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The New Town Librarian
Queer middle-aged librarian Nan Nethercott, a wisecracking hypochondriac with a lackluster career and a nonexistent love life, needs to make a drastic life change before it’s too late. When she lands a job as librarian in a seemingly idyllic small town in southern New Jersey, Nan quickly discovers unforeseen challenges.
Nan’s landlady, Immaculata, launches daily intrusions from below. The library, housed in the former town jail, is overrun by marauding middle-schoolers. A mysterious reader leaves distressing messages in book stacks all over the library. Thomasina, the irresistible butch deli owner, is clearly a delicious affair and not the relationship Nan craves.
There’s no turning back though. Nan must come up with her own wildly unorthodox solutions to what the town and its people throw at her and fight for what she wants until she makes a shiny new life—one with her first true home, surprising friends, a meaningful career, and a promising new love.
Nan’s landlady, Immaculata, launches daily intrusions from below. The library, housed in the former town jail, is overrun by marauding middle-schoolers. A mysterious reader leaves distressing messages in book stacks all over the library. Thomasina, the irresistible butch deli owner, is clearly a delicious affair and not the relationship Nan craves.
There’s no turning back though. Nan must come up with her own wildly unorthodox solutions to what the town and its people throw at her and fight for what she wants until she makes a shiny new life—one with her first true home, surprising friends, a meaningful career, and a promising new love.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2023
31 people are currently reading
3629 people want to read
About the author
Kathy Anderson
2 books42 followersKathy Anderson is the author of a novel, The New Town Librarian (NineStar Press), which was a finalist for Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Award in LGBTQ+ Fiction and the Goldie Award from the Golden Crown Literary Society. Her debut short story collection, Bull and Other Stories (Autumn House Press), was a finalist for Publishing Triangle’s Edmund White Award for Debut Fiction, the Lambda Literary Awards, and Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Award in Short Stories. Her second short story collection, Vamoose: Stories is forthcoming from Vine Leaves Press in June 2026.
The New Town Librarian is her first novel. Kathy holds a Master of Library Science degree and worked as a librarian for over twenty-five years in small-town public libraries in southern New Jersey, the setting for the novel. Her home is in Philadelphia, PA, where she lives with her wife, who is her exact opposite in every way and therefore her perfect match.
The New Town Librarian is her first novel. Kathy holds a Master of Library Science degree and worked as a librarian for over twenty-five years in small-town public libraries in southern New Jersey, the setting for the novel. Her home is in Philadelphia, PA, where she lives with her wife, who is her exact opposite in every way and therefore her perfect match.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
July 13, 2023
How can I resist a story of a fifty year old librarian who moves to a small town in New Jersey to start over. Nan Nethercott has been happy working in a larger library system never wanting to be in charge. Now she is meeting with the library board, scheduling her staff and thinking of budgets. But that isn’t the point. Along the way she makes changes to the library and its patrons and in return she changes in herself. I love the book sharing some of the basic tenets of librarians that libraries are open to all with no censorship or judgement. I love the chapter on weeding books. Getting rid of books is very important to librarians. Her conversations about it are the same as I’ve had with my school principal. She organizes book clubs, helplines, programs and even thwarts rampaging middle schoolers. She also makes wonderfully sweet friends and is ready for new romance (closed door). This is a light, quick read and working in a library may have made me pre-biased to like this more. Thank you to NetGalley and Ninestar Press for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.75 stars
As a character, Nan feels judgmental, small minded, and not terribly interested in moving out of her comfortable bubble — in terms of reading or otherwise. “Fantasy worlds” is how she addresses anything not research or contemporary, in such a way as I can almost imagine her clutching her pearls along with a confused, scornful look, as if those who read fantasy books are somehow lesser than than those who read “adult works” and the true classics. Classics that Nan herself is so very fond of and proud of, and which are heavily and repeatedly name-dropped as if she’s afraid her literary merit as a librarian will be questioned should she read anything else. As someone who enjoys a great many books in many genres, “adult” or “fantasy world,” “literary classic” or not, I have a feeling that I would not like Nan as a person. (As it was, I struggled with her as a character.)
