We are delighted to feature longtime library volunteer Mary Lois Recio! Mary Lois volunteers in several capacities, including delivering books to library patrons as a part of our Monthly Home Delivery service. Volunteer Coordinator Mariah sat down with Mary Lois to learn more about her:
Where are you from?
I grew up in Port Lavaca, went to college in San Marcos, and moved to Austin in 1993. I retired in 2019 after 41 years of working in Education and 401(k)/Pension Administration.
Could you tell us about your family and pets?
I have a husband, two stepdaughters, and four grandchildren. No pets.
No pets?! Your house must be so clean!
It is!
What are your hobbies and interests?
Our readers are very interested in your shoe collection. I do love shoes! Whenever I’m shopping, I always end up in the shoe department, no matter what. I also enjoy reading, gardening, and sitting on the patio with a glass of wine.
What do you do as part of the Friends?
I am Corresponding Secretary of the Friends of the Library and I am also on the Friends Art Committee. The committee selects local artists who will display their work in the library’s meeting room.
Who should consider joining the Friends?
All volunteers who love the library! We plan activities to raise money for projects like the Teen Service Scholarship and the library’s second location, West.
What’s your favorite thing about volunteering here?
The people at the library are always so happy. It’s such a welcoming place, and, of course, I love being around all the books!
Speaking of books, what do you like to read?
Historical fiction, autobiography, and biography are my favorite genres. I just finished Surprised by Joy: The Shape of My Early Life by C.S. Lewis, which I enjoyed. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah and The Seven Sisters series by Lucinda Riley were good, too.
Please join us in thanking Mary Lois for her service to the library!