‘Miss Laura’ Excelling as Youth Services Librarian

By KEN HAMWEY, 

Bulletin Staff Writer

Laura Brillant-Giangrande has been on the job for six months, and it’s obvious the new Youth Services Librarian has developed a terrific relationship with parents and their children who participate in the many activities offered at the Bellingham Public Library.

Brillant-Giangrande, who replaced the popular “Mr. Steve’’ (Steve Fowler) in January, is personable, energetic and caring, and she’s not only a major plus for the library, but also a big hit with children of all ages.

“It’s important to be welcoming, a good listener and very understanding, said the 50-year-old Brillant-Giangrande, who’s a native of Foxboro. “Other keys include being actively helpful, to always be happy, and to be supportive and comforting.’’

The children’s librarian at Plainville’s Public Library for the last six years, Brillant-Giangrande gets high marks from Library Director Bernadette Rivard.

“The Bellingham Library administration and staff are thrilled that Laura Brillant-Giangrande has joined our team,’’ Rivard said. “With her education and training as a teacher, Laura brings a different perspective to children’s programming. Since her arrival, not only has she managed to continue offering some of our most popular programs, but she also has added new programs to the library’s calendar. We look forward to working with Laura to continue to bring fun and dynamic and educational library services to the children of Bellingham.’’

Brillant-Giangrande, who’s been married for 25 years and has two adult children, says there’s lots to like about her role in Bellingham. 

“I love families and like being part of their community,’’ she noted. “I also like presenting activities to parents and children, and helping people find solutions to problems by providing help, guidance and information on whatever issues they’re facing, especially ones that involve reading. My prime passion is getting kids excited about reading.’’

Brillant-Giangrande presents three activities on a weekly basis and three others on a monthly time-frame. The weekly activities include Rhyme Time (three times per week), Ring A Ding (three times per week) and Baby Time (twice a week). The monthly programming features Monster Squad (STEM-related activity), Building and Engineering (Lego and other builders) and Starlight Story Time (evening reading program).

The theme of Brillant-Giangrande’s 8-week summer reading program is “Find Your Voice.’’

“This year’s summer reading program focuses on international and multi-cultural people and stories. And there’s something for everyone, because it’s for pre-readers through middle school.’’

The most challenging aspect of Brillant-Giangrande’s role is time, or the lack of it. “There’s so many things I want to be involved with and so many things I can be involved with,’’ she emphasized. “But it’s a challenge to get all of my objectives completed.’’

Brillant-Giangrande is pleased children and parents call her “Miss Laura.” “I love the phrase,’’ she offered, “because it shows the kids are comfortable.’’ Brillant-Giangrande is delighted with the support she’s received. “The relationships with the children, the parents and the community has been lovely,’’ she said. “The community is fabulous. What I enjoy is the way different departments work together to promote team chemistry.’’

Rivard and the rest of her staff have helped Brillant-Giangrande transition into her role smoothly. “The staff has been accepting, friendly and helpful,’’ she said. “And, Bernadette is amazingly supportive. She listens, she understands and she’s helpful. Since arriving in Bellingham, I’ve been very busy, and that’s a plus because I can feel the energy and excitement of the children and the parents.’’

Brillant-Giangrande’s background no doubt helped her to become an effective children’s librarian. After graduating from Foxboro High School, she attended Quincy College, graduated summa cum laude, and received an associate’s degree in early childhood education. Bridgewater State University was her next stop. She majored in history and elementary education and graduated magna cum laude.

Brillant-Giangrande began her career as a pre-school teacher in Quincy, then became a kindergarten teacher at a private child-care center. She later worked at the Foxboro YMCA as a pre-school teacher before becoming a substitute teacher at the Foxboro Regional Charter School. When she assumed library duties, she first was a substitute in Plainville before becoming the children’s librarian. She is earning her master’s degree in library science.

Brillant-Giangrande lives in Foxboro with her husband (Camillo), a 23-year-old son (Camillo IV) and a 19-year-old daughter (Bella), who was diagnosed with juvenile Myoclonic epilepsy at age 12. The family has worked to support Bella since she’s been living with this diagnosis. 

Brillant-Giangrande hopes her stay in Bellingham is lengthy. “I hope I’m the right person to fill the needs as library services progress,’’ she said. “And, I hope to fulfill my No. 1 goal. “I want kids to love the library and be eager to return.’’