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
2.75 stars
As a character, Nan feels judgmental, small minded, and not terribly interested in moving out of her comfortable bubble — in terms of reading or otherwise. “Fantasy worlds” is how she addresses anything not research or contemporary, in such a way as I can almost imagine her clutching her pearls along with a confused, scornful look, as if those who read fantasy books are somehow lesser than than those who read “adult works” and the true classics. Classics that Nan herself is so very fond of and proud of, and which are heavily and repeatedly name-dropped as if she’s afraid her literary merit as a librarian will be questioned should she read anything else. As someone who enjoys a great many books in many genres, “adult” or “fantasy world,” “literary classic” or not, I have a feeling that I would not like Nan as a person. (As it was, I struggled with her as a character.)
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
May 30, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up
overall, this was okay. i can't really tell you what the plot is, because i'm really not sure. however, the truth is that i didn't really care! this is a book i wouldn't read for the plot, but the feelings each scene evokes. i did like nan (the mc) for the most part, though she had some questionable opinions at times.
there were some strange comments at the beginning that rubbed me the wrong way (such as an implication that only those who read classics are "smart"), which is partially why this book lost a star. i also felt the book jumped around a bit, because there were quite a few characters and it seemed random, though that wasn't something that bothered me that much.
a book that came to my mind at certain points was anne of green gables by l.m. montgomery. the two books have little bits that are similar and some sections have similar vibes, in my opinion.
also, i don't typically make book playlists but i would put the song birthday cake by dylan conrique for this one if i did.
so: was this book amazing? no, but i liked it and it got me out of a reading slump!
e-ARC provided by Ninestar Press via Netgalley
overall, this was okay. i can't really tell you what the plot is, because i'm really not sure. however, the truth is that i didn't really care! this is a book i wouldn't read for the plot, but the feelings each scene evokes. i did like nan (the mc) for the most part, though she had some questionable opinions at times.
there were some strange comments at the beginning that rubbed me the wrong way (such as an implication that only those who read classics are "smart"), which is partially why this book lost a star. i also felt the book jumped around a bit, because there were quite a few characters and it seemed random, though that wasn't something that bothered me that much.
a book that came to my mind at certain points was anne of green gables by l.m. montgomery. the two books have little bits that are similar and some sections have similar vibes, in my opinion.
also, i don't typically make book playlists but i would put the song birthday cake by dylan conrique for this one if i did.
so: was this book amazing? no, but i liked it and it got me out of a reading slump!
e-ARC provided by Ninestar Press via Netgalley
April 16, 2024
Queer 50-yo librarian starting over in a small town? YES PLEASE! I absolutely adored this quirky story full of librarian realness and found family. This book will appeal to many, but especially any library professionals who know the realities of library budgets, politics and patrons. This is a new favorite library story for me.
Source: library ebook via Libby
Source: library ebook via Libby
April 12, 2023
Follow Nan Nethercott--hypochondriac, judgemental, and easily won over by butches-- through a mid-life crisis that leads her to a small town in New Jersey as the town's new librarian in The New Town Librarian by Kathy Anderson. A great late bloomer, underdog story with a cheesy, contemporary romance novel feel while still having heart.
Looking for more out of her life, Nan jumps on the idea of a new job in the small South Jersey town of Pinetree. Through a library ghost, disruptive teenagers, colorful characters, and a bit of a love story, the reader gets to understand Nan's life and motivations. Nan is determined to create a significant mark on the town and the patrons of the library because of the impact libraries had on her growing up. We see Nan grow as a person through the relationships she makes and become content with the life she is building for herself, even if it may not be the most conventional.
This book was very cute and a light, easy read. I really enjoyed getting to explore the world of an older queer woman trying to find her way in a profession she loves but one that does not get appreciated enough. With such a great idea for a main character, I would have liked to be placed in Nan's world more. Going through each chapter feels like watching a sitcom-- the reader is plunged into a completely new storyline in each chapter with nothing but a thin string of plot and a main character to connect them all. I also would have loved if Nan was a better character to follow; she's witty and lonely which makes you want to root for her but she's judgy and overly mean, as well.
Overall, if you are looking for a good beach read, this is your book! If you are looking for your next life-changing read, this may not be it but if you want a fun, easy, queer-centered read that rightfully appreciates librarians, The New Town Librarian is for you!
Thank you to Pride Book Tours for the book!
Looking for more out of her life, Nan jumps on the idea of a new job in the small South Jersey town of Pinetree. Through a library ghost, disruptive teenagers, colorful characters, and a bit of a love story, the reader gets to understand Nan's life and motivations. Nan is determined to create a significant mark on the town and the patrons of the library because of the impact libraries had on her growing up. We see Nan grow as a person through the relationships she makes and become content with the life she is building for herself, even if it may not be the most conventional.
