The member diversity in the WNBA makes our goal of connecting, educating, advocating, and leading possible. As bookwomen, we believe “Books Have Power.” The Bookwoman welcomes Beth Frerking (Nashville), WNBA-Nashville’s president, to the “Power behind the WNBA” interview series!
Tell us about yourself.
I’m Beth Frerking, president of the Nashville chapter and a high school librarian in Clarksville, Tennessee.
I’ve been a television news and promotions producer, taught English and journalism, and been a school librarian. I’ve always enjoyed travel, and my career has afforded me some exceptional opportunities for that. I’ve lived above the Arctic Circle in Utqiagvik, formerly known as Barrow, Alaska, where I traveled out to villages across the North Slope. I’ve taught in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where an ancient but trusty Land Rover carried us on many adventures. I’ve settled in Nashville, which I must say is an extremely fun place to live.
My personal library grew in each of these places. These books are my treasures. By and large, they aren’t best sellers, but they are powerful stories of remarkable people. They help me remember how big the world really is, how many fascinating stories are out there, and how important it is to read them.
There is a rich history of story in the places I’ve lived; perhaps there is in all places. The value of stories and the power of books to preserve them has driven my career and given me joy. I feel very fortunate to be able to share that joy with young people through my current work.
Why did you join the WNBA?
I was attracted to the WNBA because I wanted to be around like-minded people. The Nashville chapter has excellent programs, and I’m frequently surprised—and always pleased—by what I learn from them.
What value does the promotion of books bring to your community?
Literacy, reading, history, stories, words—some of the communities I have lived in have valued and celebrated these concepts, while others have not. It makes a huge difference. Nashville, with its plethora of colleges and universities and its wealth of printing and publishing houses, does value them, and that’s a big part of why I choose to live here.
Share a book that has had a lasting impression on you and why?
The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie is a book that has had a powerful impact on me. It’s a story of courage and perseverance, but it’s also full of humor. It is beautifully written and, like any great book, it shows me an experience and a world other than my own. It seems more relevant each time I read it.
Interview compiled by assistant editor Pam Ebel (New Orleans).
Leave a Reply