Arguably Hollywood’s most famous librarian, Marian Paroo is every bit the stereotype—a prim spinster with glasses who wears her hair in a bun. As played by Shirley Jones in the 1962 film The Music Man, however, she’s not at all mousy: she’s educated and sensible, she defends her collection from accusations of “smuttiness,” and thanks to solid research skills, she sees through con-man Professor Harold Hill. Despite her spinsterish demeanor, she is a romantic at heart, and it is her clear-sightedness and compassion that save the day.

The puffed sleeves, nipped waist, and delicate buttons of Meghan Jones’ cardigan are reminiscent of turn-of-the-century fashion, while the feminine stitch pattern and soft, orchid pink yarn hint at a
librarian’s dreamier side. Just like Marian, Ms. Paroo perfectly blends convention, romance, and style.

MATERIALS
Cascade Yarns Cloud 9 /50% merino, 50%
angora; 109yds / 100m per 50g skein/; color
114; 8 (9, 10, 10, 11, 12, 13) skeins

24-inch US #7 / 4.5mm circular needle, or size
needed to obtain gauge

Yarn needle

Seven 1½” diameter buttons

Stitch markers

GAUGE
19 sts / 28 rows = 4” / 10 cm in St st
24 sts / 24 rows = 4” / 10 cm in smocked
pattern