This book was very cute and a light, easy read. I really enjoyed getting to explore the world of an older queer woman trying to find her way in a profession she loves but one that does not get appreciated enough. With such a great idea for a main character, I would have liked to be placed in Nan's world more. Going through each chapter feels like watching a sitcom-- the reader is plunged into a completely new storyline in each chapter with nothing but a thin string of plot and a main character to connect them all. I also would have loved if Nan was a better character to follow; she's witty and lonely which makes you want to root for her but she's judgy and overly mean, as well.
Overall, if you are looking for a good beach read, this is your book! If you are looking for your next life-changing read, this may not be it but if you want a fun, easy, queer-centered read that rightfully appreciates librarians, The New Town Librarian is for you!
Thank you to Pride Book Tours for the book!
April 10, 2025
This is the story of Nan, who has just landed a job as a public librarian in a small town. While this wasn’t the end vision for her life, it’s the only option she receives after applying to several places. But life here comes with its own everyday challenges, which she tackles full swing.
The story had several incidents going on, with the MC acting as a centre point connecting them all. I enjoyed that it shed light on the many roles a librarian has to play beyond just cataloguing books and ordering new ones.
Genre- or trope-wise, I don’t think it would be appropriate to categorize the book as a rom-com or queer romance. There is certainly a presence of these themes, but not enough to label the book under those tags. Also, this could have been quite a clean read had that one scene of urgency not been added (it could totally do without the sudden urge... iykyk).
I do wish there was more to the story from a closure perspective, as what I read felt like just a chapter from the life of the librarian in town. If you really want to enjoy this book, go in with the mindset of “books about books,” low stakes, and a slow-paced life with a sprinkle of real-life problems to deal with. For me, this book stood somewhere in the middle—I enjoyed the whole plot around books, with a few hiccups along the way.
The story had several incidents going on, with the MC acting as a centre point connecting them all. I enjoyed that it shed light on the many roles a librarian has to play beyond just cataloguing books and ordering new ones.
Genre- or trope-wise, I don’t think it would be appropriate to categorize the book as a rom-com or queer romance. There is certainly a presence of these themes, but not enough to label the book under those tags. Also, this could have been quite a clean read had that one scene of urgency not been added (it could totally do without the sudden urge... iykyk).
I do wish there was more to the story from a closure perspective, as what I read felt like just a chapter from the life of the librarian in town. If you really want to enjoy this book, go in with the mindset of “books about books,” low stakes, and a slow-paced life with a sprinkle of real-life problems to deal with. For me, this book stood somewhere in the middle—I enjoyed the whole plot around books, with a few hiccups along the way.
June 28, 2023
TITLE: The New Town Librarian
AUTHOR: Kathy Anderson
PUB DATE: 02.01.2023
SYNOPSIS: Swipe Above
Top reasons to read The New Town Librarian:
📕 A relatable story about a queer middle aged librarian wanting to jump start her career
📗 Amazing characters with fun names like Thomasina and Immaculata - both characters will endear to your heart
📘A fun romcom with second chance at life and love
📙A light beach read that will sweep you into Pinetree, a small town with a huge heart.
AUTHOR: Kathy Anderson
PUB DATE: 02.01.2023
SYNOPSIS: Swipe Above
Top reasons to read The New Town Librarian:
📕 A relatable story about a queer middle aged librarian wanting to jump start her career
📗 Amazing characters with fun names like Thomasina and Immaculata - both characters will endear to your heart
📘A fun romcom with second chance at life and love
📙A light beach read that will sweep you into Pinetree, a small town with a huge heart.
Read
February 16, 2023This is a charming tale in which Nan, a middle-aged librarian eternally stuck at the entry level in the Philadelphia public library system, boldly decides to take a pay cut to head a small-town library in New Jersey's Pine Barrens (where, it is said, a mysterious monster has lived for countless years). Nan's tired of being unambitious, tired of affairs with women who aren't right for her, and tired of being from a sad family, and so off she goes.
At first things are a bit rocky--there's unexpected bad behavior at the library, her Italian-American landlords intrude (but bring feasts and home-made wine), and there's a lot to learn. However, Nan's problems find unexpected solutions, neighbors and co-workers prove mostly friendly, and ultimately this is a feel-good novel that doesn't shy away from sadness, uncertainty, or even death. Sometimes it's good to read a story where no one is truly a villain.
