About Cindy: A resident of Steger, Ill., with three children. Associate degree in applied sciences with concentration in accounting and management from South Suburban College. Bachelor's degree in integrative studies from Governor State University and recipient of the Lincoln Laureate Award. Master's degree in library and information science from University of Illinois. She graduated magna cum laude. Employed by Porter County Library System since April 28.

Accomplishments: Maxwell is head of youth services for Portage Public Library, part of the Porter County Library System. She worked on the summer reading program, Book it to the Barnyard, scheduling books, crafts, activities, guest speakers and special events. Some 450 youths are enrolled in the program. The final party and awarding of certificates is July 19. Maxwell will be purchasing books, managing staff and developing programs. Regular programming will begin in mid-September and include Mother Goose, story time, toddler time and a monthly craft program. She's planning other special activities and hopes to start young adult programming. Maxwell enjoys setting up special displays to coordinate with books and programs to catch the eye and interest of young readers. "I like the creative aspects of this job," she said. "To keep their interest sparked in books." Maxwell is a member of the American Library Association.

Personal hero: "I always thought Helen Keller was an inspiration. If she could overcome her adversities, anything put to me I should be able to overcome."

What I read: "I have a broad spectrum of likes - nonfiction, gardening, how-to books, educational material, and I like a lot of Tolkien."

Advice: "No matter how challenging it is, stick with it and learn to enjoy it."

How to get involved: Portage Public Library, 2665 Irving St., is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Saturday. For information, call (219) 763-1508.

People might be surprised to know: "I enjoy doing Dance, Dance Revolution."

-SUE BERO, Times Correspondent

To nominate someone for this feature, e-mail slbero@hotmail.com.