Librarian on Wheels: From Books To Derby

Many people have the common perception that all a librarian does is sign out books, put them back in order, own twenty seven cats and basically take refuge in the library. For 53 year old Beth Hollis, when the library doors close, she straps on her roller skates and hits the rink. Residing in Akron, Ohio Beth Hollis has tried some different hobbies before she discovered her interest in roller derby. She attempted knitting and was kicked out the class due to her inability to figure out how to knit. She decided that she needed a hobby that involved more physical movement and chose to attend a Rubber City Rollergirls audition last winter. "I don't care...I'm going to go for this" Hollis says. To her surprise, Hollis was able to join the team and says she's been enjoying it ever since. Her coach, Brian Phillips explains how hard working and dedicated Hollis is to the sport despite her older age. The comradery that Hollis has formed with the women in the sport has been gracious and she is thankful to have such a strong support group in doing what she enjoys. Despite her petite size, Beth Hollis, nicknamed "Megabeth" on her team; is quite effective in being able to take out other players during the derby. "Out of the corner of my eye I just saw her take out this one girl...It was fantastic!" exclaims Barbara Brown, 21 the youngest member of the team. Hollis defies the stereotype in proving that librarians can have a rough edge to them. Beth Hollis is not the only woman who disproves the standards. The team consists of a nurse, an accountant, teachers, barmaids and more. Hollis says she encourages people to pursue things and that change is always a positive thing. People should test their limits and become part of something that is important to them. "Do not let stereotypes get in the way...because you never know." Hollis says.





source: http://www.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/08/31/roller.derby.librarian/index.html?iref=newssearch#cnnSTCText