At first things are a bit rocky--there's unexpected bad behavior at the library, her Italian-American landlords intrude (but bring feasts and home-made wine), and there's a lot to learn. However, Nan's problems find unexpected solutions, neighbors and co-workers prove mostly friendly, and ultimately this is a feel-good novel that doesn't shy away from sadness, uncertainty, or even death. Sometimes it's good to read a story where no one is truly a villain.
March 28, 2023
Thank you once again to Pride Book Tours for hooking me up with another fun read! When I saw that the main character in this book was a 50-year-old queer librarian looking to start a new life in a new place, I was all in! Seriously, the world needs more 50-something ladies in books (says the 50-something lady).
Full of the ultimate cast of quirky characters, The New Town Librarian by Kathy Anderson will have you chuckling at all of the antics that Nan faces in her new life. By looking at the cover you may think that this is a romance, but it's really not. The brief interludes that Nan has with women in town are merely referenced, and completely closed door. This is more women's fiction, with Nan learning to have faith in herself and to finally strive for more in her life.
Definitely recommended for those looking for a charming tale full of heart!
Thank you to Pride Book Tours and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Full of the ultimate cast of quirky characters, The New Town Librarian by Kathy Anderson will have you chuckling at all of the antics that Nan faces in her new life. By looking at the cover you may think that this is a romance, but it's really not. The brief interludes that Nan has with women in town are merely referenced, and completely closed door. This is more women's fiction, with Nan learning to have faith in herself and to finally strive for more in her life.
Definitely recommended for those looking for a charming tale full of heart!
Thank you to Pride Book Tours and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 24, 2023
The distinctive middle aged main character with a not-so-perfectly-figured-out-life was refreshing. The difference between most middle aged women main characters having a crisis is that Nan is openly queer, not married, highly educated and no kids which is the opposite of mostly what middle aged main characters in crisis in books turn out to be.
Main character history aside, the story flowed. Her new life in a new town was optimistic despite little fires cropping up that needed to be put out. The relationships she’s built despite her offbeat personality bolstered the feeling of community.
It was a comfy, optimistic reading experience.
Main character history aside, the story flowed. Her new life in a new town was optimistic despite little fires cropping up that needed to be put out. The relationships she’s built despite her offbeat personality bolstered the feeling of community.
It was a comfy, optimistic reading experience.
February 22, 2025
An excellent story, the telling of a 50 year old in a new town, new challenges. Lovely cast, a simple tale well told. A quiet book which was captivating all the way though.
February 2, 2024
If you work in libraries, you must read this book. I was literally laughing out loud in parts.
February 24, 2023
I am always attracted to books that have a bookish theme to them. Whether it be about a bookstore, Author, Authors retreats, etc. so naturally, 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙉𝙚𝙬 𝙏𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙇𝙞𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙖𝙣 peaked my interest!
It was a slow start for me, I had a difficult time vibing with the main character, Nan. She just is so unhappy and judgmental of EVERYONE. I felt at 50 years old she should have acted more mature…I mean what adult throws tomatoes at kids? I feel as a librarian, she should be more willing to come out of her comfort zone in regards to genres of books too - to be more knowledgeable of the different areas in the library. As a fantasy reader, I was a little put off by her distaste of the genre.
There were several times in the beginning that I had thoughts of DNF but what really kept me going were all of the side characters. The second half of the book was much better for me. I did enjoy her landlords and her book club members. I even really liked her sisters when they came to visit.
I am not sure that there is enough romance in this book to be classified as a romance novel. Overall, this book is good. The writing is good and the side characters are great. It was amazing how the community came together to improve their library! Even though I couldn’t find it in myself to like Nan, I commend her on her self development.
After reading this, I can’t help but wonder if the librarians at my local library have the same negative views as Nan?
𝕋𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕙𝕒𝕤:
Small town
Found family
Grumpy (Nan) vs Sunshine (everyone else)
LGBTQIA+ characters
Book about books
Thank you to NetGalley, Ninestar Press and Kathy Anderson for the Advanced Readers Copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
It was a slow start for me, I had a difficult time vibing with the main character, Nan. She just is so unhappy and judgmental of EVERYONE. I felt at 50 years old she should have acted more mature…I mean what adult throws tomatoes at kids? I feel as a librarian, she should be more willing to come out of her comfort zone in regards to genres of books too - to be more knowledgeable of the different areas in the library. As a fantasy reader, I was a little put off by her distaste of the genre.
