing the signs but not paying attention to what they were really saying. A burger would be awesome but there is no guarantee you will ever taste them. And of course, sometimes in life, we just run out of gas.

Had it been another nail in the tire, a dead battery, or coolant hose, I would fix it and probably continue down this same road that I have been driving for the past five years. Seriously, this road has a ton of potholes but I keep driving and buying tons of crap I don’t need from stupid gift shops thinking it is going to make the trip more exciting so when I finally get to my destination I am going to look fabulous! Listen, nobody needs 75 T-shirts when you never leave the car.

Anyway, I think my Mini is trying to help me one last time. It is saying STOP.

Without a transmission, a car cannot go backwards or forward, it just sits in neutral until somebody is annoyed and pushes you out of the way. You can make the decision to remain in the car knowing that you won’t be going anywhere, or you can turn the car off, open the door, and get out. I am choosing to get out while I still have the strength to continue the journey on foot, or bus, or rickshaw, or whatever.

As usual I have no idea where I am going. It might be a rest stop, it might be a racetrack, and it might be back to NYC, a place I have always regretted leaving (that also doesn’t require a car. Hmmm.) What I do know is this - the higher power I am trusting to take the wheel of my life will not leave me stranded on the side of the road. That's why I have AAA (and something called faith.)

***In addition to the Mini, my library studies were the only other stable thing I had during my time in Los Angeles. I thought of quitting on numerous occasions, even took a semester off or two, but it was in graduating with that Masters degree that gave me the confidence to try Los Angeles this second time. I think it is fitting that my Mini was in Florida so I could drive it to graduation - probably the most important trip of my life. I am therefore thankful that the two things that cost me the most money – my car and my Masters degree - ended up paying off in some great adventures and many life lessons. Plus without them, I doubt I would have lasted this long. I also want to mention that while a car only loses value over time, a college degree will do the exact opposite. Invest in your mind and you will truly have the freedom to go anywhere…

Taking the Mini down Lombard Street
in San Francisco, November 2008.

My brother and I just before we drive the Mini
back to Florida, November 2009.

Using the Mini to move out of a bad living
situation, November 2010.

The Mini's transmission dies and is hauled
to the garage, December 2011.

Being Alone on Black Holidays

2011-11-27T18:46:00.000-05:00

My Thanksgiving feast - thanks Trader Joe's!

Did you survive Black Friday? I know, it is hilarious to think there is a holiday about libraries being closed where you then you have to go shopping and spend money on silly things that won’t give you half the experience of reading a good free book. I just got done reading Paul Mooney’s Black is the New White, and am now enjoying Myrna Loy: The Only Good Girl in Hollywood by Emily Leider, which was put on the hold shelf just in time for the long holiday weekend. I read it while wearing $42 feather earrings that I got for $2, which is about all that trend is worth.

In addition to Black Friday, I also celebrated Black Thanksgiving, since I spent the holiday absolutely alone for the first time in ten years. Instead of being depressed at the thought of being away from my family or having any LA friends to extend me an invitation, I used the day to do holiday activities that made me smile. I watched the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in my PJs, cooked a full Thanksgiving feast thanks to Trader Joe’s having easy to heat pre-made side dishes, then headed to The Grove to see The Muppets, afterward sneaking into Twilight: Breaking Dawn, Part 1 (the only way to really make the film worth it.) I even popped in one of the few stores that were open, Forever 21, and found a pair of black sequin heels for $6, which I then wore while eating leftovers and watching Lady Gaga’s Thanksgiving Special. Exactly what the Pilgrims and Indians (Native Americans) had in mind back at the Plymouth Plantation.

Traditions are nice but sometimes being alone to create new ones is nicer. Or your only option when you don’t drink alcohol, especially when last year’s festivities included living with a bi-polar roommate who at first invited me to remain in the apartment to take part in her Thanksgiving dinner (“What? You are going to be in your room? I guess you can come, as long as you move your boxes out of the hallway and don’t eat too much of our food.”), then threw me out when I found other plans (“I’ve thrown your stuff in the yard. How could you erase the Barbra Streisand/Oprah episode on the DVR? Don’t you know the whole world was waiting for that?”) This year, I was just grateful not have a yard or any of my stuff on it. True ‘Peace on Earth.’

I say being alone is a great time to spend with yourself, hopefully exploring the mysteries and excitement of whatever that day will bring, which may include cleaning your apartment or making new friends who might invite you to Thanksgiving next year! Think about what you enjoy doing and go do it, with or without an entourage. One of my most recent solo adventures was sleeping overnight waiting for the H&M/Versace clothing line. I had nothing but a beach towel and some books to read, however my new friends in line gave me blankets, a sandwich, and hours of hysterical conversation. It became less about the clothes and more about the experience of waiting to get those clothes…well, until those friends knocked me out of the way when the doors finally opened.

The point is, the next time you feel alone on Thanksgiving, or the rest of the year if you live in Los Angeles, don’t wait for an invitation, just create your own tradition and then don’t invite anybody! Also remember to be thankful when things don’t work out. They weren’t supposed to because those people are crazy. Barbara on Oprah? Please, like only half of the world even have TVs. Well before Black Friday, anyway. Now two people own all of them!

At The Grove on Thanksgiving.
Holidays are what you make them!

Thankful for the Light, the Tunnel, & Valet Attendants

2011-11-20T21:45:00.000-05:00

"Remember the light at the end of the tunnel may be you."
"Amazing" by Aerosmith

So even with the “fame” that comes with being in the LA Times, I am back to parking cars. Last night I was running around in a very dark and wet Bel Air neighborhood, hoping the speeding cars down Beverly Glen would see my small frame in between the endless rain drops plopping down on their fancy windshields. I was freezing. My jeans and puffy white coat featuring the valet company logo on the back offered little protection. For safety, I had a blinking glow stick hanging from my belt loop that I had gotten free two years ago for changing my oil. I was happy to see the thing still worked and prayed it generated some attention to passing cars that I was not a ghost but female valet attendant for fancy private house party.

After parking the cars for the guests attending the party, I was left to stand for two hours in the dimly lit driveway, which resembled some covered bridge the headless horseman might gallop through on his way to collect skulls. I tried to pass the time through conversations with my co-workers or wandering in and out of the covered bridge to admire the beauty of the landscaping.

On one side of the bridge were the huge double doors closing off the property from the street and any curious onlookers. With the doors closed, it was probably difficult to see through the vines and foliage that was obviously constructed for privacy. A colonial-style lamp hung from the center of the bridge providing some light, but the rain still clouded any real chances of viewing. In walking through the tunnel of the bridge to the other side, you were greeted with a stone walkway leading up to the front door and glowing windows filled with beautiful objects inside.

It suddenly seemed so easy to walk those few steps through the tunnel of darkness into this new world full of so much light that I stood there for a few minutes forgetting that the rain was damping my hair and soaking my shoes. I tried to enjoy the few moments of light knowing shortly I would have to return to the dark. I wasn’t sad though. I was just thankful I still had the energy and interest to make the walk. There is usually some kind of light at the end of the tunnel, but the question is whether you want to continue making the effort in trying to see it.

In honor of Thanksgiving this week, I want to thank all of the people over the past year who have closed their doors to me in one way or another. The cliché (about hope) says the light is at the end of the tunnel, but I think the brightest light is within us. While I may be knocking on your door looking for an opportunity to shine, I am well aware that there is a whole neighborhood full of other houses that I can walk to. Slamming your door in my face or cowardly hiding behind it and not answering doesn’t stop me. It just prevents you from having fun people at your party.

Oh, and the next New World just might be discovered by a bored valet attendant, so you better be thankful with more than just turkey, stuffing, and some cranberry sauce. I would say throw in at least a twenty if she used your Rolls Royce…

Happy Thanksgiving!

Driving my first Rolls Royce through Beverly Hills.

Touring the Occupy LA Library

2011-11-14T15:27:00.000-05:00

...We appreciate your patience, please be assured that your call will receive the time and attention it deserves when we return to the line…

“Hello? May I help you?”

“Yes, hello, my name is Meredith Myers and I received a letter in the mail saying that I’m released from my temporary position of Library Page at the West Hollywood Public Library, now there is no reason given for why I am let go, are you able to share that information with me?”

“No.”

“To release somebody from a job without giving them any warnings or write ups, or anything? I am blown away to be honest, I don’t know what the problem is, and it would really help me move forward with my life if I knew what the problem was.”

“Well, they usually coach the employee and if the coaching didn’t make an impression than we don’t continue because you are hourly and we just move on the next person.”

“But basically I wasn’t coached. I had nothing but positive feedback from day one until the last day I worked, I really don’t know what went wrong. So that’s what I am asking you. What is your advice?”

“This is our procedure. This is our policy. According to civil service rules, we do not need to give a reason. You are an ‘at-will’ employee and we release employees when their services are no longer needed.”

“Don’t you think this is a little cold? We are in a tough economy right now, and this is the field that I have spent 6 years trying to work in, a field that I love, and if I was doing something wrong I just wish somebody would tell me so I could fix the problem so it would never happen again. Please ma'am, it would really help me if you could tell me what I did...”

“Hmmm, no, I can’t.”

Stand-up Librarian Meredith Myers joins her friend Lila for a tour of the Occupy LA Library and learns that Brian the Librarian wears glasses.

Occupy LA Declaration of Occupation:

“As we gather together in solidarity to express a feeling of mass injustice, we must not lose sight of what brought us together. We write so that all people who feel wronged by the corporate forces of the world can know that we are your allies.”

“To the people of the world,

We, the Los Angeles General Assembly occupying City Hall Park in Downtown Los Angeles urge you to assert your power.

Exercise your right to peaceably assemble; occupy public space; create a process to address the problems we face, and generate solutions accessible to everyone.

To all communities that take action and form groups in the spirit of direct democracy, we offer support, documentation, and all of the resources at our disposal.

Join us and make your voices heard!”

http://occupylosangeles.org/

"Release" This: Stand Up and Stop Booing!

2011-11-06T20:59:00.000-05:00

With Los Angeles Times columnist Steve Lopez after our interview.

The first time I met Steve Lopez, Robert Downey, Jr. was playing him in a film. It was March 19, 2008 and I was on the set of The Soloist, a movie based on Steve’s columns and book. I was a background actor in the film and after two days of sitting around in a ball gown, they didn’t even use me. Out of 300 extras in a scene where Steve receives an award, the film crew thought my big head was in the way of the camera, so I was “released” to go stand in the hallway. I was fine with it. I had a paper to write for my history of libraries class.

In leaving the ballroom where we were shooting, I ran into Robert, who was practicing his lines to himself. As extras, we are never supposed to speak to the lead actors but of course, I spoke to him like it was the most normal thing in the world. “You were awesome in Natural Born Killers. Really f'n awesome.” He laughed, smiled, and said thanks. I kept walking. I didn’t care that he was Robert Downey, Jr. I just thought he was a good actor.

Almost four years later, and I am speaking with the real Steve Lopez, and once again, it is because of my big head. Yet again, I was “released” from a job for being in the way, for standing out, for saying I liked something. Apparently, like background actors, library pages aren’t supposed to be seen or heard either. Without even trying, I had become “the soloist” all right, and thanks to losing my job, was now left to perform alone. So here goes…

Steve’s Los Angeles Times column on November 2^nd, leads with the phrase “Comedian Meredith Myers is basically booed by the library she loves.” Listen folks, just because I was booed doesn’t mean I stop performing. Being booed just means the material wasn’t right for that particular audience. So as a performer, I’ve got two choices. I can rewrite the jokes to fit the audience or just get a whole new audience.

