Meet Ranjna Das
The Burlington County Library System is so lucky to have a team with wide-ranging knowledge and diverse interests. While many customers may know the names and faces of librarians at their local branch, we want to take the time to introduce more of our staff from around the system.
Hi, I’m Ranjna Das, library director for the Burlington County Library System. I’ve been in my current position since 2012, but have worked for the library more than 20 years!
My library career began in 1993 when a friend mentioned a part-time position available at the Evesham Library. At first, I mainly worked on the circulation desk. It wasn’t until a few years later that I earned my Masters in Library Science from Rutgers University and became a librarian.
Libraries are forward thinking and progressive places, constantly evolving to meet the needs of the customer. I’ve always been impressed with the technical aspects of the job and was eager to get more involved behind the scenes. In 2004, I accepted a new position at the Burlington County Library and began managing the library website, the online catalog and digital collections. Nowadays, my job takes me into the field. I’m often talking about our services to stakeholders, but I miss having the opportunity to interact with customers face to face, something I enjoyed very much.
My two favorite novels are Life of Pi and Pride and Prejudice. I’ve read these multiple times, which is rare, as I am a selective reader. It wasn’t until my daughter was in high school that she suggested I read one of my “favorites” again. She said, “Mom, there’s so much more to a book than just the first read. Every time you read it you get more out of it.”
She was right. Pride and Prejudice is one of those titles that really showcases the truth in that.
When I’m not working, I’m usually gardening or cooking. I have a kitchen garden that did pretty well this year and I love bringing what I grow to the table. My Indian-American heritage is very important to me and cooking is one of the ways I am able to stay connected to that.
I also enjoy Bollywood music! It’s an easy way to have that cultural connection with me wherever I go. Granted, my playlist encompasses all genres. My family will laugh because we can start driving to U2, segue into A.R. Rahman and arrive at our destination listening to the Latina sounds of Celia Cruz.
With so much going on, it’s easy to forget that BCLS is a public service, providing free educational opportunities and entertainment to the largest county in New Jersey. Our focus will always be on literacy and I look forward to seeing the different ways that can come to life across Burlington County.