There were several times in the beginning that I had thoughts of DNF but what really kept me going were all of the side characters. The second half of the book was much better for me. I did enjoy her landlords and her book club members. I even really liked her sisters when they came to visit.
I am not sure that there is enough romance in this book to be classified as a romance novel. Overall, this book is good. The writing is good and the side characters are great. It was amazing how the community came together to improve their library! Even though I couldn’t find it in myself to like Nan, I commend her on her self development.
After reading this, I can’t help but wonder if the librarians at my local library have the same negative views as Nan?
𝕋𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕙𝕒𝕤:
Small town
Found family
Grumpy (Nan) vs Sunshine (everyone else)
LGBTQIA+ characters
Book about books
Thank you to NetGalley, Ninestar Press and Kathy Anderson for the Advanced Readers Copy of this book in exchange for my honest review!
February 5, 2023
CW: potential alcohol abuse
This book was awful (although I appreciate the free eARC since I wouldn’t recommend spending money on it)
For starters, this is not a romance. Although the main character is sapphic, this is not centered around her romantic life. This is a woman’s fiction story about a woman who needs to change her life and start over (although there’s very little explanation about why she needs change, except a lack of personal motivation).
The main character, Nan, is a librarian lacking drive, manners, and personality. She’s a terrible decision maker and nothing she says or does is grounded in reality or has any forward thinking. For example, what grown adult throws tomatoes at children and gets away with it? If the kids don't turn around and yell screaming to their parents, the dirty clothing would make the parents run screaming to the library. Nan is also abrasively rude. She often as says mean things to be funny at the expense of the people around her. Only once does she actually get called out on it, but she’s not self aware enough to understand what she did wrong.
Although there is a central plot to the book, the story often feels like a series of vignettes since the author will talk about an event and then it’s never mentioned again. At one point her sisters come visit, talk about big dreams to travel and apparently stay over but just disappear from the book. This whole book feels like a brain dump from the author without real meaning or action behind it.
This book was awful (although I appreciate the free eARC since I wouldn’t recommend spending money on it)
For starters, this is not a romance. Although the main character is sapphic, this is not centered around her romantic life. This is a woman’s fiction story about a woman who needs to change her life and start over (although there’s very little explanation about why she needs change, except a lack of personal motivation).
The main character, Nan, is a librarian lacking drive, manners, and personality. She’s a terrible decision maker and nothing she says or does is grounded in reality or has any forward thinking. For example, what grown adult throws tomatoes at children and gets away with it? If the kids don't turn around and yell screaming to their parents, the dirty clothing would make the parents run screaming to the library. Nan is also abrasively rude. She often as says mean things to be funny at the expense of the people around her. Only once does she actually get called out on it, but she’s not self aware enough to understand what she did wrong.
Although there is a central plot to the book, the story often feels like a series of vignettes since the author will talk about an event and then it’s never mentioned again. At one point her sisters come visit, talk about big dreams to travel and apparently stay over but just disappear from the book. This whole book feels like a brain dump from the author without real meaning or action behind it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2024
This was a cute and fast read. More like "adventures in being a Librarian", I loved learning all the antics and wild things that she experienced day to day. Her little quips, however, that felt judgmental about what made a real reader and what didn't (read: classics, not fantasy) definitely made me pause. It was cute and I chuckled a few times.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
March 26, 2023
As an avid reader, some of my best childhood memories involve trips to the library and long summer days spent reading in my backyard. So it's no surprise that I am drawn to books featuring libraries and librarians. I saw this book on Net Galley and couldn't click the request button fast enough. This isn't my usual genre, and our MC isn't a typical heroine. Nan is a 50-year-old who has been stuck in her life for at least two decades, she is a low-level library at a Philadelphia library branch and has had a string of short-term girlfriends. Nan likes to spend some of her spare time drinking wine and applying for amazing librarian jobs she knows she will never get, until one day when she applies to work in a small rural New Jersey library and gets the job!
Finally, Nan's life is getting unstuck! Will she make a difference in this small town? Will she build friendships and will she make better life choices? You will have to read to find out. I found this book to be delightful and so interesting to read about the interworking of a public library. This book is truly cozy--but without any murder mystery.
5 stars!
