Viral Librarian and Reading Rainbow Host Mychal Threets Visits Lacey Timberland Library for “Workman Wednesday” Collaboration

Timberland Regional Library (TRL) recently welcomed nationally recognized librarian and social media creator Mychal Threets to the Lacey Timberland Library for a special collaboration with the viral TikTok series Workman Wednesday. 

Threets, who has inspired millions online through joyful, affirming videos about libraries, literacy, and mental health, has served as the host of Reading Rainbow since 2025 and is also the author of the upcoming book I’m So Happy You’re Here: A Celebration of Library Joy, set to be released February 3, 2026. His visit brought together two internet favorites: Threets’ “library joy” and "Workman MJ", the 3-year-old star of Workman Wednesday, a TikTok series that celebrates everyday jobs through the eyes of a curious child.

The collaboration video features MJ exploring the inner workings of the Lacey Timberland Library alongside Threets. Together, they learned about the library’s Automated Material Handling system, learned how returned materials are sorted behind the scenes, and practiced properly shelving books. In a celebratory moment, Threets signed up for his own Timberland Regional Library card before  MJ received his very first card as well - which he proudly tucked into the front pocket of his signature workman vest. 

MJ’s mom, Jessica Lee, said the experience was surreal for their family.

“I have been following Mychal on social media for about five years now. I’ve always appreciated his positivity and vulnerability online. When I heard he would be the new host of Reading Rainbow, I felt so proud. He’s the perfect fit for a show that brought joy to me as a child — and now he brings joy to my children.” 

Lee explained that Workman Wednesday began as a way to honor jobs that often go unnoticed while feeding MJ’s love of “workmen.” Over time, the videos struck a nostalgic chord with viewers, many of whom compared the series to PBS shows from the 1990s - the same warm, educational spirit Threets brings to his content. 

That same inspiration led Lee to write the children’s book Workman MJ Takes a Nap, which is based on a real-life parenting moment and explores blue-collar jobs while gently reminding young readers that everyone, even workmen, need rest sometimes.  

“People began tagging Mychal because he also brings that warm, nostalgic feel. I was shocked to find out that Mychal was a fan of Workman Wednesday too. Getting to collaborate with him and our favorite library has been such a special experience.” 

During breaks from filming, MJ explored the children’s area, soaking in the space like any other young library visitor. According to Lee, he has been so excited about his new library card that he even sleeps with it. 

“Mychal’s genuine warmth and dedication to spreading ‘library joy’ resonates with people of all ages,” said Anna Lisa Rasmussen, TRL Communications & Media Coordinator. “We were thrilled to partner with him and Workman MJ on this fun, educational moment that also celebrates the everyday magic of libraries.” 

The Workman Wednesday video is available on Timberland Regional Library’s social media channels and the complete series can be found on TikTok. Mychal Threets can be found on TikTok & Instagram and as the host of Reading Rainbow which can be watched on YouTube. Workman MJ Takes a Nap is on order and will be available to check out soon at the Timberland Regional Library.