**Please let me know if something doesn’t get to you and I will resend.***

Hello! My name is Maria. I currently live in Western New York (transplant from the PNW) with my family, two mischievous cats and, as of 9/2021, a puppy. I enjoy the winter but not so much the summer humidity.

I am a teen librarian and LOVE my job. I am always happy to talk about libraries, programming, books and education. I would be extra excited to receive items from your local library—book lists, program flyers, etc. I love to see what’s going on in your part of the world.

I love meeting new people and participating in swaps. Choosing things I think will make people happy is the best part of swapping.

My favorite genre is speculative fiction, especially short stories. Some favorite authors include Kelly Link, Caitlin Kiernan, M.Rickert, Octavia Butler, Karen Joy Fowler, Maureen McHugh, Sarah Pinsker, E.Lily Yu, Ken Liu, Cat Rambo, Pat Murphy, etc.

I also read YA fiction and (non super hero) graphic novels.

Paper crafts of all kinds: postcard creation, bookbinding, journal-making, mail art

Penpals and Postcrossing

Reading/book groups

Baking

Visiting museums and bookstores. I like lectures and author visits and learning new things.

Below are some ideas for things I enjoy. However, they are just suggestions. I love surprises and like lots of things not listed.

I love stickers and washi tape.

Things I am especially fond of: Snails, mushrooms, rain, clouds, outer space, planets, stars/moon, robots, cats, stripes, polka dots, rainbows, mail/post office, things that are metallic, or have shimmer or sparkle. Map-related. LGBTQ

I am also a fan of things that are odd or quirky. I enjoy handmade things so if that’s your jam, go for it!

I rather enjoy vintage postcards or advertisements. I also like interesting postcards that advertise something you enjoy: bands, books, authors, artists.

Other postcard themes: sci-fi, space, moon, quirky, maps, cats, fashion, snails, Star Trek, graphic novel or picture book themed.

I like dark chocolate plain or, really, with anything. I can't think of anything I don't like in chocolate. :)

Things to avoid:

Stickers with words only or inspirational/motivational sayings.

Tea--I don't drink it

Religiously themed items.

Planner stickers

Kiddie reward stickers.Kawaii is totally fine!

Strong scents

Angels

Favorite TV and Movies: The Ladies in Black, Home for the Holidays, Far from Heaven, Single Man, Brokeback Mountain, But I'm a Cheerleader, Groundhog Day, Schitt's Creek, The Good Place, Star Trek, Handmaid’s Tale.