Or, I’d like to think that maybe there is a third choice. JUST STOP BOOING. Comedians, like librarians, are a diverse group. Those that enjoy Larry the Cable Guy might not be fans of Margaret Cho or George Carlin. Regardless of what you think is funny, all comics do what they do in the hopes of making audiences laugh, and laughing sure feels good in a world that seems to suck right now as a result of this poor economy. And for that, I think all comedians are pretty important just for putting themselves on a stage where some audiences only want to judge them.

Librarians are providing just as important a service. They are sharing information with a public that requests it. So would you really want the same librarian performing all the time? Of course not. Librarians are a direct reflection of their library collections, and I don't think anybody wants a library with all poetry or all self-help. So let’s stand up for the uniqueness of each and every librarian and stop the booing!

As a result of this LA Times piece, I have been getting countless emails from people sharing their support, outrage, advice, and many still looking for answers on why the whole thing even happened. Like most things in life, I don’t think this situation has a black and white answer. Plus if the people involved don’t communicate with each other, then we are never going to reach a sufficient solution.

Communication. The key to public relations. Let’s talk about that for a second. It is no secret that I have a background in PR. The secret is that I don't enjoy doing it. For me to do it for free is unheard of. (A client once paid me in trade - a latex catsuit - because she ran out of money. Don’t ask. It is still hanging in my closet. Unworn.) So the fact that I was doing free PR was for one reason and one reason only: I loved the library and I wanted the whole world to love it too.

It upsets me that a field I walked away from FOR the library profession, seems to also be the reason I was “released.” And that term is just as stupid. Released. An orgasm is a release and I’m sorry, losing my job didn’t feel like that at all. (Now see, somebody out there is thinking that I just went too far with the orgasm joke. Get over it. I cursed to Robert Downey, Jr. and he laughed, so should you.)

The part that bothers me with this whole thing is how people keep congratulating me on this story. We should not be celebrating this, people. It was a lose/lose situation for me and the library that could have been a win/win if we had communicated better with each other. Do you really think I wanted a story in the press about being fired? Or that I was working as a library page? Do you think I want people angry at the library? At my co-workers? Absolutely not.

Originally, the Times was doing a positive piece about my journey into becoming a librarian and having a fun blog promoting libraries. My love for the new library was the even-happier ending. A love so strong that after months of volunteering, I was finally getting the chance to work there. Hooray! Good press for the library too. “Off the record,” as they say, I had also just applied for a Librarian 1 position with the north county and had gotten my vendor ID number so I could do paid programs in the library. Things I would never jeopardize as a library page or for a story in the paper. And guess what? All of those opportunities are now gone. All because a few people who didn’t even know me or work with me, just couldn’t communicate with me. Now we are all losing because so many people are mad at the library too.

I’m not one to live in the past, so while I am still very disappointed at what has happened, I am not defeated. A decision was made and as they have yet to want to make it right, I am moving on knowing I have not wasted a second on what went wrong. I already know I did everything right. I was kind, helpful, happy, and 100% myself. I will not be ashamed that I am colorful, funny, or dress fashionably. I am also smart, dedicated, and obviously, incredibly strong. Even now as I feel like most of the people I have worked with have yet to reach out to me (out of fear of losing their jobs too), it didn’t stop me from writing emails to each and every person telling them how important they were to me. How I learned from them. How I am better librarian because of simply knowing them.

And THAT is how we should be communicating with each other. Not in judgment through boos and firings but in support of each other’s differences. And THAT is what makes a great library collection. And THAT is what makes a fun night at a comedy club. Nobody wants to see the same thing all the time, so stand up for individuality and diversity.

Finally, I am so grateful to have met Steve Lopez, a writer and columnist I have admired since 2008 thanks to Robert Downey, Jr. in that empty hallway on The Soloist. What I hope all of you learn from my story is that when bad stuff happens, it is not the end of the performance. There is this incredible encore just waiting to be heard, so get ready to stand. We need to keep standing up for libraries…even when they don't seem to be standing up for us.

And Robert? Email me. I have this great idea for a script and I think you would be just perfect.

Standing out in the hallway on the set of The Soloist, March 2008.

Steve's book display at the West Hollywood Library Opening, October 2011.

The Los Angeles Times, November 2011.

So Much To Celebrate

2011-10-23T23:47:00.000-05:00

Dressed as Pippi Longstocking for my literary birthday party!

October has been a very productive month. I’m so busy making my dreams come true that I have been away from posting anything in almost three weeks! I guess this is also what happens when you have an actual job to go to. Yay library job!

I’ve also been busy having fun this past weekend celebrating my birthday, which at first I wasn’t even going to acknowledge, being happy enough to simply have a job at the library of my dreams (which isn’t the whole truth, I just didn’t think anyone in LA would care enough to celebrate it with me.) However, thanks to a couple of friends with kind hearts, I was encouraged to celebrate with a few activities – a literary birthday party being one of them. Thank God for actors because they are the only ones who wanted to dress up and then be in character all night, which made it a heck of a lot of fun – Twilight kids, Ernest Hemingway, Joan Didion, and Edgar Allen Poe, I’m talking to you. Thank you!)

It’s hard to believe it has already been a year since I celebrated my birthday in 2010, high on the trapeze after going on my first library job interview which didn’t result in a job offer (link to that post here: http://stand-uplibrarian.blogspot.com/2010/10/circus-that-is-merediths-first-library.html.) Now as I look back, it’s crazy to think about just how much I have experienced in the past year as a result of NOT getting that job. Get ready for an old school Oprah full circle moment…

In being forced to work as a waitress, a valet attendant, an executive assistant, a “background artist,” then be further humiliated and disappointed by endless people at these jobs, I learned the important lesson…to just stop doing them!!! Or kill myself, but that wasn’t an option because like my party, I was worried that nobody would come to my funeral either. Instead, I decided to go into debt by focusing my energy back to the library whether they were going to pay me or not. By depending on myself and having true excitement and passion for the work I was doing as a volunteer with the library, (not to mention having few friends left to distract me with actual fun), I ended up accomplishing far more than I ever imagined. I met Steve-O. The end.

I kid, I kid. Seriously, Steve-O should be happy he met me and I had the time to issue him a library card because that’s the smartest thing that “Jackass” has ever done. My point with this post is that I finally work with really cool people in an awesome library that I love and I am paid to be there. While I am not officially a librarian yet, I am treated with the same respect as if I were. For example, just the other day a patron said that our library has too many stairs and that I am too skinny and should gain some weight. I almost cried. It was only a year ago that I was just a waitress wanting to work at the library and here I was…unable to accidentally drop her food in her lap.

Listen folks, life will give you lemons and you could make lemonade but I say keep your dang lemons. I prefer carrots.

***Oh and I’m really digging that new Kelly Clarkson song “What Doesn’t Kill You (Stronger).”

“What doesn't kill you makes you stronger 

Stand a little taller 

Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone 

What doesn't kill you makes a fighter 

Footsteps even lighter”

I made a reference to killing myself but suicide is never the answer, the library is. It has saved me on numerous occasions. Unlike people, the library will always be there for you even when you feel you have nothing else. Information will always make you stronger. Trust me.

Celebrate yourself today.

-MM

Ending my birthday weekend by worshipping the stage

with a dance at the House of Blues. Hallelu-yeah life is pretty great!

Meredith Issues Steve-O of "Jackass" His First Library Card

2011-10-04T19:07:00.000-05:00

STANDUPLIBRARIAN.COM

Contact: Meredith Myers

StandUpLibrarianMM@gmail.com

JACKASS GETS FIRST LIBRARY CARD

Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers Issues “Jackass” Star Steve-O His First Library Card at the West Hollywood Public Library

Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers Issues Steve-O His First Library Card.

Photo credit: Joshua Barash

LOS ANGELES (October 3, 2011) – Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers issued “Jackass” star Stephen “Steve-O” Glover his first library card while at the new West Hollywood Public Library on Sunday. Steve-O was appearing at the 10^th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair promoting his new book Professional Idiot: A Memoir. Myers works at the library and was performing literary stand-up comedy on the theater stage. Myers had previously interviewed Steve-O on WHBF Radio and encouraged him to apply for his first library card.

Steve-O was one of 783 people to apply for library cards at the new West Hollywood Public Library during Sunday’s West Hollywood Book Fair, which is in addition to the 500 applications at Saturday’s grand opening ceremonies.

Steve-O recently made headlines for his appearance on Comedy Central’s “The Roast of Charlie Sheen” where he intentionally ran into Mike Tyson’s fist and received two black eyes and a broken nose. In addition to appearances promoting Idiot, Steve-O is currently on a stand-up comedy tour. Myers, a librarian and comedian, has been educating and entertaining people about the importance of libraries.

Myers stated, “Steve-O’s done plenty of crazy stunts but applying for his first library card is probably his most important. Even people who pierce their butt cheeks together should have a library card.”

Myers has a Masters degree in Library and Information Sciences and has been performing stand-up comedy since 2002 after checking out a comedy book from her local library. Binding her experiences in comedy and libraries, Myers created www.StandUpLibrarian.com in an effort to showcase how varied, fun, and vital libraries are to our current society and intends to bring an awareness to the often-stereotyped library field revealing that librarians are as diverse as the libraries themselves. Through interviews with experts and authors, tours of unique libraries across the country, library and literary-specific stand-up performances and sketches, not to mention plenty of book recommendations, Myers’ unique perspective and humor is perhaps just what libraries need in a tough economic time where city budgets seem quick to eliminate them or reduce staffing.

A former-publicist who enjoys promoting all things literary, Myers has spent the past week interviewing authors/artists appearing at the WeHo Book Fair on WHBF Radio. Below is the interview with Steve-O.

Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers Interviews Steve-O about Professional Idiot: A Memoir on WHBF Radio:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rarebirdradio/2011/09/22/whbf-radio-with-meredith-myers-and-steve-o

For more information on Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers: http://www.StandUpLibrarian.com

For more information on Steve-O:

http://steveo.com/

For more information on the West Hollywood Public Library:

http://www.colapublib.org/libs/whollywood/index.php

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION & PRESS INQUIRES, CONTACT:

Meredith Myers / StandUpLibrarianMM@gmail.com

http://www.StandUpLibrarian.com

###

Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers Performs Sunday!

2011-09-29T21:39:00.000-05:00

STANDUPLIBRARIAN.COM

Contact: Meredith Myers

StandUpLibrarianMM@gmail.com

***MEDIA ALERT***

STAND-UP LIBRARIAN MEREDITH MYERS PERFORMS AT WEST HOLLYWOOD BOOK FAIR OCTOBER 2^ND

Comedian/Librarian Meredith Myers of StandUpLibrarian.com Educates While Entertains About the Importance of Libraries

LOS ANGELES (September 29, 2011) – “So a comedian walks into a library and decides to work there…” Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers will be the closing performer at the 10^th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair on Sunday, October 2^nd at 5:25pm on the Theater Stage in the West Hollywood Library Community Room, 647 North Vicente Boulevard. The event and parking are free to the public.

Myers will perform an all-ages literary comedy show…at the library! No cover charge or 2-drink minimum required. A cross between Pippi Longstocking and Sandra Bernhard, Myers entertains while educates about the importance of libraries as she addresses everything from the Dewey Decimal System to Harry Potter, and her adventures in librarianship!

Myers has a Masters degree in Library and Information Sciences and has been performing stand-up comedy since 2002 after checking out a comedy book from her local library. Binding her experiences in comedy and libraries, Myers created www.StandUpLibrarian.com in an effort to showcase how varied, fun, and vital libraries are to our current society and intends to bring an awareness to the often stereotyped library field revealing that librarians are as diverse as the libraries themselves. Through interviews with experts and authors, tours of unique libraries across the country, library and literary-specific stand-up performances and sketches, not to mention plenty of book recommendations, Myers’ unique perspective and humor is perhaps just what libraries need in a tough economic time where city budgets seem quick to eliminate them or reduce staffing.

