Kalliopi Mathios will be reading at The Difficult to Name Reading Series on May 30.
In addition to being a writer, you're also a librarian. What's it like working with the reading community in New York City?
I LOVE my job. Working as a librarian allows me to do what I love most: talk to people about great books, ideas, games, and events, while also helping people find the information they need to accomplish whatever is on their agenda. Serving as a NYC librarian allows me to work with a diverse community of patrons with diverse needs in a busy, urban environment. There's a misconception that librarians join the field because of an overwhelming passion for books, and while this can be true - it is a love of working with people that keeps us in the profession long-term.
You were a big part of the great Mellow Pages Library, which is in flux currently. What are some other great literary sources/places to hang out in New York?
Mellow Pages Library is a one-of-a-kind space that is currently evolving into a smaller library curated to offer independent and small publishing house books. I think weeding their collection to focus on what they do best is essential, and will be a real gem when completed. Other great literary places to hang out are any public library, local, independent bookstores (I like Molasses Books), The Center for Fiction, Brooklyn Art Library -- there's something literary for everyone in this city.
What can people expect from your reading?