Proserpine’s Librarian

Robyn Batman

If it is possible that the ‘world’s happiest job’ exists, Robyn Batman could convince you that it is being a librarian.

Mrs Batman exudes passion and happiness for her profession. Perhaps it is the proximity to great writing, perhaps the air conditioning, but the Proserpine, Bowen, and Collinsville Library Team Leader would point to where a group of children sit reading in the library’s breezy corners and smile -- the expression says more than words in any book.

“I love the people. It’s not just the community, it’s my staff members; I love interacting with all of them,” Mrs Batman said.

“Being in a job that gives so much back and provides so much to the community in lots of positive ways fills my cup.

For 12 years, Mrs Batman has worked at Proserpine Library, starting as its Team Leader before expanding into the Team Leader roles for Bowen and Collinsville. She spends her weeks in between Proserpine and Bowen, occasionally heading out to Collinsville, and said she could not adore it more.

“What my job entails is a good customer service background, good people advisory and people skills for managing and running a team, how to catalogue a book, activities, promoting, marketing – things that I loved and learned and have been a part of my job from day one,” she said.

“I have seen some change here, especially through Covid, where we have learned more about engaging with the community more and in different ways, particularly moving into the digital age.

“People should come to the library because it is a place that offers so much for free. There is so much to take from books and in the variety of services we offer here. And it’s air-conditioned!”.

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Caption: Robyn Batman, the Proserpine, Bowen, and Collinsville Library Team Leader has been in amongst the stacks for 12 years

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