A former-publicist who enjoys promoting all things literary, Myers has spent the past week interviewing authors/artists appearing at the WeHo Book Fair on WHBF Radio. Below are the links to those interviews:

Steve-O/Professional Idiot: A Memoir:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rarebirdradio/2011/09/22/whbf-radio-with-meredith-myers-and-steve-o

Christopher Rice/The Moonlit Earth:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rarebirdradio/2011/09/23/whbf-radio-with-meredith-myers-and-christopher-rice

Jamie Rose/Shut Up and Dance: The Joy of Letting Go of the Lead:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rarebirdradio/2011/09/27/whbf-radio-w-meredith-myers-featuring-jamie-rose

Carrie White/Upper Cut: Highlights of My Hollywood Life: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rarebirdradio/2011/09/28/whbf-radio-w-meredith-myers-featuring-carrie-white

Julie Newmar/The Conscious Catwoman Explains Life on Earth:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rarebirdradio/2011/09/29/whbf-radio-w-meredith-myers-featuring-julie-newmar

Jillian Lauren/Pretty:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rarebirdradio/2011/09/30/whbf-radio-w-meredith-myers-featuring-jillian-lauren

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION & PRESS INQUIRES, CONTACT:

Meredith Myers / StandUpLibrarianMM@gmail.com

http://www.StandUpLibrarian.com

***For more information on the West Hollywood Book Fair: http://www.westhollywoodbookfair.org/

###

Meredith Interviews Author Jillian Lauren

2011-09-29T16:21:00.000-05:00

STAND-UP LIBRARIAN MEREDITH MYERS INTERVIEWS AUTHOR JILLIAN LAUREN FRIDAY AT 1:30PM (PST) ON WHBF RADIO

Author Jillian Lauren & Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers Will Be Appearing at the West Hollywood Book Fair October 2^nd

LOS ANGELES (September 29, 2011) – Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers will interview Jillian Lauren about her new book Pretty on West Hollywood Book Fair Radio, Friday, September 30^th at 1:30pm (PST). Both Myers and Lauren are appearing at the 10^th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair on October 2^nd.

Author and performer Jillian Lauren grew up in suburban New Jersey and fled across the water to New York City. She attended New York University for three minutes before dropping out to work in downtown theater, where she performed with Richard Foreman’s Ontological Hysteric Theater, among others. She is the author of the novel, Pretty, and of the New York Times bestselling memoir, Some Girls: My Life in a Harem, both published by Plume/Penguin. Some Girls has since been translated into fourteen different languages. Myers, a librarian and comedian, has been educating and entertaining people about the importance of libraries.

Lauren will be appearing at the West Hollywood Book Fair in the Fiction Pavilion on the panel Fresh Fare From Fabulous Females: New Voices in Fiction, from 10:30 – 11:30am, followed by a signing at 11:30pm. Myers will be appearing on the Theater Stage at 5:25pm.

TUNE IN:

DATE: Friday, September 30, 2011

TIME: 1:30pm (PST)

WHERE: WHBF Radio

For more information on Jillian Lauren:

http://www.jillianlauren.com/

For more information on Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers:

http://www.StandUpLibrarian.com

For more information on the West Hollywood Book Fair:

http://www.westhollywoodbookfair.org/

###

Meredith Interviews Original Catwoman Julie Newmar!

2011-09-28T21:40:00.001-05:00

STAND-UP LIBRARIAN/BATGIRL MEREDITH MYERS INTERVIEWS AUTHOR/CATWOMAN JULIE NEWMAR

THURSDAY AT 1:30PM (PST) ON WHBF RADIO

Batman’s Original Catwoman Julie Newmar and Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers Will Be Appearing at the West Hollywood Book Fair October 2^nd

LOS ANGELES (September 29, 2011) – Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers will interview “Batman's" original Catwoman Julie Newmar about her new book The Conscious Catwoman Explains Life on Earth on West Hollywood Book Fair Radio, Thursday, September 29^th at 1:30pm (PST). Both Myers and Newmar are appearing at the 10^th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair on October 2^nd.

Beauty, brains and a fantastic sense of humor, Julie Newmar is perhaps best known world wide for her role as the sultry Catwoman on the hit series “Batman” or on stage for her original roles of Stupefyin Jones in “Lil Abner” and Vera in “Silk Stockings,” not to mention her Tony Award winning performance as Katrin Sveg in “The Marriage-Go-Round.” Myers, a librarian and comedian, has been educating and entertaining people about the importance of libraries, and is a huge Batman fan.

Newmar will be appearing at the West Hollywood Book Fair in the Open Book Pavilion on the panel Cats Throw Dark Shadows: From Actress to Author, with stars of the famed gothic soap opera, “Dark Shadows,” Kathryn Leigh Scott (Maggie Evans) and Lara Parker (Angelique Bouchard) from 3:30 – 4:15pm, followed by a signing at 4:15pm. Myers will be appearing on the Theater Stage at 5:25pm.

TUNE IN:

DATE: Thursday, September 29, 2011

TIME: 1:30pm (PST)

WHERE: WHBF Radio (click here)

For more information on Julie Newmar:

http://julienewmar.com/

For more information on Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers:

http://www.StandUpLibrarian.com

For more information on the West Hollywood Book Fair:

http://www.westhollywoodbookfair.org/

###

***Most people may not know that Batgirl/Barbara Gordon has a doctorate in library science and is head librarian at Gotham City Public Library! Above is a picture of me dressed as Batgirl on Hollywood Blvd for my TV pilot I shot in 2008/2009. Below is a poster that hangs in my apt and a picture of my real FL license plate from the 1990's...long before I ever imagined that one day I would become a librarian!

Meredith Interviews Legendary Hairdresser Carrie White about WeHo Book Fair on WHBF Radio

2011-09-27T22:32:00.000-05:00

STAND-UP LIBRARIAN MEREDITH MYERS INTERVIEWS

LEGENDARY HAIRDRESSER & AUTHOR CARRIE WHITE

WEDNESDAY AT 1:30PM (PST) ON WHBF RADIO

Author Carrie White and Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers Will Be Appearing at the West Hollywood Book Fair October 2^nd

LOS ANGELES (September 28, 2011) – Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers will interview legendary hairdresser to the stars Carrie White on West Hollywood Book Fair Radio, Wednesday, September 28th at 1:30pm (PST). Both Myers and White are appearing at the 10th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair on October 2nd.

White was born and raised in Southern California. With a career that has spanned more than forty-five years, she’s styled everyone from Elvis Presley and Ann-Margaret to Sandra Bullock and Brad Pitt. Her work has appeared in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, In Style, Allure, Vanity Fair, Ladies Home Journal, Mademoiselle, and Glamour. The mother of five, Carrie today owns and operates Carrie White Hair in Beverly Hills. Myers, a librarian and comedian, has been educating and entertaining people about the importance of libraries.

White will be appearing at the West Hollywood Book Fair in the That’s Entertainment Pavilion on the panel Take One: Colorful Lives of Wonderful Women On & Off Screen with Dyan Cannon, Florence Henderson and Stefanie Powers from 11:45 – 12:45pm, followed by a signing at 12:45pm. Myers will be appearing on the Theater Stage at 5:25pm.

TUNE IN:

DATE: Wednesday, September 28, 2011

TIME: 1:30pm (PST)

WHERE: WHBF Radio

For more information on Carrie White:

http://www.thecarriewhite.com/

For more information on Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers:

http://www.StandUpLibrarian.com

For more information on the West Hollywood Book Fair:

http://www.westhollywoodbookfair.org/

###

Meredith Interviews Author Jamie Rose about WeHo Book Fair on WHBF Radio

2011-09-27T12:16:00.000-05:00

STAND-UP LIBRARIAN MEREDITH MYERS INTERVIEWS AUTHOR JAMIE ROSE TUESDAY AT 1:30PM (PST) ON WHBF RADIO

Author Jamie Rose and Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers Will Be Appearing at the West Hollywood Book Fair October 2^nd

LOS ANGELES – Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers will interview Author Jamie Rose about her new book Shut Up & Dance! The Joy of Letting Go of the Lead - On the Dance Floor and Off on West Hollywood Book Fair Radio, Tuesday, September 27th at 1:30pm (PST). Both Myers and Rose are appearing at the 10^th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair on October 2^nd.

Jamie Rose has been a professional actor for more than thirty-five years. Perhaps best known for her regular rose as Vickie Gioberti in the 1980s prime-time hit series Falcon Crest, she more recently has had lead roles in multiple films and numerous television shows, including ER, NYPD Blue, House, and Two and a Half Men. In love with the same man for more than thirteen years, and married to him for the past five, she lives in Los Angeles with him, their cat, Fenway, and approximately twenty-five pairs of tango shoes. Myers, a librarian and comedian, has been educating and entertaining people about the importance of libraries.

Jamie Rose will be appearing at the West Hollywood Book Fair in the Current Events & Hot Topics Pavilion on the panel Possibilities On Finding Paths to a Greater Self from 1:30 – 2:30pm, with signings at 2:30pm.

TUNE IN:

DATE: Tuesday, September 27, 2011

TIME: 1:30pm (PST)

WHERE: WHBF Radio (click here)

For more information on Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers:

http://www.StandUpLibrarian.com

For more information on Jamie Rose:

http://jrosestudio.com/

For more information on the West Hollywood Book Fair:

http://www.westhollywoodbookfair.org/

###

Meredith Interviews Author Christopher Rice about WeHo Book Fair on WHBF Radio

2011-09-22T21:58:00.000-05:00

STAND-UP LIBRARIAN MEREDITH MYERS INTERVIEWS AUTHOR CHRISTOPHER RICE FRIDAY AT 1:30PM (PST) ON WHBF RADIO

Author Christopher Rice and Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers Will Be Appearing at the West Hollywood Book Fair October 2^nd

LOS ANGELES – Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers will interview Bestselling Author Christopher Rice on West Hollywood Book Fair Radio, Friday, September 23^rd at 1:30pm (PST). Both Myers and Rice are appearing at the 10^th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair on October 2^nd.

Rice is the author of five bestselling novels including A Density of Souls, The Snow Garden, Light Before Day, Blind Fall, and The Moonlit Earth. He is also the son of Anne Rice and the late poet and painter Stan Rice. He mostly recently completed his 6^thnovel to be released next year. A leader in gay rights, Rice is currently a columnist for Advocate magazine and is on the Board of Directors of the new West Hollywood LibraryPark. Myers, a librarian and comedian, has been educating and entertaining people about the importance of libraries.

Rice will be appearing at the West Hollywood Book Fair in the Mystery & Suspense Pavilion on the panel: Writing and Selling the LGBT Crime Novel: Should the Label Even Matter? from 2:30 – 3:30pm. Followed by a signing at 3:30pm.

Other interview topics besides his new book and participation at the book fair, will include Rice’s involvement with the new West Hollywood LibraryPark, which features an expansive collection of LGBT literature, and finally offer his thoughts on the biggest news of the week – the end of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” military policy.

