There’s a new face on the teen scene at the Sewickley Public Library.
Caiden “Caid” Feldmiller started his new job as head of teen services on March 3.
“It’s going great,” Feldmiller said. “I’m really focused on serving teens who maybe don’t have another outlet outside of school or don’t have extra-curriculars they’re engaged in. The library is a space for them to visit after school to relax, play, have fun and decompress.”
Feldmiller was raised in Albian, a small borough in Erie County and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in writing from Pennsylvania Western University and a master’s degree in English literature from Penn State University.
The designated teen area offers a lounge area near the front entrance of the library.
Feldmiller’s desk/welcome area is right outside the entrance and he encourages teens to stop by and say hello.
“I think it’s really important to preserve a teen space so that teens know exactly where they can function,” said Feldmiller, 33. “I love literature and engaging the community and teaching — those are my passions — and worked as a library assistant in college.”
Feldmiller previously lived in the Denver area for four years and worked as a public services librarian at the Broomfield Public Library.
There, he worked with teens and individuals in the detention center.
“I love working libraries because it’s a great place to meet the community and see what their needs are,” Feldmiller said.
In Sewickley, Feldmiller noted the involvement of the Quaker Valley School District.
“The teens know they can be here at the library and have a free environment to explore what they can’t explore in school,” he said.
Feldmiller lives in Lawrenceville.
Sewickley Public Library executive director Ruth Neely praised Feldmiller’s fresh programming ideas.
“His fresh programming ideas don’t just inspire, they thoughtfully fill gaps in our current offerings,” Neely said. “Caid brings valuable perspectives in teaching, writing and supporting people with disabilities — areas we’re eager to strengthen as we work to develop more inclusive spaces and services.”
Monthly teen programs vary and events slated for April include teen mini-golf, Take and Make Monday, craft lab, tween yoga, goth glue painting, a chess club tournament and more.
His most recent teaching gig was at Wexford’s Total Learning Centers, where he worked with students with developmental and learning disabilities.
Always in pursuit of learning, Feldmiller holds certificates in critical incident stress management, personal training and nutrition coaching.
“It’s like psychological first aid. I love helping people through a crisis,” Feldmiller said.
Neely said the library is lucky to have Feldmiller join the library family.
“His ability to actively listen, connect through conversation and bring a calm, approachable presence makes him a natural fit for working with teens. We feel lucky to have him on board,” she said.