Published: July 06, 2008 07:00 pm      

Back home again

Freeze returns to childhood roots in Corsicana

Chad Freeze, 37, has returned to his roots, and he’s reading picture books again.

The picture books, and chapter books and other kid-geared materials are part of his new job as the children’s librarian at the Corsicana Public Library. He began last week, and on his first story time 50 kids showed up to hear him read.

The job came at just the right time. Freeze, who grew up in Corsicana, got married in March and moved back to Corsicana. For several months, he commuted to Arlington, where he worked the night shift at the University of Texas-Arlington library.

“This was good, I get to be in my hometown, get married and sleep at nighttime,” he said.

His wife is Kim Green, director of clinical services at the Child Advocacy Center of Navarro County.

Both enjoy working with children, and Freeze said he’s keen on his new job.

“I love kids, it’s fun,” he said. “I get paid to be in that world.”

He’s also a fan of children’s literature. His favorite children’s authors are Mark Teague, who writes the Ike La Rue dog picture books; and J.K. Rowling, who wrote the Harry Potter books.

Freeze has a bachelor’s degree and is currently working on his masters in library sciences with a focus on juvenile literature from the University of North Texas.

Jerre Roe Williams was the long-time children’s librarian, who made things fun by dressing up in costumes and entertaining kids at the weekly story times.

Freeze said he’s ready to jump into that pool, too, but not with costumes.

“I’m investing in puppets and games,” he said.

Freeze admitted that when he was a kid he couldn’t wait to try his luck in the big city, but now that he’s been there and done that, he’s happy to be back in Corsicana.

“I love being here. I love this community,” he said. “It’s kind of a dream come true. In a small town, there are a limited number of library positions. I treasure that and am happy to have it.”

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Janet Jacobs may be reached via e-mail at jacobs@corsicanadailysun.com