After nearly 17 years at the Cherry Hill Public Library, Melissa Brinn stepped into a new position in July: full-time Youth Services Outreach Librarian.

Brinn began working for the library as a volunteer in 2009, and worked her way through roles as library clerk, teen librarian and part-time youth services librarian.

The newly created role focuses on bringing library programming directly to Cherry Hill kids from birth through age 12, coordinating community engagement for Youth Services, and supporting teen outreach, according to a library press release published Sunday.

"When I heard the Library was introducing this new position, I knew it would be right in my wheelhouse," Brinn said in the announcement. "I've worked at CHPL for almost 16 years as both a children's and teen librarian, and outreach is something I've always been passionate about."

Library Director Tierney Miller said Brinn's connections with local schools and community groups make her a strong fit. Miller called Brinn a dedicated and creative professional known throughout the library field and said Cherry Hill is "lucky to have her on our team."

Along the way, Brinn built a resume that stretches well beyond the stacks at 1100 Kings Highway North. She created the CHPL Teens Twitch channel, where she hosts video game livestreams for the teen community. In 2022, she presented the library's online gaming program at the Somerset County Library System's staff in-service day and at the NJ State Library Digital Literacy Forum.

She holds a Master of Library and Information Sciences from Rutgers University and a Bachelor of Arts in English from The College of New Jersey, reviews young adult literature for Kirkus Reviews and has taught as an adjunct instructor in Drexel University's Master of Information program.

The library, one of the largest municipal libraries in New Jersey at 72,000 square feet, reported more than 24,600 cardholders in 2025 and held 247 children's events and 110 teen programs that year, according to the press release. An entire floor is devoted to children's services.

Residents can learn more about youth programming and upcoming events at chplnj.org/events or by calling 856-667-0300.