Stand-Up Librarian Performance & Hard Hat Tour!

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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"

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

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!

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

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!

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

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...

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

"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).