Finally, Nan's life is getting unstuck! Will she make a difference in this small town? Will she build friendships and will she make better life choices? You will have to read to find out. I found this book to be delightful and so interesting to read about the interworking of a public library. This book is truly cozy--but without any murder mystery.
5 stars!
March 23, 2023
well, this was awful.
you know when someone is just a little TOO invested in a topic or argument to the point that everything they say becomes repetitive and annoying? that was this book and everything “radical” it had to say about libraries.
and believe me, i get it. every library in my city has been shut since covid due to the vandalism the buildings endured during lockdown and the government’s unwillingness and financial inability to pay for repairs. before that, i only remember old, falling apart books lining the shelves and out of date scientific material sitting in piles on a wooden table.
but you can’t base an entire book on that, not if you’re also trying to tell the story of a found family, past family, and new romance. nothing about this flowed or felt connected. the main character was trying too hard to be likeable, even in her own head, and every side character’s story was abruptly cut short.
nothing about this book worked and i wouldn’t recommend it.
you know when someone is just a little TOO invested in a topic or argument to the point that everything they say becomes repetitive and annoying? that was this book and everything “radical” it had to say about libraries.
and believe me, i get it. every library in my city has been shut since covid due to the vandalism the buildings endured during lockdown and the government’s unwillingness and financial inability to pay for repairs. before that, i only remember old, falling apart books lining the shelves and out of date scientific material sitting in piles on a wooden table.
but you can’t base an entire book on that, not if you’re also trying to tell the story of a found family, past family, and new romance. nothing about this flowed or felt connected. the main character was trying too hard to be likeable, even in her own head, and every side character’s story was abruptly cut short.
nothing about this book worked and i wouldn’t recommend it.
October 22, 2023
I've been trying to read this since August, checking it out on Libby, then returning it, and then borrowing it again. It is a good book with some fun stuff and some tender moments. There is a romantic plot, but it's not the genre of the book (I saw that some people have tagged it as a romance). The New Town Librarian is about taking risks, trying new things, and finding a place to belong.
I think that something that left me feeling unsettled about the book was that it doesn't often sign post how much time has past. After the "90 day probationary period" was up I kept having to guess. Big picture time isn't mentioned much, like what month it is, or how long it had been since she came to Pine Tree. Like, Pip said X would happen with the new school year and a chapter or two later X has happened and I was like, wait is it fall already? No it was late spring and it just happened sooner than they hoped.
I think that something that left me feeling unsettled about the book was that it doesn't often sign post how much time has past. After the "90 day probationary period" was up I kept having to guess. Big picture time isn't mentioned much, like what month it is, or how long it had been since she came to Pine Tree. Like, Pip said X would happen with the new school year and a chapter or two later X has happened and I was like, wait is it fall already? No it was late spring and it just happened sooner than they hoped.
June 7, 2023
2.5/3
Thank you to the publisher, getredprbooks and NetGalley for my copies.
I wanted to love this book, but it just didn’t grip me the way I had hoped. Nan is a librarian who moved to South Jersey to start fresh as the town librarian. There are many antics that happen in the library that frustrate Nan, but she develops a friendship with many of the staff and patrons, and over time is able to build a makeshift family out of her new found friends.
This is a great story of LGBTQ+ representation, and I loved how Nan is unapologetically herself. I enjoyed learning about the inner workings of the library, and seeing the people rally around eachother to create a little network for Nan. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel connected enough to Nan or the supporting cast, and I felt a lot of the scenes dragged on or could have been eliminated.
Thank you to the publisher, getredprbooks and NetGalley for my copies.
I wanted to love this book, but it just didn’t grip me the way I had hoped. Nan is a librarian who moved to South Jersey to start fresh as the town librarian. There are many antics that happen in the library that frustrate Nan, but she develops a friendship with many of the staff and patrons, and over time is able to build a makeshift family out of her new found friends.
This is a great story of LGBTQ+ representation, and I loved how Nan is unapologetically herself. I enjoyed learning about the inner workings of the library, and seeing the people rally around eachother to create a little network for Nan. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel connected enough to Nan or the supporting cast, and I felt a lot of the scenes dragged on or could have been eliminated.
July 23, 2023
The New Town Librarian is a heartwarming and humorous tale about Nan Nethercott, a witty and slightly anxious librarian, who embarks on a fresh start in a small town. As she adjusts to her new life, she encounters amusing challenges, including an eccentric landlady, mischievous kids causing chaos at the library, and mysterious notes left by an unknown reader.
