Staff
Books, place, and people: Those are the reasons why our library staff loves working in Lake Placid so much.
Elizabeth "Baz" Perry
Director
I am honored to lead this vital, vibrant institution at the heart of Lake Placid. I have been fortunate to be a part of incredible organizations, but this one instantly felt like home. In 2024, my family moved to Lake Placid for the outdoor adventure, the peace and calm, and the joy we experienced in the people we met, but never expected to also find my dream job. I have worked as a librarian, entrepreneur and consultant, cooperative extension adult educator and manager, and most recently, Associate Director of a nutrition research lab at Cornell. I hold a Masters of Science in Information from the University of Michigan, a Masters of Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School, and a B.A. in Economics and Religious Studies from Cornell University. As your Library Director, I am eager to nurture this organization so that our team of staff and volunteers can continually expand our services for residents, community initiatives, and visitors. Come by and introduce yourself!
librarian@lakeplacidlibrary.org
Joshua Allen
Information Technology Librarian
I am so excited to be here at the Lake Placid Public Library! Originally from Massachusetts, I have recently moved to the Adirondacks from Washington state to once again be closer to my family, which is constantly growing with nieces and nephews. My time in the Pacific Northwest included earning my Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Washington. In addition to being completely smitten with the beauty of this library and town, I am eager to engage with this community and share in the joy of how libraries enrich our daily life. I have a background in librarianship and filmmaking, and I am looking forward to incorporating new ideas into the library’s social media presence and technological offerings.
joshallen@lakeplacidlibrary.org
Bridey Ryan
Youth Services Librarian
I moved to Lake Placid in 2022 and am so excited to now be serving my community here at the library! I‘ve lived in a few places around the world, but the Adirondack Park is a truly special spot. When I’m not reading, you can usually find me playing outside. I‘m currently finishing up my master’s degree in Museum Education, and am looking forward to encouraging everyone to be more curious! I love to learn (and learn about how we learn!) and am always excited to talk about science and stories.
brideyryan@lakeplacidlibrary.org
Madonna Barney
Assistant
I taught preschool here in Lake Placid for many years as my children were growing up. After the rewarding experience of teaching three- and four-year-olds, I knew it was time for me to be thinking about the perfect retirement job. I was thrilled to become an assistant librarian here at the Lake Placid Public Library and it has proven to be such a wonderful experience. The library staff was all so helpful to me as I was learning the library system. The mountains and lakes are what makes this small town so special to live in. But the people and the visitors make it an exciting place to grow.
madonna@lakeplacidlibrary.org
Lauren McGovern
Assistant
My undergrad years in journalism and my graduate work in mental health led to roles as an outdoor educator, marketing director, crisis counselor, school counselor, elementary school teacher, and learning specialist. I’ve been a library patron for decades, so I’m excited to transition to work “behind the desk”. I appreciate how books can illuminate life experiences and provide perspective. I’m also a fan of novels with a heavy dose of humor. When I’m not reading, facilitating programming, or writing, I am often knitting (while listening to a good book), cross-country skiing, riding my bike, or hiking a trail. While I’ve traveled a fair amount in my life, enjoying it a great deal, I find comfort and peace at home here in the Adirondacks.
laurenmcgovern@lakeplacidlibrary.org
Lauren Yates
Assistant
The Lake Placid Library is a place of such important history, and I‘m so honored to sit in Linda Blair’s seat! I‘m originally from Tennessee, but have lived in and loved the Adirondacks since 2016. I have a lot of interests, so I’ve played many roles in my life — I‘ve owned my own house painting company; earned my Bachelor’s and Master‘s degrees in English literature; served as the Lake Placid reporter for the Adirondack Daily Enterprise and Lake Placid News from 2021-2023; and most recently, I taught English and journalism at Paul Smith’s College. You might even see me playing music around town! I‘ve also worked in some beautiful libraries over the years, including Binghamton University’s library and the Albany Public Library. I have big love for books and knowledge, which fuels my passion for public information services. I can’t wait to serve you at the library!
laurenyates@lakeplacidlibrary.org
Michael Housley
Facilities Manager
michaelhousley@lakeplacidlibrary.org
