Nadine Bucilli takes over at Locust Valley Library

There’s a new director in town at the Locust Valley Library.

Nadine Buccilli officially assumed the position on February 12, following a brief overlap period with the previous director. However, her connection to the library extends back to her tenure as a children's librarian from 2013 to 2017.

"I had a really good experience here," Buccilli reminisced. "It's a fun place, it really is."

Transitioning from a career in business marketing and promotions to librarianship in 2010, Buccilli's journey to becoming a library director was a deliberate shift.

"I was always kind of a library kid and a library person,” she said of her decision to pursue library science. “One day one of my friends said to me ‘You’re always at the library, why don’t you get a master’s degree’?”

Originally from Brooklyn but raised on Long Island since childhood, Buccilli currently resides in New Hyde Park, and discussed her return to the community and her warm reception, noting interactions with the school superintendent and a friendly welcome from patrons.

Her passion for community engagement and fostering connections through the library is evident. Buccilli highlighted the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere where patrons of all ages can find common ground. She emphasized the role of the library in facilitating these connections across generations, from story times for children to author visits and other programs for adults.

"Connections between people are really one of the things that make this a community center," she remarked. “Libraries are more than just where we keep the books.”

Buccilli's vision for the Locust Valley Library is a blend of tradition and modernity, preserving the nostalgic charm of the historic building while embracing innovative approaches to community involvement. She said she plans to enhance accessibility and streamline processes while also exploring new ways to utilize library spaces for gatherings and events.

"I want to preserve that nostalgia. It sets a mood, a cozy feeling," she explained. “I want to play it one step at a time because I want to get to know the community better.”

Reflecting on her transition to the directorial role, Buccilli expressed enthusiasm for the business aspects of her position, drawing on her background in marketing. However, she said also values the hands-on interactions with patrons, relishing opportunities like stepping in to lead story time sessions when needed.

Outside of her role at the library, Buccilli enjoys spending time with her beloved rescue dog, engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and camping, and pursuing hobbies like crocheting. Her passion for nature and family time fuels her personal life, complementing her dedication to serving the community through her work at the library.

As she settles into her new role, Buccilli said she remains focused on getting to know the community better and assessing the library's needs. While she has no grand plans yet, she is committed to making incremental improvements and fostering a sense of belonging for all patrons.

"I'm hoping to make it a place where it's really comfortable," she shared. “I’m still getting to know the staff, who are all fabulous, and learning what their passions are, which they bring to a lot of our programs.”

In collaboration with the North Shore Consortium and with the support of her dedicated staff, Buccilli aims to continue enhancing the library's offerings and strengthening its ties to the community. Despite the challenges of navigating a new role, she said she feels an infectious enthusiasm and genuine commitment to serving the community.

“For a while we all thought circulation was going down across Nassau County,” she said. “But we’ve seen a resurgence in attendance and circulation numbers post-pandemic. So as horrible as those times were, it’s nice to see people return to their libraries again.”