There was very little doubt in Bill Peak’s mind when he graduated from Washington & Lee many decades ago on what he wanted to do for a career. From enjoying literature as an undergrad, followed by a master’s degree from Hollins College, Bill was committed to finding a way to become a writer of fiction. And to his credit, that dedication has brought several works of his to print, with his most recent book, The Oblate’s Confession, winning significant critical praise.
But like most American writers today, Bill also had to make a living. And when he and his wife relocated to the Eastern Shore thirteen years ago, a job for a book shelver opened up at the Talbot County Free Library. For Bill, it was the perfect answer to keeping his writing career going but also maintain a daily connection to books and authors.
Fast forward to 2o2o, after spending most of his time as the Library’s communications manager, writing a column called “The Library Guy” for the Star-Democrat, and for many years, pleasantly programming events for writers and poets, Bill reached the age of retirement.
While Bill still helps out at the Library, the Spy thought it would be a good time (before the COVID-19 crisis hit) to sit down with him and talk about his remarkable other career in serving the residents of Talbot County find what they need in one of the best and innovative library systems in the country.
This video is approximately four minutes in length. For more information about the Talbot County Free Library please go here.
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