July 14, 2025 – The Cedar Rapids Public Library is made possible by our incredible staff. And we are staffed by book lovers. To celebrate the people who keep our library running, we're highlighting different staff members and books they love.
Public Service Associate Bobbi started at the library in April 2024, mostly working at the Downtown Library. Public Service Associates greet you when you come in, help you sign up for library cards, use the computers, find the books you’re looking for, and more.
"One of the most rewarding parts of my job is the opportunity to connect with the Cedar Rapids community in meaningful and unique ways," she said. Every day at the library brings new chances for engagement – whether it's helping someone find the perfect book, connecting individuals with valuable community resources, or simply creating a welcoming space for everyone who walks through our doors. The library’s strong focus on inclusivity and access is what truly makes it such a special place."
Browse Bobbi's book recommendations below, and put books on hold in our catalog by clicking on their covers.
"Mexican Gothic" by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
"Mexican Gothic" is a gothic horror novel set in 1950s Mexico. It follows Noemí Taboada, a glamorous and intelligent young woman who travels to a remote mansion in the Mexican countryside to check on her cousin, Catalina, who has sent a disturbing letter. At High Place, Noemí encounters a decaying house, strange dreams, and the sinister Doyle family. As she uncovers dark family secrets, Noemí must confront a terrifying legacy rooted in madness, colonialism, and the supernatural.
"Dearest" by Jacquie Walters
A new mom, struggling with the challenges of early motherhood, unexpectedly reconnects with her estranged mother – only to find herself facing something much darker. As Flora grapples with the isolation of caring for her preterm baby, strange events start to blur her sense of reality. When her mother arrives to help, long-held secrets begin to resurface, leaving Flora to question whether she's losing her mind or if something sinister is truly at play.
"Neighbors and Other Stories" by Diane Oliver
"Neighbors and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories by Diane Oliver, a promising African American writer whose life was tragically cut short at age 22. Set in the 1950s and '60s, the stories delve into the experiences of Black individuals navigating the complexities of race, identity, and societal expectations during the Jim Crow era. Oliver's narratives are marked by their clarity, emotional depth, and keen observations of the human condition.
"Before You Suffocate Your Own Fool Self" by Danielle Evans
"Before You Suffocate Your Own Fool Self" is a collection of short stories that delve into the lives of young Black and biracial characters navigating the complexities of identity, race, class, and relationships. Set primarily along the East Coast, Evans' stories explore themes of adolescence, self-discovery, and the challenges of growing up. Through sharp wit and emotional depth, Evans captures the nuances of her characters' experiences, offering a poignant look at the intersections of personal and societal struggles.
"Hungerstone" by Kat Dunn
"Hungerstone" is a gothic horror novel set in 1890s England, following Lenore Crowther, a woman trapped in a loveless marriage to her controlling husband, Henry. Their relocation to a remote estate sets the stage for unsettling events. After rescuing the mysterious Carmilla from a carriage accident, Lenore's reality begins to unravel. Carmilla's presence awakens desires and challenges Lenore's understanding of herself, leading to a transformative and dark journey.