Despite the hurdles, Nan forms surprising and endearing friendships while seeking genuine love. Through her journey of self-discovery, she learns to confront obstacles with creativity and determination, leading her to a sense of belonging and purpose.
With clever humor and relatable characters, The New Town Librarian is an engaging and uplifting read that celebrates the power of resilience and the beauty of finding joy in life's unexpected moments. As Nan navigates through the ups and downs of her new life, readers will be charmed by her unique perspective and inspired by her pursuit of happiness and genuine connections.
Despite the hurdles, Nan forms surprising and endearing friendships while seeking genuine love. Through her journey of self-discovery, she learns to confront obstacles with creativity and determination, leading her to a sense of belonging and purpose.
With clever humor and relatable characters, The New Town Librarian is an engaging and uplifting read that celebrates the power of resilience and the beauty of finding joy in life's unexpected moments. As Nan navigates through the ups and downs of her new life, readers will be charmed by her unique perspective and inspired by her pursuit of happiness and genuine connections.
June 30, 2023
A fun romp about a librarian who shakes things up in her new community.
Nan reminds me of my favorite humor author, Laurie Notaro, if she were a lesbian librarian. On the brash side, which mayt not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I thought Nan seemed like a blast. I loved her tactics for dealing with troublesome teens, the hypochondriac hotline, and the “discuss whatever you’re reading instead of assigning a specific book” book club. While I wasn’t particularly invested in the love interests, they weren’t really the focus of the story. This was more a fish out of water story with a few dashes of romance.
If you love libraries and could use a chuckle, definitely check this out.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Nan reminds me of my favorite humor author, Laurie Notaro, if she were a lesbian librarian. On the brash side, which mayt not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I thought Nan seemed like a blast. I loved her tactics for dealing with troublesome teens, the hypochondriac hotline, and the “discuss whatever you’re reading instead of assigning a specific book” book club. While I wasn’t particularly invested in the love interests, they weren’t really the focus of the story. This was more a fish out of water story with a few dashes of romance.
If you love libraries and could use a chuckle, definitely check this out.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving this review.
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March 1, 2023Received from NetGalley, thanks!
DNFed at 25%
The part of this book that I made it through was not good. I don’t know if the MC gets better as the book progresses, but she was absolutely awful in this first quarter. She thinks she’s better than everyone else, is disparaging towards mental health, cancer, children, deli workers, etc. Like, it makes a point of saying what she talked to her sisters about, both of whom are apparently hypochondriacs, and it was basically that she got them all riled up and freaking out and then she hung up. But she’s also a hypochondriac, because she always thinks about death. Sorry, what???
She is just a very unlikeable character, despite folks in her new small town being nice and friendly, she was constantly thinking mean things about them. I tried really hard to keep going, as I thought maybe she would have a redemption arc, but it was just too much, I couldn’t go on.
Also, the author uses the word thug a lot, which isn’t okay. Overall, the book had a very un-self aware sort of vibe. I don’t even quite know how to describe it? It was all rather cringey…
DNFed at 25%
The part of this book that I made it through was not good. I don’t know if the MC gets better as the book progresses, but she was absolutely awful in this first quarter. She thinks she’s better than everyone else, is disparaging towards mental health, cancer, children, deli workers, etc. Like, it makes a point of saying what she talked to her sisters about, both of whom are apparently hypochondriacs, and it was basically that she got them all riled up and freaking out and then she hung up. But she’s also a hypochondriac, because she always thinks about death. Sorry, what???
She is just a very unlikeable character, despite folks in her new small town being nice and friendly, she was constantly thinking mean things about them. I tried really hard to keep going, as I thought maybe she would have a redemption arc, but it was just too much, I couldn’t go on.
Also, the author uses the word thug a lot, which isn’t okay. Overall, the book had a very un-self aware sort of vibe. I don’t even quite know how to describe it? It was all rather cringey…
October 8, 2023
I enjoyed this more than I expected to! The protagonist is not very likable, but that never puts me off, so I enjoyed her vague literary snootiness and generally being a bit lost in her life. I do appreciate that despite being older, Nan is a bit of a disaster lesbian, trying to live paycheck to paycheck and blag her way to being in charge of a small town library.
Fun and engaging supporting cast, small town shenanigans, and Nan finally finding a place to belong. Would recommend!
Fun and engaging supporting cast, small town shenanigans, and Nan finally finding a place to belong. Would recommend!
March 2, 2023
queer, middle-aged librarian in south jersey, complete with references to the jersey devil? i should have loved this - I am the target demographic. but the book was boring & I just didn’t care about the characters
April 24, 2025
Good morning! Today, is my review for this funny audiobook! I had Nan Nethercott is looking for a new start so she accepts a job and becomes the new librarian of New Jersey.
Nan has to navigate this new job and a new life in a new town.
Will she find what she’s looking for?
It was so hilarious!
Nan has to navigate this new job and a new life in a new town.
Will she find what she’s looking for?
It was so hilarious!
September 4, 2023
3.5 stars. This book has a solid foundation but needs some editing to fight it up. There are a lot of different storylines that started and then just died. Way too many. The main character is relatable and I love her honesty.
Thanks to NetGalley for a digital copy of the book.
Thanks to NetGalley for a digital copy of the book.
February 6, 2023
Interview to come in jmww journal!
February 23, 2023
The New Town Librarian is about Nan, an older very queer woman who takes over as the new town librarian in a small town called Pinetree in New Jersey. Nan has spent most of her life kind of as an underachiever. Never really looking to move up in her career because she was fine with where she was. When Nan decides to apply for the librarian position for Pinetree’s local library and actually gets the job, she moves from the big city of Philly to the small town of Pinetree. What she doesn’t realize is how much work being the actual librarian is. The budgets she has to make, the meetings she has to speak in, the solutions to all of the crazy problems that have never been addressed at this former jail-now library.
I enjoyed this read. It was a short read and honestly? Not extremely eventful. It kind of gave me Schitts Creek vibes because Nan goes from not knowing a soul in town, to loving the town and its people. She grows into herself even more and learns so much about what she wants and how to get it. My main problems in this book were that *spoiler alert*, she doesn’t adopt Jeremy (I really thought she would and I was sad when he was gone) and that she honestly felt more like a 20 something year old than a 50 year old. But I really loved how much Nan loved books and being a librarian. She’s so passionate about having books accessible and about the library and its resources and I loved that a lot. This book felt like it was written by someone passionate about books (I know most authors are obviously, but they don’t praise books and writing as much as this book does.
I had a fun time reading this and would recommend as a quick sweet read
I enjoyed this read. It was a short read and honestly? Not extremely eventful. It kind of gave me Schitts Creek vibes because Nan goes from not knowing a soul in town, to loving the town and its people. She grows into herself even more and learns so much about what she wants and how to get it. My main problems in this book were that *spoiler alert*, she doesn’t adopt Jeremy (I really thought she would and I was sad when he was gone) and that she honestly felt more like a 20 something year old than a 50 year old. But I really loved how much Nan loved books and being a librarian. She’s so passionate about having books accessible and about the library and its resources and I loved that a lot. This book felt like it was written by someone passionate about books (I know most authors are obviously, but they don’t praise books and writing as much as this book does.
I had a fun time reading this and would recommend as a quick sweet read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2023
It is so refreshing when you stumble upon a book about an older woman starting over in a new town and trying to make a life of her own. Instead she finds a mismanaged bureaucracy, some hooligans and a found family she didn't ask for. Over time that found family became her people and she tamed the political beast into helping her make the library into a useful part of the community. Also, finding small romances where she could. Loved how her being queer wasn't an issue in this small town it just was what it was and they just let her be and it was more about the books. As it should be, the focus should always be on minding your business and providing books to your community (all the books, not just some).
Thank you ninestarpress and netgalley for the e-aRC for my honest and voluntary review on pridebooktours.
Thank you ninestarpress and netgalley for the e-aRC for my honest and voluntary review on pridebooktours.
March 6, 2023
I was SO excited to read this book, finding a story with a 50 something queer woman as the center was so exciting and I happily dug in. Unfortunately, I found this book challenging to read and Nan unlikeable (but not in a love to hate way). Often times the timeline of this tale felt unclear and shifting, and I struggled to place how much time had passed, or if in fact none had at all, multiple times. Nan felt unrelatable, somewhat pretentious, and annoying throughout the majority of the book. I was hoping at the mid-point, when she has her near death experience, that things would pick up, and well they did, and they didn't. This whole book just left me kind of waiting for it to be over.
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