TUNE IN:

DATE: Friday, September 23, 2011

TIME: 1:30pm (PST)

WHERE: WHBF Radio (click here)

For more information on Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers:

http://www.StandUpLibrarian.com

For more information on Christopher Rice:

http://www.christopherricebooks.com/

For more information on the West Hollywood Book Fair:

http://www.westhollywoodbookfair.org/

For more information on donating to the West Hollywood LibraryPark:

http://weholibraryfund.org/

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Meredith Interviews "Jackass" Turned Author Steve-O

2011-09-21T18:15:00.000-05:00

STAND-UP LIBRARIAN MEREDITH MYERS INTERVIEWS “JACKASS” STAR STEVE-O THURSDAY AT 1:30PM (PST) ON RARE BIRD RADIO

Steve-O and Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers Will Be Appearing at the West Hollywood Book Fair October 2^nd

LOS ANGELES – Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers will interview “Jackass” star Stephen “Steve-O” Glover about his new book Professional Idiot: A Memoir on Rare Bird Radio, Thursday, September 22^nd at 1:30pm (PST). Both Myers and Steve-O are appearing at the 10^th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair on October 2^nd.

Steve-O recently made an appearance on Comedy Central’s “The Roast of Charlie Sheen” and got punched in the face by Mike Tyson. Myers, a librarian and comedian, has been educating and entertaining people about the importance of libraries.

Other interview topics will include Steve-O’s current comedy tour and his experiences in stand-up comedy, which Myers has done since 2002 after checking out a comedy book from her local public library.

Myers stated, “Steve-O’s done plenty of crazy stunts but writing a book? That’s right up there with snorting wasabi! However I’m most curious to learn if someone who has had their butt cheeks pierced together has a library card?”

TUNE IN:

DATE: Thursday, September 22, 2011

TIME: 1:30pm (PST)

WHERE: Rare Bird Radio (click here)

For more information on Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers:

http://www.StandUpLibrarian.com

For more information on Steve-O:

http://steveo.com/

For more information on the West Hollywood Book Fair:

http://www.westhollywoodbookfair.org/

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Performing at the West Hollywood Book Fair - October 2nd!

2011-09-18T18:49:00.000-05:00

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!! Two weeks from today, I will be the closing performer at the 10th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair on Sunday, October 2nd, 2011 from 10am – 6pm at the new West Hollywood Library and West Hollywood Park, 647 North Vicente Boulevard in West Hollywood.

5:25pm to 5:45pm | The Theatre Stage

Closing Performance From…STAND-UP LIBRARIAN MEREDITH MYERS

Brought to you by StandUpLibrarian.com

“So a comedian walks into a library and decides to work there…”

Join Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers for an all ages literary comedy show…at the library! No cover charge or 2-drink minimum required. A cross between Pippi Longstocking and Sandra Bernhard, Meredith entertains while educates about the importance of libraries as she addresses everything from the Dewey Decimal System to Harry Potter. Bring a love of reading and get ready to laugh.

Comedian/Librarian Meredith Myers has a Masters degree in Library and Information Sciences and has been performing stand-up comedy since 2002 after checking out a comedy book from her local library. Binding her experiences in comedy and libraries, Meredith's mission is to entertain while educating people about the importance of libraries. For more information, please visit www.StandUpLibrarian.com

***I will also be the MC of the That’s Entertainment Pavilion from 10am – 2pm, featuring the following exciting panels:

THAT (WAS) ENTERTAINMENT: EXPLORING THE LIVES OF LEGENDS

Featuring:  Jennifer Grant (Good Stuff: A Reminiscence of My Father, Cary Grant),  Sam Irvin (Kay Thompson: From Funny Face to Eloise),  Michael Gregg Michaud (Sal Mineo, A Biography),  Randy Schmidt (Little Girl Blue: The Life of Karen Carpenter)  Moderator: David Ehrenstein

TAKE ONE: COLORFUL LIVES OF WONDERFUL WOMEN ON & OFF SCREEN

Featuring:  Dyan Cannon (Dear Cary: My Life with Cary Grant), Florence Henderson (Life Is Not a Stage: From Broadway Baby to a Lovely Lady and Beyond), Stefanie Powers (One from the Hart), Carrie White (Upper Cut: Highlights of My Hollywood Life)  Moderator: Greg Hernandez

DAREDEVILS, SUPERHEROES & HOLLYWOOD HUNKS…AND THE MERE MORTALS WITHIN

Featuring:  Hal Needham (Stuntman!: My Car-Crashing, Plane-Jumping, Bone-Breaking, Death-Defying Hollywood Life) , Kevin Sorbo (True Strength: My Journey from Hercules to Mere Mortal–and How Nearly Dying Saved My Life),  Steve-O (Professional Idiot: A Memoir)  Moderator: Rachel Resnick

The West Hollywood Book Fair will feature twelve stages with author panels, special guests and live performances, 125 exhibitors and writing workshops. Featured authors and participants will include Meredith Baxter (“Family Ties”), Marg Helgenberger (“CSI”), Julie Newmar (“Batman”), Tatum O’Neal (“Ryan & Tatum: The O’Neals”), Dee Wallace (E.T.: The Extra Terrestrial), Marcia Clark of the OJ trial, Rex Pickett (Sideways and the new sequel Vertical), and bestselling authors Jackie Collins (The Goddess of Vengeance), Christopher Rice (The Moonlit Earth), Lisa See (Dreams of Joy, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan), and many more.

For more information about the 10th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair, visit http://www.westhollywoodbookfair.org/

9/11 - Still Fighting 10 Years Later

2011-09-11T18:45:00.000-05:00

I woke up this morning to MSNBC replaying their September 11^th media coverage from ten years ago in real time, making me think in my somewhat sleepy haze that it was happening all over again. It almost stopped my heart at the thought of reliving that awful time full of so much terror and heartbreak. It was a “Groundhog Day” moment but without the comedy of Bill Murray. Without giving it much thought, I chose to voice my hatred of the media and their obvious lack of sensitivity to the families and friends of all of the victims of 9/11 (I mean, who would want to experience that all over again?), so I innocently went to my FB to voice my opinion – about the media. What happened next is an example of how far we have NOT come.

Stand-Up Librarian/Meredith Myers Hey MSNBC, many of us lived 9/11 in NYC, we don't need to replay the entire morning again 10 years later, we know what happened.

Geri Jewell You are a vile, Disgusting person for posting this! I had a family member perish in Tower 2, and I thank God people don't forget. You should be ashamed of yourself, you nasty, insensitive piece of trash! I have copied and pasted this, and will make sure I forward it to every library in California so they know what kind of a person you are, and make sure you NEVER get hired at any of them. (It looks like you're already doing a good job of that on your own!)

Stand-Up Librarian/Meredith Myers Geri, I think you misunderstood what I said. I think memorials and tributes are wonderful but replaying the horrific scenes of the pain we all went through is not a positive image. I was there too. My thoughts are with your family and friends.

It is terrible that ten years later we are still having problems communicating with each other about these horrific events. Just because I choose not to relive the past via video footage of the innocent people we have lost doesn’t mean that I don’t think it is healthy to remember and honor those people. It just means I think it is far more important to use those memories to encourage action so that terrible things like 9/11 don’t repeat themselves. I believe in making positive changes for a better future by taking responsibility for our actions and living each day to the fullest. Too many people get caught up in things we cannot change instead of focusing on the things we can.

I don’t know what makes me more sad at this FB posting with Geri - seeing her pain and poor projection of it at me, or that she is continuing the anger and hatred that started this whole mess in the first place. We were bombed in NYC because terrorists hated America. There was no opportunity for a peaceful discussion or a clarification of why this hatred existed so we could possibly prevent it. We were simply left with adjusting to the results - innocent lives that we will never get back.

It is via this opportunity at communication that I’ve decided to repost your FB attack on me, Geri - not to embarrass you, but so you can experience what I deal on a daily basis by choosing to speak my mind in a public forum, opening myself up to verbal attacks on my character without justification. You weren’t even a ‘Friend’ on my Facebook but chose to friend me so you could then attack and threaten me. Sounds like a ton of energy that could have been better utilized by volunteering at your local library or reading to kids. You know, things I do with my time.

One sentence shouldn’t be enough of a reason for anyone to make it a personal mission to ruin anyone else’s life, especially one you didn’t choose to clarify before going on a hurtful rant (FYI, maybe you should work in the media, they rarely fact check either.) Trust me Geri, I don’t need your help in not getting a job, I’ve got plenty of things going against me – honesty, integrity, and something called courage. I have no problem standing up to bullies who try to put other people down. I openly admit my faults and mistakes in the hopes others will now know better. And voicing my opinions? That’s not ego, that’s America, baby. Freedom of speech. You don’t always have to agree with it, but in this country, we have a right to say it.

I also allow myself to be vulnerable to people I don’t even know and who obviously don’t know me (or read my blog regularly.) I also am insulted, misunderstood, and maybe if I am lucky, “Liked” with a lame thumbs-up symbol – all for free. That’s not “vile,” that is BRAVE. Your words hurt me Geri, but I can take it because on September 11^th, 2001, I was a New Yorker who survived the devastation of 9/11 and chose not take it for granted but instead change my life for the better by quitting my very cushy VIP PR job so I could eventually become a librarian to help people better themselves. It has been a long, hard road these last ten years, but at least I have the COURAGE to put myself out there to use my second chance at life to mean something. I am not the enemy Geri, so please don’t call me trash. What I am is recycled material that is going to be around for a very long time so either get onboard or get out of my way. I’m AMERICA baby, and no matter how many times people try to strike us down, we aren’t going anywhere…

Going Into Labor Day...

2011-09-05T13:30:00.000-05:00

HAPPY LABOR DAY EVERYONE!

Some see Labor Day as the end of summer and a reason to consume baked beans and countless Natural Light by the pool, while others sit glued to the TV watching U.S. Open coverage. Many ladies simply view Labor Day as the last official day to fashionably wear white. Do people still wear white? Or follow this dumb rule? Oh who cares, it is a holiday, so grab a warm Natty Lite and you won’t care if you spill your sister’s homemade baked beans all over your white linen slacks while watching Serena slam a tennis ball at some Czech Republic chick who will soon appear half-naked in Maxim. Isn’t that what Labor Day is all about?

Not exactly.

According to the United States Department of Labor, Labor Day “is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.” Wow, for a holiday that celebrates the economic and social contributions of workers, it seems a bit ridiculous that I am spending the holiday alone in my crappy apartment eating a bag of stale Fritos since six out of my nine jobs don’t pay me! And since I am writing this blog post, I am still working! Happy Labor Day to me.

Nine jobs you say? Yes. Which means I don’t ever have a day off. Or a life. Or a reason to celebrate. This American Dream is a bunch of BS. I kid, I kid. I just know this hard work without income is so going to pay off one day and I am going to be in a huge mansion living it up for a few months before I die from a broken hip at 90 thinking I have the flexibility of my 24 year-old boy toy that I probably paid for. Now enough of “making it” (success, not whoopee you perverts - get your mind out of the gutter), and let’s focus on right now and how any of this has relevance to Labor Day.

Those six jobs that don’t pay me? All consist of the work I am most proud of. Because if I am doing it for free, I must really, really, and I mean REALLY enjoy it! This blog for example. Jeez, if nobody is reading it, they sure as heck aren’t paying me to do it (but you want to send money, I will take it.) The book I have been writing for over a year, is another job that I do daily that doesn’t pay me either. Do I like it any less? Of course not (but I do hope a big publisher buys it, call me!) The same goes with performing comedy in LA (although in NYC I usually got two free drinks but they were pretty watered down so I don’t think that counts.) Anyway, the point is, these are all jobs that I treat with the same respect as any job that pays me a salary…which means at least once a week I quit and then come crawling back. I do however draw the line at stealing my own office supplies – that is just dumb.

My volunteer work doesn’t pay me either. I wrote a joke recently that one of the perks of being a volunteer is that it is finally a job that I can’t get fired from. In volunteering for the West Hollywood Library Fund, the West Hollywood Public Library and now the West Hollywood Book Festival, I have learned that my enjoyment for jobs have little to do with the money and more to do with the environment I am in and the people that I work with. Some of the nicest people I have met in the five years of living in Los Angeles have been in these volunteer jobs! Plus, let’s be honest, as a volunteer, I can say no to certain things and not feel bad about it. For example, “No, I will not tell that crazy-eyed homeless man that he cannot steal that little pencil.” After all, there are situations that require people with more authority…and health insurance, should a person get stabbed with that pencil.

