Two years ago, Pat Austin stepped away from her teaching duties following a 26-year career as a professor of children’s literature at the University of New Orleans. Austin, an avid reader and cheerleader for books; however, could not part ways with her duties as curator of UNO’s Children’s and Young Adult Library.

The library, located on the third floor of the Bicentennial Education Building, houses a collection that includes more than 20,000 picture books, fiction, nonfiction, poetry, short stories and special collections.

The space, decorated with quilted art pieces, framed posters and research project boards, also provides resources for education professionals such as PRAXIS prep materials, videos, curriculum materials and professional literature. Some people use it as a study haven.

“It’s always been used by the School of Education,” said Austin, who has been library’s curator since 2000.

Austin, however, is quick to say that all are welcome to use the library.

“It’s not just for education majors,” Austin said. “Everybody’s welcome: faculty, staff and students.”

Although the library has existed since the building opened in 1976, Austin says many people are not aware of the resource.

“It’s a hidden gem; not everyone knows about it,” Austin said. “I just want people to know that we have more than 8,000 picture books. We have a whole picture book room … and it’s a fabulous, curated collection. They will find good books here and they can keep them out for three weeks.”

And, it’s user-friendly, Austin said. Don’t let concerns about keeping a book past its due date hinder your patronage, she said.  

“We are a no-fine library,” Austin said. “I don’t want that to stop you from checking out a book.”

Volunteers staff the library and its hours of operation are based on available staff. Austin’s goal is to have the library opened Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“If I have an overflow of people, I will be open on Friday,” she said.

Austin is currently seeking volunteers for the fall semester. She will train workers, but says no special skills are needed.

“Their main job is to just be here,” Austin said.

If interested in volunteering, contact Pat Austin at paustin@uno.edu.