Labor is labor – whether you are being paid or not. Celebrate it. Life is about experiences and the people you meet through those experiences. If you don’t put yourself out there, you will never get the return on the investment – which most of the time, isn’t about the money at all. I have found in trying to just do the activities that I love – writing, performing, sharing information - I am much happier and less concerned about when or where the money will come. It just does. Sure, I’m still very glad to have the three part-time jobs that I don’t always enjoy just so I can pay the bills, but I put my energy towards the other things that are actually important...like applying for library jobs! Yes, I spend countless hours doing that too. I’m not sure if my “contributions” are adding to the “strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country,” but I hope one day they will. Now doesn’t that earn me some baked beans?

Meredith Performs for the Friends of the West Hollywood Library

2011-08-25T19:48:00.000-05:00

Stand-up Librarian Meredith Myers performs her first all literary/library comedy set for the Friends of the West Hollywood Library on August 20, 2011 as part of her mission to educate while entertaining people about the importance of libraries.

On Saturday, August 20^th, I had my debut as the ‘Stand-Up Librarian’ at an event for the Friends of the West Hollywood Library. It was the first time I attempted to perform an all literary/library comedy set…at a podium…for sober people…at 10 in the morning. Obviously, as a comedian used to performing in comedy clubs at night, I was somewhat out of my element, but the only pressure I put on myself was to be more popular than the free bagels, and that was probably pushing it.

The Friends group is mostly composed of a slightly older audience than those usually found in comedy clubs, but I doubted any of them would heckle me on a book joke so I wasn’t the least concerned about losing my cool. I was the “headliner” of the event, which in the comedy world is a compliment since you are last on the program and generally the one everyone is waiting to see, but with this group I was facing possible walkouts should the bagels start to take affect too soon.

It was also comforting to be the only entertainment at the event, unless you count a certain audience member who enjoyed making bagels disappear into her handbag (but good for her, I forgot to eat and they had deviled eggs!) I was also pretty confident that LibraryPark architect Jim Favaro and I weren’t doing the same material, which is sometimes embarrassing for a performer. I can’t count him out though - his speech was good, I’m just hoping he doesn’t start telling jokes because he was pretty interesting to listen to and could steal my thunder at the library opening (hint hint, yes, I am available.)

When it came down to the performance, none of the above even crossed my mind. I loved every minute of it. Since starting my library degree in January of 2006, I have been on a new path in life where making people laugh is not always the top priority (probably not the smartest thing to say when being a comedian.) What I really mean by that statement is that so many comedians put people down for sleeping with them or tell stories about how drunk people act, however, since I do that in my normal life, I wanted to try something more positive on stage, where the audience can actually learn something they might be able to use later on.

In discussing the thing I love the most – libraries and reading – now I can educate the audience while also making examples of those people not using the library! And that’s a ton of people. Thanks to my new positive approach to life, I have found that I am finally performing for the right reasons because it shouldn’t be about the jokes or the applause, but instead about your intention. And my intention is to go after those idiots now…yes, ‘I Hate Reading’ FB page, I am starting with you.

For information on being a Friend of the West Hollywood Library, visit: http://www.wehofol.org/

*Special thanks to Linda Demmers and the Friends of the West Hollywood Library!

Stand-Up Librarian Performance & Hard Hat Tour!

2011-08-16T15:13:00.001-05:00

I am very excited to announce that I will be doing my first official Stand-Up Librarian performance this Saturday, August 20th from 10am – 12 for the Friends of the West Hollywood Library! It is with this news that I am also sharing my video of the private hard hat tour I took a few weeks ago of the new West Hollywood LibraryPark. I hope you will not only take the time to see what beautiful opportunities are available to all of us with the building of this extraordinary structure but perhaps also join us on Saturday to learn how you can become a friend and volunteer at the library, make a donation, or just support yours truly with plenty of laughter!

Stand-up Librarian Meredith Myers goes on a private hard hat tour of the new West Hollywood LibraryPark with tour guide Dan Adams, Senior Associate at Heery International, the firm handling the construction. Adams discusses nearing completion of Phase 1 of the LibraryPark Master Plan, which includes the 32,000 square foot LEED-certified West Hollywood Library. Other tour highlights include the Children’s Theater, the West Hollywood Room and Archive, and the new City Council Chambers, which doubles as a performance space (perhaps for a certain Stand-Up Librarian?!)

Friends of the West Hollywood Library have invited you...

Saturday August 20, 2011

10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon

West Hollywood Community Auditorium

(Council meeting location)
647 North San Vicente Blvd,
West Hollywood, CA 90069

RSVP to 323-929-2359

If you are interested in:

• Volunteering at the new West Hollywood Library

• Joining the Friends of the Library

• Serving as a tour guide for the library dedication

• Working in the new Friends’ bookstore

• Serving on a Friends committee

• Hearing about the building from architect Jim Favaro

• Buying a bookshelf in honor of a friend

• Laughing with comedienne Meredith Myers, the Stand-Up Librarian

• Meeting the Librarian and sharing the excitement of the new building

• Enjoying a light breakfast

• And more…

For more information about the WeHo LibraryPark:
‪http://weholibraryfund.org/

To make a donation:
‪https://weholibraryfund.org/donate

Hiking Mt. Baldy With a Purpose

2011-08-07T01:12:00.000-05:00

I hate exercising without a purpose. Like, running, for example. The only time you will ever catch me running is if someone is chasing me…with a weapon. And then it would have to be like a big scary butcher knife…with blood on it. And even then I would think, maybe he’s a chef?

However, as you age (for any casting directors out there, I will admit to being between the ages of 21 - 36), it is very important to remain active, so for the past month I have been trying to exercise at least 2 – 3 days a week. But then that guy turned out to be a jerk so now I am left to hiking Griffith Park with my trainer Carlos because he too is unemployed and needs to take his anger out on someone. I kid, I kid. He is the nicest guy in the world and I’m not just saying that because he is training me for free. I am also saying that because we are working out tomorrow and I don’t want 4 reps of 15 to become 4 reps of “until I say stop.” He loves torturing me with that one.

Anyway, when Carlos mentioned that he was going hiking with some of his military buddies and thought I was finally in enough shape to come along, I immediately thought - heat, sweat, endless walking on an incline? No thanks, I think I have church. Then he said “Human Target” star Mark Valley was organizing it, and I exclaimed, “Hallelujah! Hiking with that view? Bring it on!” Well, in my head I said it. I didn’t really want everybody knowing I had a crush on him. Jeez, you gotta play these things cool, so instead I am announcing it on my blog like a huge nerd. But seriously ladies, you actually want to be dead last on a hike with Mark in your sights. I’m no fool; I need motivation to get up that hill!

While these guys were obviously conditioned for such hikes, (being in the military can prepare one for anything), I decided to go to the Santa Monica Public Library to learn just what to expect. So according to the library’s databases, Mark’s IMDB credits listed that his show “Human Target” had been canceled. Score! He would need cheering up. Instead of a walking stick, he could lean on me for support! I also looked up some books on hiking safety: bring water, wear shoes, what to do should a snake bite you in the ass when you are trying to pee, whatever. I was ready for my date. Hike.

My friend, comedian PJ Walsh ended up doing the hike as well, but I don’t want to spoil the video, or more importantly, use more written material here that could go into the TV pilot I am writing called “Mark Still Has No Idea Who Meredith Is,” so here’s the point of this whole blog post. The library has a vast amount of resources on everything from hikes to fashionable clothing that makes your butt look good on hikes to researching actors you have crushes on that are going on hikes. Use it.

On a more personal note, reaching the top of that mountain was important for two reasons: 1) Somebody had a sandwich up there for me, and 2) I needed to believe in myself again. I wanted to prove to myself that even when things look absolutely impossible, they are still attainable with the right preparation and outlook. Lately I’ve been asking myself why I continue to spend countless hours on a blog that nobody seems to read, or applying for library jobs that never seem to materialize. I’ve thought of giving up. Then some dude comes into your life, invites you on a hike, and shows you that you can reach the top of the mountain – you can get that library job – and your blog is kind of funny. I wish I could say that guy was Mark Valley but while he is a very nice guy, he didn’t ask for my number. The guy I’m talking about is my friend and trainer Carlos. A buff, ex-military dude that reminds me each and every day that exercise always has a purpose...and most of the time, it is to prove just how strong you really are.

Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers hikes Mt. Baldy (10,068 ft), the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains on the border of San Bernardino County, utilizing resources found at the Santa Monica Public Library. Joining her is fellow comedian PJ Walsh, the “Human Target” Mark Valley, and three fearless ex-military dudes. Will she reach the top? A true test of endurance and strength, she soon learns that the 11-mile journey has little to do with physicality or experience, and everything to do with preparation and just how badly she wants it.

For more information about Mt. Baldy:

http://www.mtbaldy.com

For information on the Santa Monica Public Library:

http://smpl.org/

For information on PJ Walsh and his one-man show:

http://www.pjwalsh.com/

And Mark Valley can be seen this fall on “Harry’s Law”:

http://www.nbc.com/harrys-law/

First Official Press Release!

2011-08-01T02:10:00.000-05:00

For Immediate Release

STANDUPLIBRARIAN.COM OFFERS LAUGHS & LIBRARIES

Comedian/Librarian Meredith Myers Educates While Entertains About the Importance of Libraries

Los Angeles (August 1, 2011) – Have you heard the one about the comedian who walks into a library and decides to work there? Then perhaps you haven’t met Comedian/Librarian Meredith Myers, who created StandUpLibrarian.com with the mission to educate while entertaining people about the importance of libraries…and that is no joke.

After graduating with her Masters degree in Library and Information Sciences to an economy offering few librarian jobs, Myers, also a comedian since 2002, decided to create StandUpLibrarian.com in an effort to showcase how varied, fun, and vital libraries are to our current society. By combining witty commentary with educational and entertaining videos, including the latest where Myers treats storytime as an opportunity to read a book about the barriers to employment, StandUpLibrarian.com intends to bring an awareness to the often stereotyped library field revealing that librarians are as diverse as the libraries themselves. Through interviews with experts and authors, tours of unique libraries across the country, library and literary-specific stand-up performances and sketches, not to mention plenty of book recommendations, Myers’ unique perspective and humor is perhaps just what libraries need in a tough economic time where city budgets seem quick to eliminate them or reduce staffing.

“Just making people laugh is simply not enough for me anymore,” says Meredith Myers of StandUpLibrarian.com. “In becoming a librarian, I’ve found that it is also important to help people learn. With StandUpLibrarian.com, I want people to be motivated by the comical, educational information that I share to then make positive change in their own lives by utilizing the limitless free resources found at the library. Think of me as your independent comedic reference librarian here to serve you with a variety of information and hopefully, plenty of laughs too, either from me or through promoting other comedians and writers I admire.”

Myers’ StandUpLibrarian.com online presence, which consists of her website, Facebook, Twitter, and You Tube Channel, are all designed to replicate the old-school card catalog, mixed with the flare of stand-up comedy. Colors of tan and brown are intertwined with images of Myers in various stand-up comedy/librarian-like poses: straddling a book cart, performing for stuffed animals in the children’s section, and working the reference desk, most likely sharing both laughs and information.

In just over a year, Myers’ StandUpLibrarian.com has featured interviews with Bestselling Author Christopher Rice, Comedian Paula Poundstone, Turner Classic Movies Host Robert Osborne, Rocker/Novelist Nathan Larson, and Senator Jack Reed on Capitol Hill. Myers has also offered video library tours of such unique libraries as the Whistler Public Library in Vancouver BC Canada to discuss the Olympics, the San Diego Model Railroad Museum Library to talk trains, fundraising for the new LibraryPark in West Hollywood, and the private library of the legendary Magic Castle in Hollywood, open exclusively to magicians. Not to ever forget her challenges with finding employment, Myers often shares comical stories and videos of her job search, where one series consisted of her hiring herself and setting up her own reference desk at a local public library.

Myers graduated with her Masters degree in Library and Information Sciences in 2010 and has been performing stand-up comedy since 2002 after checking out a comedy book at her local public library. She wrote, produced, and starred in her one-woman show Like a Publicist off-off Broadway in 2003, which received rave reviews and was based on her years working in public relations, where clients and accounts included Oscar-nominated actor Jeremy Renner to fashion designer Vivienne Tam to music artists Kelis, Diana Krall, Billy Gilman, and Whitney Houston to movie studios, television networks, consumer products, and sports teams. Myers is also a writer and consultant, who divides her time between Los Angeles and Florida. Her mission with StandUpLibrarian.com is to educate while entertaining people about libraries and their necessity. Her favorite book is The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.

For more information on Meredith Myers & StandUpLibrarian.com, visit:

http://www.StandUpLibrarian.com

http://www.facebook.com/StandUpLibrarian

https://twitter.com/StandUpLibraryN

http://www.youtube.com/StandUpLibrarian

***To speak with Meredith Myers about performances, speaking engagements, publicity requests, consulting, freelance writing or most importantly, JOB OPPORTUNITIES, please write her an email at: Meredith@MeredithMyers.com.

# # #

Anna Deavere Smith - Let Me Down Easy

2011-07-27T12:12:00.000-05:00

Some people may recognize Anna Deaveare Smith from her roles on “Nurse Jackie” and “The West Wing,” but I know her as the extraordinary author of one of my favorite books, Letters to a Young Artist: Straight-up Advice on Making a Life in the Arts-For Actors, Performers, Writers, and Artists of Every Kind. Published back in 2006, the book was recommended to me by somebody who knew I was a struggling artist, about to move to Los Angeles, and just at the beginning of my library degree. I’d always been someone that enjoyed having one foot inside the creative door, while the other was firmly planted in the academic, so Smith’s approach to the arts was exactly the kind of voice I knew I could learn from and respect, not just because she is a distinguished professor from NYU who has received countless awards and degrees, but because like me, she wants to entertain while educating people about the social problems of our times. Her book has been by my side ever since, the tattered cover and highlighted passages with handwritten notes, a reminder of this often challenging and confusing journey into becoming “The Stand-Up Librarian.”

Through her words, she encourages me to continue on the often difficult path of artistry via an academic approach, with chapters like ‘Presence,’ ‘Discipline,’ ‘The Man,’ and ‘Procrastination.’ Today I am fascinated by the chapter ‘Failure,’ as it seems in trying to be both artist and librarian, I am having a tough time finding employment in the library field. Smith says, “First of all, there is no failure if you’re trying hard. Truly. Second, if there is failure, we can learn from it. Sometimes we try very hard and we fail, at least by our own standards. We may have made mistakes, and the ‘failure’ shows these mistakes in the light of day; our failures illuminate new ways of doing things.” Thanks to Smith’s words, I now see that I have not failed but instead found hundreds of new ways of doing things - I only wish they would help me pay my rent!

In Let Me Down Easy, Smith’s new one-woman show that I had the opportunity to see last night at The Broad Stage in Santa Monica, CA, she “explores the state of medical care and the availability and efficacy of medical insurance in modern-day America.” To create the show, Smith interviewed 320 people over three continents, 20 of which she performs in the show. Smith becomes celebrities like Lance Armstrong, Eve Ensler, and Lauren Hutton, in addition to the former governor of Texas, Ann Richards, and Heavyweight Champion Boxer Michael Bentt. Smith is brilliant as she morphs from one character to the next, with only the slight nod of her head and the removal of a jacket or ring. Let Me Down Easy is yet another shining example of why Anna Deavere Smith is not only an artist and academic to watch and read, but a resilient and inspiring woman we can all learn from and admire.

Let Me Down Easy runs at The Broad Stage in Santa Monica thru July 31^st, followed by an encore presentation at Berkeley Rep August 10 – September 4^th.

To get tickets to the show:

http://www.thebroadstage.com/show_info.php?show_id=6

For information on Anna Deavere Smith:

http://www.annadeaveresmithworks.org/

For a library copy of Letters to a Young Artist:

http://www.worldcat.org/

***A special thanks to David Kessler at The Broad Stage!

Meredith Interviews Author Christopher Rice About the WeHo LibraryPark

2011-07-18T01:30:00.000-05:00

Stand-up Librarian Meredith Myers interviews Author Christopher Rice about the West Hollywood LibraryPark at a fundraising event for the new library. They discuss his role on the Board of Directors, the importance of libraries, the extensive LGBT collection (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered), and his latest book. LibraryPark Campaign Manager LouAnne Greenwald explains how easy it is to make a donation to this state-of-the-art library.

For the past several months, I have been working as a volunteer with the West Hollywood Library Fund to help raise money for the new LibraryPark opening in the fall. “More than just a place to check out books, LibraryPark will be completed in the fall of 2011 with an expanded and improved West Hollywood Park and a state-of-the-art library, as well as flexible cultural and civic space for educational and cultural presentations, public meetings, special collections, exhibits and programs,” states the website. Well, I just want to state that THIS is the future of libraries, people, so let’s all get on board to show our support.

At a recent fundraising event, held at the Sunset Marquis, where I was once again begging for money for a library even though I didn’t have money for my rent, I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Author Christopher Rice, who is not only on the Board of Directors for the LibraryPark, but the son of my all-time favorite author, Anne Rice. Not to be overshadowed by his mother, Christopher is an exceptional writer in his own right that I have enjoyed since 2000 with the release of his debut novel A Density of Souls, where one of his main characters ironically happened to be named Meredith. Over the past ten years, Christopher has had one bestselling book after another, and with his latest book, (which he kept mostly quiet about when I pressed him), will no doubt be another. While I have nothing but admiration for Christopher as a writer, it was his passion for libraries and his quick wit that impressed me most in meeting him. So when he releases that book, BUY IT!

But let’s get back to the library and how you can donate! Donations can be made in any amount but for only $150, you can get your name on a bookcase! How cool is that? Why not buy a bookcase for the friend who has everything? Heck, buy a study room, a whole floor, why not the theater (I’ll come perform for free! If I was already working there that would be a given – hint hint HR dept – another perk in hiring ME!) Seriously, this is a great opportunity to support the community of West Hollywood and literacy, so please donate what you can.

To make a donation, click here:

https://weholibraryfund.org/donate

For more information about the WeHo LibraryPark:

http://weholibraryfund.org/

And finally, for information on Author Christopher Rice:

http://www.christopherricebooks.com/

Storytime with Stand-Up Librarian

2011-07-06T19:13:00.000-05:00

In the first episode of “Storytime with Stand-Up Librarian Meredith Myers,” Meredith reads an important story about employment to the children at the Meredith Myers Library.

The book featured in the video is called Overcoming Barriers to Employment: 127 Great Tips for Putting Red Flags Behind You by Ron and Caryl Krannich, and can be found in the stacks listed under the call number 658.339 K89-23.

***Although inspired in part by true incidents, the following video is fictional and does not depict any actual person or event, even though the actress looks a lot like Meredith Myers. In reality, Meredith Myers is the ultimate professional and takes her job as a librarian very seriously, so any future employers should not let this video effect their decision to hire her. The only thing she is guilty of is having a sense of humor during tough economic times. To all the PETA people: ABSOLUTELY NO STUFFED ANIMALS WERE HARMED IN THE READING OF THIS STORY! And yes, parts of this disclaimer was pulled from the "Law & Order" TV show.

Without My Computer

2011-06-29T14:56:00.002-05:00

On Friday morning, I accidently spilled my morning cappuccino on my laptop and thus began an unplanned holiday from technology.

At first I thought being without my emails, Facebook and Twitter accounts would be fun, but then I realized that I didn't have Google Maps to get directions (yep, I am one of the few in Los Angeles without a GPS, so I went on a sightseeing tour of Brentwood just trying to get to my valet job so I could then spend the whole day driving in circles again!) I also couldn't look up movie times, so I ended up at a 'Mommie & Me' screening of "Bad Teacher" - wow, talk about a scary movie...and I am not talking about Justin Timberlake's acting. The baby carriages lining the aisles should have been the giveaway that I was in the wrong theatre but nope. Like an idiot, it took me a whole fifteen minutes to wonder why the lights were still on and every woman in the room had a baby strapped to her chest. It is enough to hear the babies screaming but to have to see them as well? Talk about 3D effects. Breastfeeding live should not be an extra charge for us single folks!

I also went to the beach, and wore what I thought was a sexy bathing suit with funky cutouts in a bright yellow cheetah print. One guy seemed into it, until I heard, "Wow, that girl is whiter than I am!" I went home with no self-esteem and a wicked sunburn resembling a spider web across my stomach. Thanks Victoria's Secret, maybe you should show that in your catalogue!

The only perk of being without my computer was that I couldn't apply for jobs, which also meant I couldn't be rejected for them either! Score! Nope, think again. I am here at the library checking my emails for the first time in days and San Franscico Public Library had no problem kicking me while I was down, 'While we have never met you, we don't think so," or something like that.

Being without my computer however, has reminded me of how important libraries are. If they are open, that is, which they weren't on Sunday and Monday when I actually needed them. Seriously, where can you use a computer if you don't have a desk job to go to? The library is the only place! And yeah sure, they are really slow and usually have a creepy guy drooling at you while you try to write on your librarian blog for the first time in an actual library, but look at the positives. They are free. Well, for another six minutes. The timer at the top of my screen is counting down and then I will be kicked off and can't come back since I already used my two hour time limit for the day. So this is it. The first time I will not spell check or include cute photos or font that fits with the theme of the post. I have no video. I have just my words.

Thank you library. For reminding me of the so many things you offer us for free each day. Although I really would suggest some antibacterial lotion for computer number 14 - that guy was REALLY taking advantage of some of the library's free services!

The Stand-Up Librarian is Born

2011-06-20T18:53:00.000-05:00

In Part 4 of "Meredith Hires Herself," Meredith and Meredith discuss their partnership and the mission of StandUpLibrarian.com. Meredith performs her library comedy material for the first time.

***Although inspired in part by true incidents, the following video is fictional and does not depict any actual person or event, even though the actresses look a lot like Meredith Myers and say they are numerous times. The Meredith Myers on stage, however, is the real Meredith Myers. In reality, Meredith Myers is the ultimate professional and takes her job as a librarian very seriously, so any future employers should not let this video effect their decision to hire her. The only thing she is guilty of is having a sense of humor during tough economic times. And yes, parts of this disclaimer was pulled from the "Law & Order" TV show.

For the entire month of June, in celebration of StandUpLibrarian.com being one year old, I have been posting fictional videos of me “hiring myself,” which feature two different Merediths (the librarian and the comedian), being interviewed about their positions with StandUpLibrarian.com. The video series was always intended to be a spoof of reality TV shows that have over-the-top personalities talking straight to the camera about the people they either work for or are friends with, for the sole purpose of sharing “private” information. Everyone should know by now that this information is then edited to be even more controversial by the producers of the show, in the hopes of creating some kind of storyline so the viewers continue to tune in.

It was an idea I had a while ago to incorporate my love of acting and my need to find humor in an economic situation that has prevented me from finding work in a field I have absolute passion for, in a position where I have the necessary qualifications. Of course, the videos were always going to be risky, since comedy is often subjective, and me playing myself could become confusing to people, especially to those who don’t really know me or perhaps want to hire me. Is she bipolar? A drunk? Or worse. Not funny? As an artist, I can’t always explain everything all the time, nor do I want to. For example, in this fourth episode, I purposely edit the comedian character to seem cynical about the library field because most comedians do mock things. How do you think jokes are born? However, towards the end of the video, I replay that same clip in its entirety to show that not everything or everyone is what they seem. After all, editors are the true talent of reality shows.

It has always been my mission with StandUpLibrarian.com to entertain, while educating people about libraries and their importance. At the same time, I’ve also been trying to show the diversity of the librarians themselves. Not all librarians wear glasses, nor are they conservative, or look like your grandmother. Some of us curse, make bad jokes, and even enjoy a glass of wine once in awhile. So what. At the end of the day, we are all distinct individuals bringing varied and unique experiences and skills to the reference desk, with the commitment to share information and our love for libraries.

Unfortunately for me, (and many others), I have been having a heck of a time getting to that paid reference desk due to our poor economy. So do you think I am going to just sit around, twiddling my thumbs, waiting for it to turn around? Hell no! All of us have a responsibility to do what we can RIGHT NOW, or else there won’t be a job, or a library, tomorrow. So, this blog is MY reference desk. As is the comedy stage, my You Tube channel, or anywhere I else I choose to go and share information. Just because I am not speaking to you from behind a reference desk in a library, does not make me any less qualified than those that are. I say this because I feel like I had to. Many times I wonder if those looking to hire me come on here and misunderstand my intentions, so let me make it perfectly clear…I may tell jokes but I do not view my six years studying to be a librarian in order to work with other librarians I absolutely admire, the punch line of my jokes. Enough said.

PJ Walsh "Over There Comedy Is His Best Weapon"

2011-06-18T13:32:00.001-05:00

On Thursday night, I had the opportunity to support my friend, Comedian PJ Walsh, at the opening of his one-man show "Over There, Comedy is His Best Weapon," here in Los Angeles at the Hollywood Fringe Festival.

As Head Librarian and Comedian at StandUpLibrarian.com, it is my job to share information that is both hilarious, while educational, and PJ Walsh has always been a funny guy so seeing him perform stand-up comedy is a given. However, with this one-man show, Walsh DANCES! And I don't mean the idiotic electric slide, I mean full-on Riverdance and a Windmill! And as someone who once did a dance show and attempted to breakdance for "Breakin' 2: Electric Boogaloo" star Lucinda Dickey, Walsh is awesome! And then he followed that up with like 20 push ups during the military portion of the show. Walsh is a maniac (and obviously extremely fit in his white t-shirt...)

But don't just go for the dance moves, the hilarity of his stories, or the heartfelt emotions he shares about losing his friends to war, go because Walsh is living life to the fullest and will inspire you to do the same. "Over There, Comedy Is His Best Weapon" but right here, it is his TALENT!

For more information about show dates in Los Angeles and other cities, please visit:

http://overtheresoloshow.com/

**A picture of PJ and I back when he used to open for Larry the Cable Guy.

Go the F**k to Sleep by Adam Mansbach, read by Samuel L. Jackson

2011-06-15T18:41:00.000-05:00

Now this is my kind of bedtime story! And to the screaming toddler that lives next door, this blog entry is dedicated to you...GO THE F**K TO SLEEP!!!!!!!

Your Friendly Stand-Up Librarian,
Meredith

*And to anyone thinking of hiring of me, of course I love all children, even the ones who should GO THE F**K TO SLEEP.

Meredith's First Day!

2011-06-14T18:42:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wanted to do something so bad that you got tired of just sitting by the phone waiting for the opportunity to present itself? Yeah, I didn’t get a call back about “The Amazing Race” either. Well, anyway, that is how I am feeling about being unemployed in the library field right now. In my mind, I have done everything I am supposed to in order to get hired, not to mention a whole lot more if you count the hours I spend doing this blog. You think “Keeping up with the Kar-whatever their names are” is crazy, you should see my life! I sometimes do my hair curly and straight, and I don’t own those expensive hairpieces or weaves, so you know that takes time.

Anyway, the point is, why should I have to wait for an actual “job offer” to go be a librarian and share information? After all, the library is free to everyone, so if college kids can drag his or her laptops into the library to study and make out, and parents can drop off their toddlers for free babysitting at story time, why can’t I set up my own reference desk and do my job as a library professional just out of the goodness in my heart? Sure, I’ll leave the crazies and perverts for the paid professionals to handle, but I think this is very ambitious and entrepreneurial of me, don’t you? Fine, you’ve got a point. There’s always going to be people who see it as intrusive or annoying to the staff librarians, but tomatoes, potatoes, people, you can’t please everybody all the time since we all see things differently. Besides, if I can’t even quote Gershwin correctly, you think I have time to explain this? I say, “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off,” (located in the stacks around the 780’s), and just get to the video...

In Part 3 of "Meredith Hires Herself," Meredith sends Meredith to the local public library and has her set up her own reference desk in an effort to help patrons.

Although inspired in part by true incidents, the following video is fictional and does not depict any actual person or event, even though the actresses look a lot like Meredith Myers and say they are numerous times. In reality, Meredith Myers is the ultimate professional and takes her job as a librarian very seriously and would never just go set up a fake reference desk and film library patrons without them knowing, so any future employers should not let this video effect their decision to hire her. The only thing she is guilty of is having a sense of humor during tough economic times. And yes, parts of this disclaimer was pulled from the "Law & Order" TV show.

The Meredith Myers Library

2011-06-06T18:27:00.001-05:00

It is no secret that I have been very anxious over the past several years to be involved in the library field at some level, which is why I have spent countless hours being an intern and volunteer at various libraries across the country, in anticipation of one day having a paid position on staff. In hiring myself, it makes complete sense to now open the doors of the Meredith Myers Library! I mean, who doesn’t want their own library!?! I am so excited at the thought of using my own personal library to encourage more people to read. Sure, the mailman seemed about as excited as I was to see that cable bill, but I know he will be back. After all, it’s his job, so he has too! And you know what, plummer man? You are going to read too. Like a book on how to correctly fix a sink.

So in Part 2 of "Meredith Hires Herself," Meredith and Meredith discuss the new Meredith Myers Library and what sets this library apart from other libraries…for starters, we have an executive chef!

Although inspired in part by true incidents, the following video is fictional and does not depict any actual person or event, even though the actresses look a lot like Meredith Myers and say they are numerous times. In reality, Meredith Myers is the ultimate professional and takes her job as a librarian very seriously and would never steal office supplies, so any future employers should not let this video affect their decision to hire her. The only thing she is guilty of is having a sense of humor during tough economic times. And yes, parts of this disclaimer was pulled from the "Law & Order" TV show.

Happy One Year Anniversary StandUpLibrarian.com!

2011-06-01T19:56:00.040-05:00

So today is the one year anniversary of me creating this blog. Wow, has it been a year already? Jeez, who knew? I DID. It was a very looooong year, people. So to celebrate, I decided to hire myself. Yep, that's right, I have a job. Meredith is working for Meredith. Sure, I will certainly still explore other offers when the boss isn't looking but please don't tell her. I really need this job. Anyway, here's the first video with Meredith and Meredith discussing the new Head Librarian position with StandUpLibrarian.com. ***A big shout out to my followers who continue to support me after this year of confusion and frustration...

-MM

Although inspired in part by true incidents, the following video is fictional and does not depict any actual person or event, even though the actresses look a lot like Meredith Myers and say they are numerous times. In reality, Meredith Myers is the ultimate professional and takes her job as a librarian very seriously, so any future employers should not let this video affect their decision to hire her. The only thing she is guilty of is having a sense of humor during tough economic times. And y
es, parts of this disclaimer was pulled from the “Law & Order” TV show.

Nathan Larson's The Dewey Decimal System

2011-05-11T17:41:00.000-05:00

It was 2001, and I was working at a public relations firm in New York City, where most of my accounts were music-related, with one being an independent label called Artemis Records, started by the legendary Danny Goldberg. In working with this label over the next few years, I got to know Goldberg and began listening to the various artists signed to the label, my favorite being the music of Nathan Larson. With a background as a rocker in the band Shudder to Think to his solo album Jealous God to eventually composing award-winning music scores for Boys Don’t Cry, The Messenger, Choke, and countless other films, Nathan has proven he is nothing but genius when it comes to writing and producing music.

While we had never met, nor worked together during our experiences with Artemis, it seems odd, yet somehow fitting, that ten years later Nathan and I would cross paths, however, not at a music event, but at book festival. With Nathan a new author, and me a librarian - career fields we both probably never pictured for ourselves in 2001. Another example that anything can happen in this journey called life if you are open to what opportunities it offers us.

With the release of his new book, The Dewey Decimal System, Nathan can now add published author to his long list of credits, and having read it, I have no doubt he will be exceptionally successful at it. Plus, debuting a book featuring a lead character living in the main branch of the New York Public Library is a smart way to get me into doing PR again since here I am talking about it.

So for my first-ever post about a book on this blog, I hope you will enjoy this interview with rocker/film composer/author Nathan Larson and The Dewey Decimal System, as we discuss his love for the New York Public Library, the importance of supporting all libraries, his experiences in writing, and his latest project, doing the musical score for the film adaptation of Judy Blume’s Tiger Eyes, directed by her son, Lawrence Blume.

For more information on Nathan Larson:
http://nathanlarson.net/

To purchase The Dewey Decimal System:
http://www.akashicbooks.com/deweydecimalsystem.htm

*And FYI, you have no idea how much great footage I have with Nathan as we talked about everything from Warren Zevon & Carl Hiaasen to the children’s and YA books of our youth to his numerous other projects in the works. Perhaps I will share more at a later date but I know I only have your attention for so long. I tell you, it never gets old to see how the love of books brings people together!

A Letter to My Mom on Mother's Day...

2011-05-08T13:16:00.000-05:00

Dear Mom,

Happy Mother’s Day! Sorry, I am still an unemployed librarian. I know you are spending today thinking back to exactly one year ago, when we were together and celebrating my graduation with that Masters degree. I really wanted to put a library job offer letter in with your Mother’s Day card this year, but I guess you are going to have to settle for my promise that I won’t resort to stripping to pay the rent, regardless of how tough things have gotten. You have been nothing but my biggest supporter in my efforts to become a librarian and I cannot thank you enough for proofreading all of those term papers or for advising me not to call people idiots or morons on this blog in case someone might misunderstand my humor and use that against me in a job interview. I am so grateful for that advice, especially since sometimes I actually listen to it. I know being my mother is not easy. I think every mother wants to know that their children are happy and making a living at something they love. Thankfully, you still have my brother, and since he works with a successful comedian, hopefully that brings you joy and front-row tickets this Mother’s Day. Unfortunately, I’ve only been able to give you lame discounts at the restaurants I happen to be working at, on account of not being able to get jobs I’ve spent years training and educating myself for. Sadly, you will not be getting 50% off your dinner today. I had to quit because there was just no organization in the server side stand even after dividing up all the spoons and condiments via the Dewey Decimal system. I thought I was being helpful but my idiot manager thought it was annoying and suggested we part ways. Also, don’t expect any free books from me attending the ALA National Conference. I am so broke that I will not be able to make the trip to New Orleans in June. I know, I know, that means no beignets, as well. I don’t know what to say, paying my own way all these years in the hopes of networking myself into a job has apparently been pointless. And to think of the hundreds of people who said my business cards were so clever but never called or emailed. Bring out the violins, right? Anyway, the good news is that I still have this blog and apparently since posting my TCM/Robert Osborne interview last week, I am up to seven followers - this is huge! Oopps, I take that back. Someone just dropped off. Probably because I used the word 'idiot.' I should have listened to you, mom.

Happy Mother’s Day to the strongest woman I know…because being my mom is one tough job!

Love,
Meredith

P.S. The reason your picture is not on here is because I remembered how mean some people (idiots) can be to me online. Why some people (morons) can’t just spend their time writing a fake letter to their mom is a bigger mystery than me not being employed by now. I will never bring you into that world, mom, even though you brought me into one with no library jobs. Thanks again.

Meredith Attends the TCM Classic Film Festival 2011

2011-05-04T14:56:00.000-05:00

"HOLLYWOOD BOULEVARD"

written by Meredith Myers

START the picture with the actual street sign: HOLLYWOOD BOULEVARD. In the gutter lie dead leaves, a Hooters receipt, burnt matches and a coupon for five dollars off Starline Tours. It is early morning.

CAMERA leaves the sign and MOVES WEST, the grey asphalt of the street filling the screen.

Over the scene we now hear…

WOMAN’S VOICE

Yes, this is Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, California. It’s about ten o’clock in the morning but that doesn’t stop the tourists from getting their picture taken in front of the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre with a lackluster version of Michael Jackson. Oh, who am I kidding, I may need to use my Lady Gaga Halloween costume to make some extra cash, so I guess I better not make fun. Times are tough for librarians, you know.

SLOW DISSOLVE TO:

EXT. WEST HOLLYWOOD

It is a crisp sunny day. The voice continues speaking as CAMERA PANS toward a SMALL APARTMENT BUILDING, an ugly structure where the landlord obviously doesn’t do repairs. CAMERA MOVES TOWARD AN OPEN WINDOW, where we look in on MEREDITH MYERS’ APARTMENT. A striking redhead, Meredith Myers, is sitting at her desk, wearing nothing but a baseball t-shirt with Vonnegut #5 on the back. She is probably wearing underwear but this isn’t that kind of film. In front of her is a laptop computer, MacBook Pro. Beside her, on the floor, is a stack of resumes and library job applications, where in ink the words ‘No response’ is written on most of them. Myers is typing.

INT. MEREDITH’S APT

It is a one-room affair, filled with entirely too many fabulous clothes for a person who doesn’t have a job to go to. The walls are decorated with vintage hats that probably look ridiculous when worn with pajamas. A poster-sized image of Myrna Loy and William Powell from “The Thin Man” hangs on one wall, while a Batgirl Librarian poster that reads ‘Librarians Are Heroes Every Day!’ on another.

MEREDITH

I can’t believe I graduated with my Masters degree a year ago and I still don’t have a Librarian job. Boy, this economy is a real bummer. If I have to work one more server job, I am going to…

FLASH OF OPRAH MAGAZINE ON THE BED

MEREDITH (CONT.)

No. I’m not going to drown my problems away in another ‘Living Your Best Life’ article, O.

FLASH OF TCM ON THE TV

The logo TCM CLASSIC FILM FESTIVAL April 28 – May 1, 2011 is displayed brightly in blue on the screen. As the logo fades, a distinguished gentleman in a suit, ROBERT OSBORNE, begins to talk but the TV is on mute.

MEREDITH (CONT.)

Wait a minute. I like classic movies! Well, you wouldn’t know it based on the D I got in that film history class back in college but hopefully they won’t require tests to attend. What I wouldn’t give to talk with Robert Osborne about “Desk Set” with Katherine Hepburn. I bet just a few words from Robert would be just the motivation I need not to give up on being a librarian! Plus if that Ben Mackiewicz is around, we could talk baseball films!

FLASH OF MEREDITH AND BEN AT A BASEBALL GAME

MEREDITH (CONT.)

OK, slow it down slugger, you don’t want to come across as a stalker to these people. Besides, this is no longer a voice-over, so now you are talking to yourself and there is no one in the room. Maybe this behavior is why people haven’t hired you!

FLASH OF LIBRARIAN RIPPING UP RESUME

MEREDITH (V.O.)

Fine, I am back in my head. But no, I don’t believe that is the reason. The right job opportunity will come. Someone WILL hire me. I mean, look at the six people that read my blog! That has to mean something.

DISSOLVE TO:

For photos taken at the TCM Classic Film Festival, “Like” StandUpLibrarian on FB: http://www.facebook.com/StandUpLibrarian

For more information about the TCM Classic Film Festival, visit: http://www.tcm.com/festival/

***I will be doing a separate Blog Post about the "To Kill a Mockingbird" screening, featuring appearances by Gregory Peck's family and Mary Badham (Scout).

Meredith Visits Whistler Public Library & Wins Olympic Gold in Librarian Skiing

2011-04-19T01:56:00.000-05:00

I am a huge fan of the Winter Olympics, so when I was back in FL finishing up my last semester of library school in February of 2010, I would sit in front of the TV, writing papers while admiring the mad skills of snowboarder Shaun White and the pure heat of speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno. However, the ladies really stepped up on the ski slopes, with Lindsey Vonn and Julia Mancuso each getting medals too, which made me wonder if I could ever have a shot at the Olympics on skis. Was it really that hard?

One year later, and I am getting my chance at Whistler Mountain. Braving the exact course the women’s ski team took, I carefully slide down Wild Card, then cut across Jimmy’s Joker to Franz’s Run, where I proceed to fall for the first time all day. Oh well, Lindsey and Julie fell too but they got back up and won medals! Thankfully, the Whistler Public Library was nearby so I could conduct some additional research and hopefully pick up some tips before trying to compete in 2014. Then again, getting a library job would be like winning the gold medal, with a lot less injuries…Enjoy the video!!!!

For more information:
http://www.whistlerlibrary.ca/

Meredith is Interviewed By The Gatekeepers Post

2011-04-09T11:23:00.000-05:00

This week, I did an interview with Jeff Riveria, Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Gatekeepers Post, a website "For the New Generation of Book Publishing Professionals." Check it out below...
-MM

THE GATEKEEPERS POST: AN INTERVIEW WITH LIBRARIAN BLOGGER, MEREDITH

Today we interviewed Meredith of Stand-Up Librarian, a blog that offers an inside look into the life of a librarian. Whether you’re a librarian yourself or just looking to find out more about libraries, Meredith offers us an insider’s view into what books are popular right now and what eBooks mean for our future.

What are the popular book genres that are frequently being checked out at the library?

I think popularity varies on the type and location of the library.  Last year when I was back in Florida, finishing my Masters degree, I was working at a public library in a small beach town, where the majority of patrons were retirees or snowbirds in town for the winter season.  The most popular genre by far was Romance.  A big favorite for teens in any library is Manga and Fantasy.  Do you have Bleach?  Twilight?  Harry Potter?  Then again, just as many adults are checking out those last two titles for themselves!

As a librarian, do people ever recommend books to you? What type of books do you enjoy?

People always love to recommend books to fellow book lovers, or anybody that will listen.  When I work the reference desk, I can’t help but to develop a dialogue with patrons who have a real excitement about reading and sharing their favorite titles.  Even as a librarian, I’ve never pretended to be an expert on the entire library collection, so I am always genuinely interested in hearing what others find interesting.  I never would have gotten hooked on Charlaine Harris’ Sookie Stackhouse series if patrons hadn’t kept requesting them all the time and insisting I read them!

For pleasure reading, my favorite genre would probably be Historical Thrillers, which is a sub-genre formed from combining Historical Fiction with Thrillers.  Or maybe it is Historical Adventure Thrillers, who can keep up with genres these days?  Steve Berry is my favorite in this area, since I crave adventure, travel, and history.  Berry is great with this, plus I like how at the end of each book, he provides the reader with an explanation of where he fictionalized the history in the story.  I wish more films did this.  I also live for the latest by Lincoln Child and Douglas Preston, who write what is called Techno-Thrillers, and often feature the exotic and eccentric Agent Aloysius X. L. Pendergast, investigating mysterious museum artifacts.  If you can’t make it to your local Natural History Museum, pick up The Relic or Cabinet of Curiosities and I promise it will feel like you are there!

In the Inspirational genre, my favorite book of all time is The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho, which I have in several versions: audio on my iPod, electronic copy on my Kindle, paperback with highlighted pages and notes, and the graphic novel, released last year.  I am also known to give it as a gift to friends.  I think we all need to be reminded that the journey to attaining the dream is sometimes more important than the dream itself!

As eBook sales continue to grow, how do you feel about the future of libraries?

I’ll be the first to admit that I have a Kindle and a subscription to Netflix, but I mostly use my Kindle when I travel, and my Netflix for requesting hard to find films.  Having these modern conveniences, however, doesn’t stop me from going to the public library to check out books or borrow DVDs for free!  I think the library has a big future, especially if people continue to use it.  With technological advances comes information overload, and the only people to help you weed through it, are information specialists, also called librarians.  For that reason alone, libraries and librarians aren’t going anywhere.

Besides, isn’t there something wonderful about physically being at the library, walking through the stacks, randomly selecting items that catch your interest, whether it be from the display table out front, or by having an interaction with another patron who insists you pick up her favorite book?  Just last week, I was at my local public library, with no real reason other than I felt frustrated about my job search, and wanting inspiration from the numerous opportunities that fill the shelves.  The library is the one place where dreams always come true, since it is a place where knowledge and information is free to everyone.  Thanks to Goldie Hawn, Jane Fonda, and Carol Burnett, I left that library, not only with their books in my arms, but also with the reassurance that everyone encounters obstacles, I’m just grateful the library is there offering us solutions and an escape to laugh about it.

What were some of your favorite books this past year?

I was a huge fan of Snooki’s A Shore Thing and Barbra Streisand’s My Passion For Design was just beautiful, but should have been called My Passion For…Overspending.  Seriously though, I just finished reading Possessed: The Life of Joan Crawford by Donald Spoto, which I quite enjoyed, as it offered the perspective of Joan as a hardworking actress dedicated to her craft, as opposed to just a psychotic monster, showcased so famously in “Mommie Dearest.”  I think teens will totally enjoy How They Croaked: The Awful Ends of the Awfully Famous by Georgia Bragg, illustrated by Kevin O’Malley, released just last month, featuring the gross and gory details of how historical figures like Mozart, Napoleon, and our own George Washington, experienced painful and disgusting deaths, mostly because of the idiotic medicine practices of the time.  A great picture book for any adult trying to get over a bad breakup is Why He’s My Ex by Krishna Devine and Jessica G. Hill, where dolls are dressed up and put them in real life dating situations that took a turn for the worse.  A book sure to make anybody actually feel happy about sitting at home on a Friday night!  Last, and surely not least, is Marilyn Johnson’s This Book Is Overdue!: How Librarians and Cyberians Can Save Us All, a book which speaks to the importance of librarians and their necessity in the world.  I not only enjoyed reading this on the eve of my graduation last year, after meeting Marilyn at a library conference, but I’ve also chosen to dedicate my life to being one of libraries’ advocates.  I developed my blog a few weeks later.

Meredith Myers recently graduated with her Masters degree in Library and Information Sciences from the University of South Florida. Her mission with StandUpLibrarian.com is to educate, while entertaining people about libraries and their necessity. She has been performing stand-up comedy since 2002, after checking out a comedy book from her local library.

http://www.StandUpLibrarian.com
http://www.facebook.com/StandUpLibrarian
https://twitter.com/StandUpLibraryN

Written by admin at The Gatekeepers Post.

STAND-UP LIBRARIAN created